I’ve always respected Glenn Beck. He’s incredibly intelligent, entertaining, and gifted at explaining complex topics in ways people can understand. Over the years, I’ve admired not only his talent but also his honesty and courage. His willingness to share personal struggles—like his battle with alcohol addiction and his journey to faith—is inspiring.
Recently, though, Glenn made a statement on his show that I feel compelled to respond to. He compared Charlie Kirk to Joseph Smith, calling both “American martyrs.” With all due respect, I need to clarify something: Joseph Smith was not a martyr for Christ. He was the founder of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints (commonly called the Mormon Church), and the beliefs he promoted are not in line with biblical Christianity.
Mormonism Is Not Christianity
Mormonism may use familiar Christian language—words like “God,” “Jesus,” and “salvation”—but the meanings are very different. Some key differences include:
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The nature of Jesus: Mormonism teaches that Jesus is a created being, the spirit-brother of Lucifer, rather than the eternal Son of God. Scripture, however, tells us that Jesus is God incarnate (John 1:1–3, Colossians 1:15–20).
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Authority of Scripture: Mormons add to the Bible with the Book of Mormon, the Doctrine & Covenants, and other writings. God’s Word, however, warns us not to add to or subtract from Scripture (Revelation 22:18–19).
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Salvation: Mormonism teaches that salvation comes through a combination of faith and works. Biblical Christianity teaches salvation is by grace alone, through faith alone, in Christ alone (Ephesians 2:8–9).
Because of these foundational differences, Joseph Smith cannot be considered a prophet of God or a martyr for Christ. Scripture warns us about false teachers:
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“For if someone comes and proclaims another Jesus than the one we proclaimed… you put up with it readily enough” (2 Corinthians 11:4).
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“But even if we or an angel from heaven should preach to you a gospel contrary to the one we preached to you, let him be accursed” (Galatians 1:8).
A Loving Warning
I share this not to attack Glenn Beck, nor to disrespect anyone in the Mormon faith—many of whom I know and deeply respect. My heart is to point people to the truth of God’s Word and the hope that is found in Christ alone. Jesus said:
“I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me” (John 14:6).
Salvation is not found in Joseph Smith, a church, or our own efforts. It is found only in Christ—by His grace, through faith, for the glory of God.
If you or someone you know is exploring faith or even questioning Mormonism, the good news is this: you don’t have to defend yourself, or try to earn God’s favor. Christ invites you to come as you are, receive forgiveness, and be made new (2 Corinthians 5:17). That’s the hope the world desperately needs, and it’s the message we can share with truth and love.
Final Thoughts
As believers, we are called to stand for the truth—but also to do so with gentleness and respect (1 Peter 3:15). We can speak the truth of the gospel without bitterness, showing love even as we correct error. My prayer is that more people would know Jesus for who He really is and experience the grace only He offers.
