Christian Mysticism
What is Christian Mysticism?
Christian mysticism is pursuit of deeply personal, experiential connection with God—one that transcends intellectual understanding and invites the seeker into direct communion with the Divine. While mysticism often evokes ideas of visions, revelations, or spiritual manifestations, at its heart it is about cultivating a sacred closeness with Heavenly Father, Jesus Christ, and the Holy Ghost.
In the restored gospel, this form of spirituality aligns with principles like receiving personal revelation, seeking the gifts of the Spirit, and following the path of ascension. The temple experience itself is deeply mystical in nature—full of symbolism, sacred rituals, and divine instruction designed to lift our minds and hearts to heavenly things. Mysticism emphasizes seeking the “mysteries of God” (1 Nephi 10:19), not for their own sake, but to deepen faith, strengthen discipleship, and grow in love and service.
Joseph Smith and other early Latter-day Saints often experienced profound mystical encounters—visions, angelic visitations, and direct communication with God. In this sense, mysticism embraces both the miraculous and the deeply personal, inviting disciples to quiet their minds, open their hearts, and receive the whisperings of the Spirit. As we seek holiness and spiritual alignment, we are drawn into an intimate relationship with the Divine—a sacred mystery that unfolds step by step along the covenant path.
Searching Apocryphal & Gnostic Texts
The Lord has acknowledged that there is valuable truth to be found in texts beyond the traditional canon of scripture. Regarding the Apocrypha, He declared: “There are many things contained therein that are true, and it is mostly translated correctly… Therefore, whoso readeth it, let him understand, for the Spirit manifesteth truth” (D&C 91:1-4). This invitation reminds us that truth can be found in unexpected places and that the Spirit is essential in discerning what is inspired. Similarly, Gnostic texts—while not considered doctrinally binding—can provide insights into early Christian thought, symbolic teachings, and the search for divine wisdom. By approaching these writings with prayer and a discerning heart, seekers can uncover principles that deepen their understanding of God, expand their view of the divine feminine, and enrich their appreciation for the mysteries of eternity. These texts offer a unique opportunity to see how ancient believers wrestled with truth and sought to align their lives with heavenly patterns.
Theophany Texts
Theophany texts are sacred writings that describe direct encounters between God and His children—moments where divine presence is revealed in profound and often symbolic ways. These accounts are found throughout the scriptures, including Moses’ vision of God on Mount Sinai (Exodus 33:11), Isaiah’s powerful encounter in the temple (Isaiah 6), and Joseph Smith’s First Vision (Joseph Smith—History 1:17). Theophanies are also present in lesser-known texts such as the Apocrypha, Pseudepigrapha, and various Gnostic writings, which often portray visions of heavenly courts, angelic visitations, and the unveiling of divine mysteries. Engaging with these texts can deepen our faith by illustrating the reality of God’s presence and His desire to reveal truth to His children. They remind us that God is both accessible and intimately involved in our lives. As we study these sacred encounters, we are invited to seek our own experiences with revelation, trusting that the same God who revealed Himself to prophets of old continues to speak to those who diligently seek Him.
Sophia & the Divine Feminine
Sophia, a figure often associated with divine wisdom, is a powerful symbol of the divine feminine found in ancient scripture and early Christian tradition. In the Greek Septuagint, the term Sophia (meaning “wisdom”) is personified as a feminine presence who was with God “from the beginning” (Proverbs 8:22-31), participating in creation and calling God’s children to walk in the paths of righteousness. Early Christian mystics and scholars, including Margaret Barker, have drawn connections between Sophia and the divine feminine presence in the temple—sometimes linked to Heavenly Mother or the Holy Spirit. Sophia’s example teaches us to seek truth, nurture compassion, and cultivate spiritual insight. We can follow her pattern by embracing qualities of wisdom, patience, and discernment in our daily lives. As we deepen our understanding of sacred truths, build meaningful relationships, and act with love and grace, we walk in the footsteps of divine wisdom—drawing closer to our Heavenly Parents and fulfilling our divine potential.
What is Theosis?
Theosis, often described as becoming one with God or partaking in His divine nature, is a profound doctrine that emphasizes our potential to be transformed through Christ’s grace. Rooted in ancient Christian teachings and echoed in Latter-day Saint doctrine, theosis teaches that as we follow the Savior, receive His ordinances, and align our lives with His will, we progressively take on divine attributes. The Apostle Peter taught that we are called to become “partakers of the divine nature” (2 Peter 1:4), while modern revelation affirms our potential to become joint-heirs with Christ (Romans 8:17) and to receive “all that [the] Father hath” (D&C 84:38). Theosis is not achieved through our efforts alone but requires the enabling power of Jesus Christ’s Atonement, which purifies and refines us. As we grow in charity, humility, and holiness, we draw nearer to our Heavenly Parents, becoming more like Them. Embracing the doctrine of theosis inspires us to see ourselves and others with divine potential, encouraging us to seek continual growth, repentance, and deeper communion with God.
Visions of the Divine Feminine
Records of the divine feminine in visionary contexts can be found in various apocryphal texts and alternative gospels, particularly The Gospel of the Beloved Companion. This text, often linked to the figure of Mary Magdalene, portrays her as a central spiritual authority and a conduit of divine wisdom. In these writings, the divine feminine is often depicted through symbolic language, such as light, wisdom (Sophia), or nurturing presence, emphasizing her role in guiding the faithful toward spiritual enlightenment. Alongside this gospel, other apocryphal works like The Gospel of Mary and The Pistis Sophia also provide insights into the sacred feminine’s presence in early Christian mysticism. These texts collectively reveal a rich tradition of the divine feminine’s visionary role, often obscured in mainstream canonical scriptures.
These texts offer profound insights that can help women connect with their inner femininity and divine role. These writings emphasize themes of wisdom, spiritual leadership, and the sacred feminine presence, encouraging women to embrace their unique strengths and intuition. By exploring these texts, women may find validation for their inner voice, deepen their sense of purpose, and strengthen their connection to the divine. The portrayal of figures like Mary Magdalene as bearers of wisdom and spiritual authority empowers women to see their faith journey as one enriched by their feminine identity, fostering a deeper relationship with God and their own spiritual gifts.