Aaron Shafovaloff on the New Mormonism

In this episode of Alpha and Omega Ministries, host James White engages in a deep and reflective conversation with Aaron Shafovaloff, director of Mormonism Research Ministry (MRM), about the evolving landscape of modern Mormonism, particularly the emergence of what he calls 'New Mormonism.' White reflects on his early experiences evangelizing at General Conference in the 1980s and 1990s, when Mormon theology was more uniform and predictable—centered on doctrines like the regress of deities and the idea that God was once a man. He contrasts that with today’s complex, fragmented theological environment, where figures like Blake Ostler are promoting revisionist interpretations that challenge long-standing teachings. Shafovaloff explains how the 'Mapping Mormon Theologies Project' helps evangelicals understand this internal diversity by mapping competing theological streams within Mormonism. The discussion turns to a clip from a BYU-affiliated interview where Ostler and others downplay the historical dominance of the regress of deities doctrine, leading to concerns about gaslighting and intellectual dishonesty. White argues that this shift undermines the authority of LDS apostles and prophets, replacing institutional tradition with philosophical revisionism. He warns that this trend, driven by postmodern skepticism and influenced by secular critics, threatens the coherence of Mormonism itself. Yet, amid the theological chaos, White shares a powerful personal testimony of a former Mormon apologist who was transformed by the gospel, underscoring the enduring power of faithful preaching and divine providence. The episode closes with gratitude for the perseverance of Christian ministry in Utah and a call to continue sharing the truth with compassion and clarity.