Sandra and her late husband Jerald Tanner were among the first researchers to critically examine the truth claims of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (LDS). As lifelong Mormons, they sincerely wanted to serve God — but when they began to compare Mormon teachings with the Bible, they found serious contradictions. Their quest for truth wasn’t instant; it was a journey of discovery, guided by Scripture and the Holy Spirit.
Their research — available today at www.UTLM.org — shows the importance of testing every teaching by the Word of God, just as the Bereans did:
“These were more noble than those in Thessalonica, in that they received the word with all readiness of mind, and searched the scriptures daily, whether those things were so.” (Acts 17:11)
Sandra often points out that leaving Mormonism was not merely about rejecting false doctrine — it was about falling in love with Jesus Christ and discovering His grace. In Mormonism, salvation depends on endless effort — temple ordinances, obedience, and personal worthiness. But in the Bible, salvation is a gift, not a wage earned by human effort:
“For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God — not of works, lest any man should boast.” (Ephesians 2:8–9)
As Sandra and Jerald studied, they took to heart the apostle Paul’s command:
“Prove all things; hold fast that which is good.” (1 Thessalonians 5:21)
That meant examining every teaching — even the ones they had grown up with — in the light of Scripture. Over time, they learned that truth can withstand honest investigation, and that Jesus alone is the way, the truth, and the life (John 14:6).
Their story reminds believers today that faith is not blind loyalty to a church, but a personal relationship with Christ Himself. As Jesus said,
“If ye continue in my word, then are ye my disciples indeed; and ye shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free.” (John 8:31–32)
Through their diligent study and love for God’s Word, the Tanners became powerful witnesses for truth — showing that when you seek Jesus with an honest heart, He will lead you out of deception and into His marvelous light.
“For God, who commanded the light to shine out of darkness, hath shined in our hearts, to give the light of the knowledge of the glory of God in the face of Jesus Christ.” (2 Corinthians 4:6)
