>> It does seem strange to me … a new 'teaching' would come forth
>>through the witness of one person un-announced and un-related to
>>the main body of Christians who have carried the weight of
>>Christianity during those centuries -- a body whose devotion to
>>their task cost them dearly.
>> I surmised the truth would be established through two witnesses,
Eastbound, Moses established “New Truth, and he started alone, and then was given Aaron, to be his mouthpiece.
Joseph Smith was only the first there were more witnesses.
The three witnesses: http://scriptures.lds.org/bm/thrwtnss.
The Eight witnesses http://scriptures.lds.org/bm/eghtwtns.
Joseph smith also gave his own testimony: http://scriptures.lds.org/bm/jsphsmth.
Moses a prophet who made massive changes to the Jewish faith, indeed Jesus was a Jew and for most of his life was considered to be in obedience to the Law of Moses (He did some things during his ministry that some would argue about) Moses first encounter with the burning bush was only witnessed by him. He was the only one testifying of it until others believing on his word received a witness (Aaron, for example) I could show more examples, but I believe it is not uncommon for prophets in the Old testament to be “Called” in private, and confirmed in public. Can you show me where it says a Prophet’s calling should come in public?
If you are a true seeker after understanding, I will be glad to have a conversation with you. And will answer any question that I know the answer to. (I do not claim to know everything :-)
“Churches are hospitals for sinners, not sanctuaries for saints” – Unknown.
You asked,
"Can you show me where it says a Prophet’s calling should come in public?"
"Luke 16:16:
"16 The law and the prophets were until John: since that time the kingdom of God is preached, and every man presseth into it." (Italics mine.)
I think the scripture speaks for itself. THE kingdom is not of this world, but can be pressed into here and now for Christ is the presense of God, continually.
And He is continually in His temple, which we are. That is Good News!
Wise men still seek Him, for they believe He can be found. Then belief can turn to knowledge, for the knowledge of Jesus Christ and He who sent Him is eternal life.
Greater is He that is within you than that which is in the world.
But first, belief. Acting on that belief with the inward search is the activity of faith -- works. And faith/works is rewarded. It is a personal experience, forsaking all others.
Difficult to do these days, when so much and so many are vieing for our time and attention, as in . . . 'Lo, Christ is here . . . Lo, Christ is there . . .' ;)
Best wishes to you, DelphiUser.