New Chapter- Tracing the "Moses Prophecy"

The prior study, "The Gentiles in the Book of Mormon" will now become the foundation for all future studies. The next study will examine the original use of the "Moses Prophecy" and then follow how subsequent prophets elaborate on the prophecies application in the last days.

Each study is linked to the "Gentile" study by references they share in common. When both topics share a common reference we know they speak of the same events. Like placing puzzle pieces together, each new reference provides facts that combine to form a more complete picture. Topical study is very much like the puzzles people put together on their dining room table. Topical research will have some redundancy but new facts alter prior conclusions and after a while the student begins to recognize the emerging picture that runs throughout the Standard Works and turns multiple canons into one book.

Tracing the "Moses Prophecy"

In a very brief time we have demonstrated how the study of a key word (Gentiles)can unlock messages in the scriptures that are profound and far reaching. The study of key words further demonstrates greater relevance to our day. Throughout this book we use this powerful tool in letting the scriptures speak for themselves. They become their own authority and prove the writings of prophets coupled with latter-day revelations provide an iron rod leading through mists of darkness and deception that prevail in the modern world. Understanding prophecy turns our hearts to promises made to our father’s (by the Lord) on our behalf. Increased understanding of prophecy leads to us toward fulfillment of Ezekiel’s prophecy that the records of Judah and Joseph will become “one in thine hand.”

As we build on the foundation of topical study using the meaning of words and phrases from the scriptures, our next method of study traces a prophecy through the standard works. The study begins with the first chronological use of the prophecy then (using concordances) locate where the prophecy is repeatedly used by other prophets. As we read the same prophecy over and over it takes on a certain cadence and rhythm that helps recognize the prophecy even when it is not be clearly identified. Apostle Harold B. Lee quoted an unknown source as saying, “Repetition is the soul of learning.” This study will prove this axiom to be true. Repetition inherent in this process helps us understand the content because we examine the prophecy in from different prophetic perspectives. Instead of reading the prophecy in the context of the original author, we remove it from the original context and place it in the context of all prophetic commentators. Employing this strategy often has the effect of standing conventional wisdom on its proverbial ear. Often the prophecy is viewed from a perspective we have never seen before.

Let’s begin with the Moses Prophecy. The first account of this prophecy is found in Deuteronomy 18. We begin with Moses, (who originated the quote) and then look for further clarification as we follow its trail woven throughout the fabric of the Old and New Testaments, Book of Mormon and Doctrine & Covenants.

18 I will raise them up a Prophet from among their brethren, like unto thee, and will put my words in his mouth; and he shall speak unto them all that I shall command him.
19 And it shall come to pass, that whosoever will not hearken unto my words which he shall speak in my name, I will require it of him.(Deuteronomy 18:18-19)