Signs Or Proof

[skenderbeg]

As this discussion continues, let's keep in mind that there is a difference, a fundamental difference, between seeking for 'spriitual confirmation'/spiritual direction and seeking for 'proof/signs'.

One (the spiritual confirmation) is a humble supplication between a child and her/his Father in Heaven.

The other is a 'demand' by someone 'requiring' proof/signs prior to being willing to 'believe' (that is another discussion altogether).

So, when people on this thread say, "Is there any difference between seeking signs, and following Moroni's example/challenge?" -- unequivocally, YES, there is a difference.

So far, this discussion has been very enlightening - as the person who started this thread, let me throw out my 2 cents on what I have learned here:

1. There is a varied definition of what makes a 'seeker of signs'.

2. There is also a varied understanding of what makes someone guiltless in demanding 'proof' prior to believing.

3. Many people seem offended or frustrated by these topics in general.

I think that, fundamentally, everyone here on this board, is searching for Christ - whether Mormon, EV, Catholic, or whatever. I also think that, from what I've read here, that people are uncomfortable when their past demands for 'show me proof' are brought up here - some people equate that for asking for references when someone says, "So and so said this, and so and so said that" (which is a different kind of proof from what was being discussed here).

Now, I've also been told that my beliefs on the results of the apostasy (the idea that all religions have some pieces of the truth - but due to the apostasy, no one religion, other than Christ's church, have the whole truth) are rote, and falls into Mormon apologist 101 (still not sure what that means) - this tells me that there are many people on this board who do not believe the fundamental tenant that there was indeed a falling away, as prophesied in the New Testament - that's fair to believe that, I just hope that that is indeed the case. If there wasn't an apostasy, I would like to be part of a discussion showing teachings, thoughts, etc. on that topic - please let me know if such a discussion has occured.

Furthermore, I think that, in the end, where we all stand is as follows: We are all seeking after Christ, but many are doing it on 'their terms' as they 'see fit'. My question is as follows, "Is that sufficient?" To say, "I believe that this is the right course. Show me that it isn't!" Good question, without a better understanding of where/what/how someone's faith is based upon, I am unsure how those kinds of questions can be answered...