Is a seer greater than a prophet?

Question

Gramps,

In Mosiah 8:15 it states a seer is greater then a prophet.    Can only prophets be seers or can personal revelation also be described as the gift of a seer? I have received several revelations involving the future that in fact did happen.

Andrea

Answer

Andrea,

Excellent question, and let us review the necessary scriptures that will edify our hearts and minds pertaining to your question.  Mosiah 8:15-17, instructs us on the calling of a seer and what power and authority they have been given by God:

1. They are greater than a prophet
2. They are a revelator and a prophet
3. They know of things past, and things to come
4. They are given the ability to reveal the mysteries of the kingdom of God
5. They have the power only to reveal doctrine which otherwise would not be known

Our Bible Dictionary further explains the calling of a seer by clarifying:

1. They are able to use the Urim and Thummim
2. There have been more prophets than seers
3. In the 1984 addition of the Bible, it mentions Patriarchs were sustained as prophets, seers, and revelators; however, on the Church’s website the reference to Patriarchs appears to have been removed.

In light of this information the First Presidency, the Council of the Twelve (Melchizedek Priesthood holders and High Priests) are sustained as prophets, seers, and revelators.

The gift you speak of, which has enlightened your mind to know of things to come refers to the gift of prophecy and revelation which is given to all of God’s children who earnestly seek, knock, and ask (D&C 46:8-9).

In the New Testament we are informed of a man (Simeon) and a woman (Anna, a prophetess) who knew Christ when they saw him and prophesied of his redemption.  Luke explains further that with Simeon it was revealed to him that he would not see death until his eyes had seen the Lord’s Christ. This was fulfilled.

A seer, we (you and me) are not; however, let us rejoice that the Lord has given us gifts of the Spirit, and by those gifts (as with Simeon) the Lord may at times reveal things which are to come even to you and me.

Gramps