Nine Thoughts on Biblical Language with a Hint of Maple
Biblical symbolism and imagery are not a code. That means that if literal language is sufficient, the Bible is not going to choose symbolic language to make the point.
a) The worldview that should shape our formation is not so much the discursive and analytical philosophy but the worldview formed by the Bible’s own language.
b) When the Bible references sun, moon, and stars, these are not simply astronomical realities but symbols of the hierarchy of heaven and earth. The Bible re-uses this symbolic world throughout the prophets and the Gospels to represent civil authorities, governmental entities, and hierarchical structures on earth and in heaven. So, there is much more than first meets the eye.
c) The language of the Old Testament develops an appetite for visual imagery and repeated patterns. These two ideas will guide our interpretation: visual imagery refers to symbolism, and repeated patterns refer to typology.
d) In the Bible, language builds on language; worlds build on worlds, and we see transformations from one stage of history to another; we see the world moving from glory to glory.
e) The Creation is not given to satisfy scientific demands. The Creation account is given so we can see more clearly the thousands of new creations God gave his children and his world throughout redemptive history.
f) Biblical symbolism and imagery are not a code. That means the Bible will not choose symbolic language to make the point if literal language is sufficient.
g) Symbolic language is used to communicate associations with other ideas. Yes, Revelation 13 could have used “Nero” as a historical figure persecuting the Church, but John—steeped in the Hebraic world—used “beast.”
h) The history of systematic and exegetical theology should keep a check on unhinged symbolic interpretations. We don’t invent as we go along; we must stay close to the historical realities.
i) It is through the language of the Scriptures that we view the world through new eyes. Other languages may serve as an aid, but when they control the text, the text will yield corrupt or confusing fruit.
Notations
I returned late last night from a four-day trip to Lynchburg, VA, where I lectured four times and preached twice on Sunday. I will have some more details for my Friday subscribers. I am happy to give a three-month subscription to anyone interested.
I had many American Reformer listeners say a word of thanks for my interview about the CREC. I am grateful for the exposure and the happy interactions. I do a lot of interviews and never really know their impact until I travel and hear just how far these interviews reach.
I was interviewed by the Iron Deep podcast on the role of covenant training and initiation rites. It should be live in the next few days.
Kuyperian Commentary host Rick Davis sat with former Presiding Minister Virgil Hurt and me in Lynchburg, VA, this past Saturday to discuss the CREC. It should go live on Wednesday. Don’t forget to subscribe to the YouTube page.
I have an essay for the FLF magazine in their next edition. More details soon to come.
Folks who have read my booklet on pipe-smoking are always asking what I am smoking these days. It has a nice maple hint without being too overwhelming and burns just right without the bite.
Hearty cheers, everyone.
Uriesou Brito
