Figurative Language in the Bible Types of figurative

Figurative Language in the Bible

Types of figurative speech in the Bible Parable: A parable is a “short, pithy saying of truth. ” Truth is based on real or potentially real events which may be social, political, or domestic “Parable” may seem almost exclusive to Mt. – Jn. The original word is also used in Heb. 9: 9 (“figure”)

Types of figurative speech in the Bible Parable: Jesus was not the first to use “parables. ” We find “parables” several times in the OT: Num. 23: 7, 18; 24: 3, 15, 20 -21, 23; Job 27: 1; 29: 1; Ps. 49: 4; 78: 2; Prov. 26: 7, 9; Isa. 14: 4; Ezek. 17: 2; 24: 3; Mic. 2: 4; Hab. 2: 6

Types of figurative speech in the Bible Parable: “Many truths” taught by parables (Mt. 13: 3). Jesus was asked why He did this (Mt. 13: 10) Mt. 13: Therefore speak I to them in parables; because seeing they see not, and hearing they hear not, neither do they understand.

Types of figurative speech in the Bible Parable: A parable about a “sower” (Mt. 13: 8 f) Power of God’s Word, understanding/not understanding the Word, the devil, joy, apostasy, persecution, tribulation, riches, cares of world, bearing spiritual fruit

Types of figurative speech in the Bible Parable: Mt. 13: 24 – “another parable” Col. 1: 13 The kingdom of heaven is likened unto a man that sowed good seed in his field: 25 but while men slept, his enemy came and sowed tares also among the wheat, and went away.

Types of figurative speech in the Bible Parable: Mt. 13: 31 – “another parable” Mt. 13: 33 – “another parable” Mt. 13: 34 – “did not speak without parables”

Types of figurative speech in the Bible Parable: Mt. 13: 35 – “I will open my mouth in parables; I will utter things hidden from the foundation of the world”