5-RF NT 03 Reference Materials - Picture Language Explained

Picture Language EXPLANATION Picture language, used in the Bible by the Jews, has only one basic meaning. The meaning is usually the first thing that comes to mind when you think of the picture. It is the obvious. When used for individuals, the pictures show people’s character and how they relate to other people. These pictures are never to be taken literally; their purpose is to create understanding and responses. “A picture is worth a thousand words.” PICTURE LANGUAGE IN THE NEW TESTAMENT Babylon When used as picture language in the Bible, it means any person or place in direct opposition to God. Birds As picture language in parables, it refers to Satan and his angels and their destructive influence. City When used as picture language, it means commercial power. Keys to the Kingdom Matt. 16:19 When the Church began at Pentecost, Peter was the one to present the message of Jesus. He opened the door… First to Jews thru his sermon at Pentecost; 3000 believed; they became the first members of the Church. Then to Samaritans; as he laid hands on them, they received the Holy Spirit. Then to Gentiles; family and friends of Cornelius believed the message of Jesus and received the Holy Spirit. Peter was the one to state the method of God’s acceptance and entrance into the Church, the Body of Christ: it was thru faith in Jesus as Savior. Once the door was open for all to become members of God’s family thru faith in Jesus, then God used others like Philip, Stephen, Barnabas and Paul. Leaven, yeast It is picture language for sin or false teaching. “The leaven of the Pharisees and of the Sadducees” Matt. 16:6 Mountain As picture language, it can mean an insurmountable problem; other times it means kings or empires. Prostitute, harlot In general, it is picture language for God’s people being involved with idolatry and the worship of pagan gods. Seed It is a picture of God’s Word and how it develops or does not develop in people’s lives. Water, Living Water It is picture language of the Holy Spirit poured out on each person who believes in Jesus as Messiah. Wheat and tares Pictures of believers and unbelievers who include themselves under the name “Christian.” NUMBERS The Jews believed certain numbers not only had a literal meaning, but also a spiritual meaning. These numbers are consistent thruout the Old and New Testament. 3 is the number of deity. 4 is the number of the earth. 6 is less than perfect, so it is connected with humanity. 7 is the number that means total, complete or perfect, so it also represents deity. 10 is the number for government and authority. 12 is the number of earthly leadership under God’s guidance (4 x 3) 40 represents testing or judgment. 2