Topical Encyclopedia The concept of similitude in the Bible refers to the use of comparisons, likenesses, or metaphors to convey spiritual truths and divine principles. Throughout Scripture, similitudes are employed to illustrate complex ideas in a manner that is relatable and understandable to human experience.Old Testament References 1. Hosea 12:10 · "I spoke through the prophets and multiplied their visions; I gave parables through the prophets." In this passage, God emphasizes His use of similitudes through the prophets to communicate His messages to the people of Israel. The use of parables and visions served as a means to reveal divine truths in a way that could be grasped by the human mind. 2. Numbers 12:8 · "With him I speak face to face, clearly and not in riddles; he sees the form of the LORD. Why then were you not afraid to speak against My servant Moses?" Here, God distinguishes the clarity of His communication with Moses from the more enigmatic forms of communication, such as riddles or similitudes, used with other prophets. This highlights the unique relationship Moses had with God, while also acknowledging the common use of similitudes in divine revelation. 3. Psalm 78:2 · "I will open my mouth in parables; I will utter things hidden from the beginning." This verse underscores the use of parables, a form of similitude, to reveal hidden truths. The psalmist speaks of unveiling mysteries through the use of illustrative language, a method that engages the listener's imagination and understanding. New Testament References 1. Matthew 13:34-35 · "Jesus spoke all these things to the crowds in parables. He did not tell them anything without using a parable. So was fulfilled what was spoken through the prophet: 'I will open My mouth in parables; I will utter things hidden since the foundation of the world.'" Jesus' teaching method often involved similitudes, using parables to reveal the mysteries of the kingdom of heaven. This approach fulfilled Old Testament prophecy and demonstrated the power of similitudes in conveying spiritual truths. 2. James 3:9 · "With the tongue we bless our Lord and Father, and with it we curse men, who have been made in God’s likeness." The use of the term "likeness" here is a form of similitude, drawing a comparison between humanity and the divine image. This passage highlights the inherent dignity of human beings as reflections of God's image, urging believers to consider the implications of their speech. 3. Hebrews 9:9 · "This is an illustration for the present time, indicating that the gifts and sacrifices being offered were not able to clear the conscience of the worshiper." The author of Hebrews uses the concept of similitude to explain the limitations of the Old Covenant rituals. These practices served as a foreshadowing, or similitude, of the perfect sacrifice of Christ, which would ultimately cleanse the conscience. Theological Implications Similitudes in Scripture serve as a bridge between the divine and human understanding. They are a testament to God's desire to communicate His truths in a manner accessible to all. By employing everyday images and experiences, similitudes invite believers to explore deeper spiritual realities and to reflect on their relationship with God and His creation. Nave's Topical Index Hosea 12:10I have also spoken by the prophets, and I have multiplied visions, and used similitudes, by the ministry of the prophets. Nave's Topical Index Library The General Deliverance The Scriptures Reveal Eternal Life through Jesus Christ How Two Natures Constitute the Person of the Mediator. Solitude, Silence, Submission The Consensus and Dissensus of Creeds. Elements of Prophetic Interpretation. Article vi: of Confession and Satisfaction. An Examination of the Treatise of William Perkins Concerning the ... Want of Universality in the Knowledge and Reception of ... The Certainty of Sacred Theology Resources What is The Pilgrim's Progress by John Bunyan? | GotQuestions.orgWhat is the meaning of the Parables of the Lost Sheep and Lost Coin? | GotQuestions.org What is the meaning of the Parable of the Mustard Seed? | GotQuestions.org Similitude: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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