Thematic Bible: Illustrative of
Thematic Bible
Armies » Illustrative of » The church
‘Who is this that looks down like the dawn,
Fair and beautiful as the full moon,
Clear and pure as the sun,
As majestic as an army with banners?’
And [in my vision this horn] grew great, even against the host of heaven [God's true people, the saints], and some of the host and of the stars [priests] it cast down to the ground and trampled on them, Yes, [this horn] magnified itself, even [matching itself] against the Prince of the host [of heaven]; and from Him the continual [burnt offering] was taken away and the place of [God's] sanctuary was cast down and profaned. And the host [the chosen people] was given [to the wicked horn] together with the continual burnt offering because of the transgression [of God's people -- "their abounding irreverence, ungodliness, and lack of piety]. And righteousness and truth were cast down to the ground, and it [the wicked horn] accomplished this [by divine permission] and prospered. read more.
Then I heard a holy one speaking, and another holy one said to the one that spoke, For how long is the vision concerning the continual offering, the transgression that makes desolate, and the giving over of both the sanctuary and the host [of the people] to be trampled underfoot?
Then I heard a holy one speaking, and another holy one said to the one that spoke, For how long is the vision concerning the continual offering, the transgression that makes desolate, and the giving over of both the sanctuary and the host [of the people] to be trampled underfoot?
(The Bridegroom)
“You are as beautiful asTirzah, my darling,
As lovely as Jerusalem,
As majestic as an army with banners!
“You are as beautiful as
As lovely as Jerusalem,
As majestic as an army with banners!
Armies » Illustrative of » Multitudes of angels
Praise Him, all His angels;
Praise Him, all His hosts (armies)!
Micaiah said, “Therefore, hear the word of the Lord. I saw the Lord sitting on His throne, and all the host (army) of heaven standing by Him on His right hand and on His left.
“All the inhabitants of the earth are regarded as nothing.
But He does according to His will in the host of heaven
And among the inhabitants of the earth;
And no one can hold back His hand
Or say to Him, ‘What have You done?’
Armies » Illustrative of » Numerous and heavy afflictions
“His troops come together
And build up their way and siege works against me
And camp around my tent.
military Arms » Illustrative of » Spiritual armor
But since we [believers] belong to the day, let us be sober, having put on the breastplate of faith and love, and as a helmet, the hope and confident assurance of salvation.
The night [this present evil age] is almost gone and the day [of Christ’s return] is almost here. So let us fling away the works of darkness and put on the [full] armor of light.
in [speaking] the word of truth, in the power of God; by the weapons of righteousness for the right hand [like holding the sword to attack] and for the left [like holding the shield to defend],
Put on God's whole armor [the armor of a heavy-armed soldier which God supplies], that you may be able successfully to stand up against [all] the strategies and the deceits of the devil. For we are not wrestling with flesh and blood [contending only with physical opponents], but against the despotisms, against the powers, against [the master spirits who are] the world rulers of this present darkness, against the spirit forces of wickedness in the heavenly (supernatural) sphere. Therefore put on God's complete armor, that you may be able to resist and stand your ground on the evil day [of danger], and, having done all [the crisis demands], to stand [firmly in your place]. read more.
Stand therefore [hold your ground], having tightened the belt of truth around your loins and having put on the breastplate of integrity and of moral rectitude and right standing with God,
Stand therefore [hold your ground], having tightened the belt of truth around your loins and having put on the breastplate of integrity and of moral rectitude and right standing with God,
military Arms » Illustrative of » Spiritual weapons
The weapons of our warfare are not physical [weapons of flesh and blood]. Our weapons are divinely powerful for the destruction of fortresses.
And take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the Word of God.
military Arms » Illustrative of » Judgments of God
They are coming from a distant country,
From the end of heaven [the farthest horizon]—
The Lord and the weapons of His indignation—
To destroy the whole land.
The Lord has opened His armory
And has brought out [the nations who unknowingly are] the weapons of His indignation (wrath),
For it is a work of the Lord God of hosts
In the land of the Chaldeans.
wild Donkey » Illustrative of » Israel in their love of idols
How can you say, I am not defiled; I have not gone after the Baals [other gods]? Look at your way in the valley; know what you have done. You are a restive young female camel [in the uncontrollable violence of her brute passion eagerly] running hither and thither, Or [you have the untamed and reckless nature of] a wild donkey used to the desert, in her heat sniffing the wind [for the scent of a male]. In her mating season who can restrain her? No males seeking her need weary themselves; in her month they will find her [seeking them].
wild Donkey » Illustrative of » The ishmaelites
“He (Ishmael) will be a wild donkey of a man;
His hand will be against every man [continually fighting]
And every man’s hand against him;
And he will dwell in defiance of all his brothers.”
wild Donkey » Illustrative of » Intractableness of natural man
“But a hollow (empty-headed) man will become intelligent and wise
[Only] when the
wild Donkey » Illustrative of » The assyrian power
For they have gone up to Assyria,
Like a wild donkey wandering alone and taking her own way;
Ephraim has hired lovers (pagan allies).
wild Donkey » Illustrative of » The wicked in their pursuit of sin
“Behold, as wild donkeys in the desert,
The poor go to their work, diligently seeking food;
As bread for their children in the desert.
Bears » Illustrative of » God in his judgments
I will encounter them like a bear robbed of her cubs,
And I will tear open their chests;
There I will also devour them like a lioness,
As a wild beast would tear them.
Bears » Illustrative of » The kingdom of antiChrist
And the beast that I saw resembled a leopard, but his feet were like those of a bear, and his mouth was like that of a lion. And the dragon gave him his power and his throne and great authority.
Bears » Illustrative of » Wicked rulers
Like a roaring lion and a charging bear
Is a wicked ruler over a poor people.
Bears » Illustrative of » The natural man
And the cow and the bear will graze [together],
Their young will lie down together,
And the lion shall eat straw like the ox.
Bears » Illustrative of » The kingdom of the medes
And behold, another beast, a second one (the Medo-Persian Empire), was like a bear, and it was raised up on one side (domain), and three ribs were in its mouth between its teeth; and it was told, ‘Arise, devour much meat.’
Beasts » Illustrative of » Persecutors
But the Lord stood by me and strengthened and empowered me, so that through me the [gospel] message might be fully proclaimed, and that all the Gentiles might hear it; and I was rescued from the mouth of the lion.
What good has it done me if, [merely] from a human point of view, I fought with wild animals at Ephesus? If the dead are not raised [at all], let us eat and drink [enjoying ourselves now], for tomorrow we die.
Beasts » Illustrative of » AntiChrist
And then I saw thrones, and sitting on them were those to whom judgment [that is, the authority to act as judges] was given. And I saw the souls of those who had been beheaded because of their testimony of Jesus and because of the word of God, and those who had refused to worship the beast or his image, and had not accepted his mark on their forehead and on their hand; and they came to life and reigned with Christ for a thousand years.
And the beast that I saw resembled a leopard, but his feet were like those of a bear, and his mouth was like that of a lion. And the dragon gave him his power and his throne and great authority.
Beasts » Illustrative of » People of different nations
‘Its leaves were beautiful and its fruit abundant,
And in it was food for all.
The beasts of the field found shade under it,
And the birds of the sky nested in its branches,
And all living creatures fed themselves from it.
Whose foliage was beautiful and its fruit abundant, on which was food for all, under which the living creatures of the field dwelt, and on whose branches the birds of the sky had their nests -- " It is you, O king, who have grown and become strong; your greatness has increased and it reaches to the heavens, and your dominion to the ends of the earth.
Beasts » Illustrative of » UnGodly professors
But these [false teachers], like unreasoning animals, [mere] creatures of instinct, born to be captured and destroyed, reviling things they do not understand, will also perish in their own corruption [in their destroying they will be destroyed],
But these men sneer at anything which they do not understand; and whatever they do know by [mere] instinct, like unreasoning and irrational beasts—by these things they are destroyed.
Beasts » Illustrative of » The wicked
A man [who is held] in honor,
Yet who lacks [spiritual] understanding and a teachable heart, is like the beasts that perish.
One of them [Epimenides, a Cretan], a prophet of their own, said, “Cretans are always liars, evil beasts, lazy gluttons.”
Beasts » Illustrative of » Kingdoms
Then I kept looking because of the sound of the great and boastful words which the horn was speaking. I kept looking until the beast was slain, and its body destroyed and given to be burned with fire.
I saw the ram (Medo-Persia) charging westward and northward and southward; no beast could stand before him, nor was there anyone who could rescue [anything] from his power, but he did as he pleased and magnified himself.
Books » Illustrative of » The record of the church of Christ
and to the general assembly and assembly of the firstborn who are registered [as citizens] in heaven, and to God, who is Judge of all, and to the spirits of the righteous (the redeemed in heaven) who have been made perfect [bringing them to their final glory],
“Now at that [end] time Michael, the great [angelic] prince who stands guard over the children of your people, will arise. And there will be a time of distress such as never occurred since there was a nation until that time; but at that time your people, everyone who is found written in the Book [of Life], will be rescued.
And I saw the dead, the great and the small, standing before the throne, and books were opened. Then another book was opened, which is the Book of Life; and the dead were judged according to what they had done as written in the books [that is, everything done while on earth].
and if anyone takes away from or distorts the words of the book of this prophecy, God will take away [from that one] his share from the tree of life and from the holy city (new Jerusalem), which are written in this book.
Books » Illustrative of » Memorials of conversation and conduct of men
And I saw the dead, the great and the small, standing before the throne, and books were opened. Then another book was opened, which is the Book of Life; and the dead were judged according to what they had done as written in the books [that is, everything done while on earth].
“A river of fire was flowing
And coming out from before Him;
A thousand thousands were attending Him,
And ten thousand times ten thousand were standing before Him;
The court was seated,
And the books were opened.
Then those who feared the Lord [with awe-filled reverence] spoke to one another; and the Lord paid attention and heard it, and a book of remembrance was written before Him of those who fear the Lord [with an attitude of reverence and respect] and who esteem His name.
Books » Illustrative of » Memorials of God's providence
You have taken account of my wanderings;
Put my tears in Your bottle.
Are they not recorded in Your book?
Your eyes have seen my unformed substance;
And in Your book were all written
The days that were appointed for me,
When as yet there was not one of them [even taking shape].
Brass » Illustrative of » The strength and firmness of Christ
His body also was like beryl [with a golden luster], his face had the appearance of lightning, his eyes were like flaming torches, his arms and his feet like the gleam of burnished bronze, and the sound of his words was like the noise of a multitude [of people or the roaring of the sea].
His feet were like burnished [white-hot] bronze, refined in a furnace, and His voice was [powerful] like the sound of many waters.
Brass » Illustrative of » Strength given to saints
“And I will make you to this people
A fortified wall of bronze;
They will fight against you,
But they will not prevail over you,
For I am with you [always] to save you
And
“Arise and thresh, O Daughter of Zion!
For I will make your horn iron
And I will make your hoofs bronze;
That you may beat many peoples in pieces [trampling down your enemies],
That you may devote to the Lord their unjust gain (pagan possessions)
And their wealth to the Lord of all the earth.
Brass » Illustrative of » Obstinate sinners
“Because I know that you are obstinate,
And your neck is an iron tendon
And your brow is bronze [both unyielding],
They are all the worst [kind] of [stiff-necked, godless] rebels,
Going around spreading slander.
They are [not gold and silver ore, but] bronze and iron;
They are all corrupt.
Brass » Illustrative of » Extreme drought
The heaven which is over your head shall be bronze [giving no rain and blocking all prayers], and the earth which is under you, iron [hard to plow and yielding no produce].
Brass » Illustrative of » The earth made barren
I will break your pride in your power, and I will make your sky like iron [giving no rain and blocking all prayers] and your ground like bronze [hard to plow and yielding no produce].
Brass » Illustrative of » The decrees of God
Now again I looked up, and four chariots were coming out from between two mountains; and the mountains were mountains of [firm, immovable] bronze (divine judgment).
Brass » Illustrative of » Macedonian empire
After you will arise another kingdom (Medo-Persia) inferior to you, and then a third kingdom of bronze (Greece under Alexander the Great), which will rule over all the earth.
the Burnt offering » Illustrative of » The offering of Christ
and walk continually in love [that is, value one another—practice empathy and compassion, unselfishly seeking the best for others], just as Christ also loved you and gave Himself up for us, an offering and sacrifice to God [slain for you, so that it became] a sweet fragrance.
When He said just before, You have neither desired, nor have You taken delight in sacrifices and offerings and burnt offerings and sin offerings -- "all of which are offered according to the Law -- " He then went on to say, Behold, [here] I am, coming to do Your will. Thus He does away with and annuls the first (former) order [as a means of expiating sin] so that He might inaugurate and establish the second (latter) order. And in accordance with this will [of God], we have been made holy (consecrated and sanctified) through the offering made once for all of the body of Jesus Christ (the Anointed One).
the Burnt offering » Illustrative of » Being Devoted to God
Verse Concepts
Acceptance, From GodGiving, Of OneselfAbundant LifeAcceptance, divineCoolPersonal ConsecrationFalse Worshipethics, incentives towardsencouragement, examples ofAcceptance, Of WorshipDevotion To GodSurrenderingDedication In NtAromasBodyGrowthHoliness Of The SaintsHoliness, Purpose OfHonorMercy, Response To God'sMind, Of GodPleasing GodPriesthood, In NtPriests, Tasks In Nt TimesResponseSacrifice, Nt Fulfilment OfSanctification, Nature And Basis
Self DenialServanthood, And Worship Of GodTypesWork, And RedemptionWorship, Acceptable AttitudesBeing DevoutOfferings, FigurativeSpiritual Life, Described ByThe Human BodyMan's Conduct Towards GodDrugs, Illegal NarcoticsUnworldlinessEnthusiasmProvision For The BodyThat Which Is SpiritualAltarsHow To Worship GodLiving OnRight SacrificesEating DisordersServiceSurrenderSacrificeCall To ActiontransitionChristians Being Called Brothers
Calves » Illustrative of » Patient endurance
Their legs were straight and the soles of their feet were like a calf’s hoof, and they sparkled and gleamed like shiny bronze.
Calves » Illustrative of » Sacrifices of praise
Take the words [confessing your guilt] with you and return to the Lord.
Say to Him, “Take away all our wickedness;
Accept what is good and receive us graciously,
So that we may present the fruit of our lips (gratitude).
Let your character [your moral essence, your inner nature] be free from the love of money [shun greed—be financially ethical], being content with what you have; for He has said, “I will never [under any circumstances] desert you [nor give you up nor leave you without support, nor will I in any degree leave you helpless], nor will I forsake or let you down or relax My hold on you [assuredly not]!”
Verse Concepts
Abandoning FriendsAbandonmentMidlife CrisisBad CounselCovetingBad ChildrenAdultsBad AttitudeAssurance, basis ofBecoming A ChristianBeing A KidBeing In DebtTrusting In God's PresenceGreed, Believers' Response ToMaterialism, As An Aspect Of SinMoney, Attitudes ToPersecution, Attitudes ToResentment, Against PeopleSatisfactionStress
Temptation, Universality OfContentmentHelp From GodLonelinessMaterialismMoneyDiscontentGod's ProvisionEternal SecurityAvoiding EvilGod Not ForsakingLoving MoneyNew Testament Claiming Old Testament Is InspiredA Tough Break UpMillionaire MentalityCovetousnessJesus Being With YouFinancesBeing Contentfree
Calves » Illustrative of » Saints nourished by grace
But for you who fear My name [with awe-filled reverence] the sun of righteousness will rise with healing in its wings. And you will go forward and leap [joyfully] like calves [released] from the stall.
Candlestick » Illustrative of » Christ
Once more Jesus addressed the crowd. He said, “I am the Light of the world. He who follows Me will not walk in the darkness, but will have the Light of life.”
A tabernacle (sacred tent) was put up, the outer one or first section, in which were the lampstand and the table with [its loaves of] the sacred showbread; this is called the Holy Place.
He said to me, “What do you see?” I said, “I see, and behold, a lampstand all of gold, with its bowl [for oil] on the top of it and its seven lamps on it with seven spouts belonging to each of the lamps which are on the top of it.
Candlestick » Illustrative of » The church
and in the midst of the lampstands I saw someone like the Son of Man, dressed in a robe reaching to His feet, and with a golden sash wrapped around His chest.
Candlestick » Illustrative of » Ministers
You are the light of the world. A city set on a hill cannot be hidden. Nor do men light a lamp and put it under a peck measure, but on a lampstand, and it gives light to all in the house. Let your light so shine before men that they may see your moral excellence and your praiseworthy, noble, and good deeds and recognize and honor and praise and glorify your Father Who is in heaven.
Cedars » Illustrative of » Majesty, strength, and glory of Christ
“His legs are [strong and steady] pillars of alabaster
Set upon pedestals of fine gold.
His appearance is like Lebanon,
Stately and choice as the cedars.
Thus says the Lord God: I Myself will take a twig from the lofty top of the cedar and will set it out; I will crop off from the topmost of its young twigs a tender one and will plant it upon a mountain high and exalted. On the mountain height of Israel will I plant it, that it may bring forth boughs and bear fruit and be a noble cedar, and under it shall dwell all birds of every feather; in the shade of its branches they shall nestle and find rest.
Cedars » Illustrative of » Arrogant rulers
And the wrath of God will be against all the cedars of Lebanon [west of the Jordan] that are high and lifted up,
Against all the oaks of Bashan [east of the Jordan],
[But just when the Assyrian is in sight of his goal] behold, the Lord, the Lord of hosts, will lop off the beautiful boughs with terrorizing force; the high in stature will be hewn down and the lofty will be brought low. And He will cut down the thickets of the forest with an ax, and Lebanon [the Assyrian] with its majestic trees shall fall by the Mighty One and mightily.
Cedars » Illustrative of » Powerful nations
“Yet it was I [not the false gods] who destroyed the Amorite before them,
Though his height was like the height of the cedars,
And he was as strong as the oaks;
I even destroyed his fruit above and his root below.
‘Behold (listen carefully), Assyria was a cedar in Lebanon
With beautiful branches and with forest shade,
And of high stature,
With its top among the clouds.
Cedars » Illustrative of » Beauty and glory of israel
“Like valleys that stretch out,
Like gardens beside the river,
Like aloes planted by the Lord,
Like cedars beside the waters.
Cedars » Illustrative of » Saints in their rapid growth
The righteous will flourish like the date palm [long-lived, upright and useful];
They will grow like a cedar in Lebanon [majestic and stable].
Chariots » Illustrative of » Prophets
Elisha saw it and cried out, “My father, my father, the chariot of Israel and its horsemen!” And he no longer saw Elijah. Then he took hold of his own clothes and tore them into two pieces [in grief].
Now Elisha had become sick with the illness by which he would die. And Joash the king of Israel came down to him and wept over him and said, “O my father, my father, the chariot of Israel and its horsemen!”
Chariots » Illustrative of » Christ's love to his church
“Before I was aware [of what was happening], my desire had brought me
Into the area of the princes of my people [the king’s retinue].”
Chariots » Illustrative of » Angels
[Elisha] answered, Fear not; for those with us are more than those with them. Then Elisha prayed, Lord, I pray You, open his eyes that he may see. And the Lord opened the young man's eyes, and he saw, and behold, the mountain was full of horses and chariots of fire round about Elisha.
Chariots » Illustrative of » The judgments of God
For indeed, the Lord will come in fire
And His chariots will be like the stormy wind,
To render His anger with rage,
And His rebuke with flames of fire.
Chariots » Illustrative of » The clouds
Who lays the beams of His upper chambers in the waters [above the firmament],
Who makes the clouds His chariot,
Who walks on the wings of the wind,
Circumcision » Illustrative of » Purity of heart
So circumcise [that is, remove sin from] your heart, and be stiff-necked (stubborn, obstinate) no longer.
“And the Lord your God will circumcise your heart and the hearts of your descendants [that is, He will remove the desire to sin from your heart], so that you will love the Lord your God with all your heart and all your soul, so that you may live [as a recipient of His blessing].
Circumcision » Illustrative of » Readiness to hear and obey
To whom shall I (Jeremiah) speak and give warning
That they may hear?
Behold, their ears are
And they cannot listen.
Behold, the word of the Lord has become a reprimand and an object of scorn to them;
They have no delight in it.
Circumcision » Illustrative of » Purity of speech
But Moses said to the Lord, “Look, [my own people] the Israelites have not listened to me; so how then will Pharaoh listen to me, for I am unskilled and inept in speech?”
Cities » Illustrative of » The apostacy
Then the fifth angel poured out his bowl on the throne of the beast, and his kingdom was plunged into darkness; and people gnawed their tongues because of the pain [of their excruciating anguish and severe torment],
The woman whom you saw is the great city, which reigns over and dominates and controls the kings and the political leaders of the earth.”
Cities » Illustrative of » Church triumphant
And I saw the holy city, new Jerusalem, coming down out of heaven from God, arrayed like a bride adorned for her husband;
and if anyone takes away from or distorts the words of the book of this prophecy, God will take away [from that one] his share from the tree of life and from the holy city (new Jerusalem), which are written in this book.
Cities » Illustrative of » Visible church
So I decided to go out into the city, into the streets and broad ways [which are so confusing to a country girl], and seek him whom my soul loves. I sought him, but I could not find him. The watchmen who go about the city found me, to whom I said, Have you seen him whom my soul loves?
Cities » Illustrative of » Riches
The rich man’s wealth is his fortress;
The ruin of the poor is their poverty.
Cities » Illustrative of » Heavenly inheritance
But the truth is that they were longing for a better country, that is, a heavenly one. For that reason God is not ashamed [of them or] to be called their God [even to be surnamed their God—the God of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob]; for He has prepared a city for them.
Cities » Illustrative of » Saints
Cloud of glory » Illustrative of » The glory of Christ
Then I saw another mighty angel coming down from heaven, clothed in a cloud, with a rainbow (halo) over his head; and his face was like the sun, and his feet (legs) were like columns of fire;
Cloud of glory » Illustrative of » The protection of the church
then the Lord will create over the entire site of Mount Zion and over her assemblies, a cloud by day, smoke, and the brightness of a flaming fire by night; for over all the glory and brilliance will be a canopy [a defense, a covering of His divine love and protection].
Creation » Illustrative of » Renewal of the earth
Since all these things are to be destroyed in this way, what kind of people ought you to be [in the meantime] in holy behavior [that is, in a pattern of daily life that sets you apart as a believer] and in godliness [displaying profound reverence toward our awesome God],
“Behold, I am creating new heavens and a new earth;
And the former things [of life] will not be remembered or come to mind.
But in accordance with His promise we expectantly await new heavens and a new earth, in which righteousness dwells.
Creation » Illustrative of » New Birth
Therefore if anyone is in Christ [that is, grafted in, joined to Him by faith in Him as Savior], he is a new creature [reborn and renewed by the Holy Spirit]; the old things [the previous moral and spiritual condition] have passed away. Behold, new things have come [because spiritual awakening brings a new life].
Verse Concepts
Leaving The Past BehindComfortingConversion, nature ofAccepting ChristAbundant LifeNew ThingsMetamorphosisFaultsAwesome GodAmbassadorsBecoming A ChristianBecoming More Like ChristBorn Again, Results OfBeing Born AgainThe New Man In ChristBlessings, SpiritualBeginningGod, The CreatorTransformationNewnessParticipation, In ChristPast, TheAbiding In ChristResurrection, SpiritualSalvation, Nature Of
Sin, Avoidance OfUnion With Christ, Nature OfUnion With Christ, Significance OfCharacter Of SaintsNew Birth, Described AsFruits Of RighteousnessPassing AwayChanged HeartThe New CreationEternal SecurityThings Passing AwayNew LifeOld NatureChangeMeaning Of The Risen LifeAttitudeParticipation In Christ NatureCreationReconciliationThe PastpastchristrebirthNewLife That Is Worth Living
For we are His workmanship [His own master work, a work of art], created in Christ Jesus [reborn from above—spiritually transformed, renewed, ready to be used] for good works, which God prepared [for us] beforehand [taking paths which He set], so that we would walk in them [living the good life which He prearranged and made ready for us].
Verse Concepts
Creation » Illustrative of » Daily renewal of saints
Create in me a clean heart, O God,
And renew a right and steadfast spirit within me.
and put on the new self [the regenerated and renewed nature], created in God’s image, [godlike] in the righteousness and holiness of the truth [living in a way that expresses to God your gratitude for your salvation].
Verse Concepts
Creditors » Illustrative of » God's claim upon men
Creditors » Illustrative of » The demands of the law
Once more I solemnly affirm to every man who receives circumcision [as a supposed requirement of salvation], that he is under obligation and required to keep the whole Law.
the Daily sacrifice » Illustrative of » Christ
The next day he saw Jesus coming to him and said, “Look! The Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world!
but [you were actually purchased] with precious blood, like that of a [sacrificial] lamb unblemished and spotless, the priceless blood of Christ.
the Daily sacrifice » Illustrative of » Acceptable prayer
Let my prayer be counted as incense before You;
The lifting up of my hands as the evening offering.
Darkness » Illustrative of » Heavy afflictions
Then they will look to the earth, they will see only distress and darkness, the gloom of anguish; and they will be driven away into darkness and overwhelming night.
But I am not silenced by the darkness [of these woes that fell on me],
Nor by the thick darkness which covers my face.
Light arises in the darkness for the upright;
He is gracious and compassionate and righteous (upright—in right standing with God).
All of his life he also eats in darkness [cheerlessly, without sweetness and light], with great frustration, sickness, and anger.
And in that day they will roar against them (Judah) like the roaring of the sea.
And if one looks to the land, in fact, there is darkness and distress;
Even the light will be darkened by its clouds.
Therefore justice is far from us,
And righteousness does not overtake us.
We [expectantly] hope for light, but only see darkness;
We hope for gleam of light, but we walk in darkness and gloom.
Darkness » Illustrative of » Greatness and unsearchableness of God
“He made darkness
A mass of waters, thick clouds of the skies.
Clouds and thick darkness surround Him [as at Sinai];
Righteousness and justice are the foundation of His throne.
So the people stood at a [safe] distance, but Moses approached the thick cloud where God was.
Then Solomon said,“The Lord has said that He would dwell in the thick darkness [of the cloud].
Darkness » Illustrative of » Ignorance and error
The Light shines on in the darkness, and the darkness did not understand it or overpower it or appropriate it or absorb it [and is unreceptive to it].
“Tell us [Job] what words [of man] shall we say to such a Being;
We cannot state our case because of darkness [that is, our ignorance in the presence of the unsearchable God].
“For in fact, darkness will cover the earth
And deep darkness will cover the peoples;
But the Lord will rise upon you [Jerusalem]
And His glory and brilliance will be seen on you.
So Jesus said to them, “The Light is among you [only] a little while longer. Walk while you have the Light [keep on living by it], so that darkness will not overtake you. He who walks in the darkness does not know where he is going [he is drifting aimlessly].
Darkness » Illustrative of » The punishment of devils and wicked men
These [false teachers] are springs without water and mists driven by a tempest, for whom is reserved the gloom of black darkness.
Darkness » Illustrative of » The power of satan
For our struggle is not against flesh and blood [contending only with physical opponents], but against the rulers, against the powers, against the world forces of this [present] darkness, against the spiritual forces of wickedness in the heavenly (supernatural) places.
Verse Concepts
For He has rescued us and has drawn us to Himself from the dominion of darkness, and has transferred us to the kingdom of His beloved Son,
Darkness » Illustrative of » A course of sin
Do not participate in the worthless and unproductive deeds of darkness, but instead expose them [by exemplifying personal integrity, moral courage, and godly character];
From those who leave the paths of uprightness
To walk in the ways of darkness;
Darkness » Illustrative of » Secrecy
“I have not spoken in secret,
In a corner of a land of darkness;
I did not say to the descendants of Jacob,
‘Seek Me in vain [with no benefit for yourselves].’
I, the Lord, speak righteousness [the truth—trustworthy, a straightforward correlation between deeds and words],
Declaring things that are upright.
Darkness » Illustrative of » The grave
“He guards the feet of His godly (faithful) ones,
But the wicked ones are silenced and perish in darkness;
For a man shall not prevail by might.
Before I go whence I shall not return, even to the land of darkness and the shadow of death, The land of sunless gloom as intense darkness, [the land] of the shadow of death, without any order, and where the light is as thick darkness.
Darkness » Illustrative of » Anything hateful
Let that day be darkness! May not God above regard it, nor light shine upon it. Let gloom and deep darkness claim it for their own; let a cloud dwell upon it; let all that blackens the day terrify it (the day that I was born). As for that night, let thick darkness seize it; let it not rejoice among the days of the year; let it not come into the number of the months. read more.
Yes, let that night be solitary and barren; let no joyful voice come into it. Let those curse it who curse the day, who are skilled in rousing up Leviathan. Let the stars of the early dawn of that day be dark; let [the morning] look in vain for the light, nor let it behold the day's dawning,
Yes, let that night be solitary and barren; let no joyful voice come into it. Let those curse it who curse the day, who are skilled in rousing up Leviathan. Let the stars of the early dawn of that day be dark; let [the morning] look in vain for the light, nor let it behold the day's dawning,
Darkness » Illustrative of » Abstruse and deep subjects
“Man puts an end to darkness [by bringing in a light],
And to the farthest bounds he searches out
The rock buried in gloom and deep shadow.
Days » Illustrative of » Spiritual light
But since we [believers] belong to the day, let us be sober, having put on the breastplate of faith and love, and as a helmet, the hope and confident assurance of salvation.
So we have the prophetic word made more certain. You do well to pay [close] attention to it as to a lamp shining in a dark place, until the day dawns and light breaks through the gloom and the morning star arises in your hearts.
for you are all sons of light and sons of day. We do not belong to the night nor to darkness.
Days » Illustrative of » Time of judgment
each one’s work will be clearly shown [for what it is]; for the day [of judgment] will disclose it, because it is to be revealed with fire, and the fire will test the quality and character and worth of each person’s work.
But [as for me personally] it matters very little to me that I may be judged by you or any human court [on this point]; in fact, I do not even judge myself.
Days » Illustrative of » The path of the just
But the path of the just (righteous) is like the light of dawn,
That shines brighter and brighter until [it reaches its full strength and glory in] the perfect day.
The Dead » Illustrative of » Man's state by nature
For while we are in this tent, we groan, being burdened [often weighed down, oppressed], not that we want to be unclothed [separated by death from the body], but to be clothed, so that what is mortal [the body] will be swallowed up by life [after the resurrection].
And you [He made alive when you] were [spiritually] dead and separated from Him because of your transgressions and sins,
even when we were [spiritually] dead and separated from Him because of our sins, He made us [spiritually] alive together with Christ (for by His grace—His undeserved favor and mercy—you have been saved from God’s judgment).
The Dead » Illustrative of » A state of deep affliction, &c
We grope for a wall like the blind,
We grope like those who have no eyes.
We stumble at midday as in the twilight;
Among those who are healthy we are like dead men.
For the enemy has persecuted me,
He has crushed my life down to the ground;
He has made me dwell in dark places, like those who have been long dead.
Like the slain who lie in a [nameless] grave,
Whom You no longer remember,
And they are cut off from Your hand.
The Dead » Illustrative of » Faith without works
Whereas she who lives for pleasure and self-indulgence is spiritually dead even while she still lives.
So too, faith, if it does not have works [to back it up], is by itself dead [inoperative and ineffective].
For just as the [human] body without the spirit is dead, so faith without works [of obedience] is also dead.
The Dead » Illustrative of » Freedom from the power of sin
Even so, consider yourselves to be dead to sin [and your relationship to it broken], but alive to God [in unbroken fellowship with Him] in Christ Jesus.
Certainly not! How can we, the very ones who died to sin, continue to live in it any longer?
Now if we have died with Christ, we believe that we will also live [together] with Him,
The Dead » Illustrative of » Impotence
But God came to Abimelech in a dream during the night, and said, “Behold, you are a dead man because of the woman whom you have taken [as your wife], for she is another man’s wife.”
Without becoming weak in faith he considered his own body, now as good as dead [for producing children] since he was about a hundred years old, and [he considered] the deadness of Sarah’s womb.
The Dead » Illustrative of » Diviners, &c
When the people [instead of trusting God] say to you, “Consult the mediums [who try to talk to the dead] and the soothsayers who chirp and whisper and mutter,” should not a people consult their God? Should they consult the dead on behalf of the living?
The Dead » Illustrative of » Freedom from the law
Therefore, my fellow believers, you too died to the Law through the [crucified] body of Christ, so that you may belong to another, to Him who was raised from the dead, in order that we may bear fruit for God.
Deserts » Illustrative of » The world
(The Shulammite Bride)
“What is this coming up from the wilderness
Like [stately] pillars of smoke
Perfumed with myrrh and frankincense,
With all the fragrant powders of the merchant?”
“What is this coming up from the wilderness
Like [stately] pillars of smoke
Perfumed with myrrh and frankincense,
With all the fragrant powders of the merchant?”
Deserts » Illustrative of » Barrenness
He rebuked the Red Sea, and it dried up;
And He led them through the depths as through a pasture.
He turns a wilderness into a pool of water
And a dry land into springs of water;
Deserts » Illustrative of » Desolation by armies
Many shepherds [of an invading host] have destroyed My vineyard, they have trampled My portion underfoot; they have made My pleasant portion a desolate wilderness. They have made it a desolation, and desolate it mourns before Me; the whole land has been made desolate, but no man lays it to heart. Destroyers have come upon all the bare heights in the desert, for the sword of the Lord devours from one end of the land even to the other; no flesh has peace or can find the means to escape. read more.
They have sown wheat but have reaped thorns; they have worn themselves out but without profit. And they shall be ashamed of your [lack of] harvests and revenues because of the fierce and glowing anger of the Lord.
They have sown wheat but have reaped thorns; they have worn themselves out but without profit. And they shall be ashamed of your [lack of] harvests and revenues because of the fierce and glowing anger of the Lord.
Your mother [Babylon] shall be greatly shamed;
She who gave you birth will be ashamed.
Behold, she will be the least of the nations,
A wilderness, a parched land and a desert.
Deserts » Illustrative of » The gentiles
“I will put the cedar in the wilderness,
The acacia, the myrtle and the olive tree;
I will place the juniper in the desert
Together with the box tree and the cypress,
The Arabah (desert) will shout in exultation and blossom
Like the
Deserts » Illustrative of » What affords no support
“O generation [that you are], consider and regard carefully the word of the Lord.
Have I been a wilderness to Israel [like a land without food],
A land of thick and deep darkness [like a path without light]?
Why do My people say, ‘We [have broken loose and we] are free to roam [at will];
We will no longer come to You’?
Deserts » Illustrative of » Those deprived of all blessings
Or I will strip her naked
And expose her as on the day she was born,
And make her like a wilderness
And make her like a parched land
And slay her with thirst.
Dreams » Illustrative of » Prosperity of sinners
That the triumphing of the wicked is short, and the joy of the godless and defiled is but for a moment? Though his [proud] height mounts up to the heavens and his head reaches to the clouds, Yet he will perish forever like his own dung; those who have seen him will say, Where is he? read more.
He will fly away like a dream and will not be found; yes, he will be chased away as a vision of the night.
He will fly away like a dream and will not be found; yes, he will be chased away as a vision of the night.
How they become a desolation in a moment! They are utterly consumed with terrors! As a dream [which seems real] until one awakens, so, O Lord, when You arouse Yourself [to take note of the wicked], You will despise their outward show.
Dreams » Illustrative of » Enemies of the church
And the multitude of all the nations that fight against Ariel [Jerusalem], even all that fight against her and her stronghold and that distress her, shall be as a dream, a vision of the night. It shall be as when a hungry man dreams that he is eating, but he wakens with his craving not satisfied; or as when a thirsty man dreams that he is drinking, but he wakens and is faint, and his thirst is not quenched. So shall the multitude of all the nations be that fight against Mount Zion.
Dreams » Illustrative of » Impure imaginations
Nevertheless in the same way, these dreamers [who are dreaming that God will not punish them] also defile the body, and reject [legitimate] authority, and revile and mock angelic majesties.
Earthquakes » Illustrative of » The judgments of God
So the angel took the censer and filled it with fire from the altar, and hurled it to the earth; and there were peals of thunder and loud rumblings and sounds and flashes of lightning and an earthquake.
The earth is broken completely apart,
The earth is split apart,
The earth is shaken violently.
You will be punished by the Lord of hosts with thunder and earthquake and great noise,
With whirlwind and tempest and the flame of a consuming fire.
I looked at the mountains, and behold, they were trembling,
And all the hills moved back and forth.
Earthquakes » Illustrative of » The overthrow of kingdoms
For thus says the Lord of hosts, ‘Once more, in a little while, I am going to shake the heavens and the earth, the sea and the dry land.
I will [in the distant future] overthrow the thrones of kingdoms and destroy the power of the kingdoms of the [ungodly] nations; and I will overthrow the chariots and those who ride in them, and the horses and their riders will go down, every one by the sword of his brother [annihilating one another].
Famine » Illustrative of » Destruction of idols
The Lord will be terrifying and awesome to them, for He will starve all the gods of the earth; and all the coastlands of the nations will bow down and worship Him, everyone from his own place.
Famine » Illustrative of » A dearth of the means of grace
Behold, the days are coming, says the Lord God, when I will send a famine in the land, not a famine of bread, nor a thirst for water, but [a famine] for hearing the words of the Lord. And [the people] shall wander from sea to sea and from the north even to the east; they shall run to and fro to seek the word of the Lord [inquiring for and requiring it as one requires food], but shall not find it.
Fire » Illustrative of » Judgments
“In the shadow of Heshbon
The fugitives stand powerless [helpless and without strength],
For a fire has gone out from Heshbon,
A flame from the midst of Sihon;
It has destroyed the forehead of Moab
And the crowns of the heads of [the arrogant Moabites] the ones in tumult.
“From on high He sent fire into my bones,
And it prevailed over them.
He has spread a net for my feet;
He has turned me back.
He has made me desolate and hopelessly miserable,
Faint all the day long.
“I will also send fire on Magog and on those who live securely in the coastlands; and they will know [without any doubt] that I am the Lord.
Fire » Illustrative of » God's vengeance
for our God is [indeed] a consuming fire.
For the Lord your God is a consuming fire; He is a jealous (impassioned) God [demanding what is rightfully and uniquely His].
Fire » Illustrative of » The word of God
“Is not My word like fire [that consumes all that cannot endure the test]?” says the Lord, “and like a hammer that breaks the [most stubborn] rock [in pieces]?
Therefore, thus says the Lord God of hosts,
“Because you [people] have spoken this word,
Behold, I am making My words a fire in your mouth [Jeremiah]
And this people wood, and My words will consume them.
Fire » Illustrative of » God's protection
For I,’ declares the Lord, ‘will be a wall of fire around her [protecting her from enemies], and I will be the glory in her midst.’”
So it was continuously; the cloud covered it by day, and the appearance of fire by night.
Fire » Illustrative of » God's enemies
“Then the house of Jacob shall be a fire
And the house of Joseph a flame [in executing God’s wrath];
But the house of Esau will be like stubble.
They (Jacob) shall set them on fire and consume them (the Edomites),
So that there shall be no survivor of the house of Esau,”
For the Lord has spoken.
And the Light of Israel will become a fire and His Holy One a flame,
And it will
Fire » Illustrative of » Zeal of saints
My heart was hot within me.
While I was musing the fire burned;
Then I spoke with my tongue:
Fire » Illustrative of » Christ as judge
But who can endure the day of His coming? And who can stand when He appears? For He is like a refiner’s fire and like launderer’s soap [which removes impurities and uncleanness].
And the Light of Israel will become a fire and His Holy One a flame,
And it will
Fire » Illustrative of » The tongue
A worthless man devises and digs up evil,
And the words on his lips are like a scorching fire.
And the tongue is [in a sense] a fire, the very world of injustice and unrighteousness; the tongue is set among our members as that which contaminates the entire body, and sets on fire the course of our life [the cycle of man’s existence], and is itself set on fire by hell (Gehenna).
Fire » Illustrative of » Zeal of angels
Who makes winds His messengers,
Flames of fire His ministers.
And concerning the angels He says,
“Who makes His angels winds,
And His ministering servants flames of fire [to do His bidding].”
And His ministering servants flames of fire [to do His bidding].”
Fire » Illustrative of » The holy spirit
When the Lord has washed away the [moral] filth of the daughters of Zion and has cleansed the bloodstains of Jerusalem from her midst, by the spirit of judgment and by the spirit of burning,
There appeared to them tongues resembling fire, which were being distributed [among them], and they rested on each one of them [as each person received the Holy Spirit].
Fire » Illustrative of » Lust
Can a man take fire in his bosom and his clothes not be burned? Can one go upon hot coals and his feet not be burned?
Fire » Illustrative of » Persecution
I have come to cast fire upon the earth, and how I wish that it were already kindled! I have a baptism with which to be baptized, and how greatly and sorely I am urged on (impelled, constrained) until it is accomplished! Do you suppose that I have come to give peace upon earth? No, I say to you, but rather division; read more.
For from now on in one house there will be five divided [among themselves], three against two and two against three. They will be divided, father against son and son against father, mother against daughter and daughter against mother, mother-in-law against her daughter-in-law and daughter-in-law against her mother-in-law.
For from now on in one house there will be five divided [among themselves], three against two and two against three. They will be divided, father against son and son against father, mother against daughter and daughter against mother, mother-in-law against her daughter-in-law and daughter-in-law against her mother-in-law.
Fire » Illustrative of » The church destroying her enemies
“Then the house of Jacob shall be a fire
And the house of Joseph a flame [in executing God’s wrath];
But the house of Esau will be like stubble.
They (Jacob) shall set them on fire and consume them (the Edomites),
So that there shall be no survivor of the house of Esau,”
For the Lord has spoken.
Fire » Illustrative of » The hope of hypocrites
Listen carefully, all you who kindle your own fire [devising your own man-made plan of salvation],
Who surround yourselves with torches,
Walk by the light of your [self-made] fire
And among the torches that you have set ablaze.
But this you will have from My hand:
You will lie down in [a place of] torment.
Fire » Illustrative of » Wickedness
For wickedness burns like a fire;
It consumes briars and thorns,
It even sets the forest thickets ablaze;
And it swirls upward in a column of smoke.
Fire » Illustrative of » The self-righteous
Who say, ‘Keep to yourself, do not come near me,
For I
These [people] are smoke in My nostrils,
A fire that burns all the day.
Fire » Illustrative of » Affliction
“When you pass through the waters, I will be with you;
And through the rivers, they will not overwhelm you.
When you walk through fire, you will not be scorched,
Nor will the flame burn you.
the First-born » Illustrative of » The dignity, &c of Christ
For those whom He foreknew [and loved and chose beforehand], He also predestined to be conformed to the image of His Son [and ultimately share in His complete sanctification], so that He would be the firstborn [the most beloved and honored] among many believers.
Verse Concepts
Ability, Of God To SaveGod, Fatherhood OfGod, All knowingGoalsAdoption, descriptions ofForeknowledgeFirstbornConformityethics, and graceElection, Results InChristlikenessBeing Chosendiscipleship, nature ofHeart, DivineHoliness Of The SaintsHoliness, Purpose OfLikenessGod's ForeknowledgeParticipation, In ChristDestiny
Orderliness In SalvationSpiritualityChrist, Character OfNew Birth, Results OfChrist, Names ForLife's PurposeForeordained PlansSpiritual AdoptionChrist The FirstbornValidly Like GodLike ChristChrist's True FamilyConformingBenefits Of HeavenParticipation In Christ NatureimageReflecting God's HeartChrist Our BrotherChristians Being Called Brothers
“I will also make him My firstborn (preeminent),
The highest of the kings of the earth.
He is also the head [the life-source and leader] of the body, the church; and He is the beginning, the firstborn from the dead, so that He Himself will occupy the first place [He will stand supreme and be preeminent] in everything.
the First-born » Illustrative of » The dignity, &c of the church
and to the general assembly and assembly of the firstborn who are registered [as citizens] in heaven, and to God, who is Judge of all, and to the spirits of the righteous (the redeemed in heaven) who have been made perfect [bringing them to their final glory],
First fruits » Illustrative of » Resurrection of Christ
But now [as things really are] Christ has in fact been raised from the dead, [and He became] the first fruits [that is, the first to be resurrected with an incorruptible, immortal body, foreshadowing the resurrection] of those who have fallen asleep [in death].
But each in his own order: Christ the first fruits, then those who are Christ’s [own will be resurrected with incorruptible, immortal bodies] at His coming.
First fruits » Illustrative of » Church of Christ
These are the ones who have not been defiled [by relations] with women, for they are celibate. These are the ones who follow the Lamb wherever He goes. These have been purchased and redeemed from among men [of Israel] as the first fruits [sanctified and set apart for special service] for God and the Lamb.
It was of His own will that He gave us birth [as His children] by the word of truth, so that we would be a kind of first fruits of His creatures [a prime example of what He created to be set apart to Himself—sanctified, made holy for His divine purposes].
First fruits » Illustrative of » Early jewish church
“
The first fruits of His harvest [in which no outsider was allowed to share].
All who ate of it [injuring Israel] became guilty;
Evil came on them,” says the Lord.’”
First fruits » Illustrative of » First converts in any place
Also greet the church that meets in their house. Greet my beloved Epaenetus, who is the first convert to Christ from [the west coast province of] Asia [Minor].
Flowers » Illustrative of » Shortness of man's life
“Like a flower he comes forth and withers;
He also flees like a shadow and does not remain.
As for man, his days are like grass;
Like a flower of the field, so he flourishes.
Flowers » Illustrative of » The graces of Christ
“His cheeks are like a bed of balsam,
Banks of sweet, fragrant herbs.
His lips are lilies
Dripping sweet-scented myrrh.
Flowers » Illustrative of » Rich men
And the rich [person ought to glory] in being humbled [by being shown his human frailty], because like the flower of the grass he will pass away. For the sun comes up with a scorching heat and parches the grass; its flower falls off and its beauty fades away. Even so will the rich man wither and die in the midst of his pursuits.
Flowers » Illustrative of » Glory of man
For,“All flesh is like grass,
And all its glory like the flower of grass.
The grass withers
And the flower falls off,
And all its glory like the flower of grass.
The grass withers
And the flower falls off,
Flowers » Illustrative of » Kingdom of israel
And to the fading flower of its glorious beauty,
Which is at the head of the rich valley
Of those who are overcome with wine!
Fortresses » Illustrative of » God's protection
The Lord is my rock, my fortress, and the One who rescues me;
My God, my rock and strength in whom I trust and take refuge;
My shield, and the horn of my salvation, my high tower—my stronghold.
Verse Concepts
God, As SaviorFortressesFortificationsComfortingenemies, of believersDeliverance, Source OfGod, The RockHornsKnowledge, Of GodProtectionRefugeReliabilityShieldsSongsSymbolsSalvation, Illustrations OfRelying Upon GodGod Being Our RefugeGod Being Our DefenceGod Being Our Fortress
God Being Our ShieldBrokenheartedYou Are Our GodStrengthfaith and strengthStaying StrongHope And StrengthStrength, God Is OurLove And StrengthGod's ProtectionStrength And FaithProtection From EnemiesProtection And SafetyStrength And LoveProtection From DangersheltercrusadesstrenghDivine ProtectionTrusting God's Will
[Then said Jeremiah] “O Lord, my Strength and my Stronghold,
And my Refuge in the day of distress and need,
The nations will come to You
From the ends of the earth and say,
‘Our fathers have inherited nothing but lies and illusion,
[Worthless] things in which there is no benefit!’
Fortresses » Illustrative of » Protection afforded to ministers
“I [the Lord] have set you as an assayer [O Jeremiah] and as a tester [of the ore] of My people,
That you may know and analyze their acts.”
Fortresses » Illustrative of » Christ, the defence of saints
He will dwell on the heights,
His place of defense will be the fortress of rocks,
His bread will be given him;
His water will be permanent.
Foundation » Illustrative of » Christ
Therefore the Lord God says this,
“Listen carefully, I am laying in Zion a Stone, a tested Stone,
A precious Cornerstone for the [secure] foundation, firmly placed.
He who believes [who trusts in, relies on, and adheres to that Stone] will notbe disturbed or give way [in sudden panic].
A precious Cornerstone for the [secure] foundation, firmly placed.
He who believes [who trusts in, relies on, and adheres to that Stone] will not
for no one can lay a foundation other than the one which is [already] laid, which is Jesus Christ.
Foundation » Illustrative of » Doctrines of the apostles, &c
having been built on the foundation of the apostles and prophets, with Christ Jesus Himself as the [chief] Cornerstone,
Foundation » Illustrative of » Decrees and purposes of God
Nevertheless, the firm foundation of God [which He has laid] stands [sure and unshaken despite attacks], bearing this seal: “The Lord knows those who are His,” and, “Let everyone who names the name of the Lord stand apart from wickedness and withdraw from wrongdoing.”
Foundation » Illustrative of » The righteous
When the whirlwind passes, the wicked is no more,
But the righteous has an everlasting foundation.
Foundation » Illustrative of » Security of saints' inheritance
For he was [waiting expectantly and confidently] looking forward to the city which has foundations, [an eternal, heavenly city] whose architect and builder is God.
Foundation » Illustrative of » First principles of the gospel
Therefore let us go on and get past the elementary stage in the teachings and doctrine of Christ (the Messiah), advancing steadily toward the completeness and perfection that belong to spiritual maturity. Let us not again be laying the foundation of repentance and abandonment of dead works (dead formalism) and of the faith [by which you turned] to God, With teachings about purifying, the laying on of hands, the resurrection from the dead, and eternal judgment and punishment. [These are all matters of which you should have been fully aware long, long ago.]
Foundation » Illustrative of » Hope of saints
Foundation » Illustrative of » Magistrates
The rulers do not know nor do they understand;
They walk on in the darkness [of complacent satisfaction];
All the foundations of the earth [the fundamental principles of the administration of justice] are shaken.
Foxes » Illustrative of » Enemies of the church
(The Chorus)
“Catch the foxes for us,
The little foxes that spoil and ruin the vineyards [of love],
While our vineyards are in blossom.”
“Catch the foxes for us,
The little foxes that spoil and ruin the vineyards [of love],
While our vineyards are in blossom.”
Foxes » Illustrative of » False prophets
Foxes » Illustrative of » Cunning and deceitful persons
And He said to them, “Go and tell that fox [that sly, cowardly man], ‘Listen carefully: I cast out demons and perform healings today and tomorrow, and on the third day I reach My goal.’
Girdles » Illustrative of » Strength
“And I will clothe him with your tunic [of distinction]
And tie your sash securely around him.
I will entrust him with your authority;
He will become a father to the inhabitants of Jerusalem and to the house of Judah.
For You have encircled me with strength for the battle;
You have subdued under me those who rose up against me.
Girdles » Illustrative of » Truth
So stand firm and hold your ground, having tightened the wide band of truth (personal integrity, moral courage) around your waist and having put on the breastplate of righteousness (an upright heart),
Girdles » Illustrative of » Righteousness of Christ
And righteousness will be the belt around His loins,
And faithfulness the belt around His waist.
Girdles » Illustrative of » Faithfulness of Christ
And righteousness will be the belt around His loins,
And faithfulness the belt around His waist.
Girdles » Illustrative of » Gladness
You have turned my mourning into dancing for me;
You have taken off my sackcloth and clothed me with joy,
Gold » Illustrative of » True converts
But if anyone builds on the foundation with gold, silver, precious stones, wood, hay, straw,
Gold » Illustrative of » The doctrines of grace
Gold » Illustrative of » Babylonish empire
and wherever the sons of men dwell, and the beasts of the field, and the birds of the heavens, He has given them into your hand and has made you ruler over them all. You [king of Babylon] are the head of gold.
Gold » Illustrative of » Tried faith
so that the genuineness of your faith, which is much more precious than gold which is perishable, even though tested and purified by fire, may be found to result in [your] praise and glory and honor at the revelation of Jesus Christ.
Gold » Illustrative of » Saints after affliction
“But He knows the way that I take [and He pays attention to it].
When He has tried me, I will come forth as [refined] gold [pure and luminous].
Honey » Illustrative of » The word of God
How sweet are Your words to my taste,
Sweeter than honey to my mouth!
They are more desirable than gold, yes, than much fine gold;
Sweeter also than honey and the drippings of the honeycomb.
Honey » Illustrative of » Holy speech of saints
“Your lips, my [promised] bride, drip honey [as the honeycomb];
Honey and milk are under your tongue,
And the fragrance of your garments is like the fragrance of Lebanon.
Honey » Illustrative of » Wisdom
My son, eat honey, because it is good, and the drippings of the honeycomb are sweet to your taste. So shall you know skillful and godly Wisdom to be thus to your life; if you find it, then shall there be a future and a reward, and your hope and expectation shall not be cut off.
Honey » Illustrative of » Pleasant words
Pleasant words are like a honeycomb,
Sweet and delightful to the soul and healing to the body.
Honey » Illustrative of » Lips of a strange woman
For the lips of an immoral woman drip honey [like a honeycomb]
And her speech is smoother than oil;
Horses » Illustrative of » Beauty of the church
“My anger is kindled against the shepherds [who are not true shepherds],
And I shall punish the male goats (leaders);
For the Lord of hosts has visited His flock, the house of Judah (the Southern Kingdom),
And will make them like His beautiful and majestic horse in the battle.
Incense » Illustrative of » Prayer
And when He had taken the scroll, the four living creatures and the twenty-four elders fell down before the Lamb (Christ), each one holding a harp and golden bowls full of fragrant incense, which are the prayers of the saints (God’s people).
Let my prayer be counted as incense before You;
The lifting up of my hands as the evening offering.
For from the rising of the sun, even to its setting, My name shall be great among the nations. In every place incense is going to be offered to My name, and a grain offering that is pure; for My name shall be great among the nations,” says the Lord of hosts.
Incense » Illustrative of » The merits of Christ
And another angel came and stood over the altar. He had a golden censer, and he was given very much incense (fragrant spices and gums which exhale perfume when burned), that he might mingle it with the prayers of all the people of God (the saints) upon the golden altar before the throne. And the smoke of the incense (the perfume) arose in the presence of God, with the prayers of the people of God (the saints), from the hand of the angel.
Laver of brass » Illustrative of » Christ the fountain for sin
“In that day a fountain shall be opened for the house of David and for the people of Jerusalem for [cleansing from] sin and impurity.
and from Jesus Christ, the faithful and trustworthy Witness, the Firstborn of the dead, and the Ruler of the kings of the earth. To Him who [always] loves us and who [has once for all] freed us [or washed us] from our sins by His own blood (His sacrificial death)—
Laver of brass » Illustrative of » Regeneration
He saved us, not because of any works of righteousness that we have done, but because of His own compassion and mercy, by the cleansing of the new birth (spiritual transformation, regeneration) and renewing by the Holy Spirit,
Verse Concepts
Accepting ChristBaptism Of The Holy SpiritBreath Of GodBorn Again, Produced ByBeing Born AgainBehaviourSpiritual RenewalBirth, SpiritualBaptism, significance ofHoliness, Believers' Growth InTransformationOnce Saved Always SavedRegenerationRenewal, Of People Of GodRevival, Nature OfSacramentsSelf Righteousness, And The GospelSpiritualityWashing
God, Grace OfHoly Spirit, Activities OfAbundance, SpiritualNew Birth, Described AsNew Birth, The Means OfGod's MercyThe Outpouring Of The Holy Spirit,Cleansing The BodyThe Divinity Of The Holy SpiritBeing Cleansed From SinRenewedGod Saves From TroubleGod Showed MercyWorks Of The LawRighteousnessRenewalrebirthgraciousness
so that He might sanctify the church, having cleansed her by the washing of water with the word [of God],
Leaven » Illustrative of » Doctrines of pharisees, &c
Then they understood that He did not tell them to beware of the leaven of bread, but of the [false] teaching of the Pharisees and Sadducees.
Jesus said to them, “Watch out and be on your guard against the leaven of the Pharisees and Sadducees.”
Leaven » Illustrative of » The rapid spread of the gospel
He told them another parable, “The kingdom of heaven is like leaven, which a woman took and worked into three measures of flour until all of it was leavened.”
Leaven » Illustrative of » UnGodly professors
[About the condition of your church] your boasting is not good [indeed, it is most unseemly and entirely out of place]. Do you not know that [just] a little leaven will ferment the whole lump [of dough]? Purge (clean out) the old leaven that you may be fresh (new) dough, still uncontaminated [as you are], for Christ, our Passover [Lamb], has been sacrificed.
Leaven » Illustrative of » Malice and wickedness
Therefore, let us celebrate the feast, not with old leaven, nor with leaven of vice and malice and wickedness, but with the unleavened bread of sincerity and [untainted] truth.
Leaven » Illustrative of » False teachers
This [evil] persuasion is not from Him Who called you [Who invited you to freedom in Christ]. A little leaven (a slight inclination to error, or a few false teachers) leavens the whole lump [it perverts the whole conception of faith or misleads the whole church].
Leviathan » Illustrative of » Powerful and cruel kings
With His fierce and great and mighty sword [rescuing Israel from her enemy],
Even Leviathan the twisted serpent;
And He will kill the dragon who lives in the sea.
Leviathan » Illustrative of » Power and severity of God
“No one is so fierce [and foolhardy] that he dares to stir up Leviathan;
Who then is he who can stand before Me [or dares to contend with Me, the beast’s creator]?
Light » Illustrative of » Christ the source of all wisdom
Once more Jesus addressed the crowd. He said, “I am the Light of the world. He who follows Me will not walk in the darkness, but will have the Light of life.”
A Light for revelation to the Gentiles [to disclose what was previously unknown],
And [to bring] the praise and honor and glory of Your people Israel.”
Light » Illustrative of » The word of God
So we have the prophetic word made more certain. You do well to pay [close] attention to it as to a lamp shining in a dark place, until the day dawns and light breaks through the gloom and the morning star arises in your hearts.
The unfolding of Your [glorious] words give light;
Their unfolding gives understanding to the simple (childlike).
Nun.
Your word is a lamp to my feet
And a light to my path.
Your word is a lamp to my feet
And a light to my path.
Light » Illustrative of » Saints
so that you may prove yourselves to be blameless and guileless, innocent and uncontaminated, children of God without blemish in the midst of a [morally] crooked and [spiritually] perverted generation, among whom you are seen as bright lights [beacons shining out clearly] in the world [of darkness],
For once you were darkness, but now you are light in the Lord; walk as children of Light [live as those who are native-born to the Light]
Light » Illustrative of » Gospel
among them the god of this world [Satan] has blinded the minds of the unbelieving to prevent them from seeing the illuminating light of the gospel of the glory of Christ, who is the image of God.
Verse Concepts
SatanticDarkness, As A Symbol Of SinSpiritual Blindness, Results Of SinPresent Evil AgeFalse ReligionCommitment, to the worldevil, origins ofevangelism, nature ofSpiritual Blindness, Consequences OfSatan, Titles ForHeart, Fallen And RedeemedImagination, Evil SchemingImage Of GodLikenessPerfection, DivineRevelation, In NtRevelation, Necessity OfRevelation, Responses ToSatan, As DeceiverSatan, Kingdom OfSpiritual Warfare, Causes Of
Spiritual Warfare, Enemies InUnbelief, Nature And Effects OfUnbelieversCultsCharacter Of WickedNames And Titles For SatanUnbelief, Sourced InChrist, Names ForControlling Your ThoughtsSatan, Power OfShiningPrincehood Of SatanThe Light Of ChristBlindingChrist's Own GloryOther BlindingGlory of ChristSpiritual DarknessAgeSatan As The Prince Of This World
But you are a chosen race, a royal priesthood, a consecrated nation, a [special] people for God’s own possession, so that you may proclaim the excellencies [the wonderful deeds and virtues and perfections] of Him who called you out of darkness into His marvelous light.
Verse Concepts
CherishingDarkness, Deliverance FromAccess To God, In Old TestamentPraiseenlightenmentThe Church As The ElectChoicesBeing ChosenGod, Will OfWhat Heaven Will Be LikeHoliness, As Set Apart For GodHoliness, Believers' Growth InLight, SpiritualHeaven, Redeemed CommunityMission, Of IsraelPeople Of God, In NtPraise, Reasons ForPriesthood, In NtGod PossessingSpeech, Positive Aspects OfWitnessing, Importance OfWorship, Reasons For
The Call Of GodHeaven, Worshiping GodNames And Titles For The ChristianSpiritual Blindness, Removal OfCalling, Of ChristiansOld Testament People As TypesFrom Darkness To LightComing Out Of DarknessFew PriestsA Holy NationA Kingdom Of PriestsRoyal PriesthoodShowing Forth His PraiseElectLightUnconditional LoveRaceExcellenceroyaltypriestsLight As A Symbol Of Salvation
Light » Illustrative of » Wise rulers
But Abishai the son of Zeruiah came to David’s aid, and struck and killed the Philistine. Then David’s men swore to him, “You shall not go out again with us to battle, so that you do not extinguish the lamp of Israel.”
Is like the morning light when the sun rises,
A morning without clouds,
When the fresh grass springs out of the earth
Through sunshine after rain.’
Light » Illustrative of » Future glory of saints
Light is sown [like seed] for the righteous and illuminates their path,
And [irrepressible] joy [is spread] for the upright in heart [who delight in His favor and protection].
giving thanks to the Father, who has qualified us to share in the inheritance of the saints (God’s people) in the Light.
Light » Illustrative of » Glory of God
He alone possesses immortality [absolute exemption from death] and lives in unapproachable light, whom no man has ever seen or can see. To Him be honor and eternal power and dominion! Amen.
[You are the One] who covers Yourself with light as with a garment,
Who stretches out the heavens like a tent curtain,
Light » Illustrative of » Whatever makes manifest
But all things become visible when they are exposed by the light [of God’s precepts], for it is light that makes everything visible.
Light » Illustrative of » Ministers
Light » Illustrative of » Guidance of God
Whom shall I fear?
The Lord is the refuge and fortress of my life—
Whom shall I dread?
For with You is the fountain of life [the fountain of life-giving water];
In Your light we see light.
Light » Illustrative of » Favor of God
Many are saying, “Oh, that we might see some good!”
Lift up the light of Your face upon us, O Lord.
Light » Illustrative of » Glory of Christ
As he traveled he approached Damascus, and suddenly a light from heaven flashed around him [displaying the glory and majesty of Christ];
at midday, O King, I saw on the way a light from heaven surpassing the brightness of the sun, shining all around me and those who were traveling with me.
Light » Illustrative of » The glory of the church
Arise [from the depression and prostration in which circumstances have kept you -- "rise to a new life]! Shine (be radiant with the glory of the Lord), for your light has come, and the glory of the Lord has risen upon you! For behold, darkness shall cover the earth, and dense darkness [all] peoples, but the Lord shall arise upon you [O Jerusalem], and His glory shall be seen on you. And nations shall come to your light, and kings to the brightness of your rising.
Light » Illustrative of » The path of the just
But the path of the just (righteous) is like the light of dawn,
That shines brighter and brighter until [it reaches its full strength and glory in] the perfect day.
Light » Illustrative of » Purity of Christ
And His appearance changed dramatically in their presence; and His face shone [with heavenly glory, clear and bright] like the sun, and His clothing became as white as light.
Light » Illustrative of » Wisdom of God
“It is He who reveals the profound and hidden things;
He knows what is in the darkness,
And the light dwells with Him.
Light » Illustrative of » The soul of man
Yes, the light of the wicked shall be put out, and the flame of his fire shall not shine. The light shall be dark in his dwelling, and his lamp beside him shall be put out.
Light » Illustrative of » Purity of God
This is the message [of God’s promised revelation] which we have heard from Him and now announce to you, that God is Light [He is holy, His message is truthful, He is perfect in righteousness], and in Him there is no darkness at all [no sin, no wickedness, no imperfection].
Manna » Illustrative of » Blessedness given to saints
Manna » Illustrative of » Christ
Jesus then said to them, I assure you, most solemnly I tell you, Moses did not give you the Bread from heaven [what Moses gave you was not the Bread from heaven], but it is My Father Who gives you the true heavenly Bread. For the Bread of God is He Who comes down out of heaven and gives life to the world. Then they said to Him, Lord, give us this bread always (all the time)! read more.
Jesus replied, I am the Bread of Life. He who comes to Me will never be hungry, and he who believes in and cleaves to and trusts in and relies on Me will never thirst any more (at any time).
Jesus replied, I am the Bread of Life. He who comes to Me will never be hungry, and he who believes in and cleaves to and trusts in and relies on Me will never thirst any more (at any time).
Marriage » Illustrative of » God's union with the jewish nation
‘Return, O faithless children [of the twelve tribes],’ says the Lord,
‘For I am a master and husband to you,
And I will take you [not as a nation, but individually]—one from a city and two from a [tribal] family—
And I will bring you to Zion.’
“For your husband is your Maker,
The Lord of hosts is His name;
And your Redeemer is the Holy One of Israel,
Who is called the God of the whole earth.
And I will betroth you to Me forever; yes, I will betroth you to Me in righteousness and justice, in steadfast love, and in mercy. I will even betroth you to Me in stability and in faithfulness, and you shall know (recognize, be acquainted with, appreciate, give heed to, and cherish) the Lord.
Marriage » Illustrative of » Christ's union with his church
This mystery [of two becoming one] is great; but I am speaking with reference to [the relationship of] Christ and the church.
For the husband is head of the wife as Christ is the Head of the church, Himself the Savior of [His] body. As the church is subject to Christ, so let wives also be subject in everything to their husbands.
Mercy-seat » Illustrative of » Christ
whom God displayed publicly [before the eyes of the world] as a [life-giving] sacrifice of atonement and reconciliation (propitiation) by His blood [to be received] through faith. This was to demonstrate His righteousness [which demands punishment for sin], because in His forbearance [His deliberate restraint] He passed over the sins previously committed [before Jesus’ crucifixion].
Verse Concepts
AtonementAtonement, in NTExpiationBlood, of Jesus ChristAtonement, ForeordainedAtonement, Remission Of Sins ByBlood Of SacrificesRemission Of SinPunishment, DelayedMoses, Significance OfPaul, Teaching OfRedemption, In NtSin, Deliverance From GodSin, God's Remedy ForTypesLongsuffering Of GodTypes Of ChristForeordained Plans
Behind the second veil there was another tabernacle [the inner one or second section] known as the Holy of Holies,
Mercy-seat » Illustrative of » The throne of grace
Therefore let us [with privilege] approach the throne of grace [that is, the throne of God’s gracious favor] with confidence and without fear, so that we may receive mercy [for our failures] and find [His amazing] grace to help in time of need [an appropriate blessing, coming just at the right moment].
Verse Concepts
Adoption, Results Ofevil, believers' responses toBeing ConfidentAccess To God, The Characteristics OfDependenceAssurance, nature ofBoldness, Comes FromGrace, And Christian LifeGrace, And SalvationMercy, Response To God'sPrayer, As A Response To GodPrayer, As Asking GodSalvation, Nature OfSpiritual Warfare, ArmourOvercoming DiscouragementGod, Grace OfSaints, Communion With GodPrayer, Offered With
Milk » Illustrative of » First principles of God's word
I fed you with milk, not solid food; for you were not yet able to receive it. Even now you are still not ready.
For though by this time you ought to be teachers [because of the time you have had to learn these truths], you actually need someone to teach you again the elementary principles of God’s word [from the beginning], and you have come to be continually in need of milk, not solid food.
like newborn babies [you should] long for the pure milk of the word, so that by it you may be nurtured and grow in respect to salvation [its ultimate fulfillment],
Milk » Illustrative of » Blessings of the gospel
And you who have no money come, buy grain and eat.
Come, buy wine and milk
Without money and without cost [simply accept it as a gift from God].
And in that day
The mountains will drip with sweet wine
And the hills will flow with milk;
And all the brooks and riverbeds of Judah will flow with water,
And a fountain will go out from the house of the Lord
To water the [desert] Valley of Shittim.
Milk » Illustrative of » Godly and edifying discourses
“Your lips, my [promised] bride, drip honey [as the honeycomb];
Honey and milk are under your tongue,
And the fragrance of your garments is like the fragrance of Lebanon.
Milk » Illustrative of » Doctrines of the gospel
(The Bridegroom)“I have come into my garden, my sister, my [promised] bride;
I have gathered my myrrh along with my balsam and spice [from your sweet words].
I have eaten my honeycomb with my honey;
I have drunk my wine with my milk.
Eat, friends;
Drink and drink deeply, O lovers.”
I have gathered my myrrh along with my balsam and spice [from your sweet words].
I have eaten my honeycomb with my honey;
I have drunk my wine with my milk.
Eat, friends;
Drink and drink deeply, O lovers.”
Milk » Illustrative of » Temporal blessings
Milk » Illustrative of » Wealth of the gentiles
“You will suck the milk of the [Gentile] nations
And suck the breast (abundance) of kings;
Then you will recognize and know that I, the Lord, am your Savior
And your Redeemer, the Mighty One of Jacob.
Nazarites » Illustrative of » Saints
“So come out from among unbelievers and be separate,” says the Lord,
“And do not touch what is unclean;
And I will graciously receive you and welcome you [with favor],
Pure and unblemished religion [as it is expressed in outward acts] in the sight of our God and Father is this: to visit and look after the fatherless and the widows in their distress, and to keep oneself uncontaminated by the [secular] world.
Verse Concepts
Giving, Of PossessionsAcceptance, divineAbsent FathersExploitationsCompassion, Examples OfCommitment, to the worldethics, socialethics, incentives towardsBlamelessness, In Christian LivingdiscouragementAcceptance, Of WorshipBereaved, Care ForSocial JusticeHoliness, Worldly SeparationHonorOrphansRestored In Jesus ChristPerfection, HumanPoverty, Attitudes Towards
Purity, Moral And SpiritualReligionSensitivityShepherds, As Church LeaderSociety, Positive Aspects OfWidowsTrue ReligionAfflicted, Duty To ThemLove To Others Shown InWidows, Should BeCares Of This WorldFaultlessnessCaring For OthersVisiting Of The SickActive LifestylesAge DiscriminationPeople Helping OrphansThe FatherGod Caring For Orphans
Nazarites » Illustrative of » Christ
It was fitting for us to have such a High Priest [perfectly adapted to our needs], holy, blameless, unstained [by sin], separated from sinners and exalted higher than the heavens;
Night » Illustrative of » Seasons of severe calamities
He who made the [cluster of stars called] Pleiades and [the constellation] Orion,
Who turns deep darkness into the morning
And darkens the day into night,
Who calls for the waters of the sea
And pours them out on the surface of the earth,
The Lord is His name.
The watchman says,
“The morning comes [only briefly], but also [comes] the night [of Babylonian oppression].
If you would ask [of me then], ask [again, if Edom really wishes to know];
Come back again.”
Night » Illustrative of » Seasons of spiritual desertion
(The Shulammite Bride)“On my bed night after night [I dreamed that] I sought the one
Whom my soul loves;
I sought him but did not find him.
Whom my soul loves;
I sought him but did not find him.
Night » Illustrative of » Spiritual darkness
The night [this present evil age] is almost gone and the day [of Christ’s return] is almost here. So let us fling away the works of darkness and put on the [full] armor of light.
Night » Illustrative of » death
Offerings » Illustrative of » Christ's offering of himself
and walk continually in love [that is, value one another—practice empathy and compassion, unselfishly seeking the best for others], just as Christ also loved you and gave Himself up for us, an offering and sacrifice to God [slain for you, so that it became] a sweet fragrance.
Offerings » Illustrative of » The conversion of the jews
Then they shall bring all your countrymen (children of Israel) from all the nations as a grain offering to the Lord—on horses, in chariots, in litters, on mules and on camels—to My holy mountain Jerusalem,” says the Lord, “just as the sons of Israel bring their grain offering in a clean vessel to the house of the Lord.
Offerings » Illustrative of » The conversion of the gentiles
to be a minister of Christ Jesus to the Gentiles. I minister as a priest the gospel of God, in order that my offering of the Gentiles may become acceptable [to Him], sanctified [made holy and set apart for His purpose] by the Holy Spirit.
Oil » Illustrative of » The unction of the holy spirit
You have loved righteousness (virtue, morality, justice) and hated wickedness;
Therefore God, your God, has anointed You
Above Your companions with the oil of jubilation.
And a second time I said to him, “What are these two olive branches which are beside the two golden pipes by which the golden oil is emptied?”
Oil » Illustrative of » The consolation of the gospel
To grant to those who mourn in Zion the following:
To give them a
The oil of joy instead of mourning,
The garment [expressive] of praise instead of a disheartened spirit.
So they will be called the trees of righteousness [strong and magnificent, distinguished for integrity, justice, and right standing with God],
The planting of the Lord, that He may be glorified.
Oil » Illustrative of » Kind reproof
Let the righteous [thoughtfully] strike (correct) me—it is a kindness [done to encourage my spiritual maturity].
It is [the choicest anointing] oil on the head;
Let my head not refuse [to accept and acknowledge and learn from] it;
For still my prayer is against their wicked deeds.
Palaces » Illustrative of » The splendor of the church
“If she is a wall (discreet, womanly),
We will build on her a turret (dowry) of silver;
But if she is a door (bold, flirtatious),
We will enclose her with planks of cedar.”
Palaces » Illustrative of » The Godly children of saints
Let our sons in their youth be like plants full grown,
And our daughters like corner pillars fashioned for a palace;
Palaces » Illustrative of » The place of satan's dominion
Palm trees » Illustrative of » The church
Your stature is like that of a palm tree, and your bosom like its clusters [of dates, declared the king]. I resolve that I will climb the palm tree; I will grasp its branches. Let your breasts be like clusters of the grapevine, and the scent of your breath like apples,
Palm trees » Illustrative of » The upright appearance of idols
“They are like scarecrows in a cucumber field;
They cannot speak;
They have to be carried,
Because they cannot walk!
Do not be afraid of them,
For they can do no harm or evil,
Nor can they do any good.”
Palm trees » Illustrative of » The righteous
The righteous will flourish like the date palm [long-lived, upright and useful];
They will grow like a cedar in Lebanon [majestic and stable].
Pillars » Illustrative of » Stability of Christ
Then I saw another mighty angel coming down from heaven, clothed in a cloud, with a rainbow (halo) over his head; and his face was like the sun, and his feet (legs) were like columns of fire;
“His legs are [strong and steady] pillars of alabaster
Set upon pedestals of fine gold.
His appearance is like Lebanon,
Stately and choice as the cedars.
Pillars » Illustrative of » Ministers
Now behold, I have made you today like a fortified city and like an iron pillar and like bronze walls against the whole land—against the [successive] kings of Judah, against its leaders, against its priests, and against the people of the land [giving you divine strength which no hostile power can overcome].
And recognizing the grace [that God had] bestowed on me, James and Cephas (Peter) and John, who were reputed to be pillars [of the Jerusalem church], gave to me and Barnabas the right hand of fellowship, so that we could go to the Gentiles [with their blessing] and they to the circumcised (Jews).
Pillars » Illustrative of » Stability of the earth
“He raises up the poor from the dust,
He lifts up the needy from the ash heap
To make them sit with nobles,
And inherit a seat of honor and glory;
For the pillars of the earth are the Lord’s,
And He set the land on them.
“The earth and all the inhabitants of it melt [in tumultuous times].
It is I who will steady its pillars. Selah.
Pillars » Illustrative of » Saints who overcome in Christ
Pillars » Illustrative of » The church
in case I am delayed, so that you will know how people ought to conduct themselves in the household of God, which is the church of the living God, the pillar and foundation of the truth.
Pillars » Illustrative of » Stability of the heavens
Plagues » Illustrative of » God's judgments upon the apostacy
And I heard another voice from heaven, saying, “Come out of her, my people, so that you will not be a partner in her sins and receive her plagues;
For this reason in a single day her plagues (afflictions, calamities) will come, pestilence and mourning and famine, and she will be burned up with fire and completely consumed; for strong and powerful is the Lord God who judges her.
Plagues » Illustrative of » The diseased state of man's heart
whatever prayer or pleading is made by any individual, or by Your people Israel, each knowing the affliction of his own heart, and spreading his hands out toward this house;
Precious stones » Illustrative of » Seductive splendor and false glory of the apostacy
saying, ‘Woe, woe, for the great city that was robed in fine linen, in purple and scarlet, gilded and adorned with gold, with precious stones, and with pearls;
The woman was dressed in purple and scarlet, and adorned with gold, precious stones and pearls, [and she was] holding in her hand a gold cup full of the abominations and the filth of her [sexual] immorality.
Precious stones » Illustrative of » Saints
“They will be Mine,” says the Lord of hosts, “on that day when I publicly recognize them and openly declare them to be My own possession [that is, My very special treasure]. And I will have compassion on them and spare them as a man spares his own son who serves him.”
But if anyone builds on the foundation with gold, silver, precious stones, wood, hay, straw,
Precious stones » Illustrative of » Preciousness of Christ
For this is contained in Scripture:“Behold, I am laying in Zion a chosen stone, a precious (honored) Cornerstone,
And he who believes in Him [whoever adheres to, trusts in, and relies on Him] will never be disappointed [in his expectations].”
And he who believes in Him [whoever adheres to, trusts in, and relies on Him] will never be disappointed [in his expectations].”
Therefore the Lord God says this,
“Listen carefully, I am laying in Zion a Stone, a tested Stone,
A precious Cornerstone for the [secure] foundation, firmly placed.
He who believes [who trusts in, relies on, and adheres to that Stone] will notbe disturbed or give way [in sudden panic].
A precious Cornerstone for the [secure] foundation, firmly placed.
He who believes [who trusts in, relies on, and adheres to that Stone] will not
Precious stones » Illustrative of » Stability of heavenly jerusalem
The foundation stones of the wall of the city were adorned with every kind of precious stone. The first foundation stone was jasper; the second, sapphire; the third, chalcedony; the fourth, emerald;
Precious stones » Illustrative of » Glory of heavenly jerusalem
having God’s glory [filled with His radiant light]. The brilliance of it resembled a rare and very precious jewel, like jasper, shining and clear as crystal.
Precious stones » Illustrative of » Worldly glory of nations
You were in Eden, the garden of God; every precious stone was your covering, the carnelian, topaz, jasper, chrysolite, beryl, onyx, sapphire, carbuncle, and emerald; and your settings and your sockets and engravings were wrought in gold. On the day that you were created they were prepared. You were the anointed cherub that covers with overshadowing [wings], and I set you so. You were upon the holy mountain of God; you walked up and down in the midst of the stones of fire [like the paved work of gleaming sapphire stone upon which the God of Israel walked on Mount Sinai]. You were blameless in your ways from the day you were created until iniquity and guilt were found in you. read more.
Through the abundance of your commerce you were filled with lawlessness and violence, and you sinned; therefore I cast you out as a profane thing from the mountain of God and the guardian cherub drove you out from the midst of the stones of fire.
Through the abundance of your commerce you were filled with lawlessness and violence, and you sinned; therefore I cast you out as a profane thing from the mountain of God and the guardian cherub drove you out from the midst of the stones of fire.
Precious stones » Illustrative of » Beauty and stability of the church
O you afflicted [city], storm-tossed and not comforted, behold, I will set your stones in fair colors [in antimony to enhance their brilliance] and lay your foundations with sapphires. And I will make your windows and pinnacles of [sparkling] agates or rubies, and your gates of [shining] carbuncles, and all your walls [of your enclosures] of precious stones.
priests » Illustrative of » Saints
But you are a chosen race, a royal priesthood, a consecrated nation, a [special] people for God’s own possession, so that you may proclaim the excellencies [the wonderful deeds and virtues and perfections] of Him who called you out of darkness into His marvelous light.
Verse Concepts
CherishingDarkness, Deliverance FromAccess To God, In Old TestamentPraiseenlightenmentThe Church As The ElectChoicesBeing ChosenGod, Will OfWhat Heaven Will Be LikeHoliness, As Set Apart For GodHoliness, Believers' Growth InLight, SpiritualHeaven, Redeemed CommunityMission, Of IsraelPeople Of God, In NtPraise, Reasons ForPriesthood, In NtGod PossessingSpeech, Positive Aspects OfWitnessing, Importance OfWorship, Reasons For
The Call Of GodHeaven, Worshiping GodNames And Titles For The ChristianSpiritual Blindness, Removal OfCalling, Of ChristiansOld Testament People As TypesFrom Darkness To LightComing Out Of DarknessFew PriestsA Holy NationA Kingdom Of PriestsRoyal PriesthoodShowing Forth His PraiseElectLightUnconditional LoveRaceExcellenceroyaltypriestsLight As A Symbol Of Salvation
and you shall be to Me a kingdom of priests and a holy nation [set apart for My purpose].’ These are the words that you shall speak to the Israelites.”
priests » Illustrative of » Christ
Furthermore, every [human] priest stands [at his altar of service] ministering daily, offering the same sacrifices over and over again, which never are able to strip [from every side of us] the sins [that envelop us] and take them away -- " Whereas this One [Christ], after He had offered a single sacrifice for our sins [that shall avail] for all time, sat down at the right hand of God,
Prisons » Illustrative of » Bondage to sin and satan
Because the Lord has anointed and commissioned me
To bring good news to the humble and afflicted;
He has sent me to bind up [the wounds of] the brokenhearted,
To proclaim release [from confinement and condemnation] to the [physical and spiritual] captives
And freedom to prisoners,
Verse Concepts
Freedom, Through Jesus ChristBrokennessBrokenheartedBreath Of GodAnointing, Of ChristAnointing With OilBlindness, HealingsdiscouragementGospel, Descriptions OfPoverty, Remedies ForPower, HumanPoverty, SpiritualPrisonersRescueSuffering, Encouragements InSymbolsAfflictions, Consolation DuringHoly Spirit, Types OfProphecies Concerning ChristNames And Titles For The Holy SpiritBindingCaptivity, Metaphorically
The Spirit Of GodThe Anointed OneMessianic PropheciesSpirit Of ChristGood TidingsThe Spirit Of The LordThe Holy Spirit Described As OilThe Sealing Of The Holy SpiritGod's Help In DiscouragementGood NewsGod Freeing CaptivesGod Healing SorrowChristian LibertyGod's Healing LoveFreedomHealing A Broken HeartHealing And ComfortRecoveryA Broken HeartBroken Heartsheartbroken
To open the eyes of the blind,
To bring out prisoners from the dungeon
And those who sit in darkness from the prison.
Saying to those who are bound and captured, ‘Go forth,’
And to those who are in [spiritual] darkness, ‘Show yourselves [come into the light of the Savior].’
They will feed along the roads [on which they travel],
And their pastures will be on all the bare heights.
Prisons » Illustrative of » Hell
And when the thousand years are completed, Satan will be released from his prison (the abyss),
Prisons » Illustrative of » Deep afflictions
“Bring my soul out of prison (adversity),
So that I may give thanks and praise Your name;
The righteous will surround me [in triumph],
For You will look after me.”
Purifications or baptisms » Illustrative of » Regeneration
but if we [really] walk in the Light [that is, live each and every day in conformity with the precepts of God], as He Himself is in the Light, we have [true, unbroken] fellowship with one another [He with us, and we with Him], and the blood of Jesus His Son cleanses us from all sin [by erasing the stain of sin, keeping us cleansed from sin in all its forms and manifestations].
so that He might sanctify the church, having cleansed her by the washing of water with the word [of God],
Purifications or baptisms » Illustrative of » Purification by the blood of Christ
Seeing that that first [outer portion of the] tabernacle was a parable (a visible symbol or type or picture of the present age). In it gifts and sacrifices are offered, and yet are incapable of perfecting the conscience or of cleansing and renewing the inner man of the worshiper. For [the ceremonies] deal only with clean and unclean meats and drinks and different washings, [mere] external rules and regulations for the body imposed to tide the worshipers over until the time of setting things straight [of reformation, of the complete new order when Christ, the Messiah, shall establish the reality of what these things foreshadow -- "a better covenant]. But [that appointed time came] when Christ (the Messiah) appeared as a High Priest of the better things that have come and are to come. [Then] through the greater and more perfect tabernacle not made with [human] hands, that is, not a part of this material creation, read more.
He went once for all into the [Holy of] Holies [of heaven], not by virtue of the blood of goats and calves [by which to make reconciliation between God and man], but His own blood, having found and secured a complete redemption (an everlasting release for us).
He went once for all into the [Holy of] Holies [of heaven], not by virtue of the blood of goats and calves [by which to make reconciliation between God and man], but His own blood, having found and secured a complete redemption (an everlasting release for us).
Reaping » Illustrative of » Receiving the reward of wickedness
“As I have seen, those who plow wickedness
And those who sow trouble and harm harvest it.
For they sow the wind [in evil]
And they reap the whirlwind [in disaster].
The standing grain has no growth;
It yields no grain.
If it were to yield, strangers would swallow it up.
He who sows injustice will reap [a harvest of] trouble,
And the rod of his wrath [with which he oppresses others] will fail.
For the one who sows to his flesh [his sinful capacity, his worldliness, his disgraceful impulses] will reap from the flesh ruin and destruction, but the one who sows to the Spirit will from the Spirit reap eternal life.
Reaping » Illustrative of » The final judgment
And the enemy who sowed it is the devil. The harvest is the close and consummation of the age, and the reapers are angels. Just as the darnel (weeds resembling wheat) is gathered and burned with fire, so it will be at the close of the age. The Son of Man will send forth His angels, and they will gather out of His kingdom all causes of offense [ persons by whom others are drawn into error or sin] and all who do iniquity and act wickedly, read more.
And will cast them into the furnace of fire; there will be weeping and wailing and grinding of teeth. Then will the righteous (those who are upright and in right standing with God) shine forth like the sun in the kingdom of their Father. Let him who has ears [to hear] be listening, and let him consider and perceive and understand by hearing.
And will cast them into the furnace of fire; there will be weeping and wailing and grinding of teeth. Then will the righteous (those who are upright and in right standing with God) shine forth like the sun in the kingdom of their Father. Let him who has ears [to hear] be listening, and let him consider and perceive and understand by hearing.
Reaping » Illustrative of » Receiving the reward of righteousness
Sow with a view to righteousness [that righteousness, like seed, may germinate];
Reap in accordance with mercy and lovingkindness.
Break up your uncultivated ground,
For it is time to seek and search diligently for the Lord [and to long for His blessing]
Until He comes to rain righteousness and His gift of salvation on you.
For he who sows to his own flesh (lower nature, sensuality) will from the flesh reap decay and ruin and destruction, but he who sows to the Spirit will from the Spirit reap eternal life. And let us not lose heart and grow weary and faint in acting nobly and doing right, for in due time and at the appointed season we shall reap, if we do not loosen and relax our courage and faint.
Reaping » Illustrative of » The judgments of God on the antiChristian world
Again I looked, and behold, [I saw] a white cloud, and sitting on the cloud One resembling a Son of Man, with a crown of gold on His head and a sharp scythe (sickle) in His hand. And another angel came out of the temple sanctuary, calling with a mighty voice to Him Who was sitting upon the cloud, Put in Your scythe and reap, for the hour has arrived to gather the harvest, for the earth's crop is fully ripened. So He Who was sitting upon the cloud swung His scythe (sickle) on the earth, and the earth's crop was harvested.
Reaping » Illustrative of » Ministers receiving temporal provision for spiritual labors
If we have sown [the good seed of] spiritual things in you, is it too much if we reap material things from you?
Reaping » Illustrative of » Gathering in souls to God
Rocks » Illustrative of » God as salvation of his people
“But Jeshurun (Israel) became fat and kicked [at God].
You became fat, thick, sleek, and obstinate!
Then he abandoned God who had made him,
And scorned the Rock of his salvation.
Let us shout joyfully to the rock of our salvation.
“He will cry to Me, ‘You are my Father,
My God, and the rock of my salvation.’
Rocks » Illustrative of » Christ as a stumbling-stone to the wicked
As it is written and forever remains written,
“Behold I am laying in Zion a Stone of stumbling and a Rock of offense;
And he who believes in Him [whoever adheres to, trusts in, and relies on Him] will not be disappointed [in his expectations].”
And he who believes in Him [whoever adheres to, trusts in, and relies on Him] will not be disappointed [in his expectations].”
“Then He shall be a sanctuary [a sacred, indestructible shelter for those who fear and trust Him];
But to both the houses of Israel [both the northern and southern kingdoms—Israel and Judah, He will be] a stone on which to stumble and a rock on which to trip,
A trap and a snare for the inhabitants of Jerusalem.
and,“A stone of stumbling and a rock of offense”;
for they stumble because they disobey the word [of God], and to this they [who reject Him as Savior] were also appointed.
Rocks » Illustrative of » God as the strength of his people
Because you [Judah] have forgotten the God of your salvation
And have not remembered the Rock of your Stronghold—
Therefore you plant
And set the grounds with vine slips of a strange god,
On God my salvation and my glory rest;
He is my rock of [unyielding] strength, my refuge is in God.
Rocks » Illustrative of » Whatever we trust in
Rocks » Illustrative of » Christ as foundation of his church
For this is contained in Scripture:“Behold, I am laying in Zion a chosen stone, a precious (honored) Cornerstone,
And he who believes in Him [whoever adheres to, trusts in, and relies on Him] will never be disappointed [in his expectations].”
And he who believes in Him [whoever adheres to, trusts in, and relies on Him] will never be disappointed [in his expectations].”
Rocks » Illustrative of » A place of safety
For in the day of trouble He will hide me in His shelter;
In the secret place of His tent He will hide me;
He will lift me up on a rock.
He brought me up out of a horrible pit [of tumult and of destruction], out of the miry clay,
And He set my feet upon a rock, steadying my footsteps and establishing my path.
Rocks » Illustrative of » Christ as source of spiritual gifts
and all [of them] drank the same spiritual drink, for they were drinking from a spiritual rock which followed them; and the rock was Christ.
Rocks » Illustrative of » God as creator of his people
“You were unmindful of the Rock who bore you,
And you forgot the God who gave you birth.
Rocks » Illustrative of » God as defence of his people
Bow down Your ear to me, deliver me speedily! Be my Rock of refuge, a strong Fortress to save me! Yes, You are my Rock and my Fortress; therefore for Your name's sake lead me and guide me.
Rocks » Illustrative of » Christ as refuge of his people
Each [one of them] will be like a hiding place from the wind
And a shelter from the storm,
Like streams of water in a dry land,
Like the shade of a huge rock in a parched and weary land [to those who turn to them].
Rocks » Illustrative of » God as refuge of his people
But the Lord has become my high tower and defense,
And my God the rock of my refuge.
Rocks » Illustrative of » The ancestor of a nation
Who seek and inquire of the Lord:
Look to the rock from which you were cut
And to the excavation of the quarry from which you were dug.
The roe » Illustrative of » Christ
“Until the cool of the day when the shadows flee away,
Return quickly, my beloved, and be like a gazelle
Or a young stag on the mountains of Bether [which separate us].” Cross references: Song of Solomon 2:6 : Deut 33:27; Matt 28:20 Song of Solomon 2:8 : John 10:27 Song of Solomon 2:16 : Matt 10:32; Acts 4:12 end of crossrefs
“My beloved is like a gazelle or a young stag.
Behold, he is standing behind our wall,
He is looking through the windows,
He is gazing through the lattice.
The roe » Illustrative of » The church
The roe » Illustrative of » The swift of foot
Three sons of Zeruiah [the half sister of David] were there: Joab, Abishai, and Asahel. Now Asahel was as light and swift-footed as one of the [wild] gazelles in the field.
The roe » Illustrative of » A good wife
Let her be as a loving hind and graceful doe,
Let her breasts refresh and satisfy you at all times;
Always be
Sacrifices » Illustrative of » Thanksgiving
I will offer to You the sacrifice of thanksgiving,
And will call on the name of the Lord.
Through Him, therefore, let us at all times offer up to God a sacrifice of praise, which is the fruit of lips that thankfully acknowledge and confess and glorify His name.
Verse Concepts
The Lips Of The RighteousAcceptance, Of WorshipAcceptance, divineAttitudes Of PraiseLipsPraise, Manner And Methods OfPrayer, As Praise And ThanksgivingPriesthood, In NtPriests, Tasks In Nt TimesSpeech, Positive Aspects OfTributesWorship, Elements OfOfferings, FigurativePraisePraise, Nature OfThanksgiving, Offered
And now my head will be lifted up above my enemies around me,
In His tent I will offer sacrifices with shouts of joy;
I will sing, yes, I will sing praises to the Lord.
And let them offer the sacrifices of thanksgiving,
And speak of His deeds with shouts of joy!
Sacrifices » Illustrative of » Benevolence
Do not neglect to do good, to contribute [to the needy of the church as an expression of fellowship], for such sacrifices are always pleasing to God.
Verse Concepts
Acceptance, divineFellowship, Among Believersethics, incentives towardsGiving To OthersAcceptance, Of WorshipAlms, Good DeedsGood WorksGrace, In Human RelationshipsIndividualismParticipation, In ChristNeglecting PeoplePleasing GodPoverty, Attitudes TowardsPriests, Tasks In Nt TimesServing PeopleGenerosity
But I have received everything in full and more; I am amply supplied, having received from Epaphroditus the gifts you sent me. They are the fragrant aroma of an offering, an acceptable sacrifice which God welcomes and in which He delights.
Sacrifices » Illustrative of » Martyrdom
but emptied Himself [without renouncing or diminishing His deity, but only temporarily giving up the outward expression of divine equality and His rightful dignity] by assuming the form of a bond-servant, and being made in the likeness of men [He became completely human but was without sin, being fully God and fully man].
For I am already being poured out as a drink offering, and the time of my departure [from this world] is at hand and I will soon go free.
Sacrifices » Illustrative of » Devotedness
Verse Concepts
Acceptance, From GodGiving, Of OneselfAbundant LifeAcceptance, divineCoolPersonal ConsecrationFalse Worshipethics, incentives towardsencouragement, examples ofAcceptance, Of WorshipDevotion To GodSurrenderingDedication In NtAromasBodyGrowthHoliness Of The SaintsHoliness, Purpose OfHonorMercy, Response To God'sMind, Of GodPleasing GodPriesthood, In NtPriests, Tasks In Nt TimesResponseSacrifice, Nt Fulfilment OfSanctification, Nature And Basis
Self DenialServanthood, And Worship Of GodTypesWork, And RedemptionWorship, Acceptable AttitudesBeing DevoutOfferings, FigurativeSpiritual Life, Described ByThe Human BodyMan's Conduct Towards GodDrugs, Illegal NarcoticsUnworldlinessEnthusiasmProvision For The BodyThat Which Is SpiritualAltarsHow To Worship GodLiving OnRight SacrificesEating DisordersServiceSurrenderSacrificeCall To ActiontransitionChristians Being Called Brothers
But even if I am being poured out as a drink offering on the sacrifice and service of your faith [for preaching the message of salvation], still I rejoice and share my joy with you all.
Sacrifices » Illustrative of » Righteousness
Then will You delight in the sacrifices of righteousness,
In burnt offering and whole burnt offering;
Then young bulls will be offered on Your altar.
Offer righteous sacrifices;
Trust [confidently] in the Lord.
Sacrifices » Illustrative of » A broken spirit
My [only] sacrifice [acceptable] to God is a broken spirit;
A broken and contrite heart [broken with sorrow for sin, thoroughly penitent], such, O God, You will not despise.
Sacrifices » Illustrative of » Prayer
Let my prayer be counted as incense before You;
The lifting up of my hands as the evening offering.
Seals » Illustrative of » Security
and the angel hurled him into the abyss, and closed it and sealed it above him [preventing his escape or rescue], so that he would no longer deceive and seduce the nations, until the thousand years were at an end. After these things he must be liberated for a short time.
Nevertheless, the firm foundation of God [which He has laid] stands [sure and unshaken despite attacks], bearing this seal: “The Lord knows those who are His,” and, “Let everyone who names the name of the Lord stand apart from wickedness and withdraw from wrongdoing.”
“A garden enclosed is my sister, my [promised] bride—
A rock garden locked, a spring sealed up.
Then I saw a second angel coming up from the east (the rising of the sun) and carrying the seal of the living God. And with a loud voice he called out to the four angels who had been given authority and power to injure earth and sea, Saying, Harm neither the earth nor the sea nor the trees, until we have sealed the bond servants of our God upon their foreheads. And [then] I heard how many were sealed (marked) out of every tribe of the sons of Israel: there were 144,000. read more.
Twelve thousand were sealed (marked) out of the tribe of Judah, 12,000 of the tribe of Reuben, 12,000 of the tribe of Gad, Twelve thousand of the tribe of Asher, 12,000 of the tribe of Naphtali, 12,000 of the tribe of Manasseh, Twelve thousand of the tribe of Simeon, 12,000 of the tribe of Levi, 12,000 of the tribe of Issachar, Twelve thousand of the tribe of Zebulun, 12,000 of the tribe of Joseph, 12,000 of the tribe of Benjamin.
Twelve thousand were sealed (marked) out of the tribe of Judah, 12,000 of the tribe of Reuben, 12,000 of the tribe of Gad, Twelve thousand of the tribe of Asher, 12,000 of the tribe of Naphtali, 12,000 of the tribe of Manasseh, Twelve thousand of the tribe of Simeon, 12,000 of the tribe of Levi, 12,000 of the tribe of Issachar, Twelve thousand of the tribe of Zebulun, 12,000 of the tribe of Joseph, 12,000 of the tribe of Benjamin.
Seals » Illustrative of » Appropriation of saints to God by the spirit
And do not grieve the Holy Spirit of God [but seek to please Him], by whom you were sealed and marked [branded as God’s own] for the day of redemption [the final deliverance from the consequences of sin].
Verse Concepts
ethics, incentives towardsHeart, DivineOffences Against The Holy SpiritRedemption, In NtSealsSin, Against Holy SpiritSin, And God's CharacterSpiritualityUnhappinessAssurance Of SalvationGriefHoly Spirit, Personhood OfHoly Spirit, Activities OfHoly Spirit, Types OfThe Holy Spirit, Being AgainstOfferings, Old Testamnent Kinds Of
Names And Titles For The Holy SpiritCoping With DeathPornographyDispleasureThe Unpardonable SinThe Divinity Of The Holy SpiritThe Holy Spirit Described As A SealResisting Holy SpiritThe Sealing Of The Holy SpiritTime Of RestorationGrieving GodEternal SecurityOvercomersRedemptionLoss Of A Loved Onegrieving
it is He who has also put His seal on us [that is, He has appropriated us and certified us as His] and has given us the [Holy] Spirit in our hearts as a pledge [like a security deposit to guarantee the fulfillment of His promise of eternal life].
In Him, you also, when you heard the word of truth, the good news of your salvation, and [as a result] believed in Him, were stamped with the seal of the promised Holy Spirit [the One promised by Christ] as owned and protected [by God].
Seals » Illustrative of » What is dear or valued
On that day,’ declares the Lord of hosts, ‘I will take you, Zerubbabel, the son of Shealtiel, My servant,’ declares the Lord, ‘and I will make you [through the Messiah, your descendant] like a signet ring, for I have chosen you [as the one with whom to renew My covenant to David’s line],’” declares the Lord of hosts.
(The Shulammite Bride)“Under the apple tree I awakened you [to my love];
There your mother was in labor with you,
There she was in labor and gave you birth.
“Put me like a seal on your heart,
Like a seal on your arm;
For love is as strong as death,
Jealousy is as severe and cruel as Sheol (the place of the dead).
Its flashes are flashes of fire,
[A most vehement flame] the very flame of theLord!
There your mother was in labor with you,
There she was in labor and gave you birth.
“Put me like a seal on your heart,
Like a seal on your arm;
For love is as strong as death,
Jealousy is as severe and cruel as Sheol (the place of the dead).
Its flashes are flashes of fire,
[A most vehement flame] the very flame of the
“As I live,” says the Lord, “though Coniah the son of Jehoiakim king of Judah were the signet [ring] on My right hand, yet would I pull you (Coniah) off.
Seals » Illustrative of » Secrecy
But as for you, Daniel, conceal these words and seal up the scroll until the end of time. Many will go back and forth and search anxiously [through the scroll], and knowledge [of the purpose of God as revealed by His prophets] will [greatly] increase.”
I saw in the right hand of Him who was seated on the throne a scroll written on the inside and on the back, closed and sealed with seven seals.
And when the seven peals of thunder had spoken, I was about to write; but I heard a voice from heaven saying, “Seal up the things which the seven peals of thunder have spoken and do not write them down.”
Seals » Illustrative of » Restraint
and the angel hurled him into the abyss, and closed it and sealed it above him [preventing his escape or rescue], so that he would no longer deceive and seduce the nations, until the thousand years were at an end. After these things he must be liberated for a short time.
Who commands the sun, and it does not shine;
Who seals up the stars [from view];
“God seals (brings to a standstill, stops) [by severe weather] the hand of every man,
That all men [whom He has made] may know His work [that is, His sovereign power and their subjection to it].
Seals » Illustrative of » Converts
If I am not [considered] an apostle to others, at least I am one to you; for you are the seal and the certificate and the living evidence of my apostleship in the Lord [confirming and authenticating it].
Seals » Illustrative of » Circumcision
He received the sign of circumcision, a seal or confirmation of the righteousness which he had by faith while [he was still] uncircumcised—this was so that he would be the [spiritual] father of all who believe without being circumcised—so that righteousness would be credited to them,
Seals » Illustrative of » Full approval
Whoever receives His testimony has set his seal [of approval] to this: God is true [and he knows that God cannot lie].
Seed » Illustrative of » The word of God
for you have been born again [that is, reborn from above—spiritually transformed, renewed, and set apart for His purpose] not of seed which is perishable but [from that which is] imperishable and immortal, that is, through the living and everlasting word of God.
Seed » Illustrative of » Spiritual life
No one who is born of God [deliberately, knowingly, and habitually] practices sin, because God’s seed [His principle of life, the essence of His righteous character] remains [permanently] in him [who is born again—who is reborn from above—spiritually transformed, renewed, and set apart for His purpose]; and he [who is born again] cannot habitually [live a life characterized by] sin, because he is born of God and longs to please Him.
Shields » Illustrative of » Salvation of God
You have also given me the shield of Your salvation,
And Your right hand upholds and sustains me;
Your gentleness [Your gracious response when I pray] makes me great.
“You have also given me the shield of Your salvation,
And Your help and gentleness make me great.
Shields » Illustrative of » Protection of God
After these things the word of the Lord came to Abram in a vision, saying,
“Do not be afraid, Abram,
I am your shield;
Your reward [for obedience] shall be very great.”
I am your shield;
Your reward [for obedience] shall be very great.”
We wait [expectantly] for the Lord;
He is our help and our shield.
Shields » Illustrative of » Faith
Above all, lift up the [protective] shield of faith with which you can extinguish all the flaming arrows of the evil one.
Shields » Illustrative of » Truth of God
He will cover you and completely protect you with His pinions,
And under His wings you will find refuge;
His faithfulness is a shield and a wall.
Shields » Illustrative of » Favor of God
For You, O Lord, bless the righteous man [the one who is in right standing with You];
You surround him with favor as with a shield.
Showbread » Illustrative of » The church
Since there is one bread, we [believers] who are many are [united into] one body; for we all partake of the one bread [which represents the body of Christ].
Showbread » Illustrative of » Christ, as the bread of life
Sieges » Illustrative of » The omnipresence of God
You have enclosed me behind and before,
And [You have] placed Your hand upon me.
Sieges » Illustrative of » Zion in her affliction
The Daughter of Zion (Jerusalem) is left like a [deserted] shelter in a vineyard,
Like a watchman’s hut in a cucumber field, like a besieged city [isolated, surrounded by devastation].
Sieges » Illustrative of » The judgments of God
A state of siege has been placed against us.
They shall strike the ruler of Israel on the cheek with a rod (scepter).
Swine » Illustrative of » Hypocrites
The thing spoken of in the true proverb has happened to them, “The dog returns to his own vomit,” and, “A sow is washed only to wallow [again] in the mire.”
Swine » Illustrative of » The wicked
The First Temple » Illustrative of » The spiritual church
What agreement is there between the temple of God and idols? For we are the temple of the living God; just as God said:“I will dwell among them and walk among them;
And I will be their God, and they shall be My people.
And I will be their God, and they shall be My people.
You are built upon the foundation of the apostles and prophets with Christ Jesus Himself the chief Cornerstone. In Him the whole structure is joined (bound, welded) together harmoniously, and it continues to rise (grow, increase) into a holy temple in the Lord [a sanctuary dedicated, consecrated, and sacred to the presence of the Lord]. In Him [and in fellowship with one another] you yourselves also are being built up [into this structure] with the rest, to form a fixed abode (dwelling place) of God in (by, through) the Spirit.
The First Temple » Illustrative of » Christ
Jesus answered them, “Destroy this temple, and in three days I will raise it up.”
The First Temple » Illustrative of » The bodies of saints
Do you not know that your body is a temple of the Holy Spirit who is within you, whom you have [received as a gift] from God, and that you are not your own [property]?
Towers » Illustrative of » The grace and dignity of the church
“Your neck is like the tower of David,
Built with rows of [glistening] stones,
Whereon hang a thousand shields,
All of them shields of warriors.
“Your neck is like a tower of ivory,
Your eyes the [sparkling] pools of Heshbon
By the gate of Bath-rabbim.
Your nose is like the tower of Lebanon
Which looks toward Damascus.
(The Shulammite Bride)
“I was a wall, and my breasts were like the towers.
Then I became in the king’s eyes
As one [to be respected and allowed] to find peace.
“I was a wall, and my breasts were like the towers.
Then I became in the king’s eyes
As one [to be respected and allowed] to find peace.
Towers » Illustrative of » God as the protector of his people
My shield and the horn of my salvation, my stronghold and my refuge,
My Savior—You save me from violence.
“He is a tower of salvation and great deliverance to His king,
And shows lovingkindness to His anointed,
To David and his offspring forever.”
Towers » Illustrative of » The proud and haughty
On every lofty mountain and on every high hill there will be streams of water on the day of the great slaughter (the day of the Lord), when the towers fall [and all His enemies are destroyed].
Against every high tower,
Against every fortified wall,
Towers » Illustrative of » The name of the lord
The name of the Lord is a strong tower;
The righteous runs to it and is safe and set on high [far above evil].
Towers » Illustrative of » Ministers
“I [the Lord] have set you as an assayer [O Jeremiah] and as a tester [of the ore] of My people,
That you may know and analyze their acts.”
Towers » Illustrative of » Mount sion
“As for you [Jerusalem], tower of the flock [of Israel],
Hill and stronghold of the Daughter of Zion (Jerusalem’s inhabitants),
To you the former dominion shall come,
The kingdom of the Daughter of Jerusalem [when the Messiah reigns in Jerusalem, and the times of the Gentiles are fulfilled].
War » Illustrative of » The contest of saints with the enemies of their salvation
This command I entrust to you, Timothy, my son, in accordance with the prophecies previously made concerning you, so that [inspired and aided] by them you may fight the good fight [in contending with false teachers],
For our struggle is not against flesh and blood [contending only with physical opponents], but against the rulers, against the powers, against the world forces of this [present] darkness, against the spiritual forces of wickedness in the heavenly (supernatural) places.
Verse Concepts
but I see a different law and rule of action in the members of my body [in its appetites and desires], waging war against the law of my mind and subduing me and making me a prisoner of the law of sin which is within my members.
For though we walk in the flesh [as mortal men], we are not carrying on our [spiritual] warfare according to the flesh and using the weapons of man.
War » Illustrative of » The contest between antiChrist and the church
When they have finished their testimony and given their evidence, the beast that comes up out of the abyss (bottomless pit) will wage war with them, and overcome them and kill them.
They fell down and worshiped the dragon because he gave his authority to the beast; they also worshiped the beast, saying, “Who is like (as great as) the beast, and who is able to wage war against him?”
He was also permitted to wage war against the saints (God’s people) and to overcome them, and authority and power over every tribe and people and language and nation.
War » Illustrative of » Our contest with death
There is no man who has power and authority over the wind to restrain the wind,
Nor does he have authority over the day of death;
There is no discharge [from service] during time of war,
And evil will not rescue those who [actively seek to] practice it.
War » Illustrative of » The malignity of the wicked
The words of his mouth were smoother than butter,
But his heart was hostile;
His words were softer than oil,
Yet they were drawn swords.
Widow's » Illustrative of » Zion in captivity
That was [once] full of people!
How like a widow she has become.
She who was great among the nations!
The princess among the provinces,
Has become a forced laborer!
Widow's » Illustrative of » A desolate condition
Therefore now, hear this, you who love pleasures and are given over to them, you who dwell safely and sit securely, who say in your mind, I am [the mistress] and there is no one else besides me. I shall not sit as a widow, nor shall I know the loss of children. But these two things shall come to you in a moment, in one day: loss of children and widowhood. They shall come upon you in full measure, in spite of the multitude of [your claims to] power given you by the assistance of evil spirits, in spite of the great abundance of your enchantments.
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