Introduction

As you consider the subject of “The Language of the Bible”, you may have observed that there are many visions mentioned throughout the Scriptures. These visions reveal God’s character and His plans. They illustrate His truth, doctrine, and the right way to live.

God’s Righteousness

When we say, “God’s righteousness,” it simply means His way, or the “right way.”

Understanding Visions

Learning to understand these visions can teach you a great deal about God’s kingdom. It helps you know God and His Word better.

Studying Visions

While studying visions, you might come across words or terms that are new to you. Do not worry. As someone studying the Bible, this is your opportunity to grow in understanding God’s Word. This knowledge prepares you to serve God better.

Helpful Resources

Use a dictionary and the Symbols book from the website’s resources section to assist with your study.

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Visions Are Throughout the Bible

God desires His followers to understand even the complex aspects, or “dark sayings,” of His Word. These dark sayings are often deep and intricate messages that require careful study and spiritual insight to understand.

Through the visions revealed in the Bible, you can come to know Him better and gain a richer, more profound relationship with God. In this study, we will explore keys to understanding these visions, aiming to deepen your understanding of the Bible and enhance your knowledge of God.

Examples of Visions in Scripture

Visions appear throughout both the Old and New Testaments. Examples include:

• Jacob’s dream of the ladder in Genesis.
• Visions of Daniel and Ezekiel in the Old Testament.
• The Mount of Transfiguration in the New Testament.
• Paul’s vision of the “third heaven.”
• Peter’s vision of the “great sheet with unclean animals.”
• The entire book of Revelation, which is one vision.

Revelation 9:17 states:

And thus I saw the horses in the vision…

By studying these visions, we can gain a deeper understanding of God’s Word, uncovering the mysteries and profound truths that God desires to reveal to us.

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The Rewards and Wisdom from Visions

The meanings of visions in the Bible may not be clear at first. Understanding them requires effort, discipline, and a commitment to search, reflect upon, and study the Scriptures. However, the rewards are immense when you grasp their meanings with your heart and spirit. This understanding will illuminate many of the “dark sayings” found in God’s Word.

i.
The Rewards of Diligence

God rewards those who diligently seek Him. This is emphasised in the book of Hebrews:

Hebrews 11:6 states:

But without faith it is impossible to please him: for he that cometh to God must believe that he is, and that he is a rewarder of them that diligently seek him.

Not only does God reward those who diligently seek Him by giving them understanding, but He also grants wisdom through His Word. This is highlighted in the book of Proverbs, which shows how seeking God’s wisdom is like searching for hidden treasures. By turning to God’s Word, you receive not just understanding but also wisdom to guide your life.

Proverbs 2:4–6 states:

If thou seekest her as silver, and searchest for her as for hid treasures; Then shalt thou understand the fear of the LORD, and find the knowledge of God. For the LORD giveth wisdom: out of his mouth cometh knowledge and understanding.

ii.
The Effort Required

Understanding the visions in the Bible is not a task to be taken lightly. It requires dedication, time, and a sincere desire to uncover the truths that God has embedded within these visions. As we delve into these divine revelations, we must be prepared to engage deeply with the Scriptures, allowing them to speak to us and reveal their meanings.

iii.
Rewards of Understanding Visions

The rewards of understanding these visions are multifaceted:

iv.
Spiritual Reward

• Drawing closer to God.
• Gaining insight into His character, His plans, and His desires for our lives.
• Transforming our faith and enriching our spiritual journey.

v.
Enhanced Biblical Knowledge

• The Bible can be complex but is a harmonious book.
• Visions often serve as key pieces in the larger context of God’s Word.
• By studying these visions, we gain a more comprehensive understanding of biblical themes and doctrines.

vi.
Practical Reward of Gaining Wisdom

• The Bible teaches that wisdom is more valuable than gold and precious jewels (Proverbs 3:13–15).
• By seeking to understand the visions in the Bible, we pursue this invaluable wisdom.
• This wisdom guides us in our daily lives and helps us make decisions that are pleasing to God.

While understanding visions in the Bible requires effort, the rewards — both spiritual and practical — are profound and life-changing.

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The Language of Visions is Symbolism

You might wonder why God often chose to speak through visions instead of using simple, everyday language. The reason for this approach is that God reveals His truths to those who deeply desire righteousness and who hunger and thirst for it. They are the ones who can truly grasp the revelation of Jesus Christ.

Jesus mentioned to His disciples in the Gospel of Luke that it is given to them to understand the mystery of the kingdom of God.

Luke 8:10 states:

And he said, Unto you it is given to know the mysteries of the kingdom of God: but to others in parables; that seeing they might not see, and hearing they might not understand.

This suggests that when we study visions, we should recognise they are often presented in symbolic language, designed to convey deeper meanings. Paul also emphasised the importance of studying to show ourselves approved to God, capable of accurately interpreting the word of truth.

2 Timothy 2:15 states:

Study to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth.

Symbolic Language in Visions

A prime example of a vision conveyed through symbolic language is Peter’s vision in Acts 10. In order to fully appreciate and understand the symbolism used in this vision, it is important to read through the scripture carefully.

Acts 10:11–16 states:

And saw heaven opened, and a certain vessel descending unto him, as it had been a great sheet knit at the four corners, and let down to the earth: Wherein were all manner of fourfooted beasts of the earth, and wild beasts, and creeping things, and fowls of the air. And there came a voice to him, Rise, Peter; kill, and eat. But Peter said, Not so, Lord; for I have never eaten any thing that is common or unclean. And the voice spake unto him again the second time, What God hath cleansed, that call not thou common. This was done thrice: and the vessel was received up again into heaven.

Some people have taken these scriptures at face value, using them to teach about dietary rules. Rather than seeing the deeper, symbolic meaning, they have focused on a literal interpretation. However, by following the “Golden Rule” of letting the Bible interpret itself, such a literal approach is not accurate.

The true meaning of these verses is symbolic, pointing towards a vital New Testament truth concerning the church. This is confirmed by the revelation that Peter received from the vision:

Acts 10:28 states:

And he said unto them, Ye know how that it is an unlawful thing for a man that is a Jew to keep company, or come unto one of another nation; but God hath shewed me that I should not call any man common or unclean.

In the above verse, Peter explains that the vision he received, featuring unclean animals, was symbolic. These animals represented Gentile people, who were considered unclean by Jewish law. Through this vision, God was conveying to Peter that the gospel was meant for Gentiles as well.

God instructed Peter not to hesitate in ministering to and fellowshipping with Gentiles. This underlines the message that the gospel, along with the promise and gift of salvation, is available to everyone, irrespective of their nationality. It reveals the gospel’s inclusiveness.

The vision challenged Peter’s existing belief that Jews were God’s exclusively chosen people. It revealed to him that in the day of the gospel, God’s kingdom comprises saved individuals from all nations, including Jews. The distinction between Jew and Gentile was dissolved, a truth that Peter came to understand through the symbolism in the vision.

This significant truth is echoed by Paul in his letters, further affirming that the gospel unites people from all backgrounds, cultures, and nationalities under God’s salvation:

Galatians 3:28 states:

There is neither Jew nor Greek, there is neither bond nor free, there is neither male nor female: for ye are all one in Christ Jesus.

1 Corinthians 12:13 states:

For by one Spirit are we all baptized into one body, whether we be Jews or Gentiles, whether we be bond or free; and have been all made to drink into one Spirit.

Peter’s understanding of the vision’s symbolism unveiled a profound spiritual truth to him. The strength of symbolism lies in its ability to conjure vivid images in our minds. When we encounter descriptions of dreams or visions, they paint mental images that enhance our understanding. It is often said, “a picture paints a thousand words.” This expression highlights the potent impact of visual imagery.

A single picture in a book can convey meanings that would otherwise require extensive text to explain. This principle underscores the “Golden Rule” of biblical interpretation: let the Bible interpret itself. By following this rule, we can uncover the deeper meanings behind symbolic images and visions in the Scriptures, much like how Peter came to understand the inclusive nature of the gospel through the symbolism in his vision.

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The Purpose of Symbolism in Visions

Why God Uses Symbolism

Symbolism serves several important purposes in biblical visions:

• Concealing and Revealing Truth: Symbolism conceals the deeper meanings from those who are not earnestly seeking God, while revealing profound truths to those who are genuinely hungry for righteousness. This dual function ensures that only those with sincere hearts and a desire to understand will grasp the full message.
• Enhancing Memory and Understanding: Symbols and vivid imagery make the messages more memorable and impactful. Just as a picture is worth a thousand words, the symbolic language in visions helps embed the lessons deep within our minds and hearts.
• Transcending Language Barriers: Symbols can communicate universally across different languages and cultures. While the meanings of words can change over time, symbols remain constant and convey the same message regardless of linguistic differences.

Symbolism Demonstrates Character

Pictures and symbols are widespread in the Bible to illustrate character traits and lessons. For instance:

i.
Wolves in Sheep’s Clothing

Jesus compares false teachers and preachers with misleading and seducing doctrines to wolves in the Gospel of Matthew:

Matthew 7:15 states:

Beware of false prophets, which come to you in sheep’s clothing, but inwardly they are ravening wolves.

This vivid imagery helps readers understand the danger and deceit these individuals represent, much like wolves disguise themselves to prey on unsuspecting sheep. This use of symbolism makes the warning against such deceptive figures more impactful and memorable.

ii.
Imagery of a wolf:

• Wild, voracious, and dangerous.
• The literal Greek describes the false prophets as “plundering wolves.”
• Accurately reflects the nature of false teachers and their messages.
• Serves as a caution from Jesus to steer clear of them to avoid being devoured.

False prophets, false teachers, and false shepherds pose a serious threat — their teachings are rife with lies and deceit. Although they might seem harmless on the surface, much like sheep, their true nature is predatory, akin to “ravening or plundering wolves.” Their ultimate goal is to exploit and harm the followers of God.

iii.
Imagery of a lamb:

• Embodies innocence, meekness, and vulnerability.
• Stark contrast to the predatory nature of wolves.
• Used to differentiate between those who intend harm and those who are genuine and harmless.

Jesus describes His disciples as lambs:

Luke 10:3 states:

Go your ways: behold, I send you forth as lambs among wolves.

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iv.
The Roman Kingdom: Dreadful and Terrible

Another example of how visions illustrate character is the time when the kingdom of God was established in contrast to the Roman Empire. It was during the fourth kingdom, the Roman Empire, at the first coming of Jesus, that the kingdom of God was established.

Daniel 2:44 states:

And in the days of these kings shall the God of heaven set up a kingdom, which shall never be destroyed: and the kingdom shall not be left to other people, but it shall break in pieces and consume all these kingdoms, and it shall stand for ever.

v.
The Fourth Kingdom and Its Character

The Roman kingdom is described as follows in Daniel chapter 7:

Daniel 7:7 states:

After this I saw in the night visions, and behold a fourth beast, dreadful and terrible, and strong exceedingly; and it had great iron teeth: it devoured and brake in pieces, and stamped the residue with the feet of it: and it was diverse from all the beasts that were before it; and it had ten horns.

This vision vividly describes the Roman Empire, which was a highly powerful and strong kingdom. The descriptive language portrays the very essence and character of the Roman kingdom, which was destructive, dreadful, and terrible. Once more, a picture speaks a thousand words.

vi.
The Kingdom of God and Its Character

In the same vision that Daniel received, the kingdom of God and its character are revealed:

Daniel 7:9–10 states:

I beheld till the thrones were cast down, and the Ancient of days did sit, whose garment was white as snow, and the hair of his head like the pure wool: his throne was like the fiery flame, and his wheels as burning fire. A fiery stream issued and came forth from before him: thousand thousands ministered unto him, and ten thousand times ten thousand stood before him: the judgment was set, and the books were opened.

Paul adds to this in his letter to the Romans, giving a description of the character of the kingdom of God:

Romans 14:17 states:

For the kingdom of God is not meat and drink; but righteousness, and peace, and joy in the Holy Ghost.

Note the difference between the fourth kingdom in the vision — the kingdom of Rome — and the kingdom of God established by the Ancient of Days Himself. They were both strong and mighty and powerful; however, they are very different in character. When interpreting visions, it is crucial to grasp character, especially God’s character. God desires His people to know Him.

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Symbolism Crosses Language Barriers and Reveals Relationship

The Symbolism in Visions Crosses Language Barriers

The Bible is written in Hebrew and Greek. Symbols, relying on imagery or pictures, can transcend language barriers, similar to how artwork can be universally appreciated. For example, a dragon symbolises the same character across cultures and ages. Wolves and lambs convey consistent meanings.

Universality of Symbols

Symbols have a unique ability to communicate universally. They can transcend cultural, linguistic, and temporal boundaries, making them a powerful tool for conveying spiritual truths.

• Consistency Across Cultures: Symbols like the dragon, the lamb, and the wolf hold consistent meanings across different cultures and time periods.
• Transcending Linguistic Boundaries: The visual impact of symbols helps embed spiritual truths deeply within our minds and hearts.

Symbolism in Visions Reveals Relationship

A prime example of symbolism unveiling relationships is the vision of the Mount of Transfiguration in Matthew 17:1–9. Many overlook or misconstrue this as a literal event, but Jesus clarified that it was a vision.

Matthew 17:9 states:

And as they came down from the mountain, Jesus charged them, saying, Tell the vision to no man, until the Son of man be risen again from the dead.

Misinterpretations of the Mount of Transfiguration have led to false doctrines, such as the belief that it was a literal event where Elijah and Moses physically reappeared from the dead. From this, it is also falsely taught that they will both appear as the two witnesses in the book of Revelation.

The two witnesses in the book of Revelation, a symbolic book, are the Spirit and Truth revealed in the fourth chapter of Zechariah as: The Word of the Lord and The Spirit of the Lord.

Jesus tells us that the Mount of Transfiguration was not a literal occurrence, but a vision — and therefore symbolic in its language and understanding. Therefore, to understand its significance, Moses and Elijah are represented in the vision as symbols.

i.
Moses

When considering Moses, we are reminded of the law. It was through Moses that God delivered the law to the nation of Israel. Moses symbolises the law, which served to point to and reveal Jesus Christ.

John 1:17 states:

For the law was given by Moses, but grace and truth came by Jesus Christ.

Jesus, after His resurrection on the road to Emmaus, explains concerning Moses and all the prophets:

Luke 24:27 states:

And beginning at Moses and all the prophets, he expounded unto them in all the Scriptures the things concerning himself.

To clarify the connection between Jesus and the law of Moses, when He gathered His disciples:

John 1:45 states:

Philip findeth Nathanael, and saith unto him, We have found him, of whom Moses in the law, and the prophets, did write, Jesus of Nazareth, the son of Joseph.

To summarise, Moses symbolises the law which pointed to and was fulfilled in Christ. Moses represents the Old Covenant; the law given to guide the Israelites and point them towards Jesus Christ in whom the law and the prophets were fulfilled.

ii.
Elijah

The character of Elijah is notable for his zeal and courage. In the Old Testament Scriptures, we see Elisha greatly impressed by Elijah’s spirit, to the extent that he requested a double portion of it.

2 Kings 2:9 states:

And it came to pass, when they were gone over, that Elijah said unto Elisha, Ask what I shall do for thee, before I be taken away from thee. And Elisha said, I pray thee, let a double portion of thy spirit be upon me.

Consider the description of Elijah from the angel of the Lord when describing John the Baptist:

Luke 1:17 states:

And he shall go before him in the spirit and power of Elias, to turn the hearts of the fathers to the children, and the disobedient to the wisdom of the just; to make ready a people prepared for the Lord.

Elijah served as a symbol of the spirit and power of God. He embodies the prophetic spirit, zeal, and power of God, preparing the way for Jesus and pointing towards the fulfilment of God’s promises in Christ.

iii.
Jesus Christ — The True Purpose of the Vision

The true significance of the vision is lost if taken literally. The true purpose was to use the symbolism of Moses and Elijah to reveal Jesus Christ and salvation.

Matthew 17:5 states:

While he yet spake, behold, a bright cloud overshadowed them: and behold a voice out of the cloud, which said, This is my beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased; hear ye him.

In 1 Corinthians 1:24 and 2:4–5, we learn that Jesus Christ embodies both the Spirit and power of God.

1 Corinthians 1:24 states:

But unto them which are called, both Jews and Greeks, Christ the power of God, and the wisdom of God.

1 Corinthians 2:4 states:

And my speech and my preaching was not with enticing words of man’s wisdom, but in demonstration of the Spirit and of power:

The purpose of the vision on the Mount of Transfiguration, according to Matthew 17:5, was to reveal Jesus Christ and salvation in Him. While the law, given by Moses, pointed to and revealed Christ, it was insufficient to save souls from sin. True salvation and the power to live righteously come through receiving the Spirit of Christ.

Romans 8:9 states:

But ye are not in the flesh, but in the Spirit, if so be that the Spirit of God dwell in you. Now if any man have not the Spirit of Christ, he is none of his.

The word represented through the law of Moses was insufficient to save, as evidenced through the Old Testament. It takes Jesus, who is both the Word and the Spirit, to be born again.

John 6:63 states:

It is the spirit that quickeneth; the flesh profiteth nothing: the words that I speak unto you, they are spirit, and they are life.

Thus, we understand from the Mount of Transfiguration vision that the Spirit and the law find fulfilment in Jesus Christ. This example and vision illustrate the truth about the relationship between the Spirit and the law. Through Jesus Christ, the Spirit and the truth are one; they are unified: you cannot receive the Spirit of God without embracing the truth, and likewise, the truth cannot be embraced without having the Spirit of Jesus Christ.

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The Book of Revelation — The Vision

The Importance of Context

Many people make the same mistake with the book of Revelation as they do with the account of the Mount of Transfiguration. They believe and teach that Revelation is literal, but its language is actually symbolic. The entire book is filled with symbolic imagery that conveys deeper spiritual truths.

When studying visions or any part of the Bible, it is crucial to follow the Golden Rule: allow the Bible to interpret itself. Successful Bible study and understanding require:

• Pray and ask the Holy Spirit to reveal the truth to you.
• Gather all relevant information.
• Find the “mates” (corresponding scriptures).
• Consider context.
• Reflect on the original message’s audience and timeframe.
• Ask unbiased questions.
• Stay true to the harmony of Scripture.
• Have a concordance, dictionary and do not be afraid to study other versions of the Bible.

For every symbol in the Bible, there is a corresponding scripture provided to give the key to its meaning. This is especially true in the book of Revelation.

Revelation’s Language and Object

i.
The Language

The Greek word used for “signified” in Revelation 1:1 is SEMAINO, meaning a symbol or token. A symbol represents the actual or real by standing in its place. For example, a cheque for $100 is a token representing money, but it is not the actual cash. The cheque symbolises the money until it is exchanged for cash. Similarly, a road sign points to a place but is not the actual place; it symbolises the location. In Revelation, spiritual truths are conveyed through symbols that represent and point to the spiritual realities to be revealed.

ii.
The Object

The entire book of Revelation revolves around Jesus Christ and, by association, His body, the church. It is the revelation of Jesus Christ. The Greek word for “revelation” is APOKALUPSIS, meaning “a revealing.” Its purpose is to unveil or reveal what was once hidden. Paul clarifies this in Romans:

Romans 16:25–26 states:

Now to him that is of power to stablish you according to my gospel, and the preaching of Jesus Christ, according to the revelation of the mystery, which was kept secret since the world began, But now is made manifest, and by the scriptures of the prophets, according to the commandment of the everlasting God, made known to all nations for the obedience of faith:

The only condition to unveiling and understanding the book of Revelation is that one must be born again, a servant of Jesus Christ. It is a sealed book to those who are not born again, but to followers and disciples of Jesus Christ, it is an open book, meant to be understood.

Revelation 22:10 states:

And he saith unto me, Seal not the sayings of the prophecy of this book: for the time is at hand.

The Vision

The symbolic language of the book of Revelation is further confirmed in the ninth chapter:

Revelation 9:17 states:

And thus I saw the horses in the vision, and them that sat on them, having breastplates of fire, and of jacinth, and brimstone: and the heads of the horses were as the heads of lions; and out of their mouths issued fire and smoke and brimstone.

The vision in the book of Revelation is not just “a vision”, but “the vision.” The entire book presents one unified vision.

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The Book of Revelation — Examples

i.
Consider Revelation 16:21 — The Hail

Revelation 16:21 states:

And there fell upon men a great hail out of heaven, every stone about the weight of a talent: and men blasphemed God because of the plague of the hail; for the plague thereof was exceeding great.

Many interpret Revelation 16:21 as describing literal hailstones falling from the sky, capable of causing death. However, as previously demonstrated, the book of Revelation employs symbolic language, as affirmed by the vision in Revelation 9:17. Hence, in Revelation chapter 16, the depiction of hail is symbolic. It serves as a representation or image to convey spiritual truths.

The character of literal hail extends beyond mere ice. Hail encompasses “frozen rain”: solid raindrops that fall from the sky. It is essential to remember the saying, “a picture paints a thousand words.” When interpreting biblical symbols, it is crucial to visualise them in your mind to grasp their deeper meanings.

So then, what does rain represent as a symbol in the Bible?

Deuteronomy 32:2 states:

My doctrine shall drop as the rain, my speech shall distil as the dew, as the small rain upon the tender herb, and as the showers upon the grass:

If hail is likened to solid rain, and doctrine is compared to rain in Deuteronomy 32:2, then the hail mentioned in the book of Revelation symbolises SOLID DOCTRINE.

To confirm that we have correctly identified the symbolic representation of hail, in the book of Isaiah it is stated:

Isaiah 28:17 states:

Judgment also will I lay to the line, and righteousness to the plummet: and the hail shall sweep away the refuge of lies, and the waters shall overflow the hiding place.

Literal hail cannot sweep away a lie, but the teaching and preaching of solid doctrine can indeed dismantle the refuge of lies. Solid doctrine has the power to convince gainsayers, expose false prophets and teachers, and, most importantly, convict and convince the unsaved who are lost in their sins.

Titus 1:9 states:

Holding fast the faithful word as he hath been taught, that he may be able by sound doctrine both to exhort and to convince the gainsayers.

The solid doctrine preached on the day of Pentecost through the gospel led to the salvation of countless souls.

Acts 2:37–38 states:

Now when they heard this, they were pricked in their heart, and said unto Peter and to the rest of the apostles, Men and brethren, what shall we do? Then Peter said unto them, Repent, and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins, and ye shall receive the gift of the Holy Ghost.

ii.
The Origin of the Hail

Now that we understand that the “hail” symbolises “solid doctrine,” the next question is its origin. In Revelation 16:21, we observe that in the vision, the hail comes from heaven. But which heaven? The Bible refers to at least three heavens:

• The first heaven, described in Genesis 1:8, is the physical or literal sky extending into the universe.
• The second heaven, mentioned in Ecclesiastes 5:2, signifies the heaven of God or the realm of eternity after physical death for believers.
• The third heaven, where Paul was “caught up” or “raised up,” represents the place of revelation and visions. It is the heavenly or ecclesiastical realm in which born-again believers are seated in Christ and receive revelation in truth.

To identify the origin of the hail, there are two other references to “hail” in the book of Revelation:

Revelation 8:7 states:

The first angel sounded, and there followed hail and fire mingled with blood, and they were cast upon the earth: and the third part of trees was burnt up, and all green grass was burnt.

Revelation 11:19 states:

And the temple of God was opened in heaven, and there was seen in his temple the ark of his testament: and there were lightnings, and voices, and thunderings, and an earthquake, and great hail.

In both Revelation 8 and Revelation 16, the hail as a symbol signifies “solid doctrine/truth” originating from “heaven.” However, in Revelation 11, we gain additional insight. It states that the hail comes from the “temple of God,” located in heaven. This is symbolic language — it is not literal.

When we allow the Bible to interpret itself by following the Golden Rule, it reveals that those who are born again are the temple of God.

2 Corinthians 6:16 states:

And what agreement hath the temple of God with idols? for ye are the temple of the living God; as God hath said, I will dwell in them, and walk in them; and I will be their God, and they shall be my people.

1 Corinthians 12:27 states:

Now ye are the body of Christ, and members in particular.

Colossians 1:18 states:

And he is the head of the body, the church: who is the beginning, the firstborn from the dead; that in all things he might have the preeminence.

In the New Testament, the “temple of God” is the body and church of God, encompassing its members. All who are in the church are considered the temple of the living God. According to Ephesians 2:6, when we are born again, we are seated in heavenly places in Christ Jesus.

Ephesians 2:5–6 states:

Even when we were dead in sins, hath quickened us together with Christ, (by grace ye are saved;) And hath raised us up together, and made us sit together in heavenly places in Christ Jesus:

Therefore, the vision John saw in Revelation 16 represents the powerful preaching of the Word of God emanating from the Church of God.

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Dreams and Visions

The Bible contains both dreams and visions, but they differ slightly. Dreams do not necessitate action, whereas visions often do.

Daniel’s Dream

In the seventh chapter of the book of Daniel, Daniel’s dream depicted the four universal kingdoms on earth and the kingdom of God. Daniel had no control over its outcome as it was a prophecy about the future and therefore required no subsequent action.

Peter’s Vision

Contrastingly, consider Peter’s vision where unclean animals were let down on a blanket. Peter was required to take action to fulfil it.

Acts 10:28 states:

And he said unto them, Ye know how that it is an unlawful thing for a man that is a Jew to keep company, or come unto one of another nation; but God hath shewed me that I should not call any man common or unclean.

The purpose of Peter’s vision was not only to reveal God’s predetermined plan to bring the gospel to the Gentiles but also to prompt Peter to take action and carry out this mission.

Acts 10:19–20 states:

While Peter thought on the vision, the Spirit said unto him, Behold, three men seek thee. Arise therefore, and get thee down, and go with them, doubting nothing: for I have sent them.

Peter was spurred to action, to go and speak to Cornelius, a Gentile. Before this vision and revelation, Peter had not ministered the gospel to the Gentiles.

The visions and dreams in the Bible contain numerous revelations of the heart and character of God. Through the Holy Spirit’s guidance in the study of the Word of God, these revelations can minister to our hearts in profound ways and also encourage us to minister the gospel to others.

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Summary

The subject of “The Language of the Bible” reveals how visions in the Scriptures illustrate God’s character, plans, and doctrines. Understanding these visions can deepen our knowledge of God and His kingdom.

God’s righteousness, or His “right way,” is a key aspect of these visions, which require diligent study and reflection to understand. Utilising resources such as dictionaries and symbolic references can aid in this understanding.

Visions are prevalent throughout the Bible, from Jacob’s dream in Genesis to the entire book of Revelation. These visions often contain “dark sayings,” or complex messages that demand careful study. By exploring these visions, believers can gain a richer relationship with God and uncover profound biblical truths.

Importance of Effort and Study

Understanding visions requires effort, discipline, and a commitment to searching and studying the Scriptures. However, the rewards are significant, offering:

• Spiritual growth
• Enhanced biblical knowledge
• Practical wisdom

God rewards those who diligently seek Him, as highlighted in Hebrews 11:6 and Proverbs 2:4–6. The Bible emphasises the value of wisdom, which is more precious than gold, and it guides believers in making righteous decisions.

Symbolic Language of Visions

The symbolic language of visions is crucial for conveying deeper meanings. Symbols, such as Peter’s vision of the unclean animals in Acts 10, reveal spiritual truths beyond literal interpretations. The vision illustrated that the gospel was meant for Gentiles, breaking the distinction between Jews and Gentiles. Symbolism transcends language barriers, allowing universal communication of spiritual truths.

Symbolism also demonstrates character, as seen in the comparison of false teachers to wolves in sheep’s clothing in Matthew 7:15. This imagery highlights the deceitful nature of false prophets and the importance of discernment. Similarly, the vision of the Roman Empire in Daniel 7 contrasts with the character of God’s kingdom, emphasising the destructive nature of the former and the righteous nature of the latter.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the symbolic language in visions serves to:

• Reveal God’s character
• Convey deeper meanings
• Transcend language barriers

By studying these symbols, believers can gain a deeper understanding of God’s Word and enhance their spiritual journey. Always remember to let the Bible interpret itself, ensuring a true understanding of its messages.

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