Pearls Before Swine Matthew 7

KJV Matthew 7:6
6. Give not that which is holy unto the dogs, neither cast ye your pearls before swine, lest they trample them under their feet, and turn again and rend you.

It’s easy to see and explain the practical lessons taught by the physical aspects of this parable. Why would anyone give holy things to dogs or pearls to a pig? It would be far too easy to remain bogged down while attempting to define the word holy, so this study will focus only on the key words dog, pearl and swine in an attempt to reveal a portion of the spiritual meaning of the text. Additional key words may be interpreted using the same method. Following are some of the texts that will reveal the spiritual meaning for each of the key words.

Dog

KJV Isaiah 56:9. All ye beasts of the field, come to devour, yea, all ye beasts in the forest. 10. His watchmen are blind: they are all ignorant, they are all dumb dogs, they cannot bark; sleeping, lying down, loving to slumber. 11. Yea, they are greedy dogs which can never have enough, and they are shepherds that cannot understand: they all look to their own way, every one for his gain, from his quarter. 12. Come ye, say they, I will fetch wine, and we will fill ourselves with strong drink; and to morrow shall be as this day, and much more abundant.

Isaiah provides a highly detailed description of the spiritual meaning for the word dog. They are defined as watchmen, who are further described in the book of Ezekiel.

Ya, these are real leaders

KJV Ezekiel 3:17. Son of man, I have made thee a watchman unto the house of Israel: therefore hear the word at my mouth, and give them warning from me. 18. When I say unto the wicked, Thou shalt surely die; and thou givest him not warning, nor speakest to warn the wicked from his wicked way, to save his life; the same wicked man shall die in his iniquity; but his blood will I require at thine hand.

A spiritual watchman is anyone carrying a message or warning from God. God’s followers are required to convey this information to others. Ezekiel explains, the watchman is responsible for those he failed to warn. In the case of Isaiah 56, the watchmen are described as dumb dogs, shepherds that cannot understand. They obviously have chosen to provide their own warning in place of God’s warning.

Spiritual dogs are known for being greedy. No other book provides a better description of greed than Revelation.

KJV Revelation 18:12. The merchandise of gold, and silver, and precious stones, and of pearls, and fine linen, and purple, and silk, and scarlet, and all thyine wood, and all manner vessels of ivory, and all manner vessels of most precious wood, and of brass, and iron, and marble, 13. And cinnamon, and odours, and ointments, and frankincense, and wine, and oil, and fine flour, and wheat, and beasts, and sheep, and horses, and chariots, and slaves, and souls of men. 14. And the fruits that thy soul lusted after are departed from thee, and all things which were dainty and goodly are departed from thee, and thou shalt find them no more at all. 15. The merchants of these things, which were made rich by her, shall stand afar off for the fear of her torment, weeping and wailing,

Revelation 18 lists over 25 forms of merchandise. There must be a reason why this list is so detailed. Isaiah tells us, greedy dogs are never satisfied. Dogs not only represent people chained by financial greed, but by every course of sin which leads one to exalt themselves above others. For dogs have compassed me: the assembly of the wicked have inclosed me: they pierced my hands and my feet. 17. I may tell all my bones: they look and stare upon me. 18. They part my garments among them, and cast lots upon my vesture. KJV Psalms 22:16-18.

Yes I am a dog. Have a problem with that?

The greedy dogs are also referred to as shepherds who do not understand. The Bible identifies two classes of shepherds. Those who lead God’s followers and those who mislead them.

KJV Philippians 3:2. Beware of dogs, beware of evil workers, beware of the concision.

KJV Revelation 22:14. Blessed are they that do his commandments, that they may have right to the tree of life, and may enter in through the gates into the city. 15. For without are dogs, and sorcerers, and whoremongers, and murderers, and idolaters, and whosoever loveth and maketh a lie.

Among other things, dogs are also described as evil workers, sorcerers, murderers and liars, found outside the new city of Jerusalem. In any case, it becomes clear why it would be wasteful to give holy things to spiritual dogs. They are people who care little for anything beyond themselves.

Swine

KJV Leviticus 11:7. And the swine, though he divide the hoof, and be clovenfooted, yet he cheweth not the cud; he is unclean to you. 8. Of their flesh shall ye not eat, and their carcase shall ye not touch; they are unclean to you.

KJV Deuteronomy 14:8
8. And the swine, because it divideth the hoof, yet cheweth not the cud, it is unclean unto you: ye shall not eat of their flesh, nor touch their dead carcase.

I want it all.

Swine are unclean and unfit for food.

KJV Isaiah 65:3. A people that provoketh me to anger continually to my face; that sacrificeth in gardens, and burneth incense upon altars of brick; 4. Which remain among the graves, and lodge in the monuments, which eat swine’s flesh, and broth of abominable things is in their vessels; 5. Which say, Stand by thyself, come not near to me; for I am holier than thou. These are a smoke in my nose, a fire that burneth all the day.

There may not be a direct spiritual interpretation for the word swine, but Isaiah leads us to an important point to consider.  In God’s eyes, eating of swine’s flesh is a sign of open rebellion in the lowest form.  At this point the study turns from a simple word study into an inductive study.  Isaiah shows us, people who eat swine’s flesh are known for disregarding God’s law. They are also filled with the sense, they are above God.  To gain a better understanding of Isaiah 65 we must compare it to other texts with similar thoughts.

Sin began in this world when Satan promised Eve she could be like a god.  For God doth know that in the day ye eat thereof, then your eyes shall be opened, and ye shall be as gods, knowing good and evil. KJV Genesis 3:5.

It was never Satan’s intent to elevate Eve, he knew there was no power in the fruit.  Today this remains one of Satan’s favorite deceptions.  Satan’s only desire was to gain control of Eve. Satan has always had the desire to elevate himself above God.  How art thou fallen from heaven, O Lucifer, son of the morning! how art thou cut down to the ground, which didst weaken the nations! For thou hast said in thine heart, I will ascend into heaven, I will exalt my throne above the stars of God: I will sit also upon the mount of the congregation, in the sides of the north: I will ascend above the heights of the clouds; I will be like the most High. KJV Isaiah 14:12-14.

Based on an inductive view of the word swine we see it represents Satan and his followers, who openly defy God and his laws.

Pearl

KJV Revelation 17:4. And the woman was arrayed in purple and scarlet colour, and decked with gold and precious stones and pearls, having a golden cup in her hand full of abominations and filthiness of her fornication: 5. And upon her forehead was a name written, MYSTERY, BABYLON THE GREAT, THE MOTHER OF HARLOTS AND ABOMINATIONS OF THE EARTH.

Woman Babylon

KJV Revelation 18:12. The merchandise of gold, and silver, and precious stones, and of pearls, and fine linen, and purple, and silk, and scarlet, and all thyine wood, and all manner vessels of ivory, and all manner vessels of most precious wood, and of brass, and iron, and marble,

KJV Revelation 18:16. And saying, Alas, alas, that great city, that was clothed in fine linen, and purple, and scarlet, and decked with gold, and precious stones, and pearls! 17. For in one hour so great riches is come to nought. And every shipmaster, and all the company in ships, and sailors, and as many as trade by sea, stood afar off,

Revelation 17 and 18 refer to Babylon, in this case, a spiritual symbol, which can be interpreted using the methods shown in this study, comparing scripture with scripture.  For this particular study it is only important to understand the connection between the spiritual city Babylon and pearls.  They are one of the items the woman and the merchants use to measure and display their wealth.  This also exhibits a connection between the woman, the spiritual city Babylon, and the merchants of this world.

Most people are satisfied with a physical interpretation of the word pearl.  The Bible shows pearls are used as merchandise, a way of measuring or showing wealth.  They have a form of worldly value. They also have a spiritual meaning revealed by the connection illustrated by the woman and Babylon.  In this case Revelation 17 and 18 show a spiritual connection to the dark side, the agents of Satan.

KJV Revelation 21:21. And the twelve gates were twelve pearls: every several gate was of one pearl: and the street of the city was pure gold, as it were transparent glass.

Pearls also represent the gates to the holy city, New Jerusalem.

Because pearls can represent two spiritual figures, one good and the other evil, we must determine which application fits the context of Matthew 7.  This can be accomplished by paraphrasing the parable using both interpretations.

At this phase of a study it is wise to write a chart of the key words and their spiritual meanings.

Dogs represent evil people.

Swine represent Satan and his followers.

Pearls represent the gates of the new city Jerusalem.

Pearls also represent merchandise used by evil people, spiritual Babylon and the whore.

KJV Matthew 7:6
6. Give not that which is holy unto the dogs, neither cast ye your pearls before swine, lest they trample them under their feet, and turn again and rend you.

Paraphrase the text, substituting the spiritual meaning for the key words.

Do no give anything holy to those who are evil, neither show the gates of Heaven to Satan and his followers. They will trample them under their feet and turn to rip you apart.

A second paraphrase using the second interpretation of pearls will read.

Do no give anything holy to those who are evil, neither show Babylon and the whore to Satan and his followers. They will trample them under their feet and turn to rip you apart.

The first paraphrase makes perfect sense, while the second makes little.  We can see from this lesson, a key word may have more than one spiritual definition. Paraphrasing the text with the spiritual definitions will show which suits the context of the parable.

God so Clothed the Grass Matthew 6

KJV Matthew 6:30
30. Wherefore, if God so clothe the grass of the field, which to day is, and to morrow is cast into the oven, shall he not much more clothe you, O ye of little faith?

This parable clearly compares people to grass. It’s no wonder, Jesus ends the parable with the words, O ye of little faith, in the form of a question. Was this a question, a challenge or a clue?

Looking at the physical description of grass we can find many reasons why Jesus compares people to grass. Grass requires water, light, and air to grow. People also require these same elements, both physical and spiritual. Some people prefer grass to look and grow a certain way. They constantly cut, add artificial fertilizer, and water on their own schedule. Grass is always threatened by weeds, which rob the grass from valuable nutrients. When faced with extreme conditions, such as winter, grass will give the appearance of dying. When spring arrives, grass rises from the earth, giving the appearance of new life. As long as the root survives, grass will grow.

It is very easy to locate a number of supporting texts identify grass as a spiritual word for people. Until a number of these texts are examined, one will never know if this parable is an example showing how easy a simple word study can be, a type of metaphor holding a deeper meaning, or both.

KJV Deuteronomy 32:2. 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:

One of the first verses containing the word grass, compares God’s doctrine to the rain which falls upon the grass. Obviously God’s doctrine is not heard or acted upon by grass. Therefore, this verse indicates to a deeper spiritual meaning.

KJV 2 Kings 19:26. Therefore their inhabitants were of small power, they were dismayed and confounded; they were as the grass of the field, and as the green herb, as the grass on the housetops, and as corn blasted before it be grown up.

KJV Psalms 72:16. There shall be an handful of corn in the earth upon the top of the mountains; the fruit thereof shall shake like Lebanon: and they of the city shall flourish like grass of the earth.

KJV Psalms 129:66. Let them be as the grass upon the housetops, which withereth afore it groweth up:

KJV Isaiah 40:6. The voice said, Cry. And he said, What shall I cry? All flesh is grass, and all the goodliness thereof is as the flower of the field: 7. The grass withereth, the flower fadeth: because the spirit of the Lord bloweth upon it: surely the people is grass. 8. The grass withereth, the flower fadeth: but the word of our God shall stand for ever.

A number of verses clearly show, grass is used to spiritually represent people. Some verses use grass to represent faithful people. Other verses use grass to represent people with little or no faith.

Jesus learned this spiritual representation from the Old Testament, but it is also used in the New Testament.

KJV 1 Peter 1:24. For all flesh is as grass, and all the glory of man as the flower of grass. The grass withereth, and the flower thereof falleth away:

Some of the most interesting texts the word grass is used and found, are located in the book of Revelation.

KJV Revelation 8:7. 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 up.

KJV Revelation 9:4. And it was commanded them that they should not hurt the grass of the earth, neither any green thing, neither any tree; but only those men which have not the seal of God in their foreheads.

This may have been the reason Jesus used the words, O ye of little faith. A number of philosophers attempt to interpret the book of Revelation without considering the spiritual implications clearly stated within the text. Revelation 9:4 clearly indicates a spiritual relationship between grass and men. Even when such a relationship is clearly shown, some men prefer to ignore the spiritual and put trust in their own imaginations.

No Man Can Serve Two Masters; Matthew 6

KJV Matthew 6:24
24. No man can serve two masters: for either he will hate the one, and love the other; or else he will hold to the one, and despise the other. Ye cannot serve God and mammon.

The first detail noticed in this parable is the warning, no man can serve two masters. To understand the spiritual meaning of this text, we need to identify two masters, using only God’s scriptures. The second detail which requires clarification is the word mammon. To understand the meaning of this word, we can use Strong’s Bible dictionary.

Strong’s Ref. # 3126
of Aramaic origin (confidence, i.e. wealth, personified); mammonas, i.e. avarice (deified):
Understanding the definition of personify will help in understanding Jesus’ comparison.

Personify
–verb (used with object), -fied, -fy·ing.
1. to attribute human nature or character to (an inanimate object or an abstraction), as in speech or writing.
2. to represent (a thing or abstraction) in the form of a person, as in art.
3. to embody (a quality, idea, etc.) in a real person or a concrete thing.
4. to be an embodiment or incarnation of; typify: He personifies the ruthless ambition of some executives.
5. to personate.
Random House Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2010.

In this particular instance, the definition of the word mammon adds clarity to the parable. Jesus was comparing God to human nature or character. In other words, we cannot serve God and our own desires.

By defining a single word, we now have obtained a clearer meaning of this parable. While most people use the definition of wealth to describe mammon, understanding that this parable reaches beyond the physical aspects of the word mammon is the beginning to a deeper understanding. To reach the next level, we need to understand the spiritual definition of the word master. This is accomplished by comparing scripture.

KJV Luke 8:24. And they came to him, and awoke him, saying, Master, master, we perish. Then he arose, and rebuked the wind and the raging of the water: and they

Jesus in Heaven

ceased, and there was a calm.

KJV Luke 8:45. And Jesus said, Who touched me? When all denied, Peter and they that were with him said, Master, the multitude throng thee and press thee, and sayest thou, Who touched me?

KJV Matthew 23:10. Neither be ye called masters: for one is your Master, even Christ.

KJV John 13:13. Ye call me Master and Lord: and ye say well; for so I am. 14. If I then, your Lord and Master, have washed your feet; ye also ought to wash one another’s feet. 15. For I have given you an example, that ye should do as I have done to you. 16. Verily, verily, I say unto you, The servant is not greater than his lord; neither he that is sent greater than he that sent him. 17. If ye know these things, happy are ye if ye do them.

Examining scripture containing the word master not only shows, Jesus is the master, it also illustrates His power, actions, and examples He expects His disciples to follow. For all Christians, identifying Jesus as master, should be a simple task. Supporting texts should be easy to find and identify.

This parable requires the identification a second master. How many texts do you think clearly identify Satan, or the devil as the other master? Think about this for a moment and make a list of the texts you think will accomplish this task. If you prefer, write your list in preparation of a future study.

After an extensive search of the Bible, I could not find a single text clearly identifying Satan or the devil as a master. It occurred to me, why would God waste the time, or a single word on such a subject. Imagine how many people would take this type of information and misapply it. The closest text I could find is in Matthew 10.

KJV Matthew 10:24. The disciple is not above his master, nor the servant above his lord. 25. It is enough for the disciple that he be as his master, and the servant as his lord. If they have called the master of the house Beelzebub, how much more shall they call them of his household?

This is all I want, everything.

Because of the context of Matthew 10:25, this would not be considered a proper supporting text. At this point of a study it is time to shift gears, from a simple word study to an inductive method, in which we look for words or ideas which are the same, similar or related. To continue this study we need to shift from the obvious key words to secondary key words which will lead us to related texts. In this case the word serve will help to identify the other master.

KJV Psalms 97:7. Confounded be all they that serve graven images, that boast themselves of idols: worship him, all ye gods.

KJV Galatians 4:8. Howbeit then, when ye knew not God, ye did service unto them which by nature are no gods.

KJV Judges 10:6. And the children of Israel did evil again in the sight of the Lord, and served Baalim, and Ashtaroth, and the gods of Syria, and the gods of Zidon, and the gods of Moab, and the gods of the children of Ammon, and the gods of the Philistines, and forsook the Lord, and served not him.

The Bible identifies a list of other gods and idols as entities people have chosen to serve. God has been very careful not to identify these as masters, because they neither own, nor do they have power to possess the souls of those who serve them. To understand the contrast between the two masters, we need to study the attributes of each. When identifying Jesus as the master, it is impossible not to recognize His nature and example. It only requires a few texts to identify the nature and the results which occur when serving idols and other gods.

KJV Judges 3:6. And they took their daughters to be their wives, and gave their daughters to their sons, and served their gods. 7. And the children of Israel did evil in the sight of the Lord, and forgat the Lord their God, and served Baalim and the groves.

KJV Deuteronomy 12:30. Take heed to thyself that thou be not snared by following them, after that they be destroyed from before thee; and that thou inquire not after their gods, saying, How did these nations serve their gods? even so will I do likewise. 31. Thou shalt not do so unto the Lord thy God: for every abomination to the Lord, which he hateth, have they done unto their gods; for even their sons and their daughters they have burnt in the fire to their gods.

KJV Judges 10:13. Yet ye have forsaken me, and served other gods: wherefore I will deliver you no more. 14. Go and cry unto the gods which ye have chosen; let them deliver you in the time of your tribulation.

It may not be evident at the time, but serving idols and other gods can be very costly. In modern times we may not see parents physically offering their children to other gods, but what about the spiritual facets?

What are parents accomplishing by teaching their children to follow after the latest fads and fashions? What are parents teaching when they provide children with an abundance of the latest toys while making it appear the parent suffered a major sacrifice to provide lavish gifts? The parent is teaching the child, a sacrifice is necessary to obtain material goods. The parent is establishing an example the child will follow the rest of their life, associating personal gain through the sacrifice of others. This was the same lesson taught by the misguided Israelite parents?

Why did parents force their children to walk through the fire? Why were they sacrificing their own children? Today we refer to it as superstition, but no matter what name we put on it, the end result was for personal gain. It may have been to bless the crops, insure rain, or protection against natural disasters. The ultimate reason was to insure their own prosperity. The children of past generations were taught their prosperity relied upon the sacrifice of others. This resulted in the belief that prosperity was physical evidence a person was blessed by the gods.

Nothing much has changed over the years. The gods the Israelites chose to serve still exist today. Is there a difference between sending children through the fires of strange gods, and neglecting their education in spiritual matters today? The end results are the same.

KJV 2 Peter 3:5. For this they willingly are ignorant of, that by the word of God the heavens were of old, and the earth standing out of the water and in the water: 6. Whereby the world that then was, being overflowed with water, perished: 7. But the heavens and the earth, which are now, by the same word are kept in store, reserved unto fire against the day of judgment and perdition of ungodly men.

KJV Jude 1:7. Even as Sodom and Gomorrha, and the cities about them in like manner, giving themselves over to fornication, and going after strange flesh, are set forth for an example, suffering the vengeance of eternal fire. 8. Likewise also these filthy dreamers defile the flesh, despise dominion, and speak evil of dignities.

KJV Revelation 14:9. And the third angel followed them, saying with a loud voice, If any man worship the beast and his image, and receive his mark in his forehead, or in his hand, 10. The same shall drink of the wine of the wrath of God, which is poured out without mixture into the cup of his indignation; and he shall be tormented with fire and brimstone in the presence of the holy angels, and in the presence of the Lamb:

KJV Revelation 19:20. And the beast was taken, and with him the false prophet that wrought miracles before him, with which he deceived them that had received the mark of the beast, and them that worshipped his image. These both were cast alive into a lake of fire burning with brimstone.

KJV Revelation 20:15. And whosoever was not found written in the book of life was cast into the lake of fire.

God must have had a good reason to record the incidents where parents sentenced their children to death by fire. A number of texts testify to this fact. This is another instance where physical evidence teaches a spiritual lesson. Although parents think they have found a better explanation, or reason for their actions, it still remains the same old excuse, modified, but which has been used for generations.

The thing that hath been, it is that which shall be; and that which is done is that which shall be done: and there is no new thing under the sun. Is there any thing whereof it may be said, See, this is new? it hath been already of old time, which was before us. I have seen all the works that are done under the sun; and, behold, all is vanity and vexation of spirit. Then I looked on all the works that my hands had wrought, and on the labour that I had laboured to do: and, behold, all was vanity and vexation of spirit, and there was no profit under the sun. For what hath man of all his labour, and of the vexation of his heart, wherein he hath laboured under the sun? For all his days are sorrows, and his travail grief; yea, his heart taketh not rest in the night. This is also vanity. There is nothing better for a man, than that he should eat and drink, and that he should make his soul enjoy good in his labour. This also I saw, that it was from the hand of God. He that loveth silver shall not be satisfied with silver; nor he that loveth abundance with increase: this is also vanity. When goods increase, they are increased that eat them: and what good is there to the owners thereof, saving the beholding of them with their eyes? Ecclesiastes 1:9-10, 1:14, 2:11, 2:22-24, 5:10-11.

Judge not the Eye Matthew 7

KJV Matthew 7:1-5

1. Judge not, that ye be not judged. 2. For with what judgment ye judge, ye shall be judged: and with what measure ye mete, it shall be measured to you again. 3. And why beholdest thou the mote that is in thy brother’s eye, but considerest not the beam that is in thine own eye? 4. Or how wilt thou say to thy brother, Let me pull out the mote out of thine eye; and, behold, a beam is in thine own eye? 5. Thou hypocrite, first cast out the beam out of thine own eye; and then shalt thou see clearly to cast out the mote out of thy brother’s eye.

This parable is a story about two people, each having a foreign object in their eye. A physical object in your eye causes severe discomfort. It may also effect vision. If the object is not properly removed, it may cause permanent damage.

This parable directly addresses a common problem, the lack of spiritual vision. Notice, the person offering help had a larger defect than the person he is offering to help. This indicates the person offering help is less spiritual than the person he is helping. To understand exactly what each person was lacking, we need to rely upon the Holy Spirit and turn to God’s word for an explanation.

KJV Numbers 33:55. But if ye will not drive out the inhabitants of the land from before you; then it shall come to pass, that those which ye let remain of them shall be pricks in your eyes, and thorns in your sides, and shall vex you in the land wherein ye dwell.

This verse identifies a source of problems with spiritual vision. To gain a full understanding a complete study of the lives and habits of the original inhabitants of the promised land would have to be assembled. Don’t rely upon your own memory or imagination, study the short comings from the Bible. Other texts containing the word eye identify a number of these problems.

KJV Deuteronomy 16:19. Thou shalt not wrest judgment; thou shalt not respect persons, neither take a gift: for a gift doth blind the eyes of the wise, and pervert the words of the righteous.

KJV 1 Samuel 12:3. Behold, here I am: witness against me before the Lord, and before his anointed: whose ox have I taken? or whose ass have I taken? or whom have I defrauded? whom have I oppressed? or of whose hand have I received any bribe to blind mine eyes therewith? and I will restore it you.

KJV 2 Peter 2:14. Having eyes full of adultery, and that cannot cease from sin; beguiling unstable souls: an heart they have exercised with covetous practices; cursed children:

KJV 1 John 2:11. But he that hateth his brother is in darkness, and walketh in darkness, and knoweth not whither he goeth, because that darkness hath blinded his eyes.

KJV Proverbs 27:20. Hell and destruction are never full; so the eyes of man are never satisfied.

KJV Proverbs 28:22. He that hasteth to be rich hath an evil eye, and considereth not that poverty shall come upon him.

KJV Deuteronomy 12:8

8. Ye shall not do after all the things that we do here this day, every man whatsoever is right in his own eyes.

KJV 1 John 2:16. For all that is in the world, the lust of the flesh, and the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life, is not of the Father, but is of the world.

Bribes, adultery, wrongful desires, greed, pride and hatred are a few traits that cause spiritual blindness.

KJV Psalms 36:1. The transgression of the wicked saith within my heart, that there is no fear of God before his eyes.

KJV Matthew 6:23. But if thine eye be evil, thy whole body shall be full of darkness. If therefore the light that is in thee be darkness, how great is that darkness!

Possessing any of these traits effects the entire body. In this case the body may be used to represent an attitude. To illustrate this point, God uses a number of metaphors to represent spiritual blindness.

KJV Acts 28:27. For the heart of this people is waxed gross, and their ears are dull of hearing, and their eyes have they closed; lest they should see with their eyes, and hear with their ears, and understand with their heart, and should be converted, and I should heal them.

Have you noticed the fact this is where most lessons end. Many people think their job is finished the moment they identify the problem. If you see a family stranded on the side of the road, what do you do? If you pull over and tell them, “it looks like your stuck,” your actions do nothing to solve the problem. Stating the obvious is never appreciated, seldom does it help to correct the problem. God never stops at identifying a problem, leaving us to figure a way out on our own. God supplies the solution. The Bible is the only source to find a solution to a spiritual defect.

KJV 1 Corinthians 2:9. But as it is written, Eye hath not seen, nor ear heard, neither have entered into the heart of man, the things which God hath prepared for them that love him.

KJV Ephesians 1:18. The eyes of your understanding being enlightened; that ye may know what is the hope of his calling, and what the riches of the glory of his inheritance in the saints,

KJV Acts 26:18

18. To open their eyes, and to turn them from darkness to light, and from the power of Satan unto God, that they may receive forgiveness of sins, and inheritance among them which are sanctified by faith that is in me.

KJV Deuteronomy 11:7. But your eyes have seen all the great acts of the Lord which he did.

KJV Deuteronomy 11:18

18. Therefore shall ye lay up these my words in your heart and in your soul, and bind them for a sign upon your hand, that they may be as frontlets between your eyes.

In this case the solution is obvious, Love God, know and understand His word, stay away from evil and turn away from Satan. These are the beginning of understanding. Look to God and His word for answers. Through His word we are shown the works He has done. Nature also testifies to the greatness of God. The intricate design of the human body, created in the image of God, also testifies of His knowledge and power. All of these enhance your spiritual vision.

Treasures Upon the Earth Matthew 6 Moth and Rust

KJV Matthew 6:19-21
19. Lay not up for yourselves treasures upon earth, where moth and rust doth corrupt, and where thieves break through and steal:
20. But lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust doth corrupt, and where thieves do not break through nor steal:
21. For where your treasure is, there will your heart be also.

This parable contains a number of symbols easily recognized by most people. As with all of Jesus’ parables, each of these symbols contains a spiritual meaning. All these symbols contain a parallel between the physical aspects of the key words and the spiritual meanings. Understanding the physical traits of each symbol will aid in understanding the proper spiritual meaning. This lesson will study two of the key words contained in the parable as an example of what can be accomplished when taking time to study in a deliberate and organized manner.

A moth is a winged insect, usually appearing at night. Its life cycle referred to as a metamorphosis, begins as an egg, hatching into a larva. The larva feeds on either plants or other material, and sometimes clothing. Development is usually rapid, as they are ravenous feeders. When the larva reaches adult size it enters into a pupa stage. After an incubation period, it appears as a moth, with the sole purpose of breeding.

Thieves are people who steal from others for their own gain, usually material items, valuables. Thieves are often involved in crimes other than theft. They may be armed, causing a theft to easily escalate into a more serious crime.

Moth

KJV Job 13:28. And he, as a rotten thing, consumeth, as a garment that is moth eaten.

KJV Isaiah 50:9. Behold, the Lord God will help me; who is he that shall condemn me? lo, they all shall wax old as a garment; the moth shall eat them up.

KJV Isaiah 51:8. For the moth shall eat them up like a garment, and the worm shall eat them like wool: but my righteousness shall be for ever, and my salvation from generation to generation.

KJV James 5:2
2. Your riches are corrupted, and your garments are motheaten.

The Bible contains a number of verses commenting on moth eaten clothing. Notice, some of these verses refer to people being eaten by a moth, which clearly indicates a spiritual nature to the symbol of a moth. To understand the spiritual meaning, we must answer the question, what does a garment represent? To find the spiritual meaning of a garment, we will compare texts to identify the hidden meaning.

KJV Zechariah 3:1. And he shewed me Joshua the high priest standing before the angel of the Lord, and Satan standing at his right hand to resist him. 2. And the Lord said unto Satan, The Lord rebuke thee, O Satan; even the Lord that hath chosen Jerusalem rebuke thee: is not this a brand plucked out of the fire? 3. Now Joshua was clothed with filthy garments, and stood before the angel. 4. And he answered and spake unto those that stood before him, saying, Take away the filthy garments from him. And unto him he said, Behold, I have caused thine iniquity to pass from thee, and I will clothe thee with change of raiment.

This text identifies the spiritual meaning of a garment, or clothing, by pointing out the fact, God has the ability to change one’s clothing. In doing so, God causes iniquity to pass away, symbolized by the removal of the filthy garments. More information on the spiritual meaning of a garment is revealed in the following texts.

KJV 2 Chronicles 6:41. Now therefore arise, O Lord God, into thy resting place, thou, and the ark of thy strength: let thy priests, O Lord God, be clothed with salvation, and let thy saints rejoice in goodness.

KJV Isaiah 61:10. I will greatly rejoice in the Lord, my soul shall be joyful in my God; for he hath clothed me with the garments of salvation, he hath covered me with the robe of righteousness, as a bridegroom decketh himself with ornaments, and as a bride adorneth herself with her jewels.

The Bible clearly identifies a garment as a symbol for salvation and righteousness. A moth spiritually represents the loss of salvation.

Thief

KJV Exodus 22:7. If a man shall deliver unto his neighbour money or stuff to keep, and it be stolen out of the man’s house; if the thief be found, let him pay double

KJV Deuteronomy 24:7. If a man be found stealing any of his brethren of the children of Israel, and maketh merchandise of him, or selleth him; then that thief shall die; and thou shalt put evil away from among you.

KJV Psalms 50:18. When thou sawest a thief, then thou consentedst with him, and hast been partaker with adulterers.

KJV Proverbs 29:24. Whoso is partner with a thief hateth his own soul: he heareth cursing, and bewrayeth it not.

KJV John 10:10
10. The thief cometh not, but for to steal, and to kill, and to destroy: I am come that they might have life, and that they might have it more abundantly.

All the physical aspects of a thief are found in the Bible. The Bible points out the fact, a thief will not limit themselves to stealing. A thief will also resort to killing and destroying. The parable we are studying clearly contains a spiritual message. To understand the spiritual message we must continue to locate additional texts, to find a spiritual meaning that will fit the context of the parable.

KJV Matthew 26:555. In that same hour said Jesus to the multitudes, Are ye come out as against a thief with swords and staves for to take me? I sat daily with you teaching in the temple, and ye laid no hold on me.

KJV Mark 14:48. And Jesus answered and said unto them, Are ye come out, as against a thief, with swords and with staves to take me?

It is interesting to note, the religious authorities in Jerusalem treated Jesus as a thief. A thief was not the only thing they accused Jesus of being.

KJV Matthew 10:25. It is enough for the disciple that he be as his master, and the servant as his lord. If they have called the master of the house Beelzebub, how much more shall they call them of his household?

KJV Matthew 12:24. But when the Pharisees heard it, they said, This fellow doth not cast out devils, but by Beelzebub the prince of the devils. 25. And Jesus knew their thoughts, and said unto them, Every kingdom divided against itself is brought to desolation; and every city or house divided against itself shall not stand: 26. And if Satan cast out Satan, he is divided against himself; how shall then his kingdom stand? 27. And if I by Beelzebub cast out devils, by whom do your children cast them out? therefore they shall be your judges. 28. But if I cast out devils by the Spirit of God, then the kingdom of God is come unto you.

The Pharisees treated Jesus like a thief because they wanted to believe, He was sent by Satan. Without knowing it, the Pharisees created this link between a thief and Satan. This is easily discovered using an inductive method of study. This is also an example of how God can use anyone, at any time to accomplish His plans. It does not matter what the person’s beliefs or goals are, God’s plans will never fail, or be altered. This has happened in the past and will continue into the future.

KJV 1 Thessalonians 5:2. For yourselves know perfectly that the day of the Lord so cometh as a thief in the night.

Jesus also compares His second coming to a thief in the night. Why would Jesus use the symbol of a thief to represent Himself?

KJV Joel 2:9. They shall run to and fro in the city; they shall run upon the wall, they shall climb up upon the houses; they shall enter in at the windows like a thief.

Joel 2:9 provides a link between the word thief and a common second coming term, to “run to and fro.” The more familiar you are with the Bible the easier an inductive method of study becomes. Recognizing key thoughts and phrases is fundamental to conducting a successful study. In this instance, we are led to investigate a connection between the word thief and Jesus’ second coming through the term, “run to and fro.” This term will help us understand the spiritual meaning of the word thief.

KJV Daniel 12:3. And they that be wise shall shine as the brightness of the firmament; and they that turn many to righteousness as the stars for ever and ever. 4. But thou, O Daniel, shut up the words, and seal the book, even to the time of the end: many shall run to and fro, and knowledge shall be increased.

The book of Daniel assures us, the wise will shine when they turn to righteousness and knowledge will be increased. God’s followers will have the confidence to face this event as a joyful occasion, while others will look forward to this day with fear and trembling. What causes such a drastic difference of opinion on an event God wants us to be aware of?

KJV 2 Chronicles 16:9. For the eyes of the Lord run to and fro throughout the whole earth, to shew himself strong in the behalf of them whose heart is perfect toward him. Herein thou hast done foolishly: therefore from henceforth thou shalt have wars.

KJV Amos 8:11. Behold, the days come, saith the Lord God, that I will send a famine in the land, not a famine of bread, nor a thirst for water, but of hearing the words of the Lord: 12. And they 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, and shall not find it.

When Jesus symbolizes His return as a thief in the night, He is referring to the fact, some people will be caught off guard. But know this, that if the goodman of the house had known in what watch the thief would come, he would have watched, and would not have suffered his house to be broken up. KJV Matthew 24:43. Applying this to the parable of the moth and thief in Matthew 6:19-21, the spiritual meaning of the thief is found to mean, the thief will steal away the knowledge of Jesus’ return. Considering the connection between the thief and Satan, we see the connection between stolen knowledge and the methods used by Satan to misrepresent the word of God. Satan used this method in the garden of Eden and attempted to use the same deception when he tempted Christ in the wilderness. The good news is, Satan failed in the wilderness. As seen in the physical aspects of a thief and reinforced by the Bible, a thief does not limit himself to the act of theft. It leads to greater offenses. Satan is not satisfied with twisting God’s word, his goal is to steal souls. The thief comes to steal, kill and destroy.

A thief spiritually represents Satan and his goal to destroy souls.

Now that these key words have been interpreted, the parable can be paraphrased, substituting the spiritual definition for the key words.

KJV Matthew 6:19-21
19. Lay not up for yourselves treasures upon earth, where moth and rust doth corrupt, and where thieves break through and steal:
20. But lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust doth corrupt, and where thieves do not break through nor steal:
21. For where your treasure is, there will your heart be also.

A moth spiritually represents the loss of salvation.

A thief spiritually represents Satan and his goal to destroy souls.

Do not lay up treasures upon earth, where you will loose your salvation and Satan will destroy your soul. But lay up your treasures in Heaven, where you will not loose salvation and Satan will not destroy your soul. For where your treasure is, there will your heart be also.

Light of the World Matthew 5

KJV Matthew 5:14-16
14. Ye are the light of the world. A city that is set on an hill cannot be hid.
15. Neither do men light a candle, and put it under a bushel, but on a candlestick; and it giveth light unto all that are in the house.
16. Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven.

This is a short study that will examine one of the key words in Jesus’ parable of the light. This study will show how understanding the spiritual meaning of one word will shed more light on a parable than all the thoughts of men, written or spoken about the subject.

It will help to understand a parable and keep it within the proper context if you rewrite it in your own words, paying close attention to the key words and how they are used.

You are the light of the world. A city on a hill cannot be hidden. Neither is a light. When a candle is lite it is not placed under a basket, but is put high on a candlestick; where it will give light to everyone in the house. Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in Heaven.

Your light is to be seen by others. But the question remains, what is the spiritual meaning of light? To find the spiritual meaning, we must locate other texts with the word light.

Light

KJV Genesis 1:3. And God said, Let there be light: and there was light. 4. And God saw the light, that it was good: and God divided the light from the darkness.

It may seem obvious, God created physical light, but this is an important point when searching for the spiritual meaning for the word light. The parable tells us, we are to let our light shine to glorify God. Since God created physical light, it goes without saying, God also created spiritual light.

KJV Isaiah 5:20. Woe unto them that call evil good, and good evil; that put darkness for light, and light for darkness; that put bitter for sweet, and sweet for bitter! 21. Woe unto them that are wise in their own eyes, and prudent in their own sight!

Light is compared to good, and darkness is compared to evil.

KJV Ecclesiastes 2:13. Then I saw that wisdom excelleth folly, as far as light excelleth darkness.

KJV Psalms 97:11. Light is sown for the righteous, and gladness for the upright in heart.

KJV Psalms 119:105. Thy word is a lamp unto my feet, and a light unto my path.

KJV 2 Samuel 22:29. For thou art my lamp, O Lord: and the Lord will lighten my darkness.

KJV Psalms 119:129. Thy testimonies are wonderful: therefore doth my soul keep them. 130. The entrance of thy words giveth light; it giveth understanding unto the simple.

KJV Isaiah 8:20. To the law and to the testimony: if they speak not according to this word, it is because there is no light in them.

KJV Hosea 6:5. Therefore have I hewed them by the prophets; I have slain them by the words of my mouth: and thy judgments are as the light that goeth forth.

KJV 2 Peter 1:19. We have also a more sure word of prophecy; whereunto ye do well that ye take heed, as unto a light that shineth in a dark place, until the day dawn, and the day star arise in your hearts:

Comparing scripture with scripture, we are shown light represents wisdom, righteousness, God’s word, law, testimony, judgment and prophecy. This is the light we are to show the world.

We can now paraphrase the text, substituting the spiritual meaning for the key word.

KJV Matthew 5:14-16
14. Ye are the light of the world. A city that is set on an hill cannot be hid.
15. Neither do men light a candle, and put it under a bushel, but on a candlestick; and it giveth light unto all that are in the house.
16. Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven.

God’s word is the light of the world. A city on a hill cannot be hid. Neither do men light a candle, and put it under a bushel, but on a candlestick; and it will give God’s word to all that are in the house. Let God’s word go through you, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in Heaven.

As with all the parables of Jesus, this one teaches a moral and a spiritual lesson. In order for God’s word to shine though us, we must know His word, testimony, law, and all of God’s ways. How can we properly represent God, unless we personally know Him. We know God through His living word.

KJV 2 Corinthians 4:6
6. For God, who commanded the light to shine out of darkness, hath shined in our hearts, to give the light of the knowledge of the glory of God in the face of Jesus Christ.

Northwest Milwaukee SDA Church Vacation Bible School

7711 W Luscher Ave Milwaukee, WI 53218-3743

(414) 461-1660

July 19 to 24, 2010.

6:00 PM to 8:00 PM

Registration: time to follow

This year the theme will focuses on Joseph and his journey from his home land to prison and God’s hand in promoting him to the number two leadership position in Egypt.

Lessons

Games

Treats

Bible Studies

Stories

Fellowship and more

Open to ages 5 to 13.

Volunteers and donations are welcome.