The Bible identifies itself through several clear metaphors and similes. These symbols serve the purpose of helping us understand what the Bible is and what it can do in our lives. Let’s examine of a few of those symbols today.
1. A Mirror - James 1:23-25 - As a mirror the Word of God perfectly reflects the mind of God and the condition of man.
2. A Seed - 1 Pet. 1:23 - When the Word is properly planted in human heart, it will bring forth life, growth and fruit.
3. Water - Eph. 5:25-27 - As water, the Word has the power to cleanse, quench and refresh.
4. A Lamp - Psa. 119:105; Pro. 6:23 - The Word is a lamp because it shows us where we are, it guides us into the future and it keeps us from falling.
5. A Sword - Heb. 4:12; Eph. 6:17 - Called a sword because it has the ability to pierce the heart. It is equally effective on sinners, saints and Satan.
6. Precious Metals - Gold - Psa. 19:10; Psa. 119:27; Silver - Psa. 119:127; Psa. 12:6 - The Bible is referred to as gold and silver because of its desirability, its preciousness and its value.
7. Food - Job 23:12 - The Word of God is called food because it strengthens those who partake of it. (Note: The verb “furnish” in verse 17, means to be “finished, complete”. It is in the passive voice. In other words, this completing ministry of the Word is something that is “done to” the one who gets into the word. If you will feed on the Bible, you will grow!)
A. Milk - 1 Pet. 2:2 - As milk is nourishes the young.
B. Meat - Heb. 5:12-14 - As meat it nourishes the mature.
C. Bread - John 6:51 - As bread it can nourish everyone.
D. Honey - Psa. 19:10 - As honey it is sweet and provides strength for the journey.
8. Hammer - Jer. 23:29 - It is referred to as a hammer because it possesses the ability to tear down and to build up.
9. Fire - Jer. 20:9; Luke 24:32 - It is called fire because it has the power to judge, purify and consume!