Figures of Faith-Speech

The teachings especially in the New Testament are full of figures of speech that if taken literally would be reason for a great deal of angst in our lives.  Here are just a few.

• You must be BORN AGAIN? 
  Is that a new Jason Bourne movie?
• Are you washed in the BLOOD?   
  Ummm, no. I mean, what?
• If your eye causes you to sin.. PLUCK IT OUT?   
  How about I just wear a patch one our a day instead.
• Turn the other CHEEK? 
  Is this only for those who wear thongs?
• Put on the FULL ARMOR OF GOD?
  Is my COVID-19 mask good enough?  Asking for a friend.

---

But thankfully these are much more than figures of speech for those who place their hope in God. These are words holding important life changing/saving truths.

• To be BORN AGAIN.. while confusing to poor Nicodemus is our hope.  To be born again is not an actual physical rebirth, but it indicates a spiritual rebirth through our faith in Jesus Christ alone. John 3
• Washed in the BLOOD  refers to being washed by virtue of the blood of Jesus.  His dying on the cross and His resurrection is the cleansing of our sins. 1 John 1:7
• EYE PLUCKING Better to pluck out your eye, and/or cut off your hand than continue in sin.  It could be talking literal, but the point is do not continue in sins that separate us from God.  God will not be mocked. Matthew 18:9
• CHEEK turning is a tough one.  The humility and peace that is a part of turning the other cheek when treated poorly is the true heart of a Christian rather than the easy route of the easy familiar fight. Matthew 5:39
• ARMOR WEARING in the age of COVID-19.  You may have concerns if a mask or double masking is protecting you from COVID-19.  This can be debated, but certainly you are no match for this world or the Prince of this World (Satan) if you are not wearing the full armor of God.  We all need the Sword is His Spirit, the Shield of Faith, Belt of Truth, Breastplate of Righteousness, Gospel of Peace footwear, and Helmet of Salvation.  Any well dressed Christian should be caught in nothing less. Ephesians 6:14-17
  ​
  

Finally let me leave you with a phrase I don't think can be found in our Bibles. This phrase is maybe not a figure of speech, but words that also have a double meaning when they are wielded together.

When  the dreaded 'Fine, Whatever' combination is muttered by a wife.. well it is anything but FINE, and WHATEVER is the last thing you should consider.

May God bless your day with clarity, with purpose, a strong understanding of God's word, and nary a FINE, WHATEVER mentioned to you husbands.

​Jeff

---