ACTIVITY: METAPHORS AND GOD
In the last few lessons, you have learned how reading the Word of God brings inspiration; 1 Timothy 3:16 states, “All Scripture is breathed out by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, and for training in righteousness” (ESV). As we read the Word of God, we can take it into our hearts and minds and begin to be transformed by it (Rom. 12:2) so that we may become more like God, whom we are to be imitators of (Eph. 5:1-2).
In the poetry unit, you learned about metaphors. Remember, a metaphor is where two dissimilar things are compared with one another; metaphors state that something is something else, even though it is not literally that thing. For example: Jesus is the “Light of the World” (John 9:5). Is Jesus actually a light (like a lamp?) No, but he is being compared to one.
These metaphors in the Bible have much to teach us about who God is, but it is our job to search out and understand what God is saying about himself through these metaphors. For this project, you will choose a metaphor from the Bible and explore its meaning to understand what God is saying about himself. You may consider reading outside of the Bible to learn about the thing being compared in the metaphor (example: read about lions, potters, shepherds, etc.).
Interpret metaphors from the Bible
Relate the metaphor to how it connects to God and you
Articulate the metaphor, its purpose, and the meaning
1. Choose one of the following metaphors from the Bible, read the related verses and analyze the intended metaphor to find meaning
Clay and Potter (Isaiah 64:8, 45:9; Romans 9:20-21)
Bread of Life (John 6:35, 6:47-51; Deut. 8:3)
Lamb (Revelation 12:11; John 1:29)
A rock (Psalm 78:35; Matthew 7:24-27)
A shepherd and sheep (Psalm 95:7; Isaiah 40:11; Matthew 18:12-14)
Lion (Jeremiah 50:44; Hosea 11:10; Isaiah 31:4; Revelation 5:5)
Vine and branches (John 15:1 - 8)
answer the following questions.
What metaphor did you choose?
Read at least one verse associated with the metaphor.
What does the metaphor mean?
What did God reveal about himself through this metaphor?
What does this mean for you and other Christians?