Literal, Figurative, and Symbolic Language

This sermon from Revelation 1:12–20 teaches that while Scripture is always true, it communicates that truth through both literal and symbolic language. Believers are called to read the Bible carefully, recognizing when God uses metaphor or imagery to reveal deeper spiritual realities. By interpreting figurative passages through clear doctrine and allowing Scripture to interpret Scripture, we grow in discernment and better understand God’s Word.

“And I turned to see the voice that spake with me. And being turned, I saw seven golden candlesticks;”

Revelation 1:12

Read Revelation 1:12-20

¹²And I turned to see the voice that spake with me. And being turned, I saw seven golden candlesticks; ¹³And in the midst of the seven candlesticks one like unto the Son of man, clothed with a garment down to the foot, and girt about the paps with a golden girdle. ¹⁴His head and his hairs were white like wool, as white as snow; and his eyes were as a flame of fire; ¹⁵And his feet like unto fine brass, as if they burned in a furnace; and his voice as the sound of many waters. ¹⁶And he had in his right hand seven stars: and out of his mouth went a sharp twoedged sword: and his countenance was as the sun shineth in his strength. ¹⁷And when I saw him, I fell at his feet as dead. And he laid his right hand upon me, saying unto me, Fear not; I am the first and the last: ¹⁸I am he that liveth, and was dead; and, behold, I am alive for evermore, Amen; and have the keys of hell and of death. ¹⁹Write the things which thou hast seen, and the things which are, and the things which shall be hereafter; ²⁰The mystery of the seven stars which thou sawest in my right hand, and the seven golden candlesticks. The seven stars are the angels of the seven churches: and the seven candlesticks which thou sawest are the seven churches. Revelation 1:12-20