1. Introduction: Unveiling the Hidden Mysteries of Scripture
1. Introduction: Unveiling the Hidden Mysteries of Scripture [∞]
Introduction: Unveiling the Hidden Mysteries of Scripture
If we consider the possibility of salvation through teaching alone prior to the cross, we realize that the significance of the cross would diminish. God, in His infinite wisdom, chose to impart His teachings in a way that surpassed human understanding, ensuring that belief and salvation would come through faith. The apostle Paul reminds us in 1 Corinthians 1:18, "For the message of the cross is foolishness to those who are perishing, but to us who are being saved, it is the power of God."
Following the cross, He graciously opened the minds of the disciples, allowing them to comprehend the profound teachings concealed within the Old Testament Scriptures. In Luke 24:27, we find the account of Jesus on the road to Emmaus, where He expounded upon the Scriptures: "And beginning with Moses and all the Prophets, he explained to them what was said in all the Scriptures concerning himself." This encounter with Jesus serves as a profound lesson, emphasizing the importance of approaching the teachings with childlike wonder and openness.
Jesus encouraged His disciples to engage in word-games and unravel riddles, recognizing that profound truth could be concealed within seemingly simple expressions. Proverbs 25:2 tells us, "It is the glory of God to conceal a matter, but the glory of kings is to search out a matter." Indeed, if one desires to conceal a profound truth in plain sight, what better way than through the art of riddles?
One might assume that the Church, entrusted with the preservation of such miraculous understanding, would have safeguarded this treasure. And indeed, it has. Ephesians 3:9-10 reveals the divine mystery entrusted to the Church: "and to make plain to everyone the administration of this mystery, which for ages past was kept hidden in God, who created all things. His intent was that now, through the church, the manifold wisdom of God should be made known to the rulers and authorities in the heavenly realms."
Yet, regrettably, the Nicolaitans, who sought to dominate the laity, ascended to positions of authority within the Church. Swiftly, they obscured the ancient mystery concealed from the dawn of time. Augustine, in particular, propagated the notion that the Greek translation of the Bible held greater reliability than the original Hebrew. He dismissed the existence of any hidden truths, advocating for a literal interpretation of the Bible as mere historical accounts. Such an approach threatened their authority, for understanding the Scriptures as Jesus intended would challenge their rule.
Be prepared, for what you are about to read will encompass extraordinary claims. Naturally, such claims require extraordinary evidence. Detailed proofs could be presented, but the intricacies might become tiresome, as they necessitate knowledge of pre-600 AD Hebrew. Nevertheless, do not be discouraged, for this knowledge is not beyond your reach.
Consider the age-old riddle: "Why did the chicken cross the road?" You have likely encountered numerous humorous answers to this question. However, you instinctively recognize the correct response when you hear it. It is not the commonly known retort, "To get to the other side [of the road]." No, this answer holds a deeper meaning. "The other side" serves as a euphemism for death and the journey to heaven. We pose this riddle when we come across a lifeless chicken on the road. The chicken crossed the road to reach the other side—a profound truth hidden within a seemingly simple riddle. You recognize its superiority as an answer compared to the myriad of foolish responses you have encountered.
For two thousand years, we have read the Scriptures as though they were literal, neglecting their hidden riddles. But when we approach them as riddles, we begin to perceive the answers that were there all along. At times, I will introduce and elucidate the ancient Hebrew language, whenever it proves beneficial to our discussion.
Our primary objective is to furnish you with an abundance of examples that exemplify the proper interpretation of Scripture. Through this, you will gain confidence in this transformative approach. Along the way, I will provide hints and helpful methods, which we shall compile into an Appendix for easy reference. I encourage you to hold me accountable in this endeavor. Once we have established a firm foundation, we can delve into formal lessons on these interpretative methods. Finally, we shall explore the ancient Hebrew word formations, enriching our understanding further.
May the wisdom of God guide us as we embark on this journey of uncovering the hidden mysteries of Scripture, and may our hearts be open to the transformative power of His Word. Proverbs 2:3-5 reminds us, "indeed, if you call out for insight and cry aloud for understanding, and if you look for it as for silver and search for it as for hidden treasure, then you will understand the fear of the LORD and find the knowledge of God."
