figures of _thought_, and they give elaborate definitions,
classifications, and rules for their use. The interpreter of Scripture,
however, need not encumber himself with any rhetorical system. The
general rules of interpretation already considered will be, for the most
part, a sufficient guide to the meaning of the rich variety of figures
contained in the Bible, especially in its poetical parts. It is only
necessary to add a few words in reference to the ascertaining of
figurative language; the most prominent classes of figures; and some
principles to be observed in their interpretation.

2. The question may arise whether a writer is to be understood literally
or figuratively. For the _ascertaining_ of figurative language, a few
simple rules will be, in general, sufficient.

(1.) Multitudes of cases can be decided at once by considering _the
nature of the subject_.

Thus, when the apostle calls Jesus Christ a "foundation," and speaks of
building upon this foundation "gold, silver, precious stones, wood, hay,
stubble," adding that "every man's work shall be revealed by fire; and
the fire shall try every man's work of what sort it is;" and, further,
that "if any man's work abide" this fire, "he shall receive a reward,"
but "if any man's work be burned he shall suffer loss" (1 Cor. 3:11-15),
we know at once, from the nature of the subject, that he speaks
figuratively. He compares the church of God to a temple, of which Jesus
Christ is the foundation, while her teachers and preachers are the
builders. The "gold, silver, precious stones, wood, hay, stubble,"
represent primarily the materials with which they build; that is, the
character of their doctrines and precepts, and secondarily, the
character of those whom they bring into the Christian fold. The "fire,"
again, is the trial and judgment of the last day.

The apostle says of the ancient Israelites that "they drank of that
spiritual Rock that followed them; and that Rock was Christ." 1 Cor.
10:4. So also Christ is called to believers "a chief corner-stone,
elect, precious;" but to unbelievers "a stone of stumbling and a rock of
offence" (1 Pet. 2:6-8); "the Lion of the tribe of Judah, the Root of
David" (Rev. 5:5); "the Lamb of God" and simply "the Lamb" (John 1:29,
36; Rev. 5:12; 6:1; etc.); "the door of the sheep" (John 10:7, 9); "the
true vine" (John 15:1); and "the living bread which came down from
heaven" (John 6:51). He himself says: "Whoso eateth my flesh and