Metaphor

Among all the figures of speech available to writers, the metaphor is used most to infuse written text with graphic descriptions, making them more vibrant and delightful to read. (A metaphor makes a comparison between two things that are not at all alike but with common characteristics.) 

Jesus used metaphors familiar in ancient times so people could relate to His teachings. Most important, metaphors are used in God’s book to make us better grasp the varied qualities of God.  

Many of the metaphors used in Scripture are alluded to and referenced in many verses, so it is a good idea for Bible readers to be familiar with them. Here’s a list of some metaphors that describe the Lord: 

    1.    Shepherd 

    2.    Potter 

    3.    Bread of Life 

    4.    Fortress

    5.    Light

    6.    Lamb 

    7.    Vine 

    8.    Prince of Peace 

There are many more. But the above shows us that each has specific qualities describing facets of the Lord’s inimitable character. Let’s take the metaphor “shepherd” for instance: 

“Please listen, O Shepherd of Israel, you who lead Joseph’s descendants like a flock.” (Psalm 80:1 NLT)

“You are my flock, the sheep of my pasture. You are my people, and I am your God. I, the Sovereign Lord, have spoken!” (Ezekiel 34:31)

When Jacob, blind and dying, blessed his son, Joseph, he said, “May the God before whom my grandfather Abraham and my father, Isaac, walked—the God who has been my shepherd all my life, to this very day . . .” (Genesis 48:15  )

Although technology-driven methods have made raising sheep easier today, the faithful Shepherd continues to tend His flock—us.     

Like a sheep, I totally depend on my Shepherd for grace and guidance especially in what I have chosen to spend most of my time on in my sunset years: writing and teaching.