Topical Encyclopedia In biblical literature, the term "key" is often used in a figurative sense to denote authority, power, or access. This metaphorical usage is rooted in the ancient Near Eastern context, where keys were large and cumbersome, symbolizing significant responsibility and control. The concept of a key in Scripture often implies the ability to open or close, to grant or restrict access, and to bind or loose.Old Testament Context The figurative use of "key" is not prevalent in the Old Testament, but the concept of authority and control is evident. For example, in Isaiah 22:22, the prophet speaks of Eliakim, son of Hilkiah, saying, "I will place on his shoulder the key to the house of David; what he opens no one can shut, and what he shuts no one can open." (BSB). Here, the key symbolizes the authority given to Eliakim over the house of David, indicating his power to govern and make binding decisions. New Testament Context In the New Testament, the metaphorical use of "key" becomes more pronounced, particularly in the teachings of Jesus. In Matthew 16:19, Jesus tells Peter, "I will give you the keys of the kingdom of heaven; whatever you bind on earth will be bound in heaven, and whatever you loose on earth will be loosed in heaven." (BSB). This passage highlights the authority bestowed upon Peter and, by extension, the Church, to make decisions that have spiritual significance and eternal consequences. Similarly, in Revelation 1:18, Jesus declares, "I am the Living One; I was dead, and now look, I am alive forever and ever! And I hold the keys of Death and Hades." (BSB). Here, the keys represent Christ's authority over life and death, emphasizing His victory over the grave and His sovereign control over the afterlife. Symbolism and Interpretation The figurative use of "key" in the Bible often points to the concept of divine authority and the delegation of that authority to human agents. It underscores the responsibility and power entrusted to individuals or groups to act on behalf of God. In the context of the Church, the keys symbolize the authority to preach the Gospel, administer church discipline, and guide the spiritual direction of the community. The imagery of keys also serves as a reminder of the ultimate authority of Christ, who holds the keys to the kingdom and exercises sovereign control over all creation. This metaphor reassures believers of the security and certainty of their faith, grounded in the power and authority of Jesus Christ. Nave's Topical Index Luke 11:52Woe to you, lawyers! for you have taken away the key of knowledge: you entered not in yourselves, and them that were entering in you hindered. Nave's Topical Index Library The Figurative Language of Scripture. Phial the First. On the Earth, the Universe Connected with the ... Of the Difference Between Discipline and Power, and of the Power ... Typology Li. Dining with a Pharisee, Jesus Denounces that Sect. The Seventh (And Last) vision "On Earth" Commentaries and Standards on the Birth of Water and Spirit. Melito and the Circumstances which He Records. Appeal to the Manich??ans, Calling on them to Repent. Matthew xxvi. 45, 46 Resources What is the key to growing as a new believer? | GotQuestions.orgWhat were the key events in the life of Jesus Christ? (Part 1) | GotQuestions.org What is the key to truly experiencing God? | GotQuestions.org Key: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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