Topical Encyclopedia In the biblical narrative, precious stones are frequently used as symbols of beauty, value, and permanence, often reflecting the divine nature and the glory of God's creation. These stones are not only admired for their physical beauty but also for their spiritual significance, particularly in relation to the Church, which is depicted as the Bride of Christ and the spiritual temple of God.Old Testament Foundations The use of precious stones in the Bible begins in the Old Testament, where they are prominently featured in the construction of sacred objects and garments. The high priest's breastplate, as described in Exodus 28:17-20, was adorned with twelve precious stones, each representing one of the tribes of Israel. This use of stones symbolized the beauty and diversity of God's people, unified in their service to Him. In Ezekiel 28:13, the prophet describes the splendor of Eden, adorned with every precious stone, highlighting the original beauty and perfection of God's creation. This imagery is later echoed in the depiction of the New Jerusalem, where precious stones are used to describe the eternal beauty and stability of the heavenly city. New Testament Revelation The New Testament continues this theme, particularly in the Book of Revelation. Revelation 21:18-21 provides a vivid description of the New Jerusalem, with its foundations adorned with every kind of precious stone. The twelve foundations of the city wall are named after the twelve apostles, symbolizing the Church's foundation on apostolic teaching and the enduring truth of the Gospel. The use of precious stones here signifies the eternal beauty and stability of the Church, which is built upon the unshakeable foundation of Christ and His apostles. Spiritual Significance The imagery of precious stones in relation to the Church underscores several key theological themes. First, it highlights the Church's beauty as the Bride of Christ, adorned and prepared for her divine Bridegroom. Ephesians 5:25-27 speaks of Christ's love for the Church, sanctifying and cleansing her to present her to Himself in splendor, without spot or wrinkle. Second, the stability of the Church is emphasized through the metaphor of precious stones. Just as these stones are enduring and resilient, so too is the Church, which is built upon the rock of Christ's teachings. Matthew 16:18 records Jesus' promise that the gates of Hades will not prevail against His Church, underscoring its permanence and divine protection. Symbol of Unity and Diversity The variety of precious stones also symbolizes the unity and diversity within the Church. Each stone, with its unique color and characteristics, represents the diverse gifts and callings of believers, unified in their purpose to glorify God. 1 Peter 2:5 describes believers as "living stones" being built into a spiritual house, highlighting the collective beauty and strength of the Church as each member contributes to its mission. Conclusion In summary, precious stones in the biblical context serve as powerful symbols of the Church's beauty, stability, and unity. They reflect the divine craftsmanship of God, who adorns His Church with grace and truth, ensuring its eternal splendor and steadfastness in the world. Through these stones, believers are reminded of their identity as part of a glorious and enduring spiritual temple, built upon the foundation of Christ and His apostles. Torrey's Topical Textbook Isaiah 54:11,12O you afflicted, tossed with tempest, and not comforted, behold, I will lay your stones with fair colors, and lay your foundations with sapphires. Torrey's Topical Textbook Library The Lively Stones. Rev. W. Morley Punshon. Hugh the Builder After Eutropius Having Been Found Outside the Church had Been ... The Poor in Spirit are Enriched with a Kingdom Faustus Rejects the Old Testament Because it Leaves no Room for ... Period iii. The Dissolution of the Imperial State Church and the ... Concerning Peaceableness The Second Theological Oration. The Exhortation of Barnabas The Friend Whose Years do not Fail. Rev. W. Arthur, MA Resources Who does God say I am? | GotQuestions.orgWhat does the Bible say about when God will judge us? | GotQuestions.org What is a plumb line in the Bible? | GotQuestions.org Precious: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Subtopics Lapidary: One Who Cuts Precious Stones Precious Stones of Great Variety Precious Stones of Many Colours Precious Stones used for Adorning the Breastplate of Judgment Precious Stones used for Adorning the High Priest's Ephod Precious Stones used for Adorning the Temple Precious Stones used for Decorating the Person Precious Stones used for Honoring Idols Precious Stones used for Ornamenting Royal Crowns Precious Stones used for Setting in Seals and Rings Precious Stones: A Part of the Treasure of Kings Precious Stones: Art of Engraving Upon, Early Known to the Jews Precious Stones: Art of Setting, Known to the Jews Precious Stones: Beauty and Stability of the Church Precious Stones: Brilliant and Glittering Precious Stones: Brought from Ophir Precious Stones: Brought from Sheba Precious Stones: Called: Jewels Precious Stones: Called: Precious Jewels Precious Stones: Called: Stones of Fire Precious Stones: Called: Stones to be Set Precious Stones: Dug out of the Earth Precious Stones: Extensive Commerce In Precious Stones: Given by Chief Men for the Temple Precious Stones: Given by the Jews for the Tabernacle Precious Stones: Glory of Heavenly Jerusalem Precious Stones: Highly Prized by the Ancients Precious Stones: Often Given As Presents Precious Stones: Preciousness of Christ Precious Stones: Prepared by David for the Temple Precious Stones: Sardine or Sardius Precious Stones: Seductive Splendour and False Glory of the Apostasy Precious Stones: Stability of Heavenly Jerusalem Precious Stones: Worldly Glory of Nations Related Terms |
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