The teacher pointed out how each person has a point of view that is influenced by their social experiences, religion, mentality, etc. He called it our "hermeneutic framework". This will influence our translation of the text. We really have to interpret the text in the cultural and social context that it was given in in order to give a good translation. As an example he used Matthew 16:18.
He asked us what we thought about the phrase "the gates of hell".
What does that mean for you?
Take 20 seconds to think about it before you keep reading...
Now he pointed out that the original Greek text said "the gates of Hades". In many of the other places where the Greek word "Hades" is used in the bible, it is translated at "the grave". So what happens to this scripture if "the gates of the grave" won't prevail against the church?
The teacher said that most members of the church take this phrase to be a reference to Satan's power. Meaning that Satan's power would not prevail against the church. Does Satan really rule in hell? Is that what we are taught or is that more of a cultural thing? However, could it be a reference to the fact that Jesus would those faithful members of the church from the grave? Hades is the underworld. Not a place just for the wicked or the righteous, but for all people who die, so maybe the Spirit World? My teacher suggested that this scripture refers to how Jesus went among those who were dead during the three days before his resurrection and how he effectively freed them from the gates that were holding them back.
However, I wonder a little bit because I understood the scripture to refer to the "rock" upon which the church would be built. What is the "rock" and how does that help the church overcome the "gates of hell"? Some would say that the rock is Peter, and that was how I thought of it when I was little. Then in the MTC, a teacher posited that the "rock" was referring to the principle of revelation. The same principle was how Peter knew that Jesus was the Christ (v. 17). But now that I look at it. Whether the "gates of hell" are the powers of Satan or the gates of the grave, the "rock" would be Christ... right?
What do you think? Comment below.
Gates? What came to my mind is that a gate is preventing anyone from progress. Christ the rock allows the gates to be opened because he is the way and the progress.
ReplyDeleteGates? What came to my mind is that a gate is preventing anyone from progress. Christ the rock allows the gates to be opened because he is the way and the progress.
ReplyDeleteSo...honestly, I didn't look ahead! This came to my email and only to the part where it says, "take 20 seconds before you keep reading..." I think I would have been anxious to look ahead otherwise.
ReplyDeleteWhen I think of a gate, I think of a stopping point, like a break point, where WE have to make an honest assessment as to where we sit. Are we allowed? How are we doing? Do we have access? Permission? Like opening a door, it's a new phase or new chapter in our existence.
In the scripture you shared, Joshua, I think it's talking about legions...I also thought of the gait of a horse, it's canter or pace? The "gates of hell" not prevailing against Peter is the Lord's promised protection if he builds on the Rock. The legions of hell, or Satan's followers will not overcome Peter. The church has that same promise. Satan will not win.We already know who the winning team is, we just need to decide which team we're on.
In 2 Nephi it mentions that Satan will be bound, but I do not think that means with chains, because then it says, because of the righteousness of the people. There is an actual entry way to the temple, but there is also the condition of living worthy of the temple. Imagery in the scriptures teaches us and works on our minds being symbolic and sometimes literal as well.
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