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3. Can we interpret prophecy literally?

     Prophecy is “Revelation.” It is written to be understood. Therefore, we should be the normal, customary, and literal-grammatical method to interpret it. This is called the Literal Method. This method do allow for symbols and types, which are charming “ornaments” of language. But not to be seen in ALL (or most) of prophecy.  Once we second-guess a writer or speaker in human language, communication is cut off.

     First take the prophetic message nonfiguratively.  Give the prophets the benefit of the doubt.  Accept their words as actual.  Then, determine if the message might be symbolic or typological.  Symbols and types are graphical representations of actual things.  Determine what is the literal meaning behind the representations.

--P.L. Tan (00-01-10)