Allegory.

Yes, I am going to be an English nerd for a minute. Sometimes in literature, authors write a story that could be interpreted on two different levels: an elementary level and a complex level. This is considered allegory. This is also evidenced in Disney movies, as my family and I discussed at Thanksgiving dinner. There is the playful and simple story that appeals to children in Disney movies, as well as the deeper and more mature level that hits adults right where they are.

The more I read Paul's letters, the more I begin to realize that they are allegorical. There is the level that makes sense to the immature Christian, which is why most young Christians would say that one of those letters is their favorite book of the Bible; but there is also the level that is as deep as the ocean, that even the most mature Christian finds edifying. It is remarkable to me that when I think I know one of the letters (say...Philippians) inside and out, the Holy Spirit points out all sorts of new things to me the next time I read it. It's almost like He makes our eyes skip over the things that we cannot comprehend until we are capable of handling the truths encapsulated in the verses. This should encourage us to seek the understanding that comes from Him more and more. When we commit to dig in to the Word more, the LORD will allow us to get more out of it. How gracious is He!

"Therefore, I, a prisoner for serving the LORD, beg you to lead a life worthy of your calling, for you have been called by God." --Ephesians 4:1.

"Serve the LORD with reverent fear, and rejoice with trembling." --Psalm 2:11.

"If you cling to your life, you will lose it; but if you give up your life for me, you will find it." --Matthew 10:39.