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One of the things that make the Bible so convincing is that it hangs together so well. Written over many centuries, by many authors, this Book remains consistent and true. The parallels between the Old and New Testaments are astounding. Some of the links within the chain of continuity and consistency are Bible types. A type is like a metaphor or a symbol. Throughout the Bible hundreds, if not thousands of types connect the themes and truths of the Bible. How should we identify and study Bible types? What are some examples of Bible types?
In some ways, Bible type studies are word studies. Generally, objects are used as types. The object serves as a metaphor for what is being described. We study the characteristics of the object and gain understanding of the type. There are three basic kinds of types, the direct reference type, the implied type and the interpreted type. Using the type, “rock”, we can look at examples of each type. Start any type study with a direct type.
Christ is referred to as a rock on a number of occasions in the New Testament. One example where He clearly refers to Himself as a rock is found in Matthew 7:24: “Therefore whosoever heareth these sayings of mine, and doeth them, I will liken him unto a wise man, which built his house upon a rock:” Here, Christ is saying that building our faith on Him is like building a house on a rock, both have strong foundations. Christ has the characteristic of strength that a rock has. He also implies that He is our house, the place where we will be safe. This is an example of a direct type.
In Balaam’s fourth blessing, he says: “And he looked on the Kenites, and took up his parable, and said, Strong is thy dwellingplace, and thou puttest thy nest in a rock.” (Numbers 24:21) A strong reference to Christ is implied here, especially if we consider surrounding verses in this passage that also imply the Christ. Here again Christ is compared to the strength of a rock. Again there is also the reference to the rock being the safe place to dwell. Though Christ is not speaking here and referring to Himself as a rock or a safe dwelling, there is an obvious metaphor that is intended to be taken figuratively. For this reason, we can be certain that this use of the word rock is a definite type.
In Proverbs, Solomon talks about small things on the earth that are wise. One of the references in his list may be a type using the word rock to again describe the Christ. The interpretation is reinforced by the use of another reference to a rock as a safe dwelling. “The conies (small rock badgers) are but a feeble folk, yet make they their houses in the rocks;” (Proverbs 30:26) This is only possibly a type because there is no direct reference and the passage is not a clear metaphor.
Clearly, not all references to rocks in the Bible are types of Christ. Sometimes rocks are just rocks and other times rocks are types for something else entirely. When studying types, caution should be used, especially with types that are not direct. If a type is misinterpreted, the student is misled and may make serious errors in the understanding of doctrine. This is how schisms and cults form and how entire churches are divided.
But the study of types is valuable to the serious Bible student. By studying types, we gain deeper understanding of the Word of God and are able to apply it to our lives with more confidence. We are better witnesses when we have a deep understanding of the Bible and as we learn more, our relationship with God deepens.
Beyond the intrinsic values of Bible study, type studies help us connect themes that are carried throughout the Bible. There are valuable life lessons for us all through the Bible, some of them are very clear and some of them are a puzzle. The entire book of Revelation is a puzzle filled with types, lessons and warnings. The Bible is our instruction book from God on how we should live. Through the study of types, we get a better picture of what God wants for us and promises us.
Some types weave consistently through the Bible, evidencing a particular point such as the example of Christ as our solid foundation and safe haven. Other types only appear once or a few times, with or without the same meaning each time. Individual occurrences of types and chains of types are worth studying. When we gain understanding of the metaphor, parable or figure that God has presented us, we get His meaning and can apply it to our lives.
When you first begin to learn about types, it’s best to stick to direct or pure types. Type studies are made much easier with electronic Bibles that allow word searches. Looking for each instance of a word can also be done using Strong’s Exhaustive Concordance. Sort out those instances that appear to be direct types and record them in a study notebook or electronic document.
With each instance, take a close look at the type. Look for comparisons, contrasts, likeness, characteristics and opposites. What you’re trying to do is grasp the deeper meaning in the metaphor. Using the example of a rock as a type of Christ, look at the following:
· A rock is strong and solid
· Rocks make a strong foundation and a strong house
· Rocks are good hiding places
· Rocks are unchanging
These are all qualities that we attribute to Christ. Perhaps the least obvious is the hiding place. We hide keys under rocks; we hide behind rocks or in caves. We are hid in Christ, too. Christ shields us from the punishment of sin, which is death. When we ask Him into our lives, He becomes our safe shelter; He protects us from spiritual death.
This is only a starting point. There are many kinds of types, not all of which are objects. People are often types, too. Consider Joseph as a type of Christ and look at the similarities in their lives and the impact of their lives on others. This can serve as a beginning type study.
It’s helpful to have good reference materials when you plunge into Bible study at this level. Strong’s Exhaustive Concordance is an excellent reference for any Bible study. For type studies try “A Dictionary of Bible Types” by Walter Wilson for reference. It’s also wise to share your study and the interpretations you arrive at with a pastor or spiritual advisor with more experience.
Your energy will not be wasted as you pursue type studies. A whole new world of understanding will open up to you and your interest and excitement with the Bible will grow. Don’t forget to ask God for guidance with your study, too. You’ll be amazed at the directions He leads you as you tackle deeper understanding.
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