1885 Watch Tower - A2Z.org

the earth, so the civil powers of earthare aptly symbolized by them, mountainsbeing the great powers, and hills thelesser. "Therefore, will not we fear thoughthe earth be removed, and though themountains [present governments] becarried into the midst of the sea"--overthrown by a general uprising of thepeople. (Psa. 46:2.)These will serve as illustrations. Theymight be multiplied beyond the limit ofour space. The fitness of their application,and their harmonious fitness inevery instance where they are used symbolically,is clear evidence of the correctnessof their application. In fact,symbols, types, parables and all darksayings of Scripture, are subject to thissame test. When asked to interpret oneof his parables, Jesus replied, "Knowye not this parable? and how then willye know all parables?" (Mark 4:10-13.)He expected them to think if theywould see the point in his sayings. He,therefore, only explained the one parableand left us to find the significance of theothers by study, comparison and observationof his methods and principles.Any interpretation which is out of harmonywith the general principles laiddown in the Scriptures, or at variancewith any plain, direct statement, may beset down as incorrect, whether we see abetter one or not.Since it is necessary to have the mindor plan of God clearly before our minds;and to do this requires sympathy andharmony; and since to have sympathyof thought, and to be able to appreciateGod's plans, is requisite to our preparationfor the study of the symbols ofRevelation and the types of the OldTestament, it is evident that these symbolsare not, at the present time, givento, nor for, any but the saints: "To youit is given to know the mysteries of thekingdom of heaven." It is further evident