Words of Current Interest

The words in this issue are related to the Lesson-Sermon in the CHRISTIAN SCIENCE QUARTERLY designated to be read in Christian Science churches on June 25, 1967.

He that receiveth a prophet in the name of a prophet shall receive a prophet's reward (Matt. 10:41)

Weymouth translates, "Every one who receives a prophet because he is a prophet will receive a prophet's reward."

Is the Lord's hand waxed short? (Num. 11:23)

These words, while sufficiently meaningful in seventeenth century English, are more clearly presented to the modern reader in the rendering given by Smith, "Is the Lord's power so limited?" or in that of Moffatt, "Is the Eternal's power too small?"

Eldad, and ... Medad ... were of them that were written (Num. 11:26)

Dummelow contends that "were written" implies that the two men were enrolled among the seventy elders mentioned in the previous verse. It may be observed that Moses showed neither envy nor jealousy regarding the activities of Eldad and Medad, adding magnanimously, "Would God that all the Lord's people were prophets" (verse 29).

The Ancient of days (Dan. 7:9, 13, 22; cited in Science and Health 146:28)

This Scriptural phrase is rendered by Moffatt as the "primeval Being," and by Smith as the "Venerable One," and is clearly one of the numerous names for Deity.

Elijah took his mantle (II Kings 2:8)

This has been described as the symbol of prophetic authority, which later devolved upon Elisha following Elijah's translation (verse 14).

Elisha said, I pray thee, let a double portion of thy spirit be upon me (II Kings 2:9)

We learn from Deuteronomy 21:17 that the firstborn son had the right to receive a double portion of the inheritance; thus in this case, as Dummelow notes, "Elisha wished to be, in spiritual power, the chief among Elijah's disciples and successors."

He that prophesieth speaketh unto men to edification, and exhortation, and comfort (I Cor. 14:3)

The New English Bible renders this verse, "When a man prophesies, he is talking to man, and his words have power to build; they stimulate and they encourage."

Let her own works praise her in the gates (Prov. 31:31)

The gates or gate of a town provided its public meeting place; hence Moffatt's rendering, "Praise her in public for her services."

Send a comment to the editors

We'd love to hear from you!

Easily submit your testimonies, articles, and poems online.

Submit