speak against too greatly figurative language.
650. There are some types clear and demonstrative, but others which seem
somewhat far-fetched, and which convince only those who are already
persuaded. These are like the Apocalyptics. But the difference is that they
have none which are certain, so that nothing is so unjust as to claim that
theirs are as well founded as some of ours; for they have none so
demonstrative as some of ours. The comparison is unfair. We must not put on
the same level and confound things, because they seem to agree in one point,
while they are so different in another. The clearness in divine things
requires us to revere the obscurities in them.
It is like men, who employ a certain obscure language among themselves.
Those who should not understand it would understand only a foolish meaning.
651. Extravagances of the Apocalyptics, Preadamites, who would base
extravagant opinions on Scripture will, for example, base them on this. It
is said that "this generation shall not pass till all these things be
fulfilled." Upon that I will say that after that generation will come
another generation, and so on ever in succession.
Solomon and the King are spoken of in the second book of Chronicles as if
they were two different persons. I will say that they were two.
652. Particular Types.--A double law, double tables of the law, a double
temple, a double captivity.
653. Types.--The prophets prophesied by symbols of a girdle, a beard, and
burnt hair, etc.
654. Difference between dinner and supper.
In God the word does not differ from the intention, for He is true; nor the
word from the effect, for He is powerful; nor the means from the effect, for
He is wise. St. Bernard, Ultimo Sermo in Missam.
St. Augustine, City of God, v. 10. This rule is general. God can do
everything, except those things which, if He could do, He would not be
almighty
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