Correspondence
Correspondence
It was reserved for Thomas Boys to extend and develope the study of Parallelism. What others before him had thought to be confined to lines, or only to short passages, he discerned to be true also of whole paragraphs; yea, of whole sections and even of books. He therefore discarded the term Parallelism as being altogether inadequate when used of paragraphs and subjects. He adopted the term Correspondence as applying to and covering all the Phenomena connected with the structure of the sacred text. In 1824 he gave the world his Tactica Sacra, and in the following year he gave his Key to the Book of Psalms, which opened out the whole subject, and gave some examples from the Psalms. In 1890, Dr. Bullinger edited from Mr. Boyss Interleaved Hebrew Bible, and other of his papers,* [Note: These were most kindly placed at his service by the Rev. Sydney Thelwall (Vicar of Radford), in whose possession they are. See Mr. Thelwalls preface to the Key to Psalms.] a complete edition of the whole 150 Psalms, which he called, A Key to the Psalms, thus connecting it with the work published in 1825.
This law of Correspondence is seen in the Repetition of Subjects, rather than of Lines, or Propositions.
These subjects may be repeated in three different ways, or rather in two, for the third is only a combination of the other two. They may be repeated alternately; or they may be introverted, when it is called Chiasmus (and sometimes Epanodos); or these two may be combined in innumerable ways.
Each of the subjects occupies a separate paragraph, and these we call members. These members may be of any length; one may be very short, the other quite long. A longer member may be again divided up and expanded, as each member possesses its own separate structure, and this again may be part of one still larger.
For the sake of convenience, we arbitrarily place letters against each member for the purpose of distinguishing it from the others and of linking it to its corresponding member, as well as for easy reference. Using Roman and Italic type we are enabled to mark the different subjects which correspond, or are set in contrast, the one with the other
Thus the subject of the member marked A (Roman type) will be the same subject which is repeated in A (Italic type). The same with B and B, a and a, b and b.
In whatever form we may have this figure, it is always of the greatest possible use and importance. It enables us not merely to perceive the symmetrical perfection of the passage, but to understand its true sense; to see its scope and thus be guided to a sound interpretation.
What may be obscure in one member may be clear in its corresponding member.
The subject, which may not be mentioned in one member may be named in the other. We are thus helped to a correct interpretation. For example, in the structure of 1Pe 3:18-22 it is not clear who or what may be the in-prison-spirits of verse 19. But in the corresponding member (verse 22) they are mentioned by name as angels. We thus learn that the subject of the former member (verse 19) is the disobedience of angels in the days of Noah (Gen 6:1-22), while the subject of the latter (verse 22) is the subjection of angels and authorities and powers. Having thus got the scope of the passage, we get the meaning of spirits, and remember how it is written, He maketh His angels spirits (Psa 104:4. Heb 1:7). We at once connect their sin in the days of Noah and their prison with Gen 6:1. 2Pe 2:4, and Jud 1:6. We thus have the clue to the true interpretation of this passage, which if followed out will lead to a correct exegesis.* [Note: See a pamphlet on The Spirits in Prison, by the same author and publisher.]
For another example see Psa 144:1-15. (page 33), where the structure (an extended alternation) clearly shows that verses 12-15 consist of the vanity which the strange children speak, and the falsehood which they utter. The Psalm ends with a solemn conclusion (-15), which stands out apart from the structure by itself in all its solemnity.
Psa 144:1-15 –
A1-4. Thanksgiving.
B5-7. Prayer (Bow thy heavens, etc.).
C8. Description of the strange children and their vain words: Whose mouth, etc.
A9, 10. Thanksgiving.
B11-. Prayer (Rid me).
C-11-15. Description of the strange children. After , who in verse 12 supply say, in italics, [Note: See under Ellipsis (page 33).] corresponding with whose mouth in verse 8.
Then we have, in the concluding sentence, the true estimate of happiness, and in what it consists, as opposed to the vain and false estimate of the strange children:-
Blessed the people whose God is Jehovah, as is further set forth in Psa 4:6-7; Psa 146:5.
The correspondence, here, corrects the common and popular interpretation of this Psalm, and rescues it for the glory of God.
It is clear, therefore, from this, that the subject of Correspondence cannot be too diligently studied, if we would discover some of the wondrous perfections of the Word of God, or arrive at its proper interpretation.
Correspondence may be thus arranged:-
I.ALTERNATE.
1.Simple: where there are only two series, each consisting of two members.
2.Extended: where there are two series, but each consisting of several members.
3.Repeated: where there are more than two series:
a.consisting of two members each.
b.consisting of more than two members each.
II.INTROVERTED.
III.COMPLEX, or COMBINED, where there is a combination of the other two.
I. Alternate Correspondence of Subjects
This is when the subjects of the alternate members correspond with each other, either by way of similiarity or contrast.
We now give a few examples selected from all parts of Scripture.
1. Simple Alternation
We so call it when it consists of only four members: i.e., two series with two members each. In this case the first member of the first series corresponds with the first member of the second, while the second member of the first series corresponds with the second member of the second series.
In other words, it is alternate when, of the four members, the first corresponds with the third, and the second with the fourth.
Jos 9:22-25.-
A22. The question of Joshua. And Joshua called.
B23. The sentence of Joshua. Now therefore (), veattah).
A24. The reply of the Gibeonites. And they answered.
B25. Submission to Joshuas sentence. Now, behold (, veattah),
Psa 19:1-14 –
A1-4-. The heavens.
B-4-6. The sun in them (, bahem, in them).
A7-10. The Scriptures.
B11-14. Thy servant in them (, bahem, in them).
Pro 1:8-19.-
A8. Two-fold exhortation. My son, hear forsake not.
B9. Reason. For they shall be, etc.
A10-15. Two-fold exhortation. My son, if my son walk not.
B16-19. Reason. For their feet, etc.
Isa 32:5-7.-
AThe vile person shall be no more called liberal,
BNor the churl said to be bountiful.
AFor the vile person will speak villany and his heart will work iniquity to practise hypocrisy, and to utter error against the Lord, to make empty the soul of the hungry, and he will cause the drink of the thirsty to fail.
BThe instruments of the churl are evil; he deviseth wicked devices to destroy the poor with lying words, even when the needy speaketh right.
Here, in A, and A, we have the vile person; while in B and B we have the churl. A and B are negative; and A and B are positive.
Jer 17:5-8.-
A5. Cursed is the man (, gever)* [Note: Gever is vir, a strong man.] that trusteth in man (, adam) [Note: Adam is homo, a created man, and is thus put in contrast with Jehovah in A.] and maketh flesh his arm, and whose heart departeth from the Lord.
B6. For he shall be like the heath in the desert, and shall not see when good cometh, but shall inhabit the parched places in the wilderness, in a salt land and not inhabited.
A7. Blessed is the man (, gever) that trusteth in the Lord, and whose hope the Lord is.
B8. For he shall be as a tree planted by the waters, and that spreadeth out her roots by the river, and shall not see when heat cometh, but her leaf shall be green; and shall not be careful in the year of drought, neither shall cease from yielding fruit.
Eze 36:26-27.-
AA new heart also will I give you,
BAnd a new spirit will I put within you:
AAnd I will take away the stony heart out of your flesh, and I will give you an heart of flesh.
BAnd I will put my Spirit within you.
Here, in this prophecy concerning Israel in the day of their coming glory, there are four members and two subjects. In the first and third it is the heart, while in the second and fourth it is the spirit.
These words cannot be applied to the Christian now, inasmuch as the old nature is not taken away, but a new nature is imparted. This is the teaching of Rom 1:16-32; Rom 2:1-29; Rom 3:1-31; Rom 4:1-25; Rom 5:1-21; Rom 6:1-23; Rom 7:1-25; Rom 8:1-39, where in 1:16-5:11, sins are first dealt with, as the fruit of the old nature, and then, from 5:12-8:39, sin is dealt with, as the tree which produces the fruit: and we are taught that, though the evil fruits are still produced, God reckons the tree itself as dead. So, though sin itself no longer reigns, yet sins are still committed by the old nature; but the saved sinner is to reckon that old nature, i.e., himself, as having died with Christ, and he has now a new nature.
The old nature is not taken away, as it will be in the case of Israel in that day: so the believer has in himself one nature that cannot but sin, and another that cannot sin (1Jn 3:9; 1Jn 5:18).
The old nature can never be improved, and the new nature needs no improvement.
Until the believer recognises this truth he can never know peace with God.
Heb 1:1-14; Heb 2:1-18 –
A1:1, 2-. God speaking.
B-2-14. The Son of God: better than the angels.
A2:1-4. God speaking.
B5-18. The Son of Man: lower than the angels.
Here the two subjects are arranged alternately. And note that B is in a parenthesis with respect to A and A; while A is in a parenthesis with respect to B and B. In other words, A and A read on continuously, without reference to B, while B and B likewise read on without reference to A, which is thus practically in a parenthesis.
Hence the word therefore, 2:1, is not consequent on 1:14, but on 1:2-. And the for in 2:5 is consequent, not on 2:4, but on 1:14. The respective members therefore read on
Thus: (1:1) God, who at sundry times and in divers manners spake in time past unto the fathers by the prophets, hath in these last days spoken unto us by his Son (ii. i.) therefore we ought to give the more earnest heed to the the things which we have heard, etc.
And: (1:14) Are they not all ministering (worshipping) spirits, sent forth to minister for (to serve) them who shall be heirs of salvation? (2:5) for unto the angels hath he not put into subjection the world to come, etc.
2. Extended Alternation
This is when there are still only two series, but each series consists of more than two members.
And these are so arranged that the first of the one series corresponds with the first of the other; and likewise the second of the former corresponds with the second in the latter.
This has been called by some Direct Chiasmus, reserving the term Indirect Chiasmus for what we have called Introverted Correspondence, or Chiasmus proper.
Bengel calls this Direct Chiasmus: but this is contrary to the very name of the figure: viz., the letter Chi (X.), which he says, is, as it were, the type or mould according to which the sentence or words is or are arranged.
We prefer to consider it merely as Alternate Correspondence in an extended form, reserving the term Chiasmus for Introverted Correspondence.
Psa 66:1-20 –
A1, 2. Exhortation to praise.
B3. Address. Gods works in the world.
C4. Address. Promise for the world.
D5-7. Invitation: Come and see.
A8, 9. Exhortation to praise.
B10-12. Address. Gods dealings with His People.
C13-15. Address. Promise for himself.
D16-20. Invitation: Come and hear.
Psa 72:1-20 –
A2-4. Messiahs goodness to the poor.
B5-10. Other attributes.
C11. General adoration.
A12-14. Messiahs goodness to the poor.
B15-17-. Other attributes.
C-17. General adoration.
The two members B and B form together a wonderful introverted Correspondence.* [Note: See The Key to the Psalms. Edited by the same author, and published by Eyre & Spottiswood.]
Psa 132:1-18 -This Psalm affords a beautiful example of an extended Alternation of subjects. We cannot, here, print the whole Psalm in full, but give the following key to it:-
A1, 2. David swears to Jehovah.
B3-5. What David sware.
C6, 7. Search for and discovery of the dwelling-place.
D8. Prayer to enter into rest.
E9-. Prayer for priests.
F-9. Prayer for saints.
G10. Prayer for Messiah.
A11-. Jehovah swears to David.
B-11, 12. What Jehovah sware.
C13. Designation of the dwelling-place.
D14, 15. Answer to prayer in D.
E16-. Answer to prayer in E.
F-16. Answer to prayer in F.
G17, 18. Answer to prayer in G.
Act 7:1-53.-
A2. Mesopotamia.
B3-8. Abraham.
C9-19. Joseph.
D20-38. Moses.
E39-43. Resistance.
A44. The wilderness.
B45-. Joshua.
C-45, 46. David.
D47-50. Solomon.
E51-53. Resistance.
Rom 2:17-20.-
ARestest in the law,
Band makest thy boast of God,
Cand knowest His will,
Dand approvest the things that are more excellent
Ebeing instructed out of the law;
Aand art confident that thou thyself art a guide of the blind,
Ba light of them which are in darkness,
Can instructor of the foolish,
Da teacher of babes,
Ewhich hast the form of knowledge and of the truth of the law.
In the first series, we have what the Jew considers as to himself. In the second series, how he uses it in relation to others.
1Th 1:2-10; 1Th 2:13-16.-
A1:2-4. The thanksgiving of Paul and his brethren.
B5. Reason: Reception of the Gospel in the power of God.
C6-9. The effect of the Gospel thus received.
D10-. Believing. Thessalonians wait for Gods Son.
E-10. Deliverance from the wrath to come.
A2:13-. The thanksgiving of Paul and his brethren.
B-13. Reason: Reception of the Gospel in the power of God.
C14. The effect of the Gospel thus received.
D15, 16-. Unbelieving Jews killed Gods Son.
E-16. Delivered to the wrath to come.
1Th 4:13-18; 1Th 5:1-11.-
A4:13. Instruction necessary as to them which are asleep (.* [Note: , to fall asleep, involuntarily: hence used (in nearly every place) of death, but only of saints. Mat 27:52; Mat 28:13. Luk 22:45. Joh 11:11-12. Act 7:60; Act 12:6; Act 13:36. 1Co 7:39; 1Co 11:30; 1Co 15:6; 1Co 15:18; 1Co 15:20; 1Co 15:51. 1Th 4:13-15. 2Pe 3:4.] The R.V. [Note: The Revised Version, 1881.] reads , are falling asleep).
B14. First reason (): For, those who have fallen asleep () God (by Jesus) will bring again from the dead.
C15. Second reason (): For, those who are alive and remain ( ) shall not precede them.
D16, 17. Third reason (): Because both will be caught up together () at the Descent of the Lord into the air.
E18. Encouragement: Wherefore comfort one another with these words.
A5:1. Instruction not necessary as to the times and the seasons of this Resurrection and Ascension, which will take place before the Day of the Lord.
B2-6. First reason (): For they already knew that the destruction of the wicked will mark the coming of the Day of the Lord. Contrast (verses 4, 5) and Exhortation (verse 6): Therefore let us not sleep (); [Note: , to go to sleep, voluntarily: hence not used of death, but either of taking rest in sleep, or of the opposite of watchfulness. Mat 8:24; Mat 9:24; Mat 13:25; Mat 25:5; Mat 26:40; Mat 26:43; Mat 26:45. Mar 4:27; Mar 4:38; Mar 5:39; Mar 13:36; Mar 14:37; Mar 14:37; Mar 14:40-41. Luk 8:52; Luk 22:46. Eph 5:14. 1Th 5:6-7; 1Th 5:7; 1Th 5:10.] but let us watch (). [Note: is translated wake only in verse 10, above. Elsewhere it is always watch, be watchful, or be vigilant.
Thus the marked use of in the first series, and of in the second series teaches us that the hope of Resurrection and Ascension before the Day of the Lord is for all who are Christs, whether they are dead or alive; whether they are watchful or unwatchful.] (See note on page 372).
C7, 8. Second reason (): For they that sleep () sleep () in the night. Contrast and Exhortation (verse 8).
D9, 10. Third reason (): Because God hath not appointed us to wrath, but to obtain salvation (viz., that of the body in Resurrection) through our Lord Jesus Christ, that whether we watch () [Note: is translated wake only in verse 10, above. Elsewhere it is always watch, be watchful, or be vigilant.
Thus the marked use of in the first series, and of in the second series teaches us that the hope of Resurrection and Ascension before the Day of the Lord is for all who are Christs, whether they are dead or alive; whether they are watchful or unwatchful.] or sleep (), we should together () live with Him (as in D, above).
E11. Encouragement: Wherefore comfort yourselves together, etc.
2Ti 3:16; 2Ti 4:2.-There is a beautiful extended alternation between the subjects of these two verses. See pages 146 and 148.
The Word of God is God-breathed and profitable for
Adoctrine,
Bfor reproof (or conviction),
Cfor correction,
Dfor instruction.
Therefore.
APreach the word,
Breprove (or convict),
Crebuke,
Dexhort, etc.
3. Repeated Alternation
Alternate correspondence is repeated when there are more than two series.
(a) Two members in each series
In this case the first member of the first series corresponds with the first member of the second, third, fourth series, etc.; while the second member of the first series corresponds with the second member of the other series. These we have indicated as A1, A2, A3 and B1, B2, B3 respectively, A corresponding with A2, A3, etc.: and B1 with B2, B3, etc.
Psa 26:1-12.-
A11-. Prayer.
B1-1. Profession.
A22. Prayer.
B23-8. Profession.
A39, 10. Prayer.
B311-. Profession.
A4-11. Prayer.
B412. Profession.
Psa 80:1-19.-
A11-3. Prayer (People).
B14-6. Representation (People).
A27. Prayer (People).
B28-13. Representation (Vine).
A314, 15. Prayer (Vine and Vineyard).
B316. Representation (Vine and People).
A417-19. Prayer (People)
Psa 145:1-21.-
A11, 2. Praise promised; from me (to Jehovah).
B13. Praise offered.
A24-7. Praise promised; from others and me (to Jehovah for His works).
B28, 9. Praise offered.
A310-12. Praise promised; from others and works (to Jehovah for His kingdom).
B313-20. Praise offered.
A421. Praise promised; from me and others.
Here, in Davids Psalm of Praise we have seven members, with two subjects in an extended alternation.
(b) More than two members in each series
This is a combination of Extended with Repeated Correspondence.
In this case, the first members of each series correspond with each other; while the second member corresponds with the second, the third with the third, etc.
Psa 24:1-10.-Here, we have an alternation of three members repeated in three series:
A11, 2. Right to the earth.
B13. Questions.
C14-6. Answer.
A27. Right to heaven.
B28-. Question.
C2-8. Answer.
A39. Right to heaven.
B310-. Question.
C3-10. Answer.
Psa 147:1-20.-
A11-3. Praise, and reason. (Kindness to Israel).
B14, 5. General operations. (Kingdom of nature).
C16. Contrast. (What the Lord does).
A27. Praise.
B28, 9. General operations. (Kingdom of nature).
C210, 11. Contrast. (What the Lord delights in).
A312-14. Praise, and reason. (Kindness to Israel).
B315-18. General operations. (Kingdom of nature).
C319, 20-. Contrast. (What the Lord has shown).
A4-20. Praise.
II. Introverted Correspondence
This is where there are two series, and the first of the one series of members corresponds with the last of the second; the second of the first corresponds with the penultimate (or the last but one) of the second: and the third of the first corresponds with the antepenultimate of the second. That is to say, if there are six members, the first corresponds with the sixth, the second with the fifth, and the third with the fourth. And so on.
The Greeks called it CHIASMOS or CHIASTON from its likeness in form to the letter Chi (X.). For the same reason the Latins called it CHIASMUS, as well as DECUSSATA ORATIO from decusso, to divide cross-wise (i.e., in the shape of an X). The Greeks called it also ALLELOUCHIA (from (alleelous), together and (echein), to have or hold, a holding or hanging together.
This is by far the most stately and dignified presentation of a subject; and is always used in the most solemn and important portions of the Scriptures.
Bengel observes with regard to this form of the Figure, that its employment is never without some use: viz., in perceiving the ornament and in observing the force of the language; in understanding the true and full sense; in making clear the sound Interpretation; in demonstrating the true and neat analysis of the sacred text.* [Note: See The Structure of the Books of the Bible, by the same author and publisher.]
Gen 43:3-5.-
AJudahs words: The man did solemnly protest unto us, etc.
BJacobs act: If thou wilt send.
BJacobs act: But if thou wilt not send him.
AJosephs words: For the man said unto us, etc.
In A and A, we have Josephs words; and in B and B, Jacobs action.
Lev 14:51-52.-
AAnd he shall take the cedar wood, and the hyssop, and the scarlet,
Band the living bird,
Cand dip them in the blood of the slain bird, and in the running water,
Dand sprinkle the house seven times:
DAnd he shall cleanse the house
Cwith the blood of the bird, and with the running water,
Band with the living bird,
Aand with the cedar wood, and with the hyssop, and with the scarlet.
Note also the figure of Polysyndeton (q.v. [Note: Which see.] ) emphasizing each particular item in this ordinance.
Deu 32:1-43 (the Song of Moses).-
A1-6. Call to hear; and the reason. The publishing of Jehovahs Name, His perfect work and righteous ways.
B7-14. The goodness and bounty of Jehovah to Israel. (Period of the Pentateuch).
C15-19. Israels evil return for the good. Their pride; forsaking of God: despising the Rock of their salvation. Moving Him to anger. (Period of past history).
D20. Divine reflections on the period while Israel is Lo-ammi.* [Note: Hebrew: not my people.] Gods hiding from them (Hosea).
E21. Jehovahs provocation of Israel. (Period of Acts and present dispensation).
E22-25. Jehovahs threatening of judgment. (The great tribulation).
D26-33. Divine reflections on the period while Israel is Lo-ammi.* [Note: Hebrew: not my people.] Their scattering from God (Hosea).
C34-38. Israels evil return for Jehovahs goodness. Their helpless condition moving Him to pity. He not forsaking them. Their rock useless. (Period of present history).
B39-42. The vengeance of Jehovah. (The period of the Apocalypse).
A43. Call to rejoice; and the reason. The publishing of Jehovahs kingdom. Vengeance on Israels enemies. Mercy on His land and His people. (Fulfilment of the Prophets).
Psa 23:1-6 is a simple introversion, which is marked by the use of the persons.
A1-3. First and third persons: I and He.
B4. First and second: I and Thou.
B5. First and second: I and Thou.
A6. First and third: I and His.
Psa 103:1-22 is a beautiful example of a large introversion of ten members:-
A1-5. Exhortation to bless.
B6, 7. Gracious goodness. (Kingdom of Grace).
C8. Merciful goodness.
D9. Sparing goodness.
E10. Pardoning goodness.
E11-13. Pardoning goodness
D14-16. Sparing goodness.
C17, 18. Merciful goodness.
B19. Glorious goodness. (Kingdom of Glory).
A20-22. Exhortation to bless.
The Visions of Zechariah.-
A1:1-17. False peace under the kingdom of the Gentiles.
B1:18-21. Providential workings to break up the empires of Dan 2:1-49, and restore Judah, Israel and Jerusalem.
C2:1-13. Deliverance of the true Jerusalem out of Babylon.
D3:1-10. Priesthood and Royalty remodelled. Jerusalem changed before God after the pattern of Messiah.
D4:1-14. Royalty and Priesthood remodelled. Jerusalem changed before men after the pattern of Messiah.
C5:1-11. The evil of the false Jerusalem sent into Babylon.
B6:1-8. Providential workings to break up the kingdoms of Dan 7:1-28, and restore Judah, Israel, and Jerusalem.
A6:9-15. True peace under the kingdom of Messiah.
Mat 3:10-12.-
AAnd now also the ax is laid unto the root of the trees: therefore every tree which bringeth not forth good fruit is hewn down, and cast into the fire.
BI indeed baptize you with water unto repentance:
Cbut he that cometh after me is mightier than I,
Cwhose shoes I am not worthy to bear:
BHe shall baptize you with the Holy Ghost and with fire.
AWhose fan is in his hand, and he will throughly purge his floor, and gather His wheat into the garner; but He will burn up the chaff with unquenchable fire.
Mar 5:2-6.-
AAnd when he was come out of the ship, immediately there met him out of the tombs a man with an unclean spirit,
Bwho had his dwelling among the tombs;
Cand no man could bind him no, not with chains:
Dbecause that he had been often bound with fetters
Eand chains,
Eand the chains had been plucked asunder by him,
Dand the fetters broken in pieces:
Cneither could any man tame him.
BAnd always, night and day, he was in the mountains and in the tombs crying and cutting himself with stones.
ABut when he saw Jesus afar off, he ran and worshipped Him.
Joh 5:8-11.-
AJesus saith unto him, Rise, take up thy bed, and walk.
BAnd immediately the man was made whole,
CAnd took his bed and walked;
DAnd on the same day was the sabbath.
DThe Jews therefore said unto him that was cured, It is the sabbath day.
CIt is not lawful for thee to carry thy bed.
BHe answered them, He that made me whole,
AThe same said unto me, Take up thy bed and walk.
Here in A and A we have the words of Christ; in B and B the man made whole; in C and C the bed he carried; and in D and D the Sabbath.
Joh 5:21-29.-We have a combined series of introverted and alternate correspondence in these verses:-
A21. Concerning quickening and resurrection.
B22, 23. Concerning judgment.
B24. Concerning judgment.
A25-29. Concerning quickening and resurrection.
The last member A is alternate, and may be thus extended:-
Ac25, 26. Concerning life and resurrection.
d27. Concerning judgment.
c28, 29-. Concerning resurrection.
d-29. Concerning judgment.
These complex structures are not confined to Psalms or selected passages, but pervade the whole Bible, affecting the order of the books themselves, and the separate structure of each.
Gal 2:16.-
AKnowing that a man is not justified
Bby the works of the law,
Cbut by the faith of Jesus Christ,
Ceven we have believed in Jesus Christ, that we might be justified by the faith of Christ,
Band not by the works of the law: for by the works of the law
Ashall no flesh be justified.
The Epistle to Philemon.-
A1-3. Epistolary
a1, 2. Names of those with Philemon.
b3. Benediction.
B4-7. Prayers of St. Paul for Philemon. Philemons hospitality.
C8. Authority.
D9, 10-. Supplication.
E-10. Onesimus, a convert of St. Pauls.
F11, 12-. Wrong done by Onesimus. Amends made by St. Paul.
G-12. To receive Onesimus the same as receiving Paul.
H13, 14. Paul and Philemon.
I15. Onesimus.
I16-. Onesimus.
H-16. Paul and Philemon.
G17. To receive Onesimus the same as receiving Paul.
F18, 19-. Wrong done by Onesimus. Amends made by St. Paul.
E-19. Philemon a convert of St. Pauls.
D20. Supplication.
C21. Authority.
B22. Philemons hospitality. Prayers of Philemon for Paul.
A23-25. Epistolary.
a23, 24. Names of those with Paul.
b25. Benediction.
It will be observed that the first and last members are alternate.
III. Complex Correspondence
This is where the members of a structure are arranged both in alternation (simple or extended) and in introversion, combined together in various ways, giving the greatest possible variety and beauty to the presentation.
Not only is this complex arrangement Of a passage complete in itself; but very often there is a double arrangement, the one within the other, and consistent with it, though differing from it.
And further, the longer members of any particular structure generally contain and have their own special arrangement, and may be severally expanded.
In some of the following examples, we have given first the general structure of a whole book or passage and then the expansion of some of the larger members of which it is composed.
The Ten Commandments as a whole, as well as separately, are beautiful examples of complex structure. Take the fourth as a specimen (Exo 20:8-11):-
A8. The Sabbath-day to be kept in remembrance by man.
Ba 9. The six days for mans work.
b10. The Seventh day for mans rest.
Ba11-. The six days for Jehovahs work.
b-11-. The seventh day for Jehovahs rest.
A-11. The Sabbath-day blessed and hallowed by Jehovah.
Here, it will be noted that the first half (A and B) is concerning mans side and duty, and the latter half (A and B) is concerning Gods side.
Psa 84:1-12 –
Aa1-4. Blessedness of the dwellers.
b5-7. Blessedness of the approachers.
B8. Prayer.
B9. Prayer.
Aa10. Blessedness of the dwellers. (For.)
b11, 12. Blessedness of the approachers. (For.)
This Psalm is a simple introversion of four members, but the first member, a, while it thus forms part of a larger member is itself constructed as an extended introversion, which helps to the understanding of verses 1-4.
ac1. Thy tabernacles.
d2. Desire for the courts of the Lord.
e3-. As the sparrow.
e-3-. As the swallow.
d-3. Desire for the altars of the Lord.
c4. Thy house.
The two members d and d read on connectedly thus: My soul longeth, yea, even fainteth for the courts of the Lord: my heart and my flesh crieth out for the living God even thine altars, O Lord of hosts, my King and my God.
Thus we are prevented from supposing that birds could build nests in the altar of burnt offerings, on which fires were always burning, and which was overlaid with brass; or in the altar of incense, which was within the Holy Place, and overlaid with gold! (see page 96).
Psa 49:1-20. is perhaps one of the most striking examples of Complex Correspondence which the Scriptures afford. The Psalm, as a whole, is alternate, with a Thema, or general subject. The first and third members are arranged as an introversion; while in each of the four members of which it is composed, a couplet is answered by a quatrain, and a quatrain by a couplet.
The Thema, or Subject, anticipates the double form of the Psalm itself. It is in two quatrains: (1) All people to hear (2) I will speak. The first two lines of each quatrain are broken up and arranged alternately, while the second two lines of each quatrain are introverted:
(1) All People to hear.
s1-. Hear this
t-1-. All ye people,
s-1-. Give ear,
t-1. All ye inhabitants of the world.
u2-. Low
v-2-. and high.
v-2-. rich
u-2. and poor.
(2) I will speak.
w3-. My mouth shall speak
x-3-. of wisdom,
w-3-. and the meditation of my heart shall be
x-3. of understanding.
y4-. I will incline mine ear
z-4-. to a parable;
z-4-. I will open my dark saying
y-4. upon the harp.
Then comes the Psalm proper:
The Psalm itself.
Aa5. Why fear? (couplet).
b6-9. No redemption for the worldly (quatrain, alternate).
c10-. Death (couplet).
d-10, 11. Worldly wisdom (quatrain, introverted).
B12. Man compared to beasts (couplet).
Ad13. Worldly wisdom (couplet).
c14. Death (quatrain, introverted).
b15. Redemption for me (couplet).
a16-19. Fear not (quatrain, alternate).
B20. Man compared to beasts (couplet).
Here note that, as in other cases, the corresponding members (which are marked by the same letters) may be read on, the one being explanatory of the other: the question in a (Why fear?) being answered in a (Fear not, etc.)
Psa 105:1-45. affords another beautiful example, but we can give only the key to it.
A1-7. Exhortation to praise the Lord (second person, plural).
B8-12. Basis of praise, Gods covenant with Abraham, in promise.
Ca13. The journeyings of the Patriarchs.
b14, 15. Their favour and protection.
c16. Their affliction.
d17-22. Mission of Joseph to deliver.
Ca23. The journeyings of the People.
b24. Their favour and protection.
c25. Their affliction.
d26-41. Mission of Moses to deliver.
B42-45-. Basis of praise. Gods covenant with Abraham, in performance.
A-45. Exhortation to praise the Lord (second person, plural).
Here, the Psalm as a whole is an introversion, while the two central members are placed in strong correspondence by an extended alternate arrangement; in which we have in the first (C) the history of the Patriarchs (Genesis), and in the second (C) the history of the Nation (Exodus).
Note also that while A and A are in the second person plural, all the rest of the Psalm is in the third person.
Note further that the two longer members B and B are similarly constructed, and the subjects repeated by extended alternation (as in C and C), thus:-
Be8-10. The Covenant remembered.
f11. The Land promised.
g12. The People described.
Be42, 43. The Covenant remembered.
f44. The Land inherited.
g45. The People described.
In like manner the two longer members d and d may be shown to have the same wonderful structure.
dh17. The sending of the deliverer.
i18, 19. His trial by the word.
k20-22. The deliverance.
dh26. The sending of the deliverers.
i27-36. Egypts trial by the word (see verse 27, margin).
k37-41. The deliverance.
Psa 146:1-10 :.-This Psalm affords another beautiful example of the combined correspondence. As a whole the Psalm is an Introversion; while the inner members consist of an extended alternation:-
A1, 2. Praise. Hallelujah.
Ba3-. Wrong trust, in man.
b-3. Man powerless.
c4. Man perishable.
Ba5. Right trust, in God.
b6-9. God all-powerful,
c10-. God eternal.
A-10. Praise. Hallelujah.
Psa 148:1-14.-
A1-. Hallelujah.
Ba-1. Praise from the heavens (second person).
b2-4. Enumeration of heavenly things.
c5-. Injunction to praise (third person).
d-5, 6. Inducements: (for).
Ba7-. Praise from the earth (second person).
b-7-12. Enumeration of earthly things.
c13-. Injunction to praise (third person).
d-13, 14-. Inducements: (for).
A-14. Hallelujah.
Here, again, while the whole Psalm is introverted, the two centre members are arranged as an extended alternation.
Mar 3:21-35.-
Aa21-. His kindred. His friends (marg. [Note: arg. Margin.] kinsmen).
b-21-. Their interference. Went out.
c-21. Their disparagement of Him. For they said, etc.
Bd22-. The Scribes: Their first charge, He hath.
e-22, Their second charge, He casteth out.
Be23-27. His answer to the second charge.
d28-30. His denunciation of the first charge.
Aa31-. His kindred. There came then his, etc.
b-31, 32. Their interference. Sent, calling.
c33-35. His disparagement of them.
From this beautiful complex structure, we learn that, as d corresponds with d, the sin against the Holy Ghost is the saying that Christ was possessed by a devil! And also, from the correspondence of b, with b we learn that the interference of the mother and brethren of Christ was because they said He was beside Himself. No wonder then that their disparagement of Him (in c) is answered by His disparagement of them (in c).
We give examples of the Seven Epistles addressed by the Holy Spirit through St. Paul to the Churches: but for the fuller development of them we must refer the reader to our larger work on this great and important subject.* [Note: What is the Spirit saying to the Churches? See a series of articles commenced in Things to Come, Sept., 1898.]
THE PAULINE EPISTLES TO THE SEVEN CHURCHES.
Epistle to the Romans.-
Introversion.
A1:1-6. The Gospel. Always revealed: never hidden.
B7-15. Epistolary.
Ca1:16-8:39. Doctrinal.
b9-11. Dispensational.
Ca12:1-15:7. Practical.
b8-13. Dispensational.
B15:14-16:24. Epistolary.
A16:25-27. The Mystery. Always hidden: never before revealed.
The Expansion of B and B (1:7-15, and 15:14-16:24).
Epistolary.
Bc1:7. Salutation.
d8, 9. Prayer, etc. (his for them).
e10-13. His journey.
f14, 15. His ministry.
Bf15:15-21. His ministry.
e22-29. His journey.
d30-33. Prayer, etc. (theirs for him).
c16:1-24. Salutation.
The whole of this epistle is marvellously constructed, and the construction is absolutely essential to its correct interpretation.
It is hardly the design of this work to go too deeply into these structures; but the doctrinal portion (a |1:16-8:39) is too important to be passed over.
It is divided into two parts. The first deals with the old nature, and with the fruits of the old tree. The second deals with the tree itself, and the conflict between the two natures in the believer.
C. Rom 1:16-32; Rom 2:1-29; Rom 3:1-31; Rom 4:1-25; Rom 5:1-21; Rom 6:1-23; Rom 7:1-25; Rom 8:1-39.
Doctrine.
It is of the greatest importance to note that the break occurs at the end of chapter 5:11.
Up to that point the question dealt with is sins. From that point it is sin. And, unless this great distinction be made the doctrine cannot be understood. The two parts, then, stand, as follows:-
aD1:16-5:11. SINS. The products of old nature. The fruits of the old tree.
E5:12-8:39. SIN. The old nature. The old tree itself
The First Division, D (1:16-5:11). SINS.
The old nature and its fruits.
Dg1:16, 17. The power of God unto salvation to every one that believeth Gods Gospel revealing a righteousness from God.
h1:18. The wrath of God revealed against all ungodliness and unrighteousness.
h1:19-3:20. The wrath of God revealed against all ungodliness and unrighteousness.
g3:21-5:11. The power of God unto salvation to every one that believeth Gods Gospel revealing a righteousness from God.
The Second Division, E (5:12-8:39). SIN.
The old nature itself, and its conflict with the new nature.
Ei5:12-21. Condemnation to death through a single sin of one man ( ): but justification of life through a single righteous act of one man ( ).
k6:1-7:6. We are not in sin, having died in Christ.
k7:7-25. Sin is in us, though we are alive in Christ.
i8:1-39. Condemnation of sin in the flesh, but now NO condemnation to us who are alive unto God in Christ Jesus and in whom is Christ.
The Expansion of b (Rom. ix-xi.).
Dispensational.
A9:1-15. Pauls sorrow regarding Israels failure.
Bl6-13. Gods purpose regarded only a portion.
m14-29. Gods purpose regarded only a remnant.
Cn19:30-33. Israels failure in spite of the Prophets.
n210:1-13. Israels failure in spite of the Law.
n314-21. Israels failure in spite of the Gospel.
Bm11:1-10. Gods purpose regarding the remnant accomplished.
l11-32. God s purpose will ultimately embrace the whole.
A33-36. Pauls joy regarding Gods purpose.
Expansion of a (Rom 12:1-21; Rom 13:1-14; Rom 14:1-23; Rom 15:1-7).
Practical.
ao12:1, 2. Personal and individual.
p3-8. Ecclesiastical.
q9-18. Social.
r19-21. Civil.
r13:1-7. Civil.
q8-14. Social.
p14:1-23. Ecclesiastical.
o15:1-7. Personal and individual.
The First Epistle to the Corinthians.-
A1:1-9. Epistolary. Salutation. Introduction.
Ba10-4:16. Ministerial, ecclesiastical and corporal.
bc17. Mission of Timothy.
d18-21. Visit of Paul.
C5, 6. Things reported to Paul.
C7, 8. Things enquired of by Paul.
Ba9-15. Ministerial, ecclesiastical and corpora1.
bd16:1-9. Visit of Paul.
c10-18. Mission of Timothy.
A19-24. Epistolary. Salutation. Conclusion.
The Second Epistle to the Corinthians.-
Extended Alternation.
A1:1, 2. Salutation.
Ba3-11. Thanksgiving.
b12. His ministry.
C1:13-2:13. Epistolary.
Ba14-17. Thanksgiving.
b3-7:4. His ministry.
C5-13:10. Epistolary.
A11-14. Salutations.
Expansion of C (1:13-2:13) and C (7:5-13:10).
Epistolary.
CDc13, 14. Present Epistle.
d15-2:2. Visit.
g15, 16. Purpose.
h17-2:2. Vindication.
Eei2:3-11. Former Epistle.
k12, 13-. No rest in spirit.
f-13. Macedonia. Journey.
CEek7:5-7. No rest in flesh.
i8-16. Former Epistle.
f8, 9. Macedonia. Journey.
Dd10-13:1. Visit.
h10:1-12:13. Vindication.
g14-13:1. Purpose.
c2-10. Present Epistle.
The Epistle to the Galatians.-
Complex. Repeated Alternation.
A1:1-5. Epistolary and Salutation.
B1a6-2:14. Apostleship.
b15-4:11. Doctrine.
B2a12-20. Apostleship.
b21-6:10. Doctrine.
B311-13. Apostleship.
14-15. Doctrine.
A16-18. Epistolary and Salutation.
The Epistle to the Ephesians.-
Introversion.
A1:1, 2. Epistolary. Salutation.
B1:3-3:21. Doctrinal.
B4:1-6:22. Practical.
A23, 24. Epistolary. Salutation.
The Expansion of B (1:3-3:21).
Doctrinal.
Bac1:3-14. The purpose of God in Himself (1:9) concerning Christ Personal. The Mystery of God.
d1:15-23. Prayer to the God of our Lord Jesus Christ, as to c.
b2. Ourselves the objects of these purposes and prayers.
ac3:1-13 The purpose of God in Christ (3:11) concerning Christ Mystical. The Mystery of Christ (3:4).
d3:14-21. Prayer to the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, as to c.
The Expansion of b (chap. 2). Alternation.
Ourselves.
be2:1-3. Past.
f4-10. Present.
e11, 12. Past.
f13-22. Present.
Expansion of B (4:1-6:22). Alternation.
Practical.
Bg4:1-16. Their walk among themselves as worthy of their calling being members of the One Body. (Ecclesiastical).
h4:17-5:21. Their walk among others. (Spiritual).
g5:22-6:9. Their walk among themselves. (Domestic).
h6:10-20. Their walk among others. (Spiritual).
The Epistle to the Philippians.-
Introversion.
A1:1, 2. Epistolary. Salutation.
B3-26. Pauls concern for the Philippians.
C27-2:18. The first example: Christ.
D19-24. The second example: Timothy.
D25-30. The third example: Epaphroditus.
C3-4:9. The fourth example: Paul.
B10-20. The Philippians care of Paul.
A21-23. Epistolary and salutation.
The Epistle to the Colossians.-
Introversion.
A1:1, 2. Epistolary, and Salutation.
B3-8. Mutual reports and messages by Epaphras; our dear fellow-servant and your faithful minister.
C9-2:7. Pauls prayer and concern for the Colossian saints. We pray for you: and that concerning his preaching of the Mystery.
D2:8-23. Doctrine and Instruction consequent on having died with Christ. Correctional.
D3:1-4:1. Doctrine and Instruction consequent on being risen with Christ. Correctional.
C4:2-6. The Colossians prayer and concern for Paul: praying alway for us: and that concerning his preaching of the Mystery.
B4:7-9. Mutual reports and messages by Tychicus and Onesimus, beloved brethren.
A10-18. Epistolary and salutations.
All these may be severally expanded according to their respective structures. We give three such expansions:-
The Expansion of C (1:9-2:7).
Pauls prayer and concern for the Colossians.
Ca11:9-11. Solicitude that they might be filled with wisdom concerning Christ.
b112-22. The Mystery revealed. (The wisdom and fulness of Christ).
a223-25. Solicitude that they might stand fast in the faith.
b226, 27. The Mystery declared.
a328-2:2-. Solicitude and conflict.
b3-2, 3. The Mystery acknowledged.
a44-7. Solicitude that they might be established in the faith.
The Expansion of D (2:8-23). Extended Alternation.
Doctrine and Instruction consequent on having died with Christ.
Dc8. Caution.
d9, 10. Christ the Head, and His People complete in Him.
e11-15. Ordinances, therefore, done away in Christ.
c16-18. Caution.
d19. Christ the Head, and His People nourished by Him.
e20-23. Ordinances, therefore, done away in Christ.
The Expansion of D (3:1-4:1). Extended Alternation.
Doctrine and Instruction consequent on being risen with Christ.
Df3:1-9. The rule of the old man over. Died and risen with Christ.
g10, 11. The new man put on.
h12-14. Effects seen in the exercise of love as the bond of perfectness.
f15. The peace of God ruling our hearts. The peace of His presence enjoyed by us as seated with Christ.
g16. The word of Christ indwelling.
h17-4:1. Effects manifested in the exercise of love the bond of all domestic relations.
The First Epistle to the Thessalonians.-
Complex Introversion.
A1:1. Epistolary (Introduction).
Ba1:2-3:10. Narration. Thanksgiving and appeal. In four members (alternate).
b3:11-13. Prayer, in view of the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ.
Ba4:1-5:22. Exhortation and Instruction. In four members (introverted).
b5:23-25. Prayer, in view of the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ.
A5:26-28. Epistolary (Conclusion).* [Note: For the further structure of all these various members see pages 370, 371. Also The Structure of the Two Epistles to the Thessalonians by the same author and publisher.]
The Second Epistle to the Thessalonians.-
Complex Introversion.
A1:1, 2. Epistolary (shorter).
Ba3-10. Thanksgiving (longer).
b11, 12. Prayer (shorter).
c2:1-12. Admonition (longer, prophetic and general).
Ba2:13-15. Thanksgiving (shorter).
b16-3:5. Prayer (longer).
c6-15. Admonition (shorter, more immediate and personal.
A3:16-18. Epistolary (longer).
Here, note that most of these members may be expanded. Also that, while they are alternated throughout, shorter and longer, yet these are so arranged that the shorter prayer corresponds with the longer prayer, and the longer thanksgiving with the shorter thanksgiving, and so with the other members.* [Note: For the structure of particular portions of these Epistles, and expansions of the various members, see the series of articles commencing in Things to Come for Sept., 1898.]
We add the structure of the two Epistles of St. Peter:-
The First Epistle of Peter.- [Note: For the expansion of these various members, see The Spirits in Prison, by the same author and publisher.]
Complex Introversion.
A1:1, 2. Epistolary.
B1:3-12. Introduction. Thanksgiving; foreshadowing the subject of the Epistle.
Ca1:13-2:10. Exhortations (General) in view of The End, as to Hope in the Fiery Trial.
b2:11-4:6. Exhortations (Particular) as to Sufferings and Glory.
Ca4:7-19. Exhortations (General) in view of The End, as to Joy in the Fiery Trial.
b5:1-9. Exhortations (Particular) as to Sufferings and Glory.
B5:10, 11. Conclusion. Prayer; embodying the object of the Epistle.
A5:12-14. Epistolary.
The Second Epistle of Peter.-
Complex Introversion.
A1:1-4. Epistolary. Grace and knowledge to be increased. Divine gift (3-). God and Saviour (-1).
Ba1:5-7. Exhortation (second person, plural imperative, with participle preceding). Diligence. Positive, to acquire every grace.
b1:8, 9. Two reasons. . Ample supply, ample fruit. Wilful ignorance and spiritual darkness.
a1:10-. Exhortation. Wherefore brethren. : Diligence, sure.
b1-10, 11. Two reasons. . These things.
Cc1:12-15. Peter.
df1:16-18. Apostles.
g19-21. Prophets.
e2:1-22. The wicked.
Cc3:1. Peter.
dg3:2-. Prophets.
f-2. Apostles.
e3:3-13. The wicked.
Bh3:14-16. Exhortation. Wherefore () beloved.
iAnd reason. Seeing ye look, etc.
h3:17. Exhortation. Therefore beloved.
iAnd reason. Seeing ye know etc.
A3:18. Epistolary. Grace and knowledge to be increased. Traced to Divine glory. Lord and Saviour.
It will be noted that the Epistle as a whole is an introversion of six members. While B and B are a simple alternation, and C and C an extended alternation, with which another inner introversion is combined.
Fuente: Figures of Speech Used in the Bible
Correspondence
Suppose there is some determinate relation R between members a of a class A and members b of a class B. Consider a subclass B’ of B, consisting of all the b’s (in B) which are related by R to each member of some one sub-class A’ of A. Then the members of B’ may be said to correspond to the members of A’. If a class D corresponds to C as so defined (by means of the relation R and the chss C also corresponds to D (by means of the common relation R), the two classes may be said to correspond to each other.
If the relation R is such that when C and D so correspond, C must always have exactly k members and D exactly 1 member, the correspondence is termed a k-1 correspondence. By an obvious extension it is customary to speak also of many-one, one-many, and many-many correspondences.
Thus the heads and tails of coins are said to be in one-one correspondence; the square roots of positive integers in two-one correspondence with the positive integers. See One-one. — M.B.