Metaphors We Must Live By: A Case for the Proper Use of Metaphors in Christian Discipleship

by Andrew Ballard, Kim Daly (Contributor)

We all know the phrase, "Time is Money". But have you ever really stopped and thought about what that means? We talk about "spending time" and "investing time" and even "saving time," but do we follow that to its logical conclusion? If I save time now, will I have more time later? If I invest my time in the right way, will I get a return on that investment? For the Christian, we are called to be stewards of our resources- does that mean that God will call me to account for how I spend every day? Every hour? Every moment? If so, then there's not a minute to waste. "Time is Money" is a metaphor- but it's not simply a figure of speech. The truth is, "Time is Money" is a metaphor that we use to really understand and conceptualize time. It's a metaphor we believe- in fact, it's a metaphor we live by. We use a lot of metaphors like this in our daily conversations. But how often do we recognize them as metaphors? Are they accurate? Are they helpful? Most of all, the Christian must ask, are they Biblical? In this book, we will explore the metaphors that we unwittingly weave throughout our thoughts, conversations, and lives. Are they true? Are they useful? Are they Biblical? In short, what are the metaphors we must live by?

128 pages, Paperback

Published October 17, 2020

Reviews

[Alex Kearney · Rating 4 out of 5]

A great book by a fellow member of my seminary cohort. Andrew challenges us to test the metaphors we use when talking about God, the Gospel, and the Church. Many metaphors become commonplace over time, but are they really Biblical?

I did disagree slightly with his chapter on the presence of God. I guess I can just bring that up with him in person 😄


Here’s a killer quote:

"Do we have to think about names and lighting and graphics and all the rest? Perhaps in some contexts. But be diligent to prioritize the Logos over the logos."

[Steven Evans · Rating 1 out of 5]

Was looking for “Metaphors We Live By,” but check out this one by mistake.