Posted on 01/14/2010 1:57:26 PM PST by Gamecock
“Sensus plenior” is a Latin term which means, literally, “fuller sense,” or “deeper meaning”. The term “sensus plenior” is used to refer to those passages which, at their most obvious level speak of one person or event, but which also have a deeper meaning hinted at through that specific event in question. In other words, “sensus plenior” is the term which acknowledges that some historical persons and events in the Old Testament are really “types,” and that the passages treating of those persons and events speak not just of themselves alone, but also of the “antitypes” (i.e., the fulfillments of the types) which they foreshadow.
A good example of a case in which the principle of “sensus plenior” must be applied is Moses' striking the rock in the wilderness, so that water flowed out to nourish the people. This passage relates a very real historical event, and its most basic level of meaning refers simply to a physical rock that flowed with physical water; but this event was also a type of how Christ, the Rock of our Salvation, was struck with the rod of divine justice, and henceforth there flowed from his wounded body the forgiveness and spiritual life that we need. In other words, there is a “sensus plenior,” or deeper meaning to this event than just the real, historical occurrence. In 1 Corinthians 10:4, Paul gives express instruction for us to see a “sensus plenior” in this passage; and a little later, he says that all the things recorded in the Old Testament were written as “types” for our instruction (1 Cor. 10:11), thus giving us warrant to see a “sensus plenior” in all the scriptures.
Thanks for the information and the links.
Thanks for the information and the links.
utilizing Moses as striking the rock is not good. Because Moses did this in anger, he was banned from entering into the promised land. he failed to heed Gods instruction. deeper meanings are at times wanting, but doing so in the context as it was written. Martin Luther had a problem with the Roman Catholic Church seeking the deeper meaning, usage of allegory. Please be careful in utilizing something that is being achieved. many false teachers get the subjective achieved prior to the objective. Gods Word is an absolute truth. However, man has a tendency to take the subjective prior to the objective. Gods word desires man to look at the objective prior to the subjective. scripture interprets scripture. Old Testament relates to the New Testament Old testament what is concealed in the New Testament what is revealed. Please continue with the postings. My intent is not to criticize but be careful, studying scripture is great. Luther, Calvin, Zwingli and many others that followed were persecuted because of their beliefs and convictions about Scripture. The Geneva Bible is good. Myself I utilize Luthers works, Jean Calvins work Huldyrch Zwingli works, Phillip Melcanthon works and others in scholarship.
Tell it to Paul.
Types and shadows always have shortcomings, just because they are not Christ. They point to the Perfect One, but cannot fulfill His perfect work.
never knew what that was called... thanks
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