1 Corinthians 13:12a For now we see in a mirror dimly, NASB

The true nature of mirrors is laced throughout the bible.

The word “type” is derived from a Greek term tupos, which occurs 16 times in the New Testament. It is variously translated in the King James Version, e.g. twice “print” (John 20:25); twice “figure” (Acts 7:43; Romans 5:14); twice “pattern” (Titus 2:7; Hebrews 8:5); once “fashion” (Acts 7:44); once “manner” (Acts 23:25); once “form” (Romans 6:17); and 7 times “example” (1 Corinthians 10:6; Philippians 3:17; 1 Thessalonians 1:7; 2 Thessalonians 3:9; 1 Timothy 4:12; 1 Peter 5:3). It is clear from these texts that the New Testament writers use the word “type” with some degree of latitude; yet one general idea is common to all, namely, “likeness.” A person, event or thing is so fashioned or appointed as to resemble another; the one is made to answer to the other in some essential feature; in some particulars, the one matches the other. The two are called type and antitype; and the link which binds them together is the correspondence, the similarity, of the one with the other. Reference: International Standard Bible Encyclopedia

Every nature of man exists within the bible. All that man thinks and does is recorded within its pages. The circumstances may change but the nature remains the same. If we will be honest with ourselves, we can see ourselves within those pages.  Some characters are sinners in need of salvation, some are saints seeking to crucify the “old man”, some are seeking their new identity in Christ, and some have discovered their place in the body of Christ.

Have you discovered your tupos or are you afraid to look?

Romans 2:14-15 For when the Gentiles, which have not the law, do by nature the things contained in the law, these, having not the law, are a law unto themselves: Which shew the work of the law written in their hearts, their conscience also bearing witness, and their thoughts the mean while accusing or else excusing one another;

Yesterday as I spoke about spiritual abusers, I want to address worldly excusers. If you have never heard this phrase before, I would be surprised. “Good people go to hell all the time.” That doesn’t sound fair and worldly people rebel against that notion because it speaks to them.

The very next verse gives the answer as to how all men are judged for their actions, Christians and non-christians alike. It is only just and fair if all are judged alike.

V16  In the day when God shall judge the secrets of men by Jesus Christ according to my gospel.

What this means for all of us, in everything we do: did we do it with Jesus Christ? Did we do a thing to glorify ourselves or to glorify Jesus Christ? Did we want to be seen or did we want Jesus Christ to be seen? Where our actions obedience of faith or force of will?

Psalm 19:14 Let the words of my mouth, and the meditation of my heart, be acceptable in thy sight, O Lord, my strength, and my redeemer.

The meditations of a man’s heart are true if Jesus Christ dwells in that heart.