Mathew
5
Rhetorical Question:
These two verses teach one of the most powerful principles available
to us in canonized scriptures by asking question to which Christ does not need nor
want answers. These questions are designed to bring the good out in each of us.
A person who is inherently good and has natural tendency to do the right thing
will answer these questions to himself or herself realizing the higher law to
which Christ calls. On the other hand, someone who is more inclined to unsavory
behavior will not make any sense out of this question that Christ asks. They
will miss the call to live the higher law. These rhetorical questions masterful
allow Christ to teach pearls of wisdom to his disciples while protecting their
value from the swine who would also listen.
Parallelism:
A very common rhetorical device used in scriptural language.
The syntax of the above pair of verse mimics one another to add emphasis by
contrasting the non-paralleled preceding verses. This emphasis allows Christ to
teach His disciples what is truly important, and serves a sort of highlighter
for His epic sermon on the mount.
I appreciate your use of Christ's words. I find it interesting that these uses of rhetoric are so good and so helpful to allow others to feel and experience the gospel. Rhetoric is not inherently bad, in fact it is important and is meant to be sincere and real. In thinking more of the prophets of old and their words I am amazed at how many different devices are used by them. A curious thought; do you think Christ had planned out all that he would say and how he would say it? I'm sure it was done all by the Spirit but doesn't that teach us something as well? The Lord knows how to speak with us individually (2 Nephi 31:3). This gospel is tailored to each of us and as a result every time it is taught it is meant to be tailored to the specific listener.
ReplyDeleteThis passage uses ratiocinatio, where Christ reasons with a statement he made by asking a question. When put this way, I can't help but recognize my selfishness in choosing who I love and don't love. These questions also have ellipsis.
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