Your Bible question was:
> do you have any material concerning the meaning and
> commentary on the meaning of geography (such as the "wasteplaces" and
> mountains that Jesus went into) in the book of Matthew. There must be
> symbolic meanings at least.

Your question gets to the heart of how we choose to interpret the Bible.
Many folks want to turn much of the Bible into symbolic, figurative and
allegorical language, thereby negating its literal, actual and relevant
applications.

However, unless the Biblical text indicates a compelling reason to do so,
references to wasteplaces, mountains, and other geographic conditions should
simply be taken to mean what they actually are -- wasteplaces and mountains.

Without something in the text (and its context) which leads us to believe
symbolism is being used, we would do well to not force symbolic meanings
upon the literal meaning of the God-given words.  (cf. 2 Pet. 1:20-21; 2
Tim. 3:16-17)

So, I conclude that when the Bible says that Jesus went into the
"wilderness" that is exactly what He did.  Such is not stated so that we can
extrapolate a symbolic meaning of our own choosing.  Likewise with
wasteplaces, mountains, etc.

Thank you for your good Bible question.  May you continue to study God's
word and handle it properly (2 Tim. 2:15).

Sincerely,
Joe Price


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Joe R Price
joe@bibleanswer.com

Bible Answers
http://www.bibleanswer.com

Mt. Baker church of Christ
http://www.bibleanswer.com/mtbaker
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