Verses on Various Occasions · Chapter
Heathenism explained
The chapter reflects on God's presence and grace among non-Israelites, citing examples of Balak, Job, and Gerar's king, and argues that God can work even among the unchristened, drawing a parallel to the Eucharist where faith can transform
What happens
The chapter reflects on God's presence and grace among non-Israelites, citing examples of Balak, Job, and Gerar's king, and argues that God can work even among the unchristened, drawing a parallel to the Eucharist where faith can transform stones into bread.
Themes in this chapter
Faith and Doubt
The chapter questions whether faith is necessary for God's presence, suggesting that even among heathens, God can work.
Sin and Redemption
Explores the idea of grace extending beyond the covenant people, hinting at redemption for the unchristened.
The Church and Tradition
Contrasts the established church with the 'unchristen'd man,' questioning the boundaries of divine favor.
Characters to notice
- Balak
Mentioned in the context of magic fires and the Spirit speaking.
- Job
Referenced as patient Job whose vexed friends received God's word through dreams.
- Aaron
His vest is mentioned as a source of overflowing grace that reached the Sibyl.
- Lord
Implied as the one who summoned dreams and vouchsafed to dwell with prayers untrue.
Key passages
“’Mid Balak’s magic fires The Spirit spake, clear as in Israel;”
Even among the pagan rituals of Balak, the Holy Spirit spoke as clearly as it did among the Israelites.
Highlights God's communication outside the chosen people.
“If such o’erflowing grace From Aaron’s vest e’en on the Sibyl ran, Why should we fear, the Son now lacks His place Where roams unchristen’d man?”
If grace from the high priest's garments could reach a pagan prophetess, why doubt that Christ is present among the unbaptized?
Argues for the universality of Christ's presence.
“As though, where faith is keen, He cannot make Bread of the very stones, or thirst with ashes slake.”
As if, where faith is strong, God cannot turn stones into bread or satisfy thirst with ashes.
Emphasizes God's power to transform even the most unlikely elements.