1463. That some who place all emphasis on the literal meaning very much deceive themselves, can be clear from just one example that I also discussed with spirits and angels [see 1321-4]. That is, that the 12 apostles would sit on 12 thrones, judging the 12 tribes of Israel [Matt. 19:28, Luke 22:30]. As for the tribes, 10 had been dispersed at that time. How were they going to judge them? That they would sit on thrones does not make sense. The apostles were simple people and did not even understand when they were with the Lord what the Kingdom of God is. They could not judge even one person or soul, as was also proven. The Word of both Testaments is full of other, similar statements.