A motif is any recurring element that has symbolic significance in a story. The significance of all the motifs concern the fulfillment of prophecy in Christ. Often a motif is hidden in riddle using other literary devices. The motifs of the Bible are significant because the human author had no way of knowing the details of the cross, and they become proof of divine authorship. Below are examples of the 'appointed time' motif. SOme are plain and some are hidden.

{{:Motif: The appointed time}}