Biblical Imagery
As most of this work comprises an argument against the validity of the Bible as an authoritative source of knowledge, Paine references a lot of Scripture and uses much imagery that comes from various passages in the Bible. For example, he references the image of the snake (Satan) in the Garden of Eden, a dark spot of sin in an otherwise perfect world. He also cites the temptation of Jesus in the desert, which is accompanied by lots of memorable imagery. Allusions are also made to Moses, the Ten Commandments, the Great Flood, and other events as well.
Historical Imagery
In addition to Biblical allusions, Paine also makes several references to historical people and events that have a direct impact on his arguments. A notable example is that of Galileo, an important historical figure who was persecuted for his unorthodox religious beliefs that came from science (which turned out to be true). Other references include those to the American Revolutionary War, the abolition of the priesthood in France, and the various religious differences in European countries.
A Flat Earth
In an attempt to make his target look ridiculous, Paine makes Christians seem like people who believe in a flat earth, as it was said that Jesus came to spread the gospel "from one end of the earth to the other." This imagery is a shameless reductio ad absurdum, but it remains one of the most central pieces of imagery Paine employs throughout the work.
Hearsay Imagery
Paine attacks the Christian religion by saying that all of its doctrine is founded on revelation and hearsay, rather than evidence and reason. To convey this point, he uses imagery that relates to hearsay, such as imagery that relates to the insufficiency of eyewitness accounts and the extensive use of these in the Scriptures.
