Identity Revealed – The Sword of the Spirit is a dangerous message. You’ve heard that the pen is mightier than the sword. That’s, of course, because words written down have the power to change the hearts of men where as the sword never can.
Sword of the Spirit
If Jesus’ mouth is a sharpened sword we must be talking about the words that come out of his mouth. The rest of the Bible backs this up – For the word of God is living and active. Sharper than any double-edged sword, it penetrates even to dividing soul and spirit, joints and marrow; it judges the thoughts and attitudes of the heart. Heb 4:12 A sword is really just a huge double edge knife that is often used in battle. Most swords can cut through clothing, armor, and flesh and bone. The TV infomercial knives made from airplane aluminum can cut marble, wood, and still cut tomatoes just like the first time you ever used it. The word of God that comes from the Saviors mouth is far sharper – the word of God cuts down into your soul. God’s word can make your conscience bleed guilt. This isn’t because the words on the pages of the Bible are so well put together or because you’re hearing a sermon that is skillfully presented and written. I am thankful that God’s message doesn’t depend on you or me. God’s word is powerful because the sword of Jesus’ mouth is the The sword of the Spirit Eph 6:17. God the Spirit has promised to work whenever we share his word with ourselves, our family, our coworkers, neighbors, everyone.
The Sword That Heals
God declares of Jesus. “You are my servant, Israel, in whom I will display my splendor.” A sword in the skillful hand of a soldier is a powerful weapon indeed. While it is glorious when God’s word cuts deep and pierces a sinful soul, God displays his glory and his splendor when he forgives. The sword of the Spirit doesn’t just cut; it binds back together. It doesn’t just wound; it heals.
Want to hear more? Watch this week’s message from Isaiah 49, Identity Revealed – The Sword of the Spirit.
Book(s): Isaiah
Series: Identity Revealed
Tag(s): Epiphany
Speaker(s): Fred Guldberg