|
|
|||
The Word is called the sword of the Spirit because it comes from the Holy Spirit and works in the soul of man through the operation of the Holy Spirit. This Word of God is spiritual and is used by spiritual people. The Holy Spirit is the author of the written Word and establishes the saints in it. It is He who teaches them how to make use of the Word and He is the one that makes it powerful and effectual. Those in whom the Word of God dwells richly need not fear the power of any adversary. Every purpose to which the Word is applied will succeed. "The Helper, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in my name, will teach you everything and make you remember all that I have told you." (Joh 14:26) The Word of God is compared to a sword with two edges."A sharp two-edged sword came out of his mouth." (Rev 1:16) The two edges of the Word of God is the Law and the Gospel. The Law convicts of sin, and cuts all the way to the heart. "The word of God is alive and active, sharper than any double-edged sword. It cuts all the way through, to where soul and spirit meet, to where joints and marrow come together. It judges the desires and thoughts of the heart." (Heb 4:12) The Gospel cuts out all lies out of our minds and brings right living. "All Scripture is inspired by
God and is useful for teaching the truth, rebuking error, The Sword is closely related to the belt and is held secure by it.Jesus is
the Word of God. He is also the Truth. Only the Spirit of God
can "God is Spirit, and only by the power of his Spirit can people worship him as he really is." (Joh 4:24)
The sword also operates in close harmony with the shield. "If you confess that Jesus is Lord and believe that God raised him from death, you will
be saved. You must learn to use the sword wisely. "Your words will be used to judge you---to declare you either innocent or guilty." (Mat 12:37) The sword of the Spirit, just like the rest of
|