Hebrews 4:12-13 For the word of God is quick, and powerful, and sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing even to the dividing asunder of soul and spirit, and of the joints and marrow, and is a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart. Neither is there any creature that is not manifest in his sight: but all things are naked and opened unto the eyes of him with whom we have to do.
‘Sword’ [Greek: machaira] translates as sword, 29 times (4:12; 11:34, 37; Eph. 6:17; Matt. 10:34; 26:47-55; Mark 14:43-48; Luke 21:24; 22:36-52; John 18:10-11; Acts 12:2; 16:27; Rom. 8:35; 13:4; Rev. 6:4; 13:10, 13:14).
Twelve symbols of the Word of God: A hammer to convict (Jer. 23:29). A fire to refine (Jer. 23:29). A mirror to reflect (Jas. 1:23). Seed to multiply (1Pet. 1:23). A laver to cleanse (Eph. 5:26). A lamp to guide (Ps. 119:105). Rain and snow to refresh (Isa. 55:10). A sword to cut (4:12; Eph. 6:17). A bow for revenge (Hab. 3:9). Gold to enrich (Ps. 19:7-10). Power to create faith (Rom. 10:17) and eternal life (1Pet. 1:23). Food to nourish: Milk for babes (1Pet. 2:2); Bread for the hungry (Matt. 4:4); Meat for people (5:11-14); Honey for dessert (Ps. 19:10).
The Bible is not an amulet, a charm, a fetish, or a book that will work wonders by its very presence. It is a book that will work wonders in every life, here and hereafter, if acted upon and obeyed in faith and sincerity. It is God’s inspired revelation of the origin and destiny of all things, written in the most simple human language possible so that the most unlearned can understand and obey its teachings. It is self-interpreting and covers every subject of human knowledge and needs now and forever.
As a literary composition, the Bible is the most remarkable book ever made. It is a divine library of 66 books, some of considerable size, and others no larger than a tract. These books include various forms of literature – history, biography, poetry, proverbial sayings, hymns, letters, directions for elaborate ritualistic worship, laws, parables, riddles, allegories, prophecy, drama, and others. They embrace all manner of literary styles in human expression.
To be continued…
Living the Word 