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And take THE HELMET OF SALVATION, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God. (Ephesians 6:17)

 

The last piece of armor noted is the sword of the Spirit. So we should be wielding the Spirit as an offensive weapon to attack the plans of the enemy, right?

Not quite.

Paul tells us that the sword of the Spirit is the word of G-d. The phrase "of the Spirit" appears to describe ownership of the sword rather than an attribute of the sword. The book of Hebrews tells us about this sword:

For the word of God is living and active and sharper than any two-edged sword, and piercing as far as the division of soul and spirit, of both joints and marrow, and able to judge the thoughts and intentions of the heart. (Hebrews 4:12)

 

Revelation again provides some connections between the Word of G-d and a sword:

In His right hand He held seven stars, and out of His mouth came a sharp two-edged sword; and His face was like the sun shining in its strength. (Revelation 1:16)

 

While all things are possible for G-d, it is unlikely that He meant He would have a two-edged stainless steel sword literally coming out of His mouth.  The blade probably wouldn't be much of a problem, but the guard would likely be too big. :) OK, seriously... out of mouths comes forth speech and words.  In this case, the Word.  Messiah says in the next chapter:

Therefore repent; or else I am coming to you quickly, and I will make war against them with the sword of My mouth. (Revelation 2:16)

 

The sword of His mouth is His Word, and it is sharper than any two-edged sword.

 

Let's go back to our priestly example.Shield of Faith

This picture shows our priest completely unarmed.  No sword appears to be present.  Or is it?

The sword spoken of is a sword for spiritual battles. Paul told us that at the beginning of this passage regarding armor (Ephesians 6:12). The sword is the Word of G-d. Where should we carry that Word? We should always have our Bibles with us, right?

Not quite.

The Psalmist tells us in Psalm 119:11 "Your word I have hidden in my heart that I might not sin against you."

Romans 10:8 (quoting Deuteronomy 30:14) tells us "The Word is near you, in your mouth and in your heart..."

Most importantly: when Scripture describes the "New Covenant" in Hebrews 10:16 (quoting Jeremiah 31:31-33) we find this-

"THIS IS THE COVENANT THAT I WILL MAKE WITH THEM AFTER THOSE DAYS, SAYS THE LORD: I WILL PUT MY LAWS UPON THEIR HEART, AND ON THEIR MIND I WILL WRITE THEM," He then says, "AND THEIR SINS AND THEIR LAWLESS DEEDS I WILL REMEMBER NO MORE." (Hebrews 10:16-17)

 

As members of this New Covenant, G-d has given us a Spiritual "concealed carry" license.  He has written His Law upon our hearts and our minds.  We are armed for battle, and the Holy Spirit brings to mind all the things which Messiah spoke (John 14:26).

Oh, yes, we are definitely armed.

 

Torah Portion

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Today is

Yom Sh'lishi, 9 Adar II, 5784

Tuesday, March 19, 2024

 

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