Considering the Executioner's Sword

Scripture: For the word of God is living and effective and sharper than any double-edged sword, penetrating as far as the separation of soul and spirit, joints and marrow. It is able to judge the thoughts and intentions of the heart. No creature is hidden from him, but all things are naked and exposed to the eyes of him to whom we must give an account. Hebrews 4:12-13

Observation: The writer of Hebrews is clear in this passage ... everyone has heard the truth about the Lord, and about Jesus as Messiah, yet only those who believe the good news will enter "the Lord's rest". Those who do not believe will not. In defining this division, the author quotes Old Testament scripture - primarily Psalm 95 but also Genesis 2 - using these passages to demonstrate the clear articulation of a separation of mankind ... those who believe, and those who do not.

It is that context that defines how the word of God is "sharper than any double-edged sword." It is, in fact, here to penetrate, separate, and divide the world. It will make this division based on how it judges the thoughts and intents of every human heart. No one can hide from that judgment, for our hearts are easily exposed to the Lord's word, and we must give an account of how we receive that word. That account is ... do we believe it, or not?

This passage is well known, yet even darker than most acknowledge. This isn't about the sword of God we arm ourselves with for protection, as Paul describes. This is about God wielding the sword, which is in fact his very word, as an executioner's sword. It will divide mankind, allowing those who believe the word in their very hearts to enter the Lord's rest, but those who do not believe will not enter that rest.

Application: I am actually comforted by this, as I know that in my heart I love the Lord, and believe in Jesus Christ as my savior and redeemer, the son of God. I fall short of obedience to God's word when it comes to prescribed teachings, actions, and behaviors. However, I believe in God's word as the inspired word of God, fully true, and a revelation pertaining to salvation through faith in the Messiah.

There will be a separation someday. I embrace the promise to enter into the Lord's seventh-day rest, a Sabbath that remains for God's people.

Prayer: Lord, while I consider you and your word today, know that I believe in your word, in your authority and wonder and grace and might and love, and I believe in Jesus Christ as my Lord and savior. May I learn more and more about you and Jesus through your word every day. Amen.