That Harsh, Cutting Word

 Today's reading from Hebrews starts by cutting us down to size but ends by building us up.

"Indeed, the word of God is living and active, sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing until it divides soul from spirit, joints from marrow; it is able to judge the thoughts and intentions of the heart. And before him no creature is hidden, but all are naked and laid bare to the eyes of the one to whom we must render an account.
Since, then, we have a great high priest who has passed through the heavens, Jesus, the Son of God, let us hold fast to our confession. For we do not have a high priest who is unable to sympathize with our weaknesses, but we have one who in every respect has been tested as we are, yet without sin. Let us therefore approach the throne of grace with boldness, so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help in time of need." Hebrews 4:12-16

Therefore, we should both fear the Word of God and at the same time be thankful to God for it.

Attempts to dull the sharper than imaginable sword of the Word of God is characteristic of not only Biblical revisionism but also of well meaning denominations that omit some of the more difficult Bible verses from the Sunday readings (as documented in previous posts).

A dull knife leaves a nastier and more painful wound that takes longer to heal.

Thank you Lord for your sharp sword.