The Sword of the Spirit

Introduction:

As a young boy, I well remember reading about King Arthur and the Knights of the Round Table. I especially recall his famous sword, Excalibur. Swords have played an important role in several battles throughout history. The Roman sword was the gladius, a fearsome weapon in close range combat. Its tapered point could pierce even heavy metal armor.

The apostle Paul describes the Christian armor in Ephesians 6. All but one are defensive pieces. The only offensive one is the sword of the Spirit. (Ephesians 6:17)

Body:

  1. The Sword Is the Word
  • John 17:17 God’s Word is truth. These Words are accurate. There are no errors of any kind. (Psalm 119:41-43)
  • Psalm 119:105 The Word guides us in the path we need to follow. It reveals things we can stumble over. It shows us what is good and bad, wise and unwise.
  • I Corinthians 2:9-13 The Word reveals the wisdom of God. As a result, it makes us wise. (II Timothy 3:14-17)
  1. The Sword Is A Weapon
  • Hebrews 4:12 The sword is all powerful. It is able to cut through every defense our enemy can raise. Use it to attack Satan’s strongholds. (II Corinthians 10:4-5) Nothing can withstand its ability to cut straight through to the heart of the matter and uncover the truth. As a soldier marching under the banner of Christ, it’s our duty to discern truth and follow it. Use the sword to reveal how one is truly saved; how God truly wants to be worshipped; what our only standard of authority is; what God’s design for marriage is. [It can cut through man-made traditions and beliefs.]
  • Matthew 4:4,7,10 Jesus used the Word to counter Satan’s attacks.
  1. The Sword Is A “Spiritual” Weapon
  • It gives life. (Psalm 119:93) It regenerates. (I Peter 1:23, James 1:18)
  • It is the source of our faith. (Romans 10:17)
  • It can prevent sin. (Psalm 119:11)
  • It can cleanse us. (Psalm 119:9)
  • It convicts us of sin. (John 16:7-13) It can reveal sin in our lives and surgically remove it. (Hebrews 4:12)
  1. The Sword Must Be Kept in Good Condition
  • It must be taken out of its sheath.
  • II Timothy 2:15 Study diligently. Know your weapon.
  • I Peter 3:15 Keep it in good condition so you will always be ready.

Conclusion:

Since our enemy is like a roaring lion seeking whom he may devour, we must be ready to attack him with our Sword, the Word of God.

Bobby Stafford June 16, 2013