Daily Devotions
Ephesians
"And take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God."
Text: Ephesians 6:17
THE SWORD OF THE SPIRIT USED IN SPIRITUAL BATTLE
How is the sword of the Spirit used in spiritual battle? Let us consider the following texts:
1. The word of God and its association with Jesus
The apostle John was given a special vision of the Lord Jesus Christ, which he recorded in the book of Revelation. Let us take time to look at this text that described the Lord Jesus.
He had in His right hand seven stars,
out of His mouth went a sharp two-edged sword…
REVELATION 1:16
Other visions of the Lord Jesus were also given. Let us look at another vision of the Lord.
His name is called The Word of God.
REVELATION 19:13B
Now out of His mouth goes a sharp sword…
REVELATION 19:15A
2. The significance of all these references
What is the significance of all these references? Let us ponder these thoughts carefully. May we be renewed in our understanding and appreciation of the Word of God both in life and ministry.
a) Jesus always used the Word of God in ministry
i) In His battle against the Devil when he was tempted (Cf. Matthew 4:1-11)
ii) In His teaching of the multitudes (Cf. Matthew 5:17-19)
b) Jesus wielded the power that was obviously in God’s word
i) Many recognized the authority in His teaching (Cf. Matthew 7:28-29)
ii) He spoke of His word as “spirit and life” (Cf. John 6:63)
c) Jesus spoke of giving God’s word to His disciples (Cf. John 17:14a)
d) He urged His disciples to appreciate this special blessing (Cf. Matthew 13:11, 16)
A BADLY NEEDED RETURN TO THE WORD OF GOD
What is truly the greatest need of the hour? Surely, it is a call to return to this most basic of beliefs- the regard of the Scriptures as the Word of God, and the sword of the Spirit! To go into battle without the sword of the Spirit is preposterous!