Hebrews 4:12, Killing with the Word

For the word of God is living and powerful, and sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing even to the division of soul and spirit, and of joints and marrow, and is a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart.

//This verse is often quoted by Bible-thumpers justifying their use of the Bible as as weapon, bludgeoning unbelievers into submission. But context shows this understanding to be in error; the sword in this verse is turned inward, not pointed at another. So that leads us to a question: What, exactly, is the word of God?

Is it the Bible? Is the written Word “living and powerful” speaking directly to our heart, as if it were written just for us?

Is the word of God Jesus? Does this mean the truth of Jesus cuts to the soul, exposing our need?

Is the word of God His spoken voice, the power which spoke the universe into existence? Does this awesome power humble us, drop us to our knees?

Maybe it’s all three.

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