“For the word of God is alive and powerful. It is sharper than the sharpest two-edged sword, cutting between soul and spirit, between joint and marrow. It exposes our innermost thoughts and desires.” Hebrews 4v12

In verses 1-10 the author quotes and summarises some Old Testament passages and then in verse 11 gives an application for us. The authors method means that the “Word of God” being referred to is clearly the Bible and in particular the Old Testament – and this is not some dead and dusty book, but alive and powerful. It is relevant and pertinent.

Why is it “alive and powerful”? The clue is in 3v7 as the writer quotes Psalm 95 and says, “as the Holy Spirit says …”. The Holy Spirit breathed the whole of the Bible into existence through various authors which means the whole of the Bible is fully God’s Word and therefore as alive and powerful as his creation word.

How does it penetrate our deepest parts and “expose our innermost thoughts and desires”. The clue is in 10v15 as the writer is about to quote another OT verse, “The Holy Spirit also testifies to us about this …”. The Holy Spirit right now applies the Word to our inner being to bring conviction of sin and assurance of God’s promises to us.

May we read the Word in the presence of the Holy Spirit and allow the Word’s full power to be effective in our lives.

With love and blessing,

Roland