The Sword of the Spirit: Authority With Accountability

The Bible tells us to put on the full armor of God. When the armor is described, it mentions multiple things we are to put on: the belt of truth, the breastplate of righteousness, the shield of faith, and the helmet of salvation. However, there is only one weapon mentioned—the sword of the Spirit, which is the Word of God.

The sword referenced in this Scripture, and in other places in the Bible, is often described as a double-edged sword. I have heard this phrase many times; however, I don’t believe I fully understood what a double-edged sword truly was. Although Paul does not explicitly say “double-edged sword” in this particular passage, when we consider the historical context and the soldiers he may have been observing at the time of his writing, they would have been Roman soldiers. Historically, it is believed that Roman soldiers carried double-edged swords.

The Bible also references a double-edged, or two-edged, sword in multiple places. For example, Hebrews 4:12 says: “For the word of God is living and active, sharper than any double-edged sword, piercing until it divides soul and spirit, joints and marrow; it judges the thoughts and purposes of the heart.”

While it is powerful for us as believers to know the power of God’s Word, we must also be assured that we are those He declares worthy to carry it. A double-edged sword is sharp on both sides and therefore presents a risk to the one who wields it. It must be used with discipline and control; a loss of balance could cause injury to the one who thrusts it forward. It judges the enemy, but it also judges the one who holds it. A double-edged sword examines both the opponent and the defender. It carries both authority and accountability.

We must always remember—and it is humbling to know—that truth and judgment apply to us all.

The Armor of God — Ephesians 6:10–17

10 Finally, be strong in the Lord and in His mighty power.11 Put on the full armor of God, so that you can take your stand against the devil’s schemes.12 For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms.13 Therefore put on the full armor of God, so that when the day of evil comes, you may be able to stand your ground, and after you have done everything, to stand.14 Stand firm then, with the belt of truth buckled around your waist, with the breastplate of righteousness in place,15 and with your feet fitted with the readiness that comes from the gospel of peace.16 In addition to all this, take up the shield of faith, with which you can extinguish all the flaming arrows of the evil one.17 Take the helmet of salvation and the sword of the Spirit, which is the Word of God.

Prayer

Father, in the name of Jesus, we thank You for Your mercy and grace. We thank You for Your protection and provision. We thank You for salvation, for Your love, and for the way You love us.

Father, we repent for the known and unknown things that may hinder our walk with You. We repent for any way we have misused Your Word or for any way our lives have reflected imbalance and a lack of discipline in how we have carried it.

We ask for wisdom and clarity, and for the Holy Spirit to guide us as we read and study Your Word.

In the name of Jesus, we pray. Amen.

Carrying the Word with care,

Shaunda D.