Monday, May 21, 2012

Misunderstood Bible Passages, Part 6 of 47

TEXT: "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. And there is no creature hid from His sight, but all things are naked and open to the eyes of Him to whom we must give account. Seeing then that we have a great High Priest who has passed through the heavens, Jesus the Son of God, let us hold fast to our confession. For we do not have a High Priest who cannot sympathize with our weaknesses, but was in all points tempted as we are, yet without sin. Let us therefore come boldly to the throne of grace, that we may obtain mercy and find grace to help in time of need" (Hebrews 4:12-16).

IDEA: The Christ who knows us also represents us in heaven.

PURPOSE: To help listeners think about Christ the Word.

Have you ever noticed that when we think we know something, we stop thinking about it?

Let me read a familiar passage of Scripture to you and then ask some questions. The passage is Hebrews 4:12 - "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."

I. Some questions we have to answer about this familiar verse from the Bible:

What is the image the writer is using?

In this passage what is "the word of God"?

What is it usually taken to mean?

Does "The word of God" always mean the Bible?

In John 1:1-14 what does "The Word" refer to?

In Hebrews 1:13-14 is the writer referring to the Bible?

II. In its CONTEXT is Hebrews 4:12 referring to the Bible?

Look at the context of the passage. (So what? Why not stick with the written word of God?)

III. The following context provides great comfort to the Christian.

It is a disturbing reality that God knows us. He knows what we do and He knows why we do it (Hebrews 4:12-13).

The one who knows us prays for us and provides grace and mercy when we need it (Hebrews 4:14-16).