The Living, Active Word

I think it’s safe to say that most of us have heard, or even memorized Hebrews 4:12:

For the word of God is living and active, sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing to the division of soul and of spirit, of joints and of marrow, and discerning the thoughts and intentions of the heart. (Hebrews 4:12 ESV)

Many sermons have been preached , and will continue to be preached, on this passage. It is important that we remember and are reminded about the power and efficacy of God’s Word. Today, I’d like to focus on the first phrase, “...the word of God is living and active.” But, what exactly does this mean?

While I usually prefer to refer primarily to Greek-English dictionaries (lexicons) for word studies, I think the English dictionaries are especially helpful for the first term. For “living,” the definitions include such things as, “being alive; active or thriving; vigorous; strong; lively; flourishing.” The second term, translated “active” in ESV, NASB, and NIV, and “powerful” in KJV and NKJV, is the word from which we get the term “energy.”

These aren’t terms normally used of/for the written word. But, God’s Word is more than just written word! It has the power to change lives and point us toward eternal life in Jesus Christ. In short, the Word is ALIVE!

I know that I have mentioned lyrics from the group Casting Crowns a lot lately. That’s because their lyrics have really impressed me, and they ring so true. Take a look at the chorus from one more of their songs:

The Word is alive
And it cuts like a sword through the darkness
With a message of life to the hopeless and afraid
Breathing life into all who believe
The Word is alive

Praise God, the Word is ALIVE … vigorous, full of energy, and still changing lives everyday! Remember that truth every time you open the Bible, and see what God will teach you today.
In His grip,
Pastor Decker