The Sword of the Lord (First Issue, 1934)

On September 28, 1934, evangelist John R. Rice—only 39 years old—mailed the first issue of The Sword of the Lord, persuaded that ink on paper could do more than inform: it could fortify local churches and press the gospel into homes where a preacher might never be welcomed. Born in 1895 and seasoned in evangelistic work during a restless American era, Rice believed God could use a weekly paper to call believers back to plain Bible preaching and earnest soul-winning.

John R. Rice and the Printed Pulpit

Rice’s “printed pulpit” addressed a time when many churches were drifting toward softened doctrine and uncertain conviction. The paper spoke candidly for the authority of Scripture, the necessity of the new birth, and public, fearless witness for Christ. Its tone was direct, but its aim was pastoral: to steady wavering saints, awaken careless hearers, and encourage weary workers. “Preach the word; be prepared in season and out of season…” (2 Timothy 4:2) captured the urgency behind its pages.

A Voice for Fundamentalism

The Sword of the Lord soon became the largest independent Christian weekly for years. Even critics on the liberal side conceded its influence, calling it the “voice of fundamentalism.” That label, for many readers, simply meant an unashamed insistence that God has spoken, that Christ saves, and that the church must not barter truth for applause. The paper highlighted revivals, testimonies, missions, and practical counsel for pastors—often urging them to stand with courage when standing was costly.

Courage, Contending, and Love

The heroism connected to this work was not spectacle but steadfastness: the daily decision to contend without becoming cruel, and to remain compassionate without becoming compromised. “Contend earnestly for the faith entrusted once for all to the saints” (Jude 1:3) framed its call, while “speaking the truth in love” (Ephesians 4:15) guarded its spirit. Through decades of distribution, God used this steady trumpet to strengthen churches, promote revival, and remind believers that bold faith and genuine love belong together.