Topical Encyclopedia The concept of the "Sword of War and Contention" in the Bible is a powerful symbol representing conflict, division, and the judgment of God. Throughout Scripture, the sword is often used metaphorically to describe the consequences of sin, the division between righteousness and wickedness, and the divine judgment that befalls nations and individuals who turn away from God's commandments.Old Testament References In the Old Testament, the sword frequently appears as an instrument of divine judgment. For instance, in Leviticus 26:25, God warns the Israelites of the consequences of disobedience: "And I will bring a sword against you to execute the vengeance of the covenant." Here, the sword symbolizes the impending judgment and warfare that would come upon the people as a result of their unfaithfulness to the covenant with God. The prophet Ezekiel also speaks of the sword as a tool of divine retribution. In Ezekiel 21:9-11 , the Lord commands, "Son of man, prophesy and say, 'This is what the Lord says: A sword, a sword, sharpened and polished—sharpened for the slaughter, polished to flash like lightning!'" This passage underscores the inevitability and swiftness of God's judgment upon those who persist in rebellion. New Testament References In the New Testament, the sword takes on additional layers of meaning, particularly in the teachings of Jesus Christ. In Matthew 10:34 , Jesus declares, "Do not assume that I have come to bring peace to the earth; I have not come to bring peace, but a sword." This statement highlights the divisive nature of Christ's message, which calls individuals to make a definitive choice between following Him and adhering to worldly values. The "sword" here represents the spiritual and relational divisions that occur when one chooses to follow Christ wholeheartedly. The Apostle Paul also uses the imagery of the sword in his epistles. In Ephesians 6:17 , he instructs believers to "take the helmet of salvation and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God." In this context, the sword is a metaphor for the Word of God, which serves as a weapon in spiritual warfare, enabling believers to stand firm against the forces of evil. Symbolism and Theological Implications The sword as a symbol of war and contention carries significant theological implications. It serves as a reminder of the seriousness of sin and the reality of divine judgment. The presence of the sword in biblical narratives often signifies a call to repentance and a return to covenant faithfulness. It also emphasizes the cost of discipleship, as following Christ may lead to conflict with the world and even within one's own family. Moreover, the sword underscores the active role of believers in spiritual warfare. As Paul describes in Ephesians 6, the Word of God is a powerful tool for defending against spiritual attacks and advancing the kingdom of God. The sword, therefore, is not only a symbol of judgment but also of empowerment for those who are in Christ. In summary, the "Sword of War and Contention" in the Bible is a multifaceted symbol that conveys themes of judgment, division, and spiritual warfare. It serves as a sobering reminder of the consequences of sin and the call to live faithfully according to God's Word. Torrey's Topical Textbook Matthew 10:34Think not that I am come to send peace on earth: I came not to send peace, but a sword. Torrey's Topical Textbook Library The War of Truth Scriptures Showing the Sin and Danger of Joining with Wicked and ... The Holy War, On Mr. Rudyard Kipling and Making the World Small National Sins and Miseries The Preacher as a Man of the Word. Of the Loosing of the Devil, and of the Second and Greatest ... 1 Timothy vi. 7-Feb The Rebuilding of the Temple. The History of David Resources What are the weapons of righteousness in 2 Corinthians 6:7? | GotQuestions.orgWhat are watchmen in the Bible? | GotQuestions.org Why did God have the cherubim guard just the east side of Eden (Genesis 3:24)? | GotQuestions.org Sword: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Subtopics Sword: David's Army Equipped With Sword: To be Beaten Into Plowshares The Sword in Time of Peace Made Into Plough Shares The Sword in Time of War, Plough Shares Made Into The Sword of Deep Mental Affliction The Sword of Judicial Authority The Sword of Persecuting Spirit of the Wicked The Sword of Severe and Heavy Calamities The Sword of the End of the Wicked The Sword of the Justice of God The Sword of the Protection of God The Sword of the Tongue of the Wicked The Sword of the Word of Christ The Sword of War and Contention The Sword was Brandished Over the Head The Sword was One of God's Four Sore Judgments The Sword was Thrust Through Enemies The Sword was Used by Heathen Nations The Sword was Used by the Jews The Sword was Used by the Patriarchs The Sword was Used for Destruction of Enemies The Sword was Used for Punishing Criminals The Sword was Used for Self-Defence The Sword was Used: Sometimes for Self-Destruction The Sword: (Drawing of) of War and Destruction The Sword: (Living By) of Rapine The Sword: (Not Departing from One's House) of Perpetual Calamity The Sword: (Putting, Into Its Sheath) Peace and Friendship The Sword: Carried in a Sheath or Scabbard The Sword: Frequently had Two Edges The Sword: Hebrews Early Acquainted With Making of The Sword: Often Sent As a Punishment The Sword: Often Threatened As a Punishment The Sword: Sharpened and Furbished Before Going to War The Sword: Suspended from the Girdle The Sword: Those Slain By, Communicated Ceremonial Uncleanness Related Terms The-not-beloved (1 Occurrence) Kir'iath-je'arim (18 Occurrences) Kirjathjearim (17 Occurrences) Vine-dressers (18 Occurrences) Kirjath-jearim (17 Occurrences) Kibroth-hattaavah (5 Occurrences) |
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