How the Word comes alive (4/6/2023)
Hebrews 4:2 "For unto us was the gospel preached, as well as unto them: but the word preached did not profit them, not being mixed with faith in them that heard [it]." - KJV
The written word of God is the most universally available book in the world. But even with its availability, few take time to read it. They have all the time for other priorities, but not the word. And even with its reading, few more see the word coming alive and working in their lives, yet it is living and active, powerful beyond measure. Why is this so?
The scripture above gives some reasons. When those who hear don’t mix it with faith, the word will not profit or have effect. The word works by faith in those who believe. It is also by the Holy Spirit Who annoints it to make it sharp and powerful in effect. The apostles preached the word of God under the power of the Spirit and it cut into the hearts of the listeners, deeply convicting them. It is more than experience or head knowledge.
Whether a preacher or listener, the word affects both, being a double edged sword and searching people’s hearts and secrets. The Spirit makes the word come alive, touching real issues of life. This is how true transformation from the word comes. And a person will never be the same again. One reason the preaching becomes dull and the word appears lifeless, is that the preacher has left out the Holy Spirit Who empowers the word to convict and effect change.
Faith and the Holy Spirit make the word of God a powerful dynamite.
Acts 2:37 "When the people heard this, they were cut to the heart and said to Peter and the other apostles, “Brothers, what shall we do?”
Hebrews 4:12 "For the word of God is alive and active. Sharper than any double-edged sword, it penetrates even to dividing soul and spirit, joints and marrow; it judges the thoughts and attitudes of the heart."
Shalom children of God