The Sword of Christ

Yes, Jesus rode into Jerusalem peacefully, riding a humble donkey, bringing salvation. But He came wielding a sword. After clearing the temple, He withdrew His Sword of Truth.

He made my mouth like a sharpened sword,
in the shadow of his hand he hid me;
he made me into a polished arrow
and concealed me in his quiver.
[Is 49:2]

These truths He directed at the religious leaders. He leveled stern rebukes against their sins and duplicity. He did not back down even though He knew full well their hearts intent to kill Him. Neither was He concerned with popularity. He boldly confronted their corruption for He was well aware that time was of the essence.

"...for this I came into the world,
to testify to the truth.
Everyone on the side of truth listens to me."
~Jesus

In Matthew 23 Jesus delivers eight sharp "Woe to you..." statements to the religious elite. Five times He called them "blind fools." He also called them "hypocrites," "snakes," and a "brood of vipers". This intense confrontation was necessary to breech the fortified walls they had built up around their hearts - and God.

This tirade ensured retribution. But souls were at stake and that is precisely what He came to save.

For the word of God is living 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.
[Heb 4:12]

Truth that cuts deep has two potential responses; repentance or rebellion. With the threat of losing their power and position, most chose the later - all the while hiding under the guise of peace-keeping and law-protecting. This reproof fueled the flame of resentment for destruction rather than truth-acceptance.

My hope in this lesson is that one on-looker present that day took heed and repented. I know His words of truth spoken in these passages have for me. What about you?

Dear God of Truth; I praise Your All-Powerful Word. I praise You for Your indisputable truth. May the words of Christ always prick and mold my heart. May they bring about awareness, acceptance, and change. May I be a careful steward to use Your Word wisely, properly, and truthfully; bringing others closer to You. In Christ Holy Name I pray. Amen.