“For the word of God is quick, and powerful, and sharper than any twoedged sword, piercing even to the dividing asunder of soul and spirit, and of the joints and marrow, and is a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart.”
Hebrews 4:12
“Actions speak louder than words.” How many times have you heard people say it as if speaking loudly was the same as telling the truth? Actions are as easily misinterpreted as words. In point of fact, actions can be as duplicitous as any other form of communication. While He did not say to believe everything you hear, Jesus pointed out to His disciples that “from the abundance of the heart, the mouth speaketh”, but I digress. We are speaking of the veracity of actions.
Let me point you to the actions of one extremely well known deceiver. He was a worker of miracles and a defeater of devils. He was chosen by Jesus and sent out with power to be numbered with those who returned proclaiming, “Lord, even the devils are subject unto us through thy name”.
I am speaking of Judas Iscariot of whom Jesus would later reveal, “Have I not chosen you twelve, and one of you is a devil?” Clarence Larkin, in his commentary on this verse, argues for the definite article with the word devil. That is, not a devil, but the (as in one and only) devil.
Let’s add one more familiar passage that appears in red in those old-fashioned Bibles. “Many will say to me in that day, Lord, Lord, have we not prophesied in thy name? and in thy name cast out devils? And in thy name done many wonderful works? And then will I profess unto them, I never knew you: depart from me, ye that work iniquity.”
What then is the best measure of the truth? Our text gives us a clue. The word “quick” does not mean fast. It means alive—like that part of your nail that hurts when cut. While it is sharp enough to separate soul and spirits, joints and marrow, it discerns (to see and understand the difference) thoughts and intents.
No matter what you say or do, the motivation behind it is known to God and can be brought to light with the application of His living word. Study the true Word (Jesus) and you will come to recognize falsehood in all its forms.
Maranatha
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