In the first century, the Roman Empire kept the peace by the power of the sword and the cross.
With the sword, they could enforce the law and with the cross they could punish those who defied the Empire through intimidation and public humiliation.
In Christ's Kingdom, peace is also maintained by the power of the sword and the cross.
But in His Kingdom, the Sword of the Spirit sets people free, transforms them into the image of Christ and separates truth from error and light from darkness.
In His Kingdom, the cross crucifies our flesh, puts to death our sinful desires and unleashes the resurrection power of Christ so we can experience His new life within.
The Sword of the Spirit is the Word of God, and the Word of God is Christ. He speaks freedom and life. [see John 1:1; Heb. 4:12; Eph.6:17]
Pax Christus or Pax Romana - your choice.
As for me, I choose the power of Christ's sword that sets us free and the cross of Jesus that transforms and resurrects rather than the sword that kills and the power of humiliation.
What about you?
-kg
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"For the word of God is living and active and sharper than any two-edged sword, and piercing as far as the division of soul and spirit, of both joints and marrow, and able to judge the thoughts and intentions of the heart. And there is no creature hidden from His sight, but all things are open and laid bare to the eyes of Him with whom we have to do." - Hebrews 8:12-13
"And take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God." - Eph. 6:17
"In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God....and the Word became flesh and dwelt among us." - John 1:1; 14
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