Topical Bible: The Sword: (Putting, Into Its Sheath) Peace and Friendship

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In biblical literature, the imagery of the sword is often associated with conflict, judgment, and divine retribution. However, the act of putting the sword into its sheath symbolizes the cessation of hostilities, the establishment of peace, and the fostering of friendship. This theme is woven throughout Scripture, illustrating the transformative power of reconciliation and the divine call to live in harmony with one another.

One of the most poignant examples of this imagery is found in the prophetic writings of Ezekiel. In Ezekiel 21:30 , the Lord commands, "Return the sword to its sheath. In the place where you were created, in the land of your ancestry, I will judge you." Here, the sheathing of the sword signifies the end of judgment and the beginning of a period of reflection and potential restoration. It is a call to return to one's roots and to seek peace with God and others.

The New Testament further develops this theme through the teachings of Jesus Christ, who embodies the ultimate reconciliation between God and humanity. In the Garden of Gethsemane, when Peter draws his sword to defend Jesus, the Lord admonishes him, saying, "Put your sword back in its place. For all who draw the sword will die by the sword" (Matthew 26:52). This directive underscores the futility of violence and the higher calling to pursue peace.

The Apostle Paul echoes this sentiment in his epistles, urging believers to live peaceably with all people. In Romans 12:18 , he writes, "If it is possible on your part, live at peace with everyone." This exhortation reflects the Christian duty to seek reconciliation and to embody the peace of Christ in all relationships.

The act of sheathing the sword is not merely a cessation of physical conflict but also a metaphor for spiritual and relational peace. It calls believers to lay down their grievances, forgive one another, and cultivate friendships rooted in love and mutual respect. This is further illustrated in the reconciliation between Jacob and Esau in Genesis 33, where years of enmity are dissolved in a moment of heartfelt embrace.

In the broader biblical narrative, the ultimate vision of peace is depicted in the eschatological hope of the new creation, where swords will be beaten into plowshares, and nations will no longer learn war (Isaiah 2:4). This prophetic vision encapsulates God's redemptive plan to restore harmony to a fractured world.

In conclusion, the act of putting the sword into its sheath serves as a powerful biblical symbol of peace and friendship. It challenges believers to transcend conflict, embrace reconciliation, and live out the peace that Christ has secured through His sacrificial love. As followers of Christ, the call to sheath the sword is an invitation to participate in God's mission of restoring peace and unity in a broken world.

Torrey's Topical Textbook

Jeremiah 47:6
O you sword of the LORD, how long will it be ere you be quiet? put up yourself into your scabbard, rest, and be still.
Torrey's Topical Textbook

Library

The End of Cambyses.
... hand, which she slowly picked to pieces, putting the fragments ... As he bounded into
the saddle, with his mind in ... his headlong haste, fell from his sword, and the ...
//christianbookshelf.org/abbott/darius the great/chapter ii the end of.htm

Christian Meekness
... against his Majesty, the king instead of putting him to ... were more conquered by his
meekness than by his sword. ... soul, but passion puts the soul into a disorder. ...
/.../watson/the beatitudes an exposition of matthew 51-12/12 christian meekness.htm

The Preface to the Commandments
... the place, gave his people up to the sword, caused his ... In putting them out to service,
their care is chiefly ... to avoid affliction, they run themselves into sin. ...
//christianbookshelf.org/watson/the ten commandments/1 3 the preface to the.htm

Preface.
... Sooner that hero's sword the world had quell'd,. Than Reason, his ambition. ... And putting
all our present joys to death? ... For who receives him into public life? ...
//christianbookshelf.org/young/youngs night thoughts/preface.htm