Topical Encyclopedia The sword, a symbol of power and authority, is frequently mentioned in the Bible as a weapon used by heathen nations. Throughout the Scriptures, the sword represents both the physical might of these nations and the spiritual battles faced by the people of God. The use of the sword by heathen nations often serves as a backdrop to the unfolding narrative of God's redemptive plan for His people.In the Old Testament, the sword is depicted as a common instrument of warfare among the nations surrounding Israel. The Philistines, a perennial adversary of Israel, are often associated with the sword. In 1 Samuel 13:19-22, the Philistines' control over the production of iron weapons, including swords, highlights their military advantage over Israel: "Not a blacksmith could be found in all the land of Israel, because the Philistines had said, 'Otherwise the Hebrews will make swords or spears.'" The Assyrians, known for their military prowess and brutality, also wielded the sword as they expanded their empire. In Isaiah 10:5, the Lord refers to Assyria as "the rod of My anger," using them as an instrument of judgment against Israel. The sword, in this context, becomes a tool of divine discipline, as God allows heathen nations to execute His judgment upon His people for their disobedience. Babylon, another dominant power, is similarly depicted as a nation that uses the sword to conquer and subjugate. In Jeremiah 25:9, God declares, "I will summon all the families of the north," and specifically names Nebuchadnezzar, king of Babylon, as "My servant," to bring judgment upon Judah. The sword of Babylon becomes a means through which God enacts His sovereign will, demonstrating His control over the nations. The New Testament continues to reflect on the use of the sword by heathen nations, particularly in the context of Roman authority. The Roman Empire, known for its military strength and use of the sword, plays a significant role in the New Testament narrative. In Romans 13:4, the apostle Paul acknowledges the authority of the governing powers, stating, "For the one in authority is God’s servant for your good. But if you do wrong, be afraid, for rulers do not bear the sword for no reason." The sword, therefore, is not only a literal weapon but also a symbol of the authority and judgment wielded by heathen nations. It serves as a reminder of the temporal power of earthly kingdoms and the ultimate sovereignty of God over all nations. Throughout the biblical narrative, the sword used by heathen nations underscores the tension between human authority and divine providence, as God works through and in spite of these powers to accomplish His purposes. Torrey's Topical Textbook Judges 7:22And the three hundred blew the trumpets, and the LORD set every man's sword against his fellow, even throughout all the host: and the host fled to Bethshittah in Zererath, and to the border of Abelmeholah, to Tabbath. Torrey's Topical Textbook 1 Samuel 15:33 Library Guilt of Neglecting the Heathen. The Trial of Saul. The Wisdom of God in the Means Used to Propagate the Gospel. The Armour of God Means to be Used with Sinners. In Palestine - Jews and Gentiles in the Land' - their Mutual ... The Quotation in Matt. Ii. 6. Missionary Hymns. The Fourth vision "In Heaven" Boniface, Apostle of the Germans. Resources Who was Ehud? | GotQuestions.orgWas Jesus a pacifist? | GotQuestions.org What does the Bible say about conscientious objection? | GotQuestions.org Sword: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Subtopics Sword: David's Army Equipped With Sword: To be Beaten Into Plowshares The Sword in Time of Peace Made Into Plough Shares The Sword in Time of War, Plough Shares Made Into The Sword of Deep Mental Affliction The Sword of Judicial Authority The Sword of Persecuting Spirit of the Wicked The Sword of Severe and Heavy Calamities The Sword of the End of the Wicked The Sword of the Justice of God The Sword of the Protection of God The Sword of the Tongue of the Wicked The Sword of the Word of Christ The Sword of War and Contention The Sword was Brandished Over the Head The Sword was One of God's Four Sore Judgments The Sword was Thrust Through Enemies The Sword was Used by Heathen Nations The Sword was Used by the Jews The Sword was Used by the Patriarchs The Sword was Used for Destruction of Enemies The Sword was Used for Punishing Criminals The Sword was Used for Self-Defence The Sword was Used: Sometimes for Self-Destruction The Sword: (Drawing of) of War and Destruction The Sword: (Living By) of Rapine The Sword: (Not Departing from One's House) of Perpetual Calamity The Sword: (Putting, Into Its Sheath) Peace and Friendship The Sword: Carried in a Sheath or Scabbard The Sword: Frequently had Two Edges The Sword: Hebrews Early Acquainted With Making of The Sword: Often Sent As a Punishment The Sword: Often Threatened As a Punishment The Sword: Sharpened and Furbished Before Going to War The Sword: Suspended from the Girdle The Sword: Those Slain By, Communicated Ceremonial Uncleanness Related Terms The-not-beloved (1 Occurrence) Kir'iath-je'arim (18 Occurrences) Kirjathjearim (17 Occurrences) Vine-dressers (18 Occurrences) Kirjath-jearim (17 Occurrences) Kibroth-hattaavah (5 Occurrences) |
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