True Seeing
True discernment between good and evil is only possible through spiritual maturity, which is gained through experience and the power of God's Word.
Norman Grubb delves into the intricate discernment between good and evil, emphasizing that only the mature, through practice and experience, can truly distinguish between the two. He connects this concept to Hebrews 4:12, highlighting how the Word of God is sharp and powerful, capable of penetrating deep into the soul and spirit, revealing the subtle differences within. This verse suggests that the Word of God operates at such a profound level that it can separate even the soul from the spirit, showcasing the depth of its discerning power.
Text
There are such subtleties in the discernment between good and evil that it is only the mature, who by reason of use by exercise and experience, are able to discern. That is linked up in the previous chapter where it refers to, "For the Word of God is quick, and powerful and sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing even to the dividing asunder of soul and spirit . . . ." Hebrews 4:12. That's such a fine point. It almost implies that the Word of God can hardly get there. It even divides there between soul and spirit. That's very subtle.
Karuizawa Japan Conference of 1954
Sermon Outline
- The Importance of Discernment
- The Power of God's Word
- The Word of God is quick and powerful
- The Word of God is sharper than any two-edged sword
- The Word of God can pierce even the soul and spirit
Key Quotes
“That's such a fine point. It almost implies that the Word of God can hardly get there.” — Norman Grubb
“The Word of God is quick, and powerful and sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing even to the dividing asunder of soul and spirit . . . .” — Norman Grubb
Application Points
- To develop discernment, we must seek spiritual maturity through experience, exercise, and use.
- God's Word is a powerful tool for discernment, able to cut through and divide between the soul and spirit.
- We must not rely on our own abilities, but on the power of God's Word to guide us in discerning good and evil.