Cut to the Heart

The book of Hebrews describes God’s Holy Word as “quick and powerful, and sharper than any two-edged sword” (Heb 4:12). This sword of truth is designed by God to reach the hearts of men and women. It is the “power of God unto salvation for everyone who believes” (Rom 1:16). It is not so much a two-handed war sword made to slay men (Heb 4:12 as well as Eph 6:17 actually use the Greek term for a short sword or dagger), but rather it is like the surgeon’s scalpel made to artfully take away the lies of Satan and cut out the cancer of sin. 

However, we see mankind at various times giving off different reactions to the truth. Some show remorse when confronted with their wrongdoings, they desire to see spiritual recovery and remission. They both believe and obey the word which has reached their heart – they are submissive. Others respond with anger, throwing up walls and making the surgeon’s work that much more difficult. They harden their hearts and refuse to accept the truth – they continue to rebel against God.

Peter delivered a sermon in Jerusalem on the Day of Pentecost. His message was confirmed by the power of Heaven (Acts 2:4-6, 16). He presented Jesus as the Messiah who was approved of God (Acts 2:22-24, 32-33). He declared the guilt of his listeners, showing their stains of sinful rebellion (Acts 2:36).

Those who heard Peter’s sermon were “cut to the heart” (Acts 2:37). The term for being cut or pricked here describes a piercing action, denoting agitation of the mind, especially as it would relate to remorse. We also see their godly sorrow evidenced when they asked what needed to be done. Rather than continuing to fight against God, the group here chose to gladly receive the word of truth – they believed and obeyed (Acts 2:41-47).

Stephen delivered a sermon in Jerusalem on another occasion. His message was also confirmed by the power of Heaven (Acts 6:8). He, like Peter, was preaching about Jesus the Christ (Acts 6:14; 7:37, 52). He, too, declared the guilt of his listeners (Acts 7:51-53).

Those who heard Stephen’s sermon were “cut to the heart” as well (Acts 7:54), but the term used here is different than what is found in Acts 2. This word describes being sawn asunder; being rent in two with vexation. Rather than having remorse, they were furious! They chose to reject the word of truth. They would not obey. Together, they stopped their ears, took hold of Stephen, carried him out of the city, and stoned him (Acts 7:57-58).

How do we react when we are cut to the heart? Certainly, God’s Word contains challenges for us and high standards which we struggle to meet. Will we harden our hearts, stop our ears, and continue to fight against our Creator? Or will we allow the surgeon’s blade to reach our hearts? Let us always be those who gladly receive the word of truth, to believe and obey it.