The Word of God Compared to a Hammer

By Benjamin Keach

Is not my word like as a fire? saith the LORD; and like a hammer that breaketh the rock in pieces?  Jeremiah 23:29

Simile

Parallel

I.  A Hammer is a fit instrument to break rocks, and beat stones in pieces

I.  The Word of God is prepared by the Almighty, a fit means to break in pieces the stony, and rocky hearts of sinners.

II.  A Hammer can do nothing of itself without the hand that uses it.

II.  The Word of God cannot of itself break in pieces the sinner’s heart:  God must use it by the hand of the Spirit, if ever it accomplish that for which he sent it.

III. According to the strength, design, and wisdom of the workman, a Hammer doth effect this or that.

III.  So according to the design, wisdom, and strength the Holy Ghost is please to put forth upon the heart of a sinner, is the nature of the work that is effected or accomplished thereby.

IV.  A Hammer is not only a fit instrument to break things in pieces withal; but also to drive home nails, and to clench and fasten them also.

IV.  So the Word of God in the hand of the Spirit is very useful to drive home and fasten (1.) the nails of conviction:  (2.) To drive home and fasten precepts; (3.) To drive home and fasten promises.  God is the great Master of assemblies, who fastens the words of the wise as goads and nails.  (Ecclesiastes 12:11)

Inferences