The Word
The word reveals the holiness and justice of God , and the requirements of his law , and its awful sanctions ; it also reveals , at the same time , his rich mercy and grace in Christ , and a way of deliverance and salvation through him , and is thus fitted to alarm sinners and give them peace ,- and thereby humble and soften them , and bring them to lie in the dust of self - abasement , at the foot of the Redeemer's cross . Hence , the Divine Word is represented as a hammer which breaks the rock in pieces ; as quick and powerful , and sharper than any two edged sword ; is mighty to the pulling down of strongholds , casting down imaginations , and bringing every thought to the obedience of Christ . It is equally evident that the ordinance of preaching is an instrumentality peculiarly suited for the dispensing of the Word to sinners - for bringing its awakening , convincing , humbling , and saving truths to bear on their minds . Neither the Word itself , however , nor the preac...