Thursday, April 18, 2024
HomeMust ReadWhat Does Iron Sharpens Iron Mean In The Bible

What Does Iron Sharpens Iron Mean In The Bible

What Is The Best Proverb

What Does Iron Sharpens Iron Mean? (Proverbs 27)

150 Common English Proverbs with Meanings and ExamplesA bad workman always blames his tools. A bird in hand is worth two in the bush. Absence makes the heart grow fonder. A cat has nine lives. A chain is only as strong as its weakest link. Actions speak louder than words. A drowning man will clutch at a straw. Adversity and loss make a man wise.More itemsMay 6, 2021

The Holy Spirit Convicts And The Word Of God Sharpens

God can use the wounds of a friend to sharpen us, motivate us, and to provide some accountability for our lives. However, true victory and lasting progress comes only from God Himself. Hebrews 4:12 says, The word of God is alive and active. Sharper than any double-edged sword, it penetrates even to dividing soul and spirit, joints and marrow it judges the thoughts and attitudes of the heart.

The familiar verses in 2 Timothy 3:16-17 shed some light on this, All Scripture is inspired by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, for training in righteousness so that the man of God may be adequate, equipped for every good work.

Notice the progression steps in this text. Biblical principles are profitable for doctrine, or the systematic teaching of Gods Word, but Gods Word is also beneficial or helpful for three other things reproof, correction, instruction in righteousness. God can and will use the iron sharpening iron process of good friends to help us in our walk for Him. But, most certainly God will use the convicting power of His Holy Spirit and the word of God to rebuke us of the sinful and harmful practices in our lives. But God never just points out weaknesses without providing a solution. Gods word will help us correct the problem and will provide the step-by-step instructions we need to go on living in righteousness.

What Does Iron Sharpens Iron Mean

Mel Walker from Christianity.comsays, The concept of iron sharpening iron obviously implies at least two pieces of iron. It would be impossible for one tool to become sharper without the presence of the other. Left alone, both blades would be dull and quite useless.

During this time of COVID and isolation, people around the world are feeling lonelier than ever. Many churches are unable to meet in person and their congregants are suffering. Pastors and leaders of ministries are having to make difficult decisions that affect those in their care. However, we were created for community and it is vital that we reach out and continue relationship building in this trial.

Genesis 2:18 says, The LORD God said, It is not good for the man to be alone. I will make a helper suitable for him. God the Father Himself has lived in community with Jesus and the Holy Spirit since before the beginning of time. They all have perfect unity. We were created in their image and are blessed when we choose to model their emphasis on relationships with others.

Read Also: Omer Definition Bible

Be The Person Who Is Above Reproach

1 Timothy 3:12 says, Here is a trustworthy saying: Whoever aspires to be an overseer desires a noble task. Now the overseer is to be above reproach, faithful to his wife, temperate, self-controlled, respectable, hospitable, able to teach, not given to drunkenness, not violent but gentle, not quarrelsome, not a lover of money.

You dont have to have a leadership position in your church to be a leader in peoples lives. But to lead, you must be above reproach. No one is perfect, but that doesnt mean you shouldnt strive for Gods standards. After all, He gave us the Holy Spirit to empower us to walk the difficult walk of faithfulness.

Be the person whose life will be without blemish before the Lord. Dont give yourself over to lustful pleasures. Be abundant in the fruits of the Spirit. Put God before the temporary things in life, and you will be ready to be the person who sharpens others.

Is There Anywhere Else In The Bible That Talks About Iron

IRON SHARPENS IRON  Steemkr

There are plenty of other places in Scripture that mention the word iron. Many times iron is simply referring to an element used in building structures and craftsmanship .

In the Old Testament, tools made of iron were not to be used on the stone altars . The Caananites were known to have chariots of iron . Iron was even used in the building of the temple during the time of Solomon .

Don’t Miss: Chronological Order Of Books In The Bible

The Person Must Be Attached To The Vine

People attached to God are receiving their nutrients from the source of life and are watering the spiritual seeds planted at conversion. The person you see the most love, joy, peace and patience and other fruits of the Spirit is probably a good candidate to enter into a deeper spiritual relationship.

Now that you have learned from someone who is regularly sharpening himself, how do you become the person who sharpens others in return?

Ok So What Does As Iron Sharpens Iron Mean

Blacksmith uses medieval style of anvil in his craft

17 Iron sharpeneth iron so a man sharpeneth the countenance of his friend. ~ Pr 27:17

Good mens graces are sharpened by converse with those that are good, and bad mens lusts and passions are sharpened by converse with those that are bad, as iron is sharpened by its like, especially by the file. Men are filed, made smooth, and bright, and fit for business , by conversation.

that is, conversation promotes intelligence, which the face exhibits.

Recommended Reading: Troubled Hearts Bible Verses

What Are Famous Proverbs

10 English proverbs you should use in your speechAn apple a day keeps the doctor away.Its better to be safe than sorry.Better late than never.Actions speak louder than words.You catch more flies with honey than with vinegar.Dont judge a book by its cover.Cleanliness is next to Godliness.The early bird catches the worm.More items

Iron Sharpens Iron: A Principle Of Relationship

Bible Q& A: What does ‘Iron sharpeneth Iron’ really mean?

The concept of iron sharpening iron obviously implies at least two pieces of iron. It would be impossible for one tool to become sharper without the presence of the other. Left alone, both blades would be dull and quite useless. This simple Proverb illustrates an important biblical principle. God expects us to live and serve in a community of other believers , and He desires for us to build loving and growing relationships with others .

The process of helping someone else improve their effectiveness absolutely requires a positive relationship. Earlier in this same chapter it says, Faithful are the wounds of a friend, but deceitful are the kisses of an enemy. We know this concept to be true. It is much better to accept Godly advice or even constructive criticism from someone we know, someone we love, and someone we know that cares about us, than it is from a stranger or simple acquaintance. We want to know that the person giving us the counsel has our best interest at heart. Friends may indeed wound us at times, but we can understand and appreciate their genuine motives. Conversely, the kisses from enemies fall flat and we can imagine their devious hypocrisy.

Also Check: What Foods Does The Bible Say To Eat

The Journey Of Servant Leadership: Iron Sharpens Iron

Each day I reflecting upon the journey of servant leadership, what I now define as relational leadership. Although I certainly do not intend to make this a post with any religious overtones, Ive found the bible has an amazing quote that shapes my thinking on this topic. Proverbs 27:17 proclaims: As iron sharpens iron, so one person sharpens another. This simple statement has been a calling for all these years to understand that no one is alone. That in order to make yourself better, there is a mutual benefit making others better through mentorship, follower-ship, and leading.

Iron sharpening Iron from a practical standpoint means there is a tremendous benefit to rubbing blades together, forging, making the edges sharper and efficient. Iron will be in some form or shape at all times, but it is what you do with it that makes the difference. The more time you spend paying attention to the tools that you have and the way you forge your relationships and presence, the stronger the other objects become.

Facebook Notice for EU!

What Is The Process Of Sharpening Iron

Unlike honing rods, whetstones do not bend and realign dull edges they create new ones. When the blade is ground against the stone’s surface, small, dull portions of the blade are removed, making the surface sharper and clearing the dull section. By removing the dull metal on the blade’s edge, a new edge is formed.

Don’t Miss: What Does Bible Say About Cremation Vs Burial

What Does It Mean To Sharpen Someone

transitive verb/intransitive verb. If your senses, understanding, or skills sharpen or are sharpened, you become better at noticing things, thinking, or doing something. Her gaze sharpened, as if she had seen something unusual. He will need to sharpen his diplomatic skills in order to work with Congress.

Whats The Meaning Of Proverbs 27 14

Iron sharpens Iron

Biblical Translations of Proverbs 27:14 If anyone loudly blesses their neighbor early in the morning, it will be taken as a curse. NLT. A loud and cheerful greeting early in the morning will be taken as a curse! ESV. Whoever blesses his neighbor with a loud voice, rising early in the morning, will be counted as cursing

Don’t Miss: What Does The Bible Say On Masturbation

Be The Person Who Is A Part Of The Vine

Church attendance is a must, but so is meeting a deep need for connection and community. I believe one of the unique ways the Church shines in the world is because it meets the need for connection and community more than anywhere else. People find their sense of purpose and place themselves in a position to serve in the church.

The process of finding someone and sharpening others in return can be difficult. But its worth it if both parties receive spiritual benefit that moves them towards Christ.

Michelle S. Lazurek is an award-winning author, speaker, pastor’s wife and mother. Winner of the Golden Scroll Children’s Book of the Year, the Enduring Light Silver Medal and the Maxwell Award, she is a member of the Christian Author’s Network and the Advanced Writers and Speakers Association. She is also an associate literary agent with Wordwise Media Services. For more information, please visit her website at michellelazurek.com.

What Does It Mean When Iron Sharpens Iron

4.1/5iron sharpens ironshould

Similarly one may ask, can Iron sharpens iron?

So yes, given what the ancient writers knew as “iron” , one could indeed “sharpeniron implements with other iron implements.

Similarly, what is dull iron? ‘As iron sharpens iron, so one person sharpens another. ‘ The iron in the proverb improves by being sharpened. The assumption is that the ‘iron‘ is a knife or a saw or an axe, or some other iron tool where effectiveness increases with sharpness.

People also ask, what does the Bible say about iron?

Deuteronomy 28:23And thy heaven that over thy head shall be brass, and the earth that is under thee iron.

How does a blacksmith sharpen iron?

A blacksmith hammers the steel so that the edge stays thick. After the “heat-treat” and “temper”, stones are used to grind the blade edge to make it sharp. If a blacksmith has a piece of iron or steel, but does not know which one it is, the blacksmith can heat-treat it like steel.

Recommended Reading: Fear Not Is In The Bible How Many Times

Spiritual Sharpening Between Believers

However, with all that said, this passage has often been applied to two believers sharpening each other spiritually. That, through our interactions with other believers, we can strengthen each other’s faith, improve each other’s character and sharpen each other.

This concept can be gleaned from the passage. Through our interactions with others, we can sharpen one anothers outward expression . This interpretation is not outside the realm of possibility, but requires a little more reading into the passage.

So whether you take it literally, or perhaps more metaphorically, one important principle to keep in mind with this passage is that it discusses the sharpening of ones countenance. That there is an improvement to their current state. It also specifies this interaction as occurring between close companions.

What Is The Most Famous Proverb

What does the Bible say about Friendship?? | “Iron Sharpens Iron” | AXIOM Series [iBeleiveBible]

Here they are:

  • A bad workman always blames his tools.
  • A bird in hand is worth two in the bush.
  • Absence makes the heart grow fonder.
  • A cat has nine lives.
  • A chain is only as strong as its weakest link.
  • Actions speak louder than words.
  • A drowning man will clutch at a straw.
  • Adversity and loss make a man wise.
  • Also Check: Does The Bible Forbid Tattoos

    What Is The Meaning Of Proverbs 27 20

    Proverb for the Day 27:20 Never Enough!!! Death and Destruction are never satisfied, and neither are human eyes. This wise saying offers an interesting comparison between death and destruction two forces of the natural world and human eyes. The point is that all three are never satisfied.

    In The Bible Iron Sharpens Iron

    Asked by: Mr. Orlando Terry DVM

    Proverbs 27:17, Iron sharpens iron, and one man sharpens the face his neigh- bor, is almost universally seen as positive. Some view this maxim as an example of tough love, others as a rewording of a verse earlier in this passage, Faithful are the wounds of a friend .

    Also Check: Books Of The Bible In Historical Order

    Be The Person Who Matures In Her Faith

    You cant give what you dont have. You cant sharpen unless you are being sharpened yourself. Be fluent in the word of God, so that when a less mature Christian needs wisdom, it is on the tip of your tongue. Be in communion with God, both talking and listening to Him, so that when someone needs to know what God is saying, you can guide them to hear from Him. Paul told Timothy to be an example for the believers. Likewise, be an example for those around you.

    The Person Must Not Be A Recent Convert

    Proverbs 27 Iron Sharpens Iron Scripture Print Bible Verse ...

    Find someone who has been seeking the Lord for a few years, not someone who has just accepted the Lord. 1 Timothy 3:6 says, He must not be a recent convert, or he may become conceited and fall under the same judgment as the devil. Recent converts are not familiar enough with the Word to practically apply it to his life, allowing his heart to be filled with pride at being elevated to such a high position. Choose someone who is in tune with the Spirit enough to guide you in the right path.

    Read Also: Sanctified Biblical Definition

    Proverbs 2: 17 Translation & Meaning

    What does this verse really mean? Use this table to get a word-for-word translation of the original Hebrew Scripture. This shows the English words related to the source biblical texts along with brief definitions. Follow the buttons in the right-hand column for detailed definitions and verses that use the same root words. Use this reference information to gain deeper insight into the Bible and enrich your understanding. Information based on Strong’s Exhaustive Concordance.

    KJV Verse

    What Is The Meaning Of Open Rebuke Is Better Than Secret Love

    The Bible says, Open rebuke is better than secret love. Faithful are the wounds of a friend but the kisses of an enemy are deceitful (Pro. An open rebuke is a sign of true friendship. It happens when theres a one-on-one encounter between friends and one friend tells the other of his faults to his face, in private.

    Recommended Reading: Bible Race Mixing

    As Iron Sharpens Iron So One Person Sharpens Another

    With todays post we complete our August journey through some of the Bibles proverbs. Great quotations in their own right. And worthy of attention and incorporation into our lives. Their wisdom has stood the test of time, and the principles they cite are as relevant today as when they were first writtennow more than three millennia ago. Proverbs 27:17 teaches through analogy, as many of the proverbs do. Lets look at the primary analogy and then draw some conclusions implied by the proverb.

    The primary analogy is about improvement through process. As iron improves by the right kind of interaction with other ironso a person is improved by the right kind of interaction with another person. The iron in the proverb improves by being sharpened. The assumption is that the iron is a knife or a saw or an axe, or some other iron tool where effectiveness increases with sharpness. This principle is then applied by way of analogy to human relationships. That one person becomes more effective through the right kind of interaction with another person. As with all analogies there are limits. But the main point is clear and beyond dispute. Lets look at some implications from this proverb.

    You can receive Quotation Celebration automatically in your email inbox by clicking the follow button at the bottom of this screen and leaving your email address.

    If you have commentsfeel free to share them. Thank you for reading Quotation Celebration.

    What Is The Context Of Proverbs 2: 17 And Iron Sharpens Iron

    Iron Sharpens Iron / you are not better others (Proverbs 27)

    It is important when trying to understand the meaning of a Bible verse to look at the entire passage surrounding it. The challenge with Proverbs is that at first glance, the chapters appear to be a conglomeration of random advice put together. Proverbs 27 encompasses greater themes of community, authenticity, and provision.

    Proverbs 27:4-5 says, Better is open rebuke than hidden love. Wounds from a friend can be trusted, but an enemy multiplies kisses.

    Proverbs 27:10-11 says, Do not forsake your friend or a friend of your family, and do not go to your relatives house when disaster strikes you better a neighbor nearby than a relative far away. Be wise, my son, and bring joy to my heart then I can answer anyone who treats me with contempt.

    Proverbs 27:15-16 says, A quarrelsome wife is like the dripping of a leaky roof in a rainstorm restraining her is like restraining the wind or grasping oil with the hand.

    These are just a few verses leading up to iron sharpens iron in verse 17. Proverbs 27 is teaching the value of honest relationships that ultimately help us become more like Christ. Solomon shared about finding authentic friendship, dealing delicately with friend and family struggles, and the dangers of a wife who picks fights. I believe friendship, family, and marriage are three of the key areas that can sharpen us the most.

    Recommended Reading: How Many Times Does Bible Say Fear Not

    RELATED ARTICLES

    Most Popular