Many of us grew up wondering about all of this weaponry language found in the church; onward Christian soldiers, the word of God as a sword, etc.  For someone like me that doesn't believe in violence, that language can be a little offensive.

But I've come to realize recently, as I work with my men's group, that the battle isn't about physical violence, it's about spiritual struggle.  The brave heart of the warrior is called up when standing for what is right, standing on your convictions means standing alone, or worse yet, recieving a wound in the battle.  John Eldredge says that every man needs three things; a battle to fight, a beauty to rescue and an adventure to live.  That battle to fight doesn't mean that we are lawless men of violence, but that we stand for integrity and truth and protect ourselves and our families spiritually.

It is the word of God; the Bible, that is our weapon in this battle; it guides us, protects us and at times chastizes us.  And that's where I think this passage is going.  I think it's a fancy way of saying; "The truth hurts!"  If you don't believe me, just try speaking the truth to someone and watch their reaction!