Proverbs 27:17

Iron sharpens iron, So one man sharpens another. This verse, as a maxim, is self explanatory. Nevertheless, in its simplicity lies instruction that may have an enormous impact on our spiritual walk with the Lord. God "grows" us using various methods such as our devotional time in the Word with Him, or He may use a sermon we heard on the radio while running errands in our car. Perhaps it is a trial in our life, or a friends, that He is allowing. Or, we may be reading a Christian book that we find edifying. God can use our prayers to grow us, praise music, persecution, sorrow, joy, the assembly (church), or anything else if we are willing.

One method that is sure to produce growth is fellowship within the body of Christ. The Greek word for fellowship is defined; association, a gift jointly contributed, joint participation. That is what our verse is about, fellowship for the purpose of doctrinally sound growth. Equipping us as instruments useful to God, thus His glory abounds. Again, fellowship; association (members of the body of Christ), a gift jointly contributed (understanding of things Holy are a "gift" from God to be shared) joint participation ( learning from, and teaching each other). Sadly, the churches that have been led astray are often the ones that are attended by folks that do not share the Word of God.

By inference we may conclude from this verse that the "iron" sharpening the "iron" are two like materials (Christians) honing each other to sharpness, facilitating a useful purpose. Conversely, "dullness" of iron possesses little, if any, usefulness. This action, Iron sharpens iron... in the context of fellowship requires personal contact. Often, pleasure as well as profit are derived from discourse that takes place in person. These occasions can reveal nuance's in speech and mannerisms that contribute to insight and understanding. The analogy of an ember within a fire that burns bright and hot, if moved off to the side by itself will eventually become cold, is often true among those who neglect fellowship in Christ.

Brothers and sisters in Christ, let's grow in Gods grace, wisdom, knowledge and understanding. For the word of God is living, and active, and sharper than any two-edged sword, and piercing even to the dividing of soul and spirit, of both joints and marrow, and quick to discern the thoughts and intents of the heart. (Heb 4:12). And as iron sharpens iron, let us sharpen one another.

To God be the glory