4:12 word of God Refers to God’s speech, His word(s)—specifically those referred to in the previous context (Psa 95:7–11).
living and active This recalls the description of God in Heb 3:12. The word of God is able to examine and judge those who hear it. It will accomplish its purpose (Isa 55:11).
double-edged sword A weapon of warfare. The word of God can penetrate the immaterial and the material—meaning the whole person.
Barry, J. D., Mangum, D., Brown, D. R., Heiser, M. S., Custis, M., Ritzema, E., … Bomar, D. (2012, 2016).
Faithlife Study Bible (Heb 4:12). Bellingham, WA: Lexham Press.