We can draw an analogy from this saying to mean that going through a process of contact with other iron; an enrichment of the iron occurs. We can conclude that at least two pieces of iron are the subject of this text. When iron blades are rubbed together, each becomes sharper and consequently more effective. As the friction increases, the heat between them increases, allowing them to create a spark. It may be difficult for iron to be rubbed together in that way however, the spark that results when fanned becomes a flame that cannot be contained. For it would be impossible for one piece of iron to become sharper, improved, or made better without the presence of the other. An already dull piece of iron left alone, would in effect result in there being two useless and dull pieces of iron.
The book of Proverbs is overflowing with knowledge and guidance about how to live a good life. God’s Word, not only teaches us to live godly lives; but also how to live as a community endeavoring to support each other grow in our faith in God, and fellowship with family in Christ. When believers are involved in each other’s lives, reciprocal enlightenment occurs. As “iron sharpens iron,” so one person sharpens another. One person can help another by their discussions, ideas, criticisms, and suggestions. We should consider ourselves fortunate to have at least one friend who will offer us honest criticism that will help improve our walk in Christ.
Scripture highlights the significance of being friends with quality people. Those who can help us broaden our worldview in addition to suggesting advice that can improve our conduct. To lack this kind of personal help, we can develop an inaccurately inflated outlook on our own views and behavior.
Two friends who bring their ideas together can help each other become sharper. God’s Word emphasizes the importance of making friends with quality people who live by biblical principle that can help us improve. Such friends can greatly expand our understanding; also offer feedback that can improve our behavior. Without this type of individual support, we can mistakenly cultivate an exaggerated picture of our own ideas and conduct.
As members of the body of Christ, it is our responsibility to sharpen brothers and sisters in Christ. We do this so the continual flame, provided by the Holy Spirit, forever burns in their hearts. As iron improves by the right kind of interaction with other iron, so a person is improved by the right kind of interaction with other people.
Proverbs 27:17
17 “Iron sharpeneth iron; so a man sharpeneth the countenance of his friend.”
Ecclesiastes 4:9-12
9 “Two are better than one; because they have a good reward for their labour.
10 For if they fall, the one will lift up his fellow: but woe to him that is alone when he falleth; for he hath not another to help him up.
11 Again, if two lie together, then they have heat: but how can one be warm alone?
12 And if one prevail against him, two shall withstand him; and a threefold cord is not quickly broken.”
Hebrews 4:12
12 “For the word of God is quick, and powerful, and sharper than any twoedged sword, piercing even to the dividing asunder of soul and spirit, and of the joints and marrow, and is a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart.”