“A threefold cord is not quickly broken” (Ecc. 4:12).
One strand of cord can be easily severed. Two strands of cord can be stretched and pulled until they split. But a threefold cord is not easily broken.
The New American Standard Bible reads: “A cord of three strands is not quickly torn apart.” Scripture never tells us exactly what these three strands symbolize. In a case like this, there is usually much conjecture. Listed below are several suggestions for what the threefold cord represents:
- HAM, SHEM, AND JAPHETH. Family ties. Man had a serious family rupture from the time of Adam to Noah. With his three sons to help him and each other, Noah (mankind) had a better chance of survival.
- ABRAHAM, ISAAC, AND JACOB. Covenant relationship. Naming these three and claiming the individual blessing upon them was like having a threefold benefit.
- THE LAW, THE PROPHETS, AND THE WRITINGS. Three divisions of the Old Testament. These three made up truth as revealed to Israel.
- FATHER, SON, AND HOLY GHOST. Threefold cord of deity. Nothing can sever or mar the unity of God.
- SPIRIT, SOUL, AND BODY. Triune nature of redeemed man. All three must be integrated and functioning in harmony in order for the believer to be at his best.
- MAN, WIFE, AND CHILD. Basic family unit. It has been proven that a child cements a marriage more than anything else.
- (YOUR INTERPRETATION.) I have left this one blank so you can send me your suggestions. I would be interested in your response.
Excerpt permission granted by Harrison House Publishers
Dick Mills was ordained at The International Church of the Foursquare Gospel in 1949. He and his wife Betty traveled as evangelists all over the United States, Canada, Mexico, Latin America, Europe, and Australia. Dick and Betty are now home in heaven.
In 1966 Dick and Betty became a part of the then-emerging Charismatic Renewal. Passing through all denominational barriers, Dick has had the opportunity to speak in thousands of churches of varied backgrounds all over the world.
He ministered within several Christian organizations, including the Full Gospel Business Men, Women's Aglow, Inter-church Renewal Catholic Pentecostals, mainline Charismatic groups, CBN and TBN television networks, and many other independent Christian TV stations.
Dick appeared on numerous radio talk shows, written several magazine articles, and spoke at many Bible conferences and universities. He served as an adjunct professor at six Schools of the Bible and Seminaries.
In addition, Dick authored and co-authored several books and tapes. Dick's ministry was characterized by the unique gifts God has blessed him with. His services informed, enlightened, and motivated people to a higher level of commitment to God.