In the ancient world, Hittite craftsmen made bows by layering materials that were held together by a simple, but surprisingly strong glue. The “composite” design shot arrows faster and made the bow more durable. Modern technology has made many improvements, but the composite principle discovered long ago still applies (the different properties of each piece forming a strong, diverse union). In the body of Christ, we’re gifted differently and placed together for strength. 1 Corinthians 12 describes it this way:
“There are diversities of gifts, but the same Lord. There are differences of ministry, but the same Spirit. There are diversities of activities, but it is the same God who works all in all.” – 1 Corinthians 12:4-6 NKJV
As a disciple, it’s important to know your strengths and weaknesses. One person may be the wood, and another may be the glue holding it all together. With each having an important job to do, if a component fails, others are affected. On the other hand, when those on either side are strong, the one in-between is supported. We all have purpose because we’re all being fashioned together by the Master Carpenter. May we be strong together today…
cchrisholland 
Although it doesn’t add to your focus, the Hittites were also the masters of steel making. They took small ingots from India and made swords of ‘Damascus Steel’. Rather than laminate, they’d hammer and fold. They have never been able to perfectly duplicate the process since, but the Damascus blades held an edge better than anything made today. Legend says that the final quench of the hot blade was to run it through a slave. — I used to teach steel making and would through in history lessons now and then.
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That’s great info. They were definitely skilled. I once saw a documentary investigating Hittite bows found in Pharaoh tombs. When they replicated their construction, the feet-per-second of the arrows was incredibly fast. According to the historians, only the British Long Bow (centuries later of course) rivaled the speed and piercing power.
Thanks for commenting!
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Reblogged this on Talmidimblogging.
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