Some followers of Christ tend to overemphasize the role of the devil, blaming him for every conflict, sin and problem. At the other extreme are those who completely ignore the fact that the Bible speaks about a battle against spiritual powers. In the light of these two extremes, it becomes important to help believers understand spiritual warfare. Many Christian authors have written about this topic and their books are sold at online stores today. Fighting against the enemies of God is part of establishing His kingdom. This is not carnal or fleshly aggression. It is using discernment, authority and unwavering faith to overcome evil.
The idea of having to fight is not something that is easily accepted. Wars have caused much devastation on earth. However, the scriptures use war imagery and so it cannot be ignored. An understanding of what is meant by this type of warfare can help. The apostle Paul urges Christians to war against the sin in themselves and against the evil one. So, what does he actually mean by this?
This is not a war of believers against other flesh and blood. It is not people fighting against other people. It does not take place on a battlefield where the enemy is visible. In this war, the enemy cannot be seen. The only way to fight this battle is by relying on Christ and His authority. It is only by believing in His promises that victory is possible.
In this battle, weapons like guns, bullets or bombs are not effective. Instead, Christians are instructed to use the weapons of truth, righteousness, peace, faith, salvation, prayer, and the word of God to fight the battle. In facing the battle against deception, temptations and accusations, their primary defense is their salvation and their primary offense is the sword of the Word. Jesus Himself used the Word to counter temptation.
The motivation for battle has to be love rather than hatred. Those who love their families are prepared to go to extraordinary lengths to protect them and fight for their welfare. Christ love for mankind goes beyond this and it is this great love that motivates believers.
The authority of God is not just given to His people for defensive maneuvers. Christ came to utterly destroy the works of evil. In His army there is no room for passivity. God has given his people the authority and the weapons required to win every battle even when the odds seem overwhelming.
Believers may become discouraged in the course of the battle. This is when faith and perseverance are essential. They need to turn to God to receive new strength instead of giving in to futility and giving up before victory is fully established.
Many Christians feel a sense of inadequacy when it comes to waging war. However, their strength lies in trusting God and not relying on their own strength. God has already won the victory. They simply have to believe this until it becomes a reality in their lives.
The idea of having to fight is not something that is easily accepted. Wars have caused much devastation on earth. However, the scriptures use war imagery and so it cannot be ignored. An understanding of what is meant by this type of warfare can help. The apostle Paul urges Christians to war against the sin in themselves and against the evil one. So, what does he actually mean by this?
This is not a war of believers against other flesh and blood. It is not people fighting against other people. It does not take place on a battlefield where the enemy is visible. In this war, the enemy cannot be seen. The only way to fight this battle is by relying on Christ and His authority. It is only by believing in His promises that victory is possible.
In this battle, weapons like guns, bullets or bombs are not effective. Instead, Christians are instructed to use the weapons of truth, righteousness, peace, faith, salvation, prayer, and the word of God to fight the battle. In facing the battle against deception, temptations and accusations, their primary defense is their salvation and their primary offense is the sword of the Word. Jesus Himself used the Word to counter temptation.
The motivation for battle has to be love rather than hatred. Those who love their families are prepared to go to extraordinary lengths to protect them and fight for their welfare. Christ love for mankind goes beyond this and it is this great love that motivates believers.
The authority of God is not just given to His people for defensive maneuvers. Christ came to utterly destroy the works of evil. In His army there is no room for passivity. God has given his people the authority and the weapons required to win every battle even when the odds seem overwhelming.
Believers may become discouraged in the course of the battle. This is when faith and perseverance are essential. They need to turn to God to receive new strength instead of giving in to futility and giving up before victory is fully established.
Many Christians feel a sense of inadequacy when it comes to waging war. However, their strength lies in trusting God and not relying on their own strength. God has already won the victory. They simply have to believe this until it becomes a reality in their lives.
No comments:
Post a Comment