The article "Christians, Soldiers" by Philip Henry focuses on the Christian's life as a spiritual warfare, emphasizing the necessity of spiritual armor for protection against worldly and spiritual enemies. Key arguments include the call to vigilance in the face of temptation, the importance of prayer as the foundation for spiritual readiness, and the need for unity and perseverance among believers. Scripture references, such as Ephesians 6:10-18 which discusses the "whole armor of God," and 2 Timothy 2:3-4 that highlights endurance as good soldiers of Christ, support these concepts by urging Christians to prepare for ongoing battle against sin and adversity. The practical significance of this doctrine encourages Christians not only to recognize their challenges but also to remain steadfast in their faith and mutual support, ultimately reflecting the assurance found in Christ's victory over sin and death.
Key Quotes
“Take the whole armour of God... He bids us take it and put it on.”
“We must stand... We must not yield.”
“Soldiers are not enlisted to play but to fight.”
“Endure hardness - as good soldiers of Jesus Christ.”
What does the Bible say about spiritual warfare?
The Bible describes the Christian life as a warfare, urging believers to put on the whole armor of God to stand firm against spiritual enemies.
As soldiers of Christ, believers are called not only to equip themselves but also to remain vigilant and watchful. 1 Peter 5:8 warns to be sober-minded and watchful, as the adversary, the devil, prowls around seeking someone to devour. This vigilance is crucial, as it keeps believers alert and responsive to the attacks of the enemy. The imagery of a soldier underscores the seriousness of the Christian life, highlighting the need for constant readiness and reliance on God's power.
Ephesians 6:10-17, 1 Peter 5:8
How do we know God's promises are true?
God's promises are affirmed in Scripture and proven true throughout history, culminating in the assurance of eternal life through Christ.
Additionally, believers are encouraged to hold firmly to the promises found in Revelation, particularly to those who overcome, as seen in chapters 2 and 3. These promises are not merely wishful thinking but are rooted in the truth of God’s word. Romans 4:20-21 illustrates that Abraham was fully convinced that God was able to do what He had promised, serving as a model for believers today to trust in God's faithfulness, leading to the assurance of eternal life through Christ.
Revelation 2-3, Romans 4:20-21
Why is perseverance important for Christians?
Perseverance is vital for Christians as it reflects faithfulness to God and sustains believers through trials until the end.
Moreover, 2 Timothy 2:3 reminds Christians to endure hardships as good soldiers of Christ, recognizing that the Christian journey is fraught with trials and tribulations. The call to persevere helps believers maintain their commitment, resisting temptation and distractions that could lead them away from their calling. In doing so, they not only witness their faith but also encourage one another to remain steadfast in a world that often opposes the faith.
Hebrews 10:39, 2 Timothy 2:3
They must count upon their life as a warfare. And it is so. As long as we are in the wilderness we must do as the Israelites did, travel harnessed. We are in the midst of enemies, and should provide accordingly.
We must put on our armour. It is not for soldiers, especially in the midst of enemies, to be unarmed. Take "the whole armour of God." The armour of his making, of his appointing, of his putting on. When you want it go to him. Lord, I want a headpiece, put on me the helmet of hope, etc. He bids us take it, and put it on. We are never the better for graces lying by. And observe, that there is no armour for the back. We must not run away. We must stand. We must not yield. Many in an hour of temptation yield a little. That is turning the back. It is prayer that buckles all on: "Praying always, with all prayer." The devil is not able to stand before the breath of prayer.
We must stand always on our watch. Soldiers, in time of war, must be sure to keep good sentinel. We are set as so many sentinels to stand always on our guard: "What I say unto you, I say unto all, Watch." Watch the eye; the lips; the thoughts; the affections: "Keep thy heart with all diligence." With all keepings, keep thy heart; for that is the castle. And, watch for the coming of our captain: For "in such an hour as ye think not," the Lord comes. Watchfulness is that which should run through all our duties and graces—as the thread through the bracelet. If that breaks, all fall asunder.
We must fight manfully against all his and our enemies. Soldiers are not enlisted to play, but to fight: "I have fought the good fight;" fought with my own corruptions; fought with the devil and his instruments. Remember to go forth in the name of "the Lord of hosts." Sin and the devil are conquered enemies. When the enemy is conquered, every coward will take heart: "I have overcome the world." What is left for us but to pursue, overtake, and divide the spoil. Christ's soldiers should often read Revelation, chapters ii. and iii. There are many promises there to them that overcome. Consider, as a motive to courage, that you are always under your Captain's eye. See your Captain seeing you.
We must be very careful to keep rank. Walk in love and unity with one another. If we fall out among ourselves it will weaken us: "My undefiled is one:" then "terrible as an army with banners." Mind the duty of your particular place and calling. You that have the charge of families must see to them as those that must give account. Do not go out of the way of your calling. Soldiers must keep rank. While we do so we are under special protection. But, "As a bird that wandereth from her nest, so is a man that wandereth from his place."
We must "endure hardness"—as good soldiers of Jesus Christ, 2 Tim. ii. 3. A soldier's life is no easy life: "All that will live godly in Christ Jesus shall suffer persecution." Many a hard word, and hard blow perhaps. But " fear none of those things" before they come, nor faint when they do come.
Do not entangle yourselves in the affairs of this life. A man who is a soldier lays by thoughts of any other calling. Deal in things we must, but we must not entangle ourselves with them: "Take heed to yourselves, lest at any time your hearts be overcharged with surfeiting, and drunkenness, and cares of this life, and so that day come upon you unawares." Care is our duty. Carefulness is our sin.
Hold on, and hold out to the end. A soldier is not enlisted for a day, or a month, or a year; but as long as the war lasts. If any prove false, and run from their colours, the punishment is death. "We are not of them who draw back unto perdition, but of them that believe to the saving of the soul."
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