I was reading Ephesians Chapter six recently. One of the many things that I just love about God’s Word is when I read something that I have read before, even many times before, and then something out of the blue strikes me or catches my eye like never before. In verse six of this chapter six, Paul tells us to put on the full armor of God, so that when the day of evil comes, you may be able to stand your ground. He tells to stand firm by doing some things. You have heard it before and read this list of full armor before. What is it? The belt of truth, the breast plate of righteousness, and your feet fitted into place, your shield of faith, your helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit.
So here you have this soldier of the faith who is ready for battle. So, what hit me differently this time?
Here goes: Why is there no mention of a back plate for the battle? There is no back plate mentioned here because Christians are to face our enemies head on. No need for a back plate. We are not the crowd that cowers or runs from the battle. We are those who try to make peace, but there is clearly a time to hit the battlefield head on. Jesus tells his disciples to sell their cloak and buy a sword if they don’t have one in Luke 22:36. Verse 37 says; “It is written: and He was numbered with the transgressors. He was saying that right there to fulfill prophecy, but I don’t believe that was the only thing going on there. I translate that as He wasn’t just saying this sword statement only to fulfill prophecy. You see, I do not believe that Luke 22 overturns Jesus urging His followers to turn the other cheek, but I do believe that the Christian will know when it is time to fiercely defend themselves and their faith. Where do I get this? Ecclesiastes 3: 3-8. There is a time for different things in your life. Ultimately, I believe that righteous people must stand up or evil people will have their way.
There is no back plate because there is no retreat.
Until the nets are full,
Chris
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