© 2013 by Tom Boynton (editing by Kathy Boynton)

Today, many are concerned with their need for weapons. The government is purchasing guns and ammo in quantities never dreamed of by private citizens. Firearm and ammunition prices have sky-rocketed. Political forces debate the question of whether we still have the right to bear arms. The public has been incessantly bombarded by ad-nauseum repetition of inflammatory rhetoric regarding “assault weapons” in the hands of citizens. In response, many folks, fearful of the diminishing supply, are stockpiling these items.

Jesus said, “Watch therefore: for ye know not what hour your Lord doth come. But know this, that if the goodman of the house had known in what watch the thief would come, he would have watched, and would not have suffered his house to be broken up (Matthew 24:42-43).” In this statement, Jesus recognizes the well known responsibility for family heads to protect their households. Our Constitution also recognizes this principle in the Second Amendment. Such responsibilities are, indeed, legitimate.

However, notice that Jesus was using the legitimacy of physical preparedness against danger, to highlight and illustrate the even more crucial need for eternal preparedness. The point He makes is that, after His death on Calvary’s cross as a substitutionary sacrifice for sinners, He would rise from the dead, ascend back to His Father in Heaven, and, eventually, return in judgment. He is warning His disciples to be prepared for that incredibly important event.

In Ephesians chapter 6, the Apostle Paul describes the armament needed for this preparation. He urges, “Finally, my brethren, be strong in the Lord, and in the power of his might. Put on the whole armour of God, that ye may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil. For we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high places.” One of the critical pieces of armor he describes is the “sword of the Spirit.”

Christian, have you bought guns and ammunition but forgotten to equip yourself with this sword? This is God’s Word, the Bible. It is used to pierce the hearts and spirits of perishing men and women with their need to be saved from sin through faith in Jesus Christ. This is our most important battle. Are you engaged in it?

 

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