Purpose: Examine the implications of God's people being soldiers for Christ.
1. It seems that everywhere we go today, we see signs in front of church buildings which talk about a celebration.
2. This has even crept into the Lord's church.
3. While it is true that Christians have great cause to celebrate, we must remember that our ultimate celebration is to be in eternity.
4. While we are on earth, we are told to be soldiers who are fighting for Christ.
A. Must meet enlistment requirements.
B. Characteristics of a soldier
1. Makes adequate preparation.
a. Knows his own strengths and weaknesses.
b. Knows how to use weapon.
c. Knows how to conduct himself.
d. Knows the enemy.
2. Is loyal to his commander.
3. Is motivated; knows what is at stake.
4. Is focused on the ultimate goal.
5. Never gives up.
A. Not at peace!
B. Not physical but spiritual (Ephesians 6:12).
1. So much more important than physical.
2. One soul is worth more than the world (Matthew 16:26).
C. Have we met the enlistment requirements for this army (2 Timothy 2:2)?
D. Have we made adequate preparation?
1. Do we know our strengths and weaknesses?
2. Do we know how to use the weapon we have been issued (Ephesians 6:17)?
a. Tells us how to influence others.
b. Is our manual on how to be a good soldier (2 Timothy 3:16-17).
3. Do we know the enemy (1 Peter 5:8; 2 Corinthians 11:13-15)?
E. Are we loyal to our commander (Hebrews 2:10)?
1. Will follow no other.
2. Will obey orders (John 14:15; 1 John 5:3).
F. Are we focused (Hebrews 12:1,2)?
G. Never gives up.
1. There is no armor on the backside.
2. Sometimes we may only be able to stand; not go forward (Ephesians 6:11-14; 1 Corinthians 10:13).
H. What is at stake (1 Timothy 6:12)?
1. Eternal life.
2. Our souls and other's souls (Matthew 16:26).
A. The outcome is known.
1. Victory for the righteous (1 John 5:4; John 5:28-29).
2. Defeat for the unrighteous (2 Thessalonians 1:7-9).
B. Are you on the right side?
1. Why not get on the right side today?
2. Please see Plan of Salvation.
-- Ralph Price, 2000 --
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