the church

Insights on church life

by Pastor Pete Beck III

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a warrior church 

 

And from the time John the Baptist began preaching until now, the Kingdom of Heaven has been forcefully advancing, and violent people are attacking it. Matthew 11:12 (NLT)

 

The church is engaged in violent warfare with the kingdom of darkness. Our message of love, peace, faith, hope and freedom pits us against the prince of this world who is using everything at his disposal to keep people mired in hate, strife, unbelief, hopelessness and bondage. The kingdom of God advances by means of the authority of Christ, the power of the Holy Spirit and the message of the gospel. The kingdom of darkness operates by deception, intimidation, robbery, murder and destruction. If the church fails to understand the nature of the enemy, it is at a distinct disadvantage and is likely to be surprised and confused, at the very least. If the church fails to use the weapons at her disposal, she will be reduced to a pitiful caricature of who she is supposed to be, held at bay by her vicious opponent. It is time for the church to rise to the occasion, use its authority and boldly press the attack.

 

A warrior church must be dedicated to its mission, disciplined in its obedience and hardened in its resolve to break through against anything that stands in its way. An army is in direct contrast to a social club, which, sadly, the church has become in many cases. A social club focuses on making its members happy; whereas, an army majors on training and equipping a well-disciplined force for a mission. An army's morale is boosted by victory. A social club doesn't even want to fight. God has called us to be a warrior church which finds its purpose and delight in forcefully advancing the kingdom.

 

Yes, the church is a loving assembly. Yes, we care about the welfare of our people; but, no, we cannot slack off from the mission in order to be such. We must be both at the same time, which requires an extra dose of the grace of God.

 

Apply this meditation by thinking of any ways you have been passive or defensive in your approach to kingdom life, and turn the tables. Here is a sample prayer list. In Christ's name...

 

Bind the activity of the enemy in your life and in the Town and Country neighborhood.

Command the enemy to loose those held captive in the Town and Country neighborhood.

Command that the needed provisions of people and finances be released so we can do the work of the kingdom.

Ask God for increased boldness and faith to be Christ's witness each day.

 

 

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