The Law of Warfare -- Part I -- Deuteronomy 20:1-4
We can be thankful that all else being equal, there have not been major wars going on during the last four years (2017 to 2020). Maybe that is what some of the elites who get rich off military activity are all upset about -- just one more reason for change in their mind. As a result, we have no idea of what the next four years may bring with a potential change in the American administration. Will Iran, China, Russia, Syria, and others, now flex their muscles and, being guaranteed arms from one source or another, itch to ignite another war? We don't know. We hope not.
But this may also be a good time for us to at least be aware of what the Old Testament has to say about 'warfare'. And for that we turn to Deuteronomy chapter 20.
Grant it, the context of this chapter is indeed instructions to the people of Israel whom God brought out of Egypt and slavery; was with them for forty years in the wilderness; and Who was settling them in their promised land. But still we can gain some great insight for us today with respect to modern-day war. For example . . .
In verse 1, Moses seems to be saying, "When you see, hear, feel, the might of the enemy, don't be afraid for the Lord God (Who has already proven Himself to you) IS with you." It's natural for us to fear the Enemy -- or his representatives -- but we don't need to. In fact, we shouldn't. That's the key -- we need to focus on Who IS with us and how He has already proven Himself to us. We need to get to that point.
Something most interesting, to me at least, shows up in verses 2 to 4. Look who is involved in this act of war -- why, it's the priests. It's the priest that tells the people not to be fainthearted or afraid, or to panic, or to tremble before the enemy. And then adds the reason why -- "for the Lord your God is the one Who goes with you, to fight for you against your enemies, to save you." Wow.
Many of us feel we are going into battle right now. We have been told what to wear on our faces, how far apart to stand or sit, that we can't go to church or if we can, we can't sing in church, we can't visit our family and friends, we can't shop where we want, we can't travel, we can't have friends over for dinner, we can't eat out, and we soon won't be able to work if we don't have a certificate that says we've had the Covid-19 vaccine. And this has been going on for nine months and influential elite who stand to gain much from the vaccines say this will go on through 2022 -- yes, I'm thinking of Bill Gates' latest statement. So, where are our priests, where are or pastors and our ministers? Let me be harsh here -- they're doing their best to keep everyone calm; they're focusing on going 'livestream'; they're continuing to give us wonderful sermons, on-line concerts, meetings, and prayer initiatives. We appreciate it. But they are not leading us into battle. God didn't intend for His people to live this way especially in the day of post-New Testament Church. We are to stand up for our beliefs and our ways of worship. And we need our faith leaders to lead us.
Okay, maybe this is a good place to stop and let me cool down and let you think about what I've said. Share with us your thoughts. You don't have to agree.
We'll continue this study on the Law of Warfare next time. Stay tuned -- but do leave us a message please.
It would be great if you would share your thoughts or questions on this blog in the comments section below or on social media.
Excellent, Ken !
ReplyDelete