The Sword of the Lord!

Bible Reading: (Judges 7:20)

And the three companies blew the trumpets, and broke the pitchers, and held the lamps in their left hands, and the trumpets in their right hands to blow withal: and they cried, The sword of the LORD, and of Gideon.

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What a picture of biblical faith! What a contrast to today's average Christian's experience!

I've heard pastors, theologians, and believers from all walks tell me a few "stories" concerning what a believer ought and ought not to do with regard to sharing one's faith with others. I'm not sure what you believe - but I invite you to examine the Scriptures and see if it lines up.

• Some believe that the saved are chosen beforehand, so boldly sharing the gospel is both unnecessary and counterproductive because so many are offended by it. (Jesus teaches us to go and teach all He has commanded - which includes repentance and trust in Him - Matthew 28:18-20.)
• Some believe that to boldly share one's faith is radical Christianity and so should be avoided lest we become compared to other radical faiths. (Biblical Christianity IS radical - we are a unique people, in but not of this world, with a Heavenly Father and an eternal home. It is very different from this world, and it should show!)
• Some believe that a life lived in faith is the best and only testimony one needs (secret faith, not shared faith). (Jesus tells us that we are not to be ashamed of Him and He won't be of us - Luke 9:26. Also, we are to be always ready to give an account of our faith to any who ask - 1Pe 3:15)

Gideon's army gives us the Biblical picture of evangelism. Notice the parts included:

• The trumpets blown. This is a picture of proclaiming the gospel clearly and broadcasting it to large groups. There is none around who cannot hear the clarion call.
• Broken Pitchers. This is a picture of the broken heart for the lost. It pours out its contents upon all surrounding it. It is wounded for God's purpose of revealing its contents.
• The Candle. This is a picture of the light of the Holy Spirit. Let your light shine before men, and your good works be such that when men look upon you, they shall know that you have been with Jesus.

We are to take the gospel to the lost, bring it to their door, do not let them leave without hearing it. It is the war-cry of the church. It is the power of God unto salvation to all who believe. Whom will you share it with this week?

Bro. Greg