A CLARION CALL TO THE SOLDIERS OF CHRIST

The church of our day is facing an unprecedented challenge.  A wave of apostasy is challenging the integrity and existence of our congregations such as has not been seen since the end of the 19th century. Large numbers of our younger members and significant numbers of congregations appear ready to embrace these false prophets of change. Several of our Christian Universities   are already in their camp and some of their professors are among the most vocal spokesmen for the digressives.  Our largest gospel paper is now a sounding board for their champions and their innovations. A call is being sent across our great brotherhood for volunteers who are willing to do battle to save the Church of Christ from the forces of apostasy. 

bullet

We must raise up an army of men willing to publicly stand in opposition to these agents of change. We need no summer soldiers or fair-weather patriots. We need courageous men who are set for the defense of the gospel (Phil. 1:16), no matter how long the struggle be. Likely, many of us will finish our course before the church is delivered from those who have set out to make a denomination of her.

bullet

We must be willing to devote our energies to fighting a common enemy rather than each other. Of course we will disagree on some points, some methods and strategies. Brethren always have. But we must not loose sight of who the real enemy is. The change agents are counting on us being so consumed with internal strife and bickering that we will not be able to mount an effective resistance against them. Such has neutralized strong armies in the past.

bullet

We must mount an offensive campaign rather than waiting for the promoters of change to attack our positions. Remember the old military maxim, "A strong offense is the best defense." Too long too many  elders and preachers have waited until the enemy was within their gates before they responded. Even if they manage to force them out they almost certainly will lose some members to them and suffer damage.

bullet

We must build a defense perimeter around and protect our own  congregations, but we must also accept responsibility for defending the kingdom at large.  If we save our local congregation but the rest of the brotherhood is swept away we will have suffered a terrible loss.

bullet

We must promote the common good. Important as are our personal projects and local works, we must not neglect the welfare of the kingdom of God throughout the world.  We must encourage every good work done by faithful brethren where ever they be.

bullet

We must be willing to help each other in the combat we will be facing.  Such spiritual conflicts sometimes leave a man in a lonely, isolated position.  We must lend such good men every possible encouragement. Two men fighting together can usually accomplish more than each standing alone. The Duke of Wellington attributed his victory over Napoleon to that fact that he had the good fortune to lead a "band of brothers" in combat.

bullet

We must not allow old loyalties and friendships to silence us.  The fact that we once attended a school or enjoyed a friendship is not an acceptable reason to stand with muted voice if they now are working to harm the church of our Lord.

bullet

Each of us must be willing, without shame or hesitation, to  recruit as many soldiers as possible to our holy cause. We call them not to our party or clique, we call them to be "good soldiers of Christ Jesus" (II Tim. 2:3). The "change people" are busily recruiting young men to their "new" faith and practice. Each man of sound faith and conviction must use his influence to win his neighbor to the Savior's side in this conflict.

bullet

We must be willing to discriminate.  Do not lend the least aid or comfort to the enemy. He who would place unholy hands on the faith and worship of the Lord's church should find no welcome among us. Don't promote their projects or their personnel. Such can only bring harm to the Cause we love. Do not contribute to their projects do not recommend students to attend their schools.

bullet

We need to know our friends is as well as our enemies. Lend your aid, support and encouragement to every brother who is faithfully serving in his post of duty. Count him your ally and stand shoulder to shoulder with him in battle.

bullet

We must whet our sword and repair our armor lest we meet the enemy unprepared (Eph. 6:13-17).Read the books of the false teachers so you will know first hand what they are saying.  Read the books written to refute them.  Attend lectures and seminars addressing these issues. Subscribe to good papers that will keep you posted on what is happening and provide you valuable ammunition for the battle.  Fill your quiver with the arrows of truth that will put to flight the agents of change.

bullet

We must consult with one another about strategy and coordinate our efforts lest we duplicate our efforts, counteract one another or allow another a good soldier or congregation to be overrun by the opposition. Use your phone, the Internet or mail to keep in touch with your fellow-soldiers. Share information; help each other to be informed and encouraged.

The future of churches of Christ in America depends on the loyalty of her men of arms. Where do you stand?

     

    Enter Email Address

    Subscribe

    Unsubscribe

     

    February 2005 Issue

     

    Contact CTN Magazine

     

     

     

     

    CHRISTIANITY:

    Then & Now on-line

    All rights reserved

    Copyright © 2002

     

     

     

     

    This site built for

    800 x 600 display