How does Judges 3:2 emphasize the importance of knowing warfare for believers today? Setting the Scene • After Joshua’s generation, many Israelites had never fought a battle. • Judges 3:2 explains why God left hostile nations nearby: “He did this only to teach warfare to the descendants of the Israelites—especially to those who had not known it before.” What the Verse Says • “He did this” – divine intention, not chance. • “Only to teach warfare” – God saw warfare skills as indispensable for His people. • “Descendants … who had not known it before” – the inexperienced needed firsthand training, not second-hand stories. Why God Wanted Them Battle-Ready • Protection of covenant promises (cf. Genesis 17:7-8). • Preservation of holiness amid hostile cultures (Exodus 23:33). • Dependence on the LORD in conflict (Deuteronomy 20:1-4). • Formation of courageous, disciplined character (Psalm 144:1). Lessons for Us Today Although the New Testament believer’s primary battles are spiritual, the principle endures: God allows opposition so we learn to fight well. • Spiritual opposition tests faith and matures endurance (James 1:2-4). • Warfare skills are not optional extras; they are part of Christian discipleship (2 Timothy 2:3-4). • Each generation must learn for itself; yesterday’s victories don’t substitute for today’s training (Judges 2:10; Romans 15:4). Learning the Skills of Spiritual Warfare 1. Know the Enemy – “Our struggle is not against flesh and blood” (Ephesians 6:12). 2. Wear the Armor – Truth, righteousness, gospel readiness, faith, salvation, Word of God (Ephesians 6:13-17). 3. Train With the Word – Jesus countered every temptation with Scripture (Matthew 4:1-11). 4. Pray Strategically – “Pray in the Spirit on all occasions” (Ephesians 6:18). 5. Stand in Community – Soldiers fight in ranks, not isolation (Philippians 1:27). 6. Expect Resistance – “Do not be surprised… as though something strange were happening” (1 Peter 4:12). 7. Advance by Faith – “The weapons of our warfare are not the weapons of the world” (2 Corinthians 10:3-5). Practical Ways to Train • Daily Bible engagement: sharpen the “sword of the Spirit.” • Regular fasting: heighten dependence on God (Matthew 6:16-18). • Accountability groups: mutual encouragement and watchfulness (Hebrews 10:24-25). • Service and evangelism: put faith into action, extending the front lines (Acts 1:8). • Memorize key warfare passages: Ephesians 6:10-18; 2 Timothy 2:3-4; 1 Peter 5:8-9. Encouraging Reminders • God remains the Commander-in-Chief (Joshua 5:14). • Training ground trials are evidence of His fatherly care (Hebrews 12:5-11). • Victory is assured in Christ: “Thanks be to God! He gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ.” (1 Corinthians 15:57) |
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