Topical Bible: Armies: March in Ranks: Margin);

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In the biblical context, the concept of armies marching in ranks is a vivid illustration of order, discipline, and the execution of divine judgment or protection. The imagery of organized military forces is frequently employed throughout Scripture to convey the might and sovereignty of God, as well as the structured nature of His creation and His people.

Old Testament Context

The Old Testament provides numerous instances where the Israelites, under divine command, are depicted as a well-ordered army. This is particularly evident in the narratives of the Exodus and the subsequent conquest of Canaan. In Exodus 12:51, the Israelites are described as leaving Egypt "by their divisions," indicating a structured and orderly departure. This organization is further emphasized in Numbers 2, where the tribes of Israel are instructed to camp and march in a specific order, each under its own standard.

The prophet Joel uses the imagery of an army to describe the locust plague as a divine instrument of judgment. Joel 2:7-8 states, "They charge like mighty men; they scale walls like men of war. Each one marches in formation, not swerving from the course. They do not jostle one another; each proceeds in his path. They burst through the defenses, never breaking ranks." This passage highlights the precision and discipline of the invading force, serving as a metaphor for the unstoppable nature of God's judgment.

New Testament Context

While the New Testament does not focus as heavily on physical armies, the concept of spiritual warfare is prevalent. Believers are often depicted as soldiers in a spiritual army, called to stand firm against the forces of evil. Ephesians 6:11-13 exhorts Christians to "put on the full armor of God, so that you can make your stand against the devil’s schemes." This passage underscores the need for spiritual discipline and readiness, akin to the order and preparation of a physical army.

Symbolism and Theological Implications

The imagery of armies marching in ranks serves as a powerful symbol of divine order and authority. It reflects the belief that God is a God of order, not chaos, and that His purposes are carried out with precision and intent. This concept is mirrored in the structure of the Church, which is often described using military metaphors to emphasize unity, discipline, and collective purpose.

Furthermore, the disciplined march of an army is a reminder of the ultimate victory of God's kingdom. Revelation 19:14 portrays the armies of heaven following Christ, "riding on white horses and dressed in fine linen, white and pure." This eschatological vision reinforces the theme of divine triumph and the establishment of God's righteous order.

In summary, the biblical depiction of armies marching in ranks serves as a multifaceted symbol of divine order, judgment, and the call for believers to live disciplined, purposeful lives in alignment with God's will.

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Ezekiel 26:9
And he shall set engines of war against your walls, and with his axes he shall break down your towers.
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Library

The Eighteenth Theban Dynasty --(Continued)
... indeed, little more than a military march through the ... had begun to break through
the ranks, when Amenemhabi ... have delegated the direction of his armies to his ...
/.../chapter ithe eighteenth theban dynastycontinued.htm

Footnotes
... vol. i. pp.371, 372, vol. ii. p.248. See also History of Indulgence, p.36).
He died at Edinburgh, in March 1681 (Laws Memorialis, p.183). ...
/...//christianbookshelf.org/binning/the works of the rev hugh binning/footnotes.htm