Topical Encyclopedia The term "The Campaign" is not explicitly found in the Bible; however, it can be understood in the context of biblical narratives involving military campaigns, spiritual warfare, and the advancement of God's kingdom. Throughout Scripture, various campaigns are depicted, both in the physical and spiritual realms, illustrating the ongoing battle between good and evil, and the fulfillment of God's divine purposes.Old Testament Campaigns 1. Conquest of Canaan: One of the most significant campaigns in the Old Testament is the conquest of Canaan under Joshua's leadership. After the death of Moses, Joshua was appointed to lead the Israelites into the Promised Land. The campaign began with the miraculous crossing of the Jordan River and the fall of Jericho. Joshua 6:2-5 records God's instructions for the siege of Jericho: "See, I have delivered Jericho into your hands, along with its king and its mighty men of valor. March around the city with all the men of war, circling the city one time. Do this for six days." 2. David's Military Campaigns: King David, a man after God's own heart, led numerous military campaigns to establish and secure the kingdom of Israel. His victories over the Philistines, Moabites, and other neighboring nations are chronicled in 2 Samuel and 1 Chronicles. David's reliance on God for guidance and strength is evident in passages like 2 Samuel 5:19 : "So David inquired of the LORD, 'Should I go up against the Philistines? Will You deliver them into my hand?' The LORD replied to David, 'Go, for I will surely deliver the Philistines into your hand.'" Spiritual Campaigns 1. The Armor of God: The New Testament shifts the focus from physical battles to spiritual warfare. Ephesians 6:10-18 describes the spiritual campaign believers are engaged in, urging them to "put on the full armor of God, so that you can make your stand against the devil’s schemes." This passage emphasizes the importance of truth, righteousness, faith, salvation, and the Word of God as essential components in the believer's spiritual arsenal. 2. The Great Commission: Jesus' command to His disciples to spread the Gospel to all nations can be seen as a spiritual campaign to advance God's kingdom on earth. Matthew 28:19-20 records this mandate: "Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey all that I have commanded you." Prophetic Campaigns 1. The Battle of Armageddon: The Book of Revelation describes a future campaign known as the Battle of Armageddon, where the forces of evil will gather against God. Revelation 16:16 states, "And they assembled the kings in the place that in Hebrew is called Armageddon." This climactic battle will culminate in the ultimate victory of Christ over Satan and his armies, as depicted in Revelation 19:11-21. 2. The Final Victory: The prophetic vision of the final campaign is one of hope and triumph for believers. Revelation 21:4 promises, "He will wipe away every tear from their eyes, and there will be no more death or mourning or crying or pain, for the former things have passed away." This assurance of God's ultimate victory encourages believers to remain steadfast in their faith and commitment to God's purposes. In summary, "The Campaign" in biblical terms encompasses both historical military endeavors and the ongoing spiritual battle faced by believers. It highlights the necessity of reliance on God's power and guidance, the importance of spiritual preparedness, and the assurance of ultimate victory through Christ. |