Topical Bible: Breastplate for Soldiers: Bright and Shining

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The concept of the breastplate, particularly in the context of soldiers, is a significant motif in the Bible, symbolizing protection, righteousness, and divine strength. The breastplate is often associated with the armor of God, as described in the New Testament, and serves as a metaphor for spiritual readiness and moral integrity.

Biblical References and Symbolism

In the Old Testament, the breastplate is first mentioned in the context of the high priest's garments. The breastplate of judgment, worn by the high priest, was a sacred piece adorned with twelve stones representing the twelve tribes of Israel (Exodus 28:15-21). While this breastplate was not for battle, it symbolized divine guidance and the priest's role as an intercessor for the people.

The New Testament expands the metaphor of the breastplate to encompass spiritual warfare. In Ephesians 6:14, the Apostle Paul exhorts believers to "stand firm then, with the belt of truth buckled around your waist, with the breastplate of righteousness in place." Here, the breastplate is part of the full armor of God, representing the righteousness that protects the believer's heart against the attacks of evil.

The imagery of the breastplate as bright and shining is evocative of its role in reflecting divine light and truth. In 1 Thessalonians 5:8, Paul further instructs, "But since we belong to the day, let us be sober, putting on faith and love as a breastplate, and the hope of salvation as a helmet." This passage highlights the breastplate as a symbol of faith and love, essential virtues for those who live in the light of Christ.

Theological Implications

The breastplate's brightness and shine are emblematic of the purity and holiness that believers are called to embody. Just as a physical breastplate protects a soldier's vital organs, the spiritual breastplate guards the heart and soul from moral corruption and spiritual attack. The shining aspect underscores the believer's call to reflect God's glory and righteousness in a dark world.

From a theological perspective, the breastplate signifies the imputed righteousness of Christ, which believers receive through faith. This righteousness is not of their own making but is a gift from God, enabling them to stand firm against the forces of evil. The brightness of the breastplate serves as a reminder of the transformative power of God's grace, which illuminates the believer's path and empowers them to live a life of holiness.

Practical Application

For Christians, the metaphor of the breastplate serves as a call to spiritual vigilance and moral integrity. It encourages believers to cultivate a life characterized by righteousness, faith, and love, which are essential for withstanding the challenges and temptations of the world. By "putting on" the breastplate, Christians are reminded of their identity in Christ and their duty to live as His representatives.

In summary, the breastplate for soldiers, as depicted in the Bible, is a powerful symbol of divine protection and moral fortitude. Its brightness and shine reflect the believer's call to live in the light of God's truth, equipped with the righteousness that comes from faith in Jesus Christ.

Torrey's Topical Textbook

Revelation 9:17
And thus I saw the horses in the vision, and them that sat on them, having breastplates of fire, and of jacinth, and brimstone: and the heads of the horses were as the heads of lions; and out of their mouths issued fire and smoke and brimstone.
Torrey's Topical Textbook

Library

Death and Life in Christ
... We were drawn as soldiers for the great warfare, and ... at his Father's right hand he
sits, bright like a ... his wounded hands, points to his breastplate bearing the ...
/.../spurgeon/spurgeons sermons volume 9 1863/death and life in christ.htm

One Thing is Needful;
... The prizes they have got; Or as the soldiers give unto ... A helmet on his head doth
stand, A breastplate on his ... fire, and With angels clear and bright, Each with ...
/.../bunyan/the works of john bunyan volumes 1-3/one thing is needful.htm

A Discourse
... far more glorious inheritance: with so bright and glorious ... rows of precious stones
upon Aaron's breastplate when he ... of the Holy Ghost; all shining through the ...
/.../bunyan/the works of john bunyan volumes 1-3/a discourse.htm

Mr. Bunyan's Last Sermon:
... (Matt.7:13). The man said, No. Then said the other, Do you see yonder shining
light? (Psa.119:105; 2 Peter 1:19). He said, I think I do. ...
/.../bunyan/the works of john bunyan volumes 1-3/mr bunyans last sermon .htm