Topical Bible: Warfare of Saints: To be Carried On without Earthly Entanglements

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Topical Encyclopedia

The concept of the "Warfare of Saints" refers to the spiritual battle that believers in Christ are called to engage in, as they strive to live out their faith in a world that often stands in opposition to the principles of the Kingdom of God. This warfare is distinct from physical or earthly conflicts and is characterized by its spiritual nature, requiring believers to remain disentangled from worldly affairs that could hinder their effectiveness in this divine calling.

Spiritual Nature of the Warfare

The Apostle Paul provides a foundational understanding of this spiritual warfare in his letter to the Ephesians: "For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this world's darkness, and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms" (Ephesians 6:12). This passage underscores that the battle is not against human adversaries but against spiritual entities that oppose God's purposes.

Divine Armor and Weapons

To engage effectively in this warfare, believers are instructed to put on the "full armor of God" (Ephesians 6:11). This armor includes the belt of truth, the breastplate of righteousness, the gospel of peace as footwear, the shield of faith, the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God (Ephesians 6:14-17). These elements highlight the spiritual resources provided by God to protect and empower His people.

Avoidance of Earthly Entanglements

The call to avoid earthly entanglements is emphasized in Paul's exhortation to Timothy: "No one serving as a soldier entangles himself in the affairs of this life, so that he may please the one who enlisted him" (2 Timothy 2:4). This instruction reflects the necessity for believers to maintain a singular focus on their spiritual mission, avoiding distractions and commitments that could compromise their allegiance to Christ.

Living as Citizens of Heaven

Believers are reminded that their true citizenship is in heaven (Philippians 3:20), and this heavenly identity should shape their priorities and actions. The Apostle John warns against loving the world or anything in it, as such affections are incompatible with the love of the Father (1 John 2:15). This detachment from worldly desires is crucial for maintaining purity and effectiveness in spiritual warfare.

Prayer and Perseverance

Prayer is a vital component of the saints' warfare, as it aligns them with God's will and empowers them to stand firm against spiritual opposition. Paul urges believers to "pray in the Spirit on all occasions with all kinds of prayers and requests" and to "be alert and always keep on praying for all the saints" (Ephesians 6:18). This continuous prayer life fosters perseverance and vigilance in the face of spiritual challenges.

Victory through Christ

Ultimately, the victory in this spiritual warfare is assured through Jesus Christ, who has already triumphed over the powers of darkness. Believers are called to stand firm in this victory, knowing that "in all these things we are more than conquerors through Him who loved us" (Romans 8:37). This assurance provides confidence and hope as they engage in the ongoing battle for righteousness and truth.

Torrey's Topical Textbook

2 Timothy 2:4
No man that wars entangles himself with the affairs of this life; that he may please him who has chosen him to be a soldier.
Torrey's Topical Textbook

Library

Introductory Notice Respecting Tauler's Life and Times
... at Aix-la-Chapelle, began a desolating warfare, which lasted for ... he read the lives
of the saints and imitated ... This discipline he had carried on for five years ...
/.../introductory notice respecting taulers life.htm