"Onward Christian Soldiers..."

"One final thing. Just as described in Ephesians 6, 11-18, we need to put on the Armor of God. We are all going to need it. Evil will come in many forms, and we need to be prepared for it."

"Onward Christian soldiers, marching as to war, with the cross of Jesus, going on before! Christ the royal Master, leads against the foe, Forward into battle, see His banner go." 

Remember this song from Sunday School? It was probably the only one we sang which I did remember. As a kid, I had no idea what it meant. When I got older, and read about Richard the Lionhearted, I thought it was about the Crusades. But then as an adult, I have come to realize it means so much more.

First and foremost, anyone who has read the Holy Bible knows how this story ends. But until that time, when Jesus returns as the Lion of Judah, evil will continue to wage war against the children of God. As Jesus predicted, there would be hatred and persecution against His followers, long after He ascended into Heaven. Yes, there would even be death. Sometimes by having Islamic Terrorists blow up innocent people for doing nothing more than worshiping their God on a Easter Morning. 

Back to the song. What does that really mean today, for us to become Christian soldiers? First off, we must be armed with the truth. Evil, always has a tranche of lies to deceive people with. Having the truth of the Word beats any lie that evil has - anytime, anyplace, any day. But the way I see it, there is more to this story.

The Christian Church has been a target all over the world. The Christian Church is the Bride of Christ. Jesus knew it would be of the highest importance to have a vibrant, in the Word, teaching and preaching church. We cannot stand by and watch these churches being desecrated and/or destroyed. We must stop this by using any means possible. The way I see it, having churches destroyed, is not a turn the other cheek issue. This is the battle of good against evil. This is where Christian soldiers must be just that. 

One final thing. Just as described in Ephesians 6, 11-18, we need to put on the Armor of God. We are all going to need it. Evil will come in many forms, and we need to be prepared for it. Remember - our Jewish brothers and sisters, Christians and the Christian Church are the main targets. Plus - this evil knows no bounds. 

"Onward Christian soldiers, marching as to war..." Gear up folks. What we saw in Sri Lanka might just the beginning of something terrible. We all need to be prepared, be strong, and be resolute. And most importantly, stay close to God the Father.