building an army

Two days ago I learned of the events that led up to Rev. Fred Winters death on Sunday morning. Last night I read an article about the sad, but true facts concerning Christianity in America. And, just now I read one man's predictions regarding Evangelicalism in these United States. On one hand all of this information makes me sad, but mostly it makes me angry. What has happened to us? What has happened to people setting aside time to be in the Word and passionately pursuing a relationship with Christ? What has happened to the Church? Where are our priorities? Who decided it was more important to be a club that everyone likes instead of an army that proclaims truth? When are we going to get up and start fighting?

I don't know if Michael Spencer's predictions are correct. I don't know if the trends found in the polls will continue to decline. I don't know if there will be more shootings like the one that just took place in Illinois. But, I do know a God who sees this as no surprise, who has all the strategies needed to turn hearts to Him, and who is able to strengthen us to fight this war. I don't know where His sovereignty stops and where our responsibility begins. But, I do know that Scripture blatantly tells us that we will be persecuted if we are following after Christ. And, I trust Him. So, let's get to work friends. Let's put on that whole armor* of God and get ready for what is coming. David Stark recently said, "God is going to build an army, not an audience." And, I for one think he's right.

*13 Therefore take up the whole armor of God, that you may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand firm. 14 Stand therefore, having fastened on the belt of truth, and having put on the breastplate of righteousness, 15 and, as shoes for your feet, having put on the readiness given by the gospel of peace. 16 In all circumstances take up the shield of faith, with which you can extinguish all the flaming darts of the evil one; 17 and take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God, 18 praying at all times in the Spirit, with all prayer and supplication. To that end keep alert with all perseverance, making supplication for all the saints, 19 and also for me, that words may be given to me in opening my mouth boldly to proclaim the mystery of the gospel, 20 for which I am an ambassador in chains, that I may declare it boldly, as I ought to speak. (ESV)