2 Tim 2:15 "Study to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth."
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CARNAL OR SPIRITUAL WEAPONS?
TUESDAY, MARCH 3
2 Corinthians 10:1-6
Ephesians 6:10-20
“For the weapons of our
warfare are not carnal …”
CARNAL OR SPIRITUAL WEAPONS?
Even though we live on this earth in a physical body, the battle we wage as Christians is not physical but spiritual in nature. “For we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high places” (Eph 6:12). The weapons we use are not carnal but spiritual. Read Ephesians 6:10-20.
Alas, the rebellious faction maliciously slandered Paul of walking in the flesh (i.e. adopting carnal methods) when ministering among the Corinthians. By doing so, they were saying that Paul’s ministry was not done in the power of the Holy Spirit, but was conducted based on his own desires, thoughts and designs. They were accusing Paul of “assuming unwarranted authority, dictatorial methods, and perhaps inconsistency and pride” (Kent).
It is therefore not surprising to see similar accusations being levelled against many a faithful man in ministry. When these leaders attempt to defend the truth, to steer the church away from sin and compromise, they are falsely labelled as “heretics” and “dictators,” even though they may have conducted themselves in all meekness and gentleness (2 Cor 10:1). What say we then to such slanders? “… we can do nothing against the truth, but for the truth” (2 Cor 13:8).
In his defence, Paul insisted that the weapons he used were never carnal but spiritual. It is only God who can convert sinners. It is only God who can build His church. We must always bear this in mind when we serve the Lord. A proud dependence upon the arm of the flesh will never lead to success.
Ironically, it was the accusers of Paul who were guilty of using carnal weapons in their malicious attacks of Paul. Paul was patient with them, praying that they would come to obedience when confronted with the truth. Nevertheless, recalcitrants would be dealt with firmly.
THOUGHT: I can learn patience in ministry from the Apostle Paul.
PRAYER: Father, help me put on the whole armour of God with prayer.