Christian Soldiering

Aim: To view ourselves as Christ's soldiers—being watchful and brave.

Doctrine: Christianity is a warring ''religion.'' No armistices may be signed with our foes, and rest comes on Sabbaths: temporal and eternal.

Exegesis: The Christian soldiers' marching orders: take the stance of alert courage (vv. 8-9); have as the prize more Christlikeness (vv. 10-11); enjoy the camaraderie of fellow-warriors (vv. 12-14).

Further application: God's recruiting requirements: the Christian soldier fights from a perspective of repentance, and in the strength of Christ.

Key verses: vv. 8-9 ''Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil walks about like a roaring lion, seeking whom he may devour. Resist him, steadfast in the faith, knowing that the same sufferings are experienced by your brotherhood in the world.''