March 14, 2021
Our Warfare is Spiritual
As Moses continues his second speech, he gives specific covenant laws that further unpack the ten commandments. In this passage, he gives specific commands that develop the sixth commandment, “You shall not murder.” (Deuteronomy 5:17)
The Old Testament usually describes war through narrative. In Deuteronomy 20, Moses gives laws for what should happen in Israel’s upcoming warfare. For cities outside of the Promised Land, the priority is to seek peace (Deuteronomy 20:10). For the nations inside the Promised Land, the Lord has given them over to Israel because of their abominable practices that go against His law.
In the New Testament, this same language for warfare is applied spiritually (Ephesians 6:10-17).
“For we do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the cosmic powers over this present darkness, against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly places.” - Ephesians 6:12
As Jesus shows how the Son of Man must suffer, he explains that even his closest friends will deny and betray him. Yet even in his darkest hour, he submits to the will of the Father (Mark 14:36) and shows how his betrayal fulfills Scripture (Mark 14:49).
First, Jesus predicts that even his disciples will fall away for a short time, fulfilling Zecheriah 13:7. Next, his inner circle of Peter, James, and John let him down by failing to stay awake and vigilant in prayer. Finally, Judas betrays Jesus by handing him over for arrest to the religious establishment.
Jesus condemns their use of violence and goes willingly as the suffering servant to “let the Scriptures be fulfilled.” (Mark 10:49)
Make It Personal
- The New Testament applies the warfare language from Deuteronomy to our struggle against the spiritual forces of evil (Ephesians 6:12). How do you make war against temptation and sin? Are there any areas of your life where you have made peace with sin that the Lord is calling you to “put to death?” (Colossians 3:5)
- When following Jesus costs you something, are you tempted to “fall away” and blend in with the world? How can you embrace Jesus’ call for his disciples to suffer and serve as He has done for us?