Spiritual Violence
Summary
John the Baptist announces the kingdom of God with a kind of spiritual violence. So must we take hold of the kingdom with spiritual “violence,” both in our first coming to Christ and in walking with Him thereafter.
Wild man in the desert
Matthew 11:7-11
Diverse translations
“From the days of John the Baptist until now, the kingdom of heaven has been forcefully advancing, and forceful men lay hold of it.” – NIV [1984]
Spiritual violence
What it is… what it isn’t
Practice spiritual violence!
- If you’re not sure where you stand spiritually, get aggressive – crying out to God, reading hungrily, asking for help.
- As a Christ-follower, battle sin with spiritual violence.
- Battle discouragement or despondence with spiritual violence.
- Serve with spiritual violence!
- Love your neighbor with spiritual violence.
- With spiritual violence, press on to know the Lord!