Servants, Soldiers, Sheep

Brothers and sisters, christians, believers, disciples, church members, the body of Christ; we go by many names. It is equally as true that we have specific roles to play in this world. But what are they? I offer a simple, non-exhaustive summary to you.

First, we are servants of Christ. Paul even went as far to say that he is a slave (doulas) of Jesus Christ (Rom 1:1). This means that we live to obey our Master Jesus Christ. Contrary to popular opinion, this is not the grueling slavery typically associated with the word slave. Instead, it is a life empowered by the Spirit to obey The Lord and to do His kingdom work. It’s time to get up and get going.

Second, we are soldiers of the Lord. Paul commands Timothy to “share in suffering as a good soldier of Christ Jesus” (2 Tim 2:3). We follow Jesus our commander as warriors of His mighty kingdom. We have confidence in the battle against the world, the flesh, and the devil because Jesus has declared that “the gates of hell will not prevail/stand against it [the church]” (Matt 16:18). Put your armor on and prepare to fight.

Third, we are sheep within the fold of our shepherd-king. Praise the Lord. Jesus protects and cares for us. He guides and disciplines us. He helps us in our weakness because he understands our needs (Heb 4:15). Jesus calls us by name and we follow his voice (John 10:3-4) knowing that he will not lead us astray, but will instead lead us into life everlasting. Place your confidence in Him. Let your boast be in The Lord.

Grace and Peace,
Tyler Williams