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On the Front Line (I) – Knowing Who You Are
Introduction: A Call to Be Soldiers
Soldiers are admired for their discipline, courage, and willingness to protect others. Many aspire to be like them, yet being a good soldier requires sacrifice, endurance, and a constant state of readiness.
As Christians—especially as members of the True Jesus Church—we must understand that we, too, are soldiers. Our battle is spiritual, and we must ask ourselves: Do we truly know who we are? Do we understand our purpose? Are we prepared for the fight?
Our Identity: Soldiers of Christ
When we were baptized, we became children of God through His grace (John 1:12–13; 3:5; Romans 6:4). At that moment, we also enlisted in His army. Unlike worldly military drafts, our enlistment is voluntary—we choose to accept God’s calling.
Even those baptized as infants must personally experience God’s grace to fully embrace this role. Not everyone receives this privilege; while God loves all, only those who respond to His call are chosen. This makes our identity as soldiers of Christ both an honor and a responsibility.
Do we cherish this calling and take it seriously?
The Role of God’s Army
- Ready to Fight
Most military forces have different roles, with some actively engaging in battle while others remain on defense. However, as soldiers of Christ, we cannot afford to be passive. Our enemy—Satan—is constantly attacking, seeking to weaken our faith and prevent us from saving souls (1 Peter 5:8).
The battlefield is not far away, it is in our daily lives. Whether at home, school, work, or church, we are always in spiritual warfare. If we do nothing, we risk being overrun. Instead, we must actively resist the devil and fight back with the armor of God (Ephesians 6:11–12).
- Determined to Save
King David’s mighty warriors were chosen to fight on the front lines (2 Samuel 23:8–12). While we may not be called to physical battles, we fight a greater war—one for souls. Peter, empowered by the Holy Spirit, preached a single sermon that led 3,000 people to repentance and baptism (Acts 2).
As spiritual soldiers, our mission is to rescue people from the captivity of sin. This aligns with the motto of the US Army’s Special Forces: De Oppresso Liber—”to liberate from oppression.” We fight by spreading the gospel, helping others see their need for Christ.
We may feel unqualified, but God equips those He calls. David’s mighty men were once outcasts, and Peter was impulsive and fearful. Yet through training and the Holy Spirit, they became strong. Likewise, we must equip ourselves with God’s word and Spirit to stand firm in battle.
The Characteristics of God’s Army
- Clothed in White Linen
John saw the heavenly army clothed in fine, white linen (Revelation 19:14). This represents the holiness given to us at baptism (Revelation 7:13–14). However, we must actively keep our robes unblemished (Rev 3:4, 16:15).
Are our thoughts, words, and actions pure?
- Riding on White Horses
The heavenly army rode white horses (Revelation 19:14), just as Jesus did when He went out conquering (Revelation 6:2). The white horse symbolizes the True Jesus Church, through which Christ fulfills His mission.
Do we firmly believe that the True Jesus Church is God’s chosen church in these last days?
- Staying Focused
“No one engaged in warfare entangles himself with the affairs of this life, that he may please him who enlisted him as a soldier.” (2 Timothy 2:4)
As Christian soldiers, we cannot allow worldly distractions to pull us away from our mission. This does not mean abandoning school, work, or responsibilities but keeping God as our top priority.
What are we focusing on today?
- Being Watchful
King Solomon’s elite guards were always ready for battle (Song of Solomon 3:7–8). They were armed, vigilant, and prepared for any threat. Their readiness reflected their humility, they knew their weaknesses and remained alert. Likewise, we must never assume that our faith is strong enough to withstand all temptations. Satan is always scheming, using impure thoughts and worldly temptations to weaken us. Our defense is prayer and God’s word.
Do we rely on the Holy Spirit and keep God’s word in our hearts?
- Willing to Suffer
“You therefore must endure hardship as a good soldier of Jesus Christ.” (2 Timothy 2:3)
Soldiers endure hardship, and as soldiers of Christ, we must be willing to suffer for Him. Preaching the gospel or serving in church may require sacrificing comfort, leisure, or even time with loved ones.
Yet, Jesus endured the ultimate suffering for us. If we are truly His soldiers, are we willing to suffer for Him in return?
Willing and Able
One US Army battalion’s motto is Volens et Potens—”willing and able.” Jesus willingly gave His life for us, and though unworthy, we received the gift of salvation.
As His soldiers, we must be both willing to fight and able—equipped with faith, the Holy Spirit, and God’s word. The battle at Armageddon is near (Revelation 16:16), and only those who fight to the end will stand victorious.
Are we ready to stand on the front line for Christ?
Come join us for the Spring 2025 Evangelical Service and Spiritual Convocation (ESSC). Bring your family and friends as we understand what it takes to return to God and pursue spiritual growth life at home, work, and beyond. Save the date, and we look forward to seeing you!
Thursday, April 17, 2025 6:50PM to 8:10PM
Friday and Saturday, April 18-19, 2025 9:00AM to 8:10PM
Sunday, April 20, 2025 9:00AM to 1:00PM
Please find our church location below:
4N550 Church Road
Bensenville, IL 60106
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In the meantime, please feel free to join us for our regular Sabbath (Friday evening and Saturday) services online or in-person.
Friday Evening Service: 7:50PM – 9:00PM
Saturday Morning Service: 10:50AM – 12:00Noon
Saturday Afternoon Service: 1:30PM – 2:40PM
Email us at ilovejesus@tjc-chicago.org