The Bible, particularly the New King James Version (NKJV), is replete with references to physical weapons used in warfare. These weapons, however, are not just physical tools for battle; they also symbolise spiritual weapons that Christians can use in their fight against the forces of evil. This article will explore these weapons, their physical use, and their spiritual significance.
Old Testament Weapons
The Sword
The sword is one of the most frequently mentioned weapons in the Bible. In the physical realm, it was used for close combat and as a symbol of authority and judgement. For instance, in Genesis 3:24, God placed cherubim and a flaming sword to guard the way to the tree of life.
In the spiritual realm, the sword represents the Word of God. Ephesians 6:17 refers to the Word of God as the “sword of the Spirit”. This implies that Christians can use God’s Word to combat evil and falsehood.
The Bow and Arrows
The bow and arrows were long-range weapons used in biblical times. They are mentioned in several instances, such as in 1 Samuel 18:4, where Jonathan gave his bow to David as a sign of friendship and loyalty.
Spiritually, the bow and arrows symbolise the power of God’s word reaching far and wide. In Ephesians 6:16, Paul talks about the “fiery darts of the wicked”, which can be quenched by the shield of faith. This suggests that faith can protect Christians from the harmful effects of evil.
The Spear
The spear was another common weapon in the Old Testament. It was used for both close and long-range combat. An example is in 1 Samuel 17:45-47, where David, armed only with a sling and stones, defeated Goliath, who was armed with a spear.
In the spiritual realm, the spear can symbolise the power of God to defeat seemingly insurmountable odds. Just as David defeated Goliath with a simple sling and stone, Christians can overcome evil with the power of God.
New Testament Weapons
The Helmet of Salvation
In Ephesians 6:17, Paul talks about the “helmet of salvation”. This is not a physical weapon, but a spiritual one. It symbolises the assurance of salvation, which protects the mind from doubts and fears.
The Shield of Faith
Also mentioned in Ephesians 6:16 is the “shield of faith”. This shield can quench all the “fiery darts of the wicked”. This suggests that faith can protect Christians from the attacks of the enemy.
The Breastplate of Righteousness
In Ephesians 6:14, Paul talks about the “breastplate of righteousness”. This breastplate protects the heart, which is often seen as the seat of emotions and will. This implies that righteousness can protect Christians from emotional and willful attacks from the enemy.
Conclusion
The Bible is rich with symbolism, and the weapons mentioned in it are no exception. These weapons, while used physically in biblical times, also symbolise spiritual weapons that Christians can use in their fight against evil. By understanding these symbols, Christians can better equip themselves for spiritual warfare.
Whether it’s the sword of the Spirit, which is the Word of God, or the shield of faith, which can quench the fiery darts of the wicked, these spiritual weapons are powerful tools in the hands of a Christian soldier. Armed with these weapons, Christians can stand firm against the forces of evil and emerge victorious.
