Revelation: Christ and the Churches

Messiah's Divine Rights - Part 6

Transcript: AI Transcript

Professor: John Weaver

Subject: New Testament Studies

Genre: Sermon

Dictation Name:

Date: 2005-03-06

Synopsis: John Weaver continues his series on Psalm 110, focusing on the transition from Christ's kingship (verses 1-3) to His priesthood (verse 4). He argues that the latter part of verse 3 ('in the beauties of holiness, from the womb of the morning: thou hast the dew of thy youth') describes the Messiah producing a multitude of 'soldier saints'—a warrior priesthood. Weaver contends that modern Christianity has lost the biblical concept of warrior priests, who are called to fight for truth and righteousness, and instead has embraced passivity and compromise.

[John Weaver] But Psalm 110, verse 1, the Lord said unto my Lord, Sit thou at my right hand, until I make thine enemies thy footstool. The Lord shall send the rod of thy strength out of Zion, rule thou in the midst of thine enemies. Thy people shall be willing in the day of thy power, and the beauties of holiness from the womb of the morning thou hast to do to thy youth. The Lord hath sworn and will not repent. Thou art a priest forever after the order of Melchizedek. Lord, at thy right hand shall strike through kings in the day of his wrath.

[John Weaver] He shall judge among the heathen. He shall fill the places with the dead bodies. He shall wound the heads over many countries. He shall drink of the brook in the way. Therefore shall he lift up the head."

[John Weaver] Now, you'll remember last time I dealt particularly in verse 3, thy people shall be willing in the day of thy power. And I brought a distinction which I believe is a very vital one. A very important one, as well as a very biblical one, that is a distinction between what is known as free will and freedom of will. And I'm not going to take the time to go into that today, but just let me say at the outset, the theory or the concept of free will is totally and completely unbiblical, while the concept of freedom of the will is indeed biblical. And if you are not aware of those differences, I would encourage you to listen to the message from last time over again.

[John Weaver] That's number five on Messiah's divine rights. Now, just for a quick overview to pick up where we have been and where we are today. I want you to understand that there must be a transition between verses one through three and verse four. And the reason I say that is because actually the first three verses of Psalm 110 is dealing with the kingship of Christ. And when you get to verse four, it is dealing with the priesthood of Christ. So how do you make a transition then from discussing the kingship of Christ to the priesthood of Christ? What is that transition? Well, based upon the first three verses, we know that God has instituted Jesus Christ, both born and Christ, by his sovereign will.

[John Weaver] In that position, according to the Bible, Christ rules over his enemies with a rod of iron. In ruling over his enemies, he may do one of three things. He may either destroy them, subjugate them, or save them. They are in His hands, they are His enemies, and He may do with them as He wills. But the Bible tells us also in verse 3 that He will make His people willing in the day of Thy power, or in the day of His power.

[John Weaver] Now, I just want to encourage you to try to refresh your mind. When I taught the last time on the difference between free will and the freedom of the will, I told you that the question is not, were you willing to come to Christ when you came to Christ? Very obviously, those who come to Christ willingly come to Him. The question really is, who made you willing? There were several verses I did not get to when I preached last time, but let me just give them to you right now.

[John Weaver] For instance, Philippians 2 and verse 13 says this, For it is God which worketh in you, both to will and to do His good pleasure. Now listen to that. It is God who worketh in you both to will and to do His good pleasure. So it is God then who not only puts the to do in us, He also puts the will in us as well. That's why the Bible tells us in the book of Hebrews chapter 12 and verse 2 that he is the author and the finisher of our faith. That is, he is the one who began it and he is also the one who ends it. That's why Philippians 1 and verse 6 says, being confident of this very thing, that he who hath begun a good work in you will also finish it or perform it until the day of Jesus Christ. So God is the one who begins and God is the one who finishes.

[John Weaver] He is the Alpha and the Omega in salvation. Now, all of this is brought out in the first three verses.

[John Weaver] Now, let me just tell you the transition from the kingship of Christ to the priesthood of Christ. Is found in the latter part of verse three, where the Bible says in the beauties of holiness, from the womb of the morning, thou hast the due of thy youth."

[John Weaver] Now we've got to ask ourselves what in the world is the meaning of that phrase. Now let me give you very quickly two broad overviews of the latter part of verse 3. I'm going to give you two quotes. One of them is from the old Puritan John Trapp. And here is what he said concerning the latter part of verse 3. In the beauties of holiness, in other words, in church assemblies, and the beauty of holy ordinances, at the administration of Christ's birth-dew, that is, the influence of His Spirit and His presence in those ordinances, is from the womb of the morning, in other words, is of that generating and enlivening virtue that the dew of the teeming morning is to the seeds that the due of the teeming morning is to the seeds and plants of the earth."

[John Weaver] Now here, you may not have understood what he said up to that point, but here he continues,"...an apt similitude both to express the multitude of Christ's converts and the manner of their heavenly generation." Now all he is saying so far is this, that the latter part of verse 3, is a similitude that expresses the multitude of the converts of Jesus Christ and the manner of their heavenly generation. The second commentator that I'm going to quote is Adam Clark. Here's what he said.

[John Weaver] From the womb of the morning, as the dew flows from the womb of the morning, so shall all the godly flow from thee. They are the dew of thy youth. They are the offspring of thine own nativity. as the human nature of our Lord was begotten by the creative energy of God in the womb of the Virgin, so the followers of God are born, not of blood, nor the will of flesh, but by the Divine Spirit."

[John Weaver] Now, I want you to note that both Adam Clark and John Trapp have said essentially the same thing. They have said that the latter part of verse 3 speaks then not only of the multitude of the converts of Jesus Christ, but also in the manner of their heavenly conversion as well. Each of these commentators hit upon the right thought. But neither one of these commentators developed that thought. Verse 3, the latter part, does indeed represent the offspring of Jesus Christ. But there's a little more to it than that, and I want to enlarge upon the latter part of verse 3.

[John Weaver] You see, when you and I look at the Bible and read, in the beauties of holiness, that is not a phrase that is difficult for us to comprehend. We understand that in the sense that we know that God is holy. The Bible says in Romans 15 verse 4, thou only art holy. Everything that God is and everything that God does is holy. Did you realize that God is more often styled the Holy One in Scripture than any other title? So we understand the holiness of God. The phrase that's going to give us a little problem is this, from the womb of the morning thou hast to do it by youth.

[John Weaver] Now what in the world does that mean? Let me give you an old translation of that verse. Listen carefully. This is from the Bible printed by Barker, who was the King's printer in London, England in 1615, and here is how he renders the entire verse. Listen carefully. Thy people shall come willingly at the time of assembling thine army in the holy beauty. The youth of thy womb shall be as the morning dew.

[John Weaver] Now he adds just another thing, not just the multitude of Christ's converts, not just simply the manner in which they are converted, but he also points out the fact that they are indeed a holy army. Now, I wish I had time today to deal with the biblical teaching concerning Dukes. But you and I both know that even today, men are struck with astonishment at seeing the earth moistened and refreshed with you, even though its descent is imperceptible.

[John Weaver] And what David is saying is this. Likewise, there's going to be an innumerable offspring born to Christ who shall spread over the whole earth. Although that may be imperceptible to you and I, by the way, let me just stop right here. and interject a thought. I run into this everywhere I go. I hear people saying, well, Brother Weaver, there are just so few of us. I mean, we're just a small group.

[John Weaver] You know something, that is called tunnel vision. We've got an Elijah complex. Lord, I only am left. And what did God tell Elijah? That's not true. He said, I've got 7,000. It's never about the need to bail or kiss his ring. I mean, you know, come on. Do you realize there are people all over this country in every state that believe the truth and know the truth?

[John Weaver] They may be in small groups, but they are everywhere. And this is exactly what God is saying. The Jew falls imperceptibly. And by the way, The word youth in verse 3, when he says, from the womb of the morning thou hast the due of thy youth, the word youth could be also translated there as young men or soldiers. It refers then to persons who are courageous, heroic, strong, active, and vigorous, much like the apostles.

[John Weaver] of the first preachers of the gospel in the first century. And they are fitly compared to do for several reasons. Number one, like do they have their origin from heaven? That is, God regenerated them. God saved them. Like do they fructify the earth? That is, there was fruit produced on the earth. Like do they were innumerable? Like dew, they were diffused over the entire earth. And like dew, they came from the morning, that is, the dawn, from the beginning of the gospel day of salvation. Yes, he said, from the dew of the morning, thou hast indeed, or from the womb of the morning, thou hast the dew of thy youth.

[John Weaver] So what the latter part of verse 3 is showing us is this. The Messiah, then, is leading his people, and he is represented, then, as continually in the vigor of his youth, and he is producing soldier saints who will follow him in his grace and in his mercy.

[John Weaver] Now, let's stop just for a moment. The scripture says, in the beauties of holiness, that is, we are to be adorned with the beautiful robes of righteousness and true holiness. I can quote this verse, but I want you to turn in your Bibles to the book of Ephesians chapter 4 and look at verse 24. Ephesians 4 and verse 24. I want you to note what the scripture says. You will remember that when Adam was created, he was created with original righteousness, holiness, knowledge, and dominion.

[John Weaver] Well, the Bible tells us that, of course, we get back all of that and more in Jesus Christ. But the Bible says in Ephesians 4 and verse 24, and that you put on the new man which after God is created in righteousness and true holiness. So the saints of God, once again, are to be adorned in righteousness and true holiness. Now, the Bible tells us in Revelation 19 and verse 14, that the saints were adorned with the fine linen which represent purity and righteousness. So the Bible then is telling us that Jesus Christ as the God-man, as the King of Kings and Lord of Lords, as he is ruling in the midst of his people, he is producing a soldier sainthood that will have righteousness and holiness. Now, look in your Bibles, if you would please, to the book of Revelation, chapter one, and then the first Peter, chapter two. Let me show you. Revelation, chapter one, and look, if you would please, at verse six. Revelation one, verse six.

[John Weaver] In fact, let's read verse five, just so you can see the context. Revelation 1 verse 5. Revelation 1 verse 5, note the Bible says, and from Jesus Christ, who is the faithful witness and the first begotten of the dead and the prince of the kings of the earth, of him that loved us and washed us from our sins in his own blood and made us what? Kings and priests unto God and His Father.

[John Weaver] To Him be glory and dominion forever and ever. Amen.

[John Weaver] Now, what has Jesus Christ made us? He's made us kings and what? Priests.

[John Weaver] Now, look in your Bibles, if you would please, to 1 Peter chapter 2. 1 Peter chapter 2. And notice, if you would please, verse 5. 1 Peter 2 and verse 5. Once again, the Word of God has this to say. First Peter 2 verse five. Note carefully, you also as lively or living stones are built up a spiritual house, a holy priesthood to offer up spiritual sacrifices acceptable to God by Jesus Christ. Now look in verse nine, but you are a chosen generation. a royal priesthood, a holy nation, and peculiar people that you should show forth the praises of them who have called you out of darkness into His marvelous light.

[John Weaver] Now, the Bible is talking in Psalm 110 and verse 3 about the beauties of holiness. That could refer, number one, to the beautiful and glorious garments. of the Levitical priesthood. Would you just stop for a moment? I don't want to have to turn there in the Bible, but would you just stop and think of all those beautiful garments that Aaron, the high priest, had. You remember not only the linen ephod, the crown, the mitre. You remember the stones that was on the breastplate. I mean, these were garments of beauty, garments displayed his righteousness. Do you remember what was on the crown on the mitre that he wore? Holiness to the Lord. The second thing this could refer to is the military robes where soldiers are furnished and adorned. By the way, I'm going to point this out in just a moment. Do you realize that we as Christians are to be Christian soldiers involved in the Christian warfare. Listen carefully. If you watch any of the history channel, and you watch any of the ancient battles, you'll find that many of the soldiers were adorned indeed in many glorious and beautiful uniforms.

[John Weaver] Usually they were dressed basically alike. There's a reason for that. So you can tell your own and not be fighting against your own man. That is for sure. But they also were very proud of their uniforms. The Apostle Paul, and we'll get to it in just a little bit, but the Apostle Paul describes the armor of the Christian. In Ephesians chapter six, We're not going to turn there right now, but we're going to get there.

[John Weaver] If you were to do a study. And read Exodus 28 where the robes and the garments of the high priest are described, then read Isaiah 59 verses 17 through 21 and Isaiah 61 verse 10. Let me tell you what I think based upon those passages. I believe that the armor that the Apostle Paul is describing in Ephesians chapter 6 is from the garments that the high priest wore. Why?

[John Weaver] Because Christ is supposedly producing soldier saints. The youth, the young men that are courageous, that are heroic, that are bold, that are brave? You know what we've forgotten? That Christ is coming back leading a large what? Army.

[John Weaver] Now, we have lost a concept and we have forgotten the truth that God's people are to be warrior priests. Let me tell you one of the most neglected and most forgotten hymns In our time, you can go in any church you want to go in. Hardly ever will you hear this hymn sung. Onward, Christian soldiers. Are you listening? Let me read the stances. Onward, Christian soldiers marching as to war.

[John Weaver] With the cross of Jesus going on before. Christ, the royal master, leads against the foe. Forward in the battle, see his banners go. And then, of course, you'd have the refrain. Here's the next stanza. At the sign of triumph, Satan's host doth flee. Ohm then, Christian soldiers, ohm to victory. Hell's foundations quiver at the shout of praise. Brothers, lift your voices, loud your anthems raise. Listen, like a mighty army moves the church of God. Brothers, we are treading where the saints have trod.

[John Weaver] We are not divided, all one body, we, one in hope and doctrine, one in charity. What the saints establish, that I hold for true. What the saints believe, that I believe too. Long as earth endureth, men the faith will hold. Kingdoms, nations, empires in destruction rolled. Crowns and thrones may perish. Kingdoms rise and wane, but the church of Jesus constant will remain. Gates of hell can never against that church prevail.

[John Weaver] We have Christ's own promise, and that cannot fail. Onward then, ye people! Join our happy throng! Blend with our dear voices in the triumph song. Glory, laud, and honor unto Christ the King! This through countless ages, men and angels sing." Did you hear that? Like a mighty army moves the Church of God. That's not so in this day and age, is it? You know why? We have lost the concept of warrior priesthood. It's a beautiful hymn. And it is an accurate, biblical hymn.

[John Weaver] Yet what we do is when we think of priests, we normally think of intercession, sacrifice, and worship. And we just simply limit our understanding to those things.

[John Weaver] Now, it is true, according to 1 Peter 2 and verse 5, that as priests we are to offer up spiritual sacrifices acceptable unto God through Jesus Christ. That is part of our priestly duty. We are also, according to 1 Peter 2 and verse 9, called upon to show forth the praises of Him who has called us out of darkness into His marvelous light. That is also equally true. And then in Hebrews 13 in verse 15, the Bible commands us to offer up the sacrifice of praise continually.

[John Weaver] That is the fruit of our lips giving thanks unto his name. That's priestly work. And when you read Romans 12 verses 1 and 2, I beseech you, therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that you present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable to God, which is your reasonable service, and be not conformed to this world, but that you transform how? By the renewing of your mind, that you may prove what is that good and acceptable and perfect will of God.

[John Weaver] Did you hear what I just quoted? I beseech you, therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that you present your bodies what? A living sacrifice. That is part of our priestly duties. Do you know if I were to ask you? What were the duties of Old Testament priests? Most of you could tell me 99% of their duties. They did offer sacrifices. They did pray. They did sing. They offered praise. They prayed.

[John Weaver] They did a lot of things, but I want you to look in your Bibles, the first Chronicles Chapter 23. First Chronicles 23. Let me show you how limited we are in our understanding. Of a priesthood. First Chronicles 23, beginning there with verse 27. Because here are the duties of the Levites spelled out. 1 Chronicles 23 verse 27. 1 Chronicles 23 verse 27. For by the last words of David, the Levites were numbered from 20 years old and above.

[John Weaver] Because their office was to wait on the sons of Aaron for the service of the house of the Lord in the courts and in the chambers and the purifying of holy things and the work of the service of the house of God. Now let's stop right there. We understand that they waited upon Aaron. They served in the courts in the chambers. They served about the purifying of holy things. They did generally the work in the tabernacle in the temple.

[John Weaver] He goes further in verse 29. Both for the show bread and for the fine flour for meat offering and for the unleavened cakes and for that which is baked in the pan for that which is fried and all matter of measure and size. In other words, they did the cooking, the baking, the show bread that was there continually before the Lord. They took care of that. Verse 30 and to stand every morning to thank and praise the Lord and likewise and even so they were engaged in. Private personal and public praise. Verse 31, to offer all burnt sacrifices unto the Lord in the sabbaths, in the new moons, on the set feasts, by number, according to the order commanded of them continually before the Lord. We understand that. Verse 32, and, so we're continuing on the priestly duties, and that they should keep the charge of the tabernacle of the congregation and the charge of the holy place and the charge of the sons of Aaron their brethren in the service of the house of the Lord.

[John Weaver] Now wait a minute. Is it very simple to understand verses 27 through 31? But when you get to verse 32. He continues to describe their duties and says that they should keep the charge of the tabernacle of the congregation. and the charge of the holy place and the charge of the sons of Aaron, their brethren in the service of the house of the Lord. Now. My question is, what does it mean to keep the charge of the tabernacle? What does it mean to keep the charge of the holy place? What does it mean to keep the charge of the sons of Aaron and their brethren now? Look at the word keep.

[John Weaver] You need to underline this without me going into this in great detail. Let me check the word keep in practically every one of these places. I'm going to show you. In fact, it is the word keep is the Hebrew word shamar. S-H-A-M-A-R. OK, the word shamar means to guard, to protect, to keep. OK, now watch. And they shall guard and protect the charge of the tabernacle of the congregation. And they shall and the charge once again guard and protect the charge of the holy place and guard and protect the charge of the sons of Aaron. So the words they're keeping this now the word charge. Look at the word charge. The Hebrew word is Mishmethra M-I-S-H-M-E-R-E-T-H which refers then to a watch. Or a century duty. Or an act of protection now go back to verse 31 and they shall keep guard. Protect their century post. Their century duty of the tabernacle of the congregation and the century post in the century duty of the Holy Place and the century post and the century duty of the Sons of Aaron.

[John Weaver] In other words, What you have in First Chronicles 23 in verse 32. Is a military duty. A warrior priest duty. Of the Levitical priests.

[John Weaver] Now I could show you this 100 times in Scripture, but go in your Bibles if you would to the Book of Numbers chapter one. Number chapter one. Numbers one. And let's begin reading there with verse 53. The book of Numbers is so full of these terms. Numbers 1 verse 53, Numbers chapter 1 verse 53. But the Levites shall pitch round about the tabernacle of testimony. that there be no wrath upon the congregation of the children of Israel and the Levites shall keep guard, protect the charge, the century duty of the tabernacle of testimony.

[John Weaver] Now, let me spell something out for you. There were Levitical priests. Who were armed? Guards around the tabernacle and later on around the temple as well. Look at number chapter three. and verse 32. Numbers 3 verse 32. And Eliezer the son of Aaron the priest shall be chief over the chief of the Levites that have the oversight of them that keep the charge of the sanctuary. That is that guard and protect the sanctuary. So they had a hierarchy in their priesthood, especially in relationship to this warrior priest.

[John Weaver] Now, let me show you how serious this was. Now, go back to number chapter three and let's begin reading the reverse five.

[John Weaver] Now, remember, they were charged to keep the charge of the tabernacle, to keep the charge of the holy place. And to keep the charge of the sons of Aaron, you remember that. OK, number three, verse five. And the Lord spake unto Moses, saying, Bring the tribe of Levi near, and present them before Aaron the priest, that they may minister unto him. And they shall keep his charge, and the charge of the whole congregation before the tabernacle of the congregation, to do the service of the tabernacle. And they shall keep all the instruments of the tabernacle of the congregation, and the charge of the children of Israel to do the service of the tabernacle. And thou shalt give the Levites unto Aaron and to his sons, and they are wholly given unto him out of the children of Israel." Now watch,"...and thou shalt appoint Aaron and his sons, and they shall wait on their priest's office, and the stranger that cometh nigh shall be put to death." Hold it. If a stranger comes near to Aaron, or near to the holy place, or near to the tabernacle, who's not supposed to be there, what's the penalty?

[John Weaver] Death. Here's my question. Who's going to put him to death? Levitical priests. Why? They were given a charge. They were obligated to protect, to guard, and to keep their century post. It is a military command.

[John Weaver] Now, you'll find the same thing in Numbers chapter 18 verses 1 through 7. Any stranger that came near was to be automatically put to death. And those priests didn't say, oh wait, we've got to get the local sheriff down here. We've got to get the police down here or we've got to call the army. No, no, no. They just dispatched them themselves. They took care of it.

[John Weaver] Now, I want you to look carefully in your Bibles to 2 Kings chapter 12 and 2 Chronicles chapter 34. Let me show you something that's probably been overlooked by most people in their Bible study. 2 Chronicles and 2 Kings. We're going to 2 Kings first. 2 Kings 12. Just find that passage, 2 Kings 12. Then go ahead and find 2 Chronicles 34. So, we will read 2 Kings 12 first, and then go to 2 Chronicles 34. Now, 2 Kings chapter 12, verse 9. 2 Kings 12, verse 9. Look what the Bible says.

[John Weaver] But Jorah the priest took a chest and bore a hole in the lid of it, and set it beside the altar on the right side as one cometh into the house of the Lord. And the priests that kept the door put therein all the money that was brought into the house of the Lord."

[John Weaver] Now, did you notice anything peculiar about that verse? Well, just hold it. Just hold it and look at 2nd Chronicles 34 and verse 9. See if you can figure it out over here. 2nd Chronicles 34 verse 9. And when they came to Hiltiah the high priest, they delivered the money that was brought in the house of God, which the Levites that kept the doors had gathered of the hand of Manasseh and Ephraim and all the remnant of Israel and all Judah and Benjamin, and they returned to Jerusalem. Now twice it has been said that certain Levites did what? They kept the doors.

[John Weaver] You remember I told you the word keep was the Hebrew word shamar, which means to guard and protect. It's the same word here. So there were Levitical priests then that kept or guarded the doors. You do know You did not just simply waltz into the tabernacle or the temple. There were guards at the door. If you were a stranger or you were not allowed there, they executed you. It's just that simple.

[John Weaver] Now, let me show you. How this was understood throughout the Bible. Look at Psalm 84, verse 10. Look what David said. I've heard this verse quoted by people so many times and. And the fact is, they don't know what they're saying when they quote the verse. Look what David said, Psalm 84 and verse 10. Isn't this a wonderful verse? He said, For a day in thy courts is better than a thousand. David said, I had rather be a doorkeeper in the house of my God than to dwell in the tents of wickedness. Someone who says, Well, isn't that mighty humble of David? Well, yeah, it teaches humility. David said, I'd rather be a doorkeeper in the house of my God. But guess what? Guess what? The word doorkeeper is there. The Hebrew word for doorkeeper means one who stands guard, one who keeps and protects the threshold. David said, I'd rather be that guard sitting there executing the people who come in who aren't supposed to be there. than to dwell in the tents of wickedness."

[John Weaver] So what are you saying? Now, I could multiply these verses, but let's go back in our Bibles to Numbers chapter 4. I believe you're seeing the same principle, Numbers chapter 4, and look at verse 3. In fact, we're going to look at several verses here. And just see if any of you have alternate readings in your Bibles. OK. Look at Numbers chapter four and verse three for 30 years old and upward, even the 50 years old, all that entered the host to do the work in the tabernacle of the congregation. Now I'm looking at the phrase to do the work. You see that Numbers four and verse three to do the work. Now look in verse twenty three. Same chapter. From 30 years old and upward until 50 years old, shalt thou number them all that enter in to perform the service. We're still talking about the Levites to do the work in the tabernacle of the congregation. There's that phrase to do the work. Now, look at verse 30 from 30 years old and upward, even in 50 years old, shalt thou number them, everyone that enters in the service to do the work of the tabernacle of the congregation.

[John Weaver] So three times in this one chapter, we've read to do the work Now, if you would look in your Bibles to number chapter eight. And verse 24. Here, it's used just a little differently, but it's the same thing. Numbers eight, verse 24, this is it that belongs to the Levites from 25 years old and upward, shall they go into wait upon the service of the tabernacle of the congregation, so to wait upon the service or to do the work.

[John Weaver] Now, does anyone have any marginal readings in your Bible that there is an alternate translation? I'll tell you what it is. You may have it. It literally is if you translate it to war the warfare. to war, the warfare. In other words, when you read verse three, like Deuteronomy four from 30 years old and upwards, even in 50 years old, all that entered the host to war, the warfare in the tabernacle of the congregation. Every time it can be to war, the warfare.

[John Weaver] It is the same Hebrew word. Now, the point I'm trying to make is. In the Old Testament and without me going into the New Testament, in New Testament times, There was the concept of a warrior priesthood. Brother Ernie, do you have it in your Bible there? Yeah, to war the warfare. So there was a concept then of a warrior priesthood.

[John Weaver] Now let me tell you what has happened in our day and time. We not only have lost the concept of being a warrior priesthood, and by the way, When we use the word warrior, we think of someone who is heroic, brave, courageous, willing to fight, willing to stand. We have not only lost the concept of a warrior priesthood, we have turned completely and totally in the opposite direction.

[John Weaver] And think today that the real Christian just lets everybody run all over him and wipe their feet all over him because he's displaying such humility and submissiveness. You got me? Let me go a step further. And the thing that concerns me is this is among professing Christians. I can understand it with the world, but so many, even professing Christians, somehow, when you talk about weaponry, view weaponry as somehow being unethical and unholy and unrighteous. And you'll hear Christians, oh, guns.

[John Weaver] I'd never let my kids have a gun. Or knives. No! No!

[John Weaver] Now let me ask you a question. Is a rifle sinful in and of itself? No. How about a sword? I remember when my oldest grandson was about five or six years old. He was into karate and, oh, he wanted to be a ninja. You know, this kind of stuff. And Granny Alice made him a ninja uniform and that kind of thing. And so he sent me this little book that he had seen this sword in.

[John Weaver] And he wrote me a letter. And he said, Papa, please get this sword for me. And it was a real sword. And his mother had gotten a hold of the letter and the book. And she wrote a little note down there. Papa, not the real one, the wooden one. Well, Casey, unknowing to her, had seen what she had written. So he wrote under that, no Papa, the real one. So I got him the real one. And of course he had to keep it on his wall until he got big enough, you know, to play with and he could only hold it supervised.

[John Weaver] I understand that's no problem. But, you know, we tend to think that somehow a sword or weapon is evil in and of itself. That is not true. That is not true. I want you to turn in your Bibles to Second Chronicles, Chapter 23. If weaponry. If weaponry. is something that is inherently evil. Then I want you to explain something to me. Look in 2 Chronicles chapter 23.

[John Weaver] Let's begin there with verse 2. 2 Chronicles 23. Verse 2. The Bible says. Of course, Yehoiada is a high priest and They're protecting the young king in this context. Now watch this. And they went about in Judah and gathered the Levites. There's those Levites again out of all the cities of Judah and the chief of the fathers of Israel. And they came to Jerusalem. Now watch. And all the congregation made a covenant with the king in the house of God.

[John Weaver] And he said unto them, Behold, the king's son shall reign, as the Lord had said of the sons of David. This is the thing that you shall do.

[John Weaver] Now, remember, he's talking to the Levites. This is the thing that you shall do. A third part of you entering on the Sabbath of the priest and of the Levites shall be porters of the doors. That is, you're going to keep or guard the doors. A third part shall be at the king's house. And a third part at the gate of the foundation and all the people shall be in the courts of the house of the Lord. But let none come into the house of the Lord save the priest. Now watch. And they that minister the Levites, and they shall go in, for they are holy. But all the people shall keep the watch of the Lord. Are you looking? And the Levites, those Levitical priests, and the Levites shall compass the king round about every man with his weapons in his hand. And whosoever else cometh in the house, he shall be put to death. But be ye with the king when he cometh in and when he goeth out. Now who was guarding the king?

[John Weaver] the Levites. They had weapons. Watch. So the Levites and all Judah did according to all the things that Jehoiada the priest had commanded, and took every man his men that were to come in on the Sabbath with them that were to go out on the Sabbath, for Jehoiada the priest dismissed not the courses. Moreover, Jehoiada the high priest now, Jehoiada the priest delivered to the captains of hundreds spears and bucklers and shields that had been King David's that were where? Where were they?

[John Weaver] In the house of God. Oh! They kept those swords and those spears and those offensive and defensive weapons in the house of God. You'll find the same thing written in 2 Kings chapter 11. They kept them in the house of God. Let me just point this out. Everyone has heard of the battle of Lexington Concord. The shot was heard around the world. Lexington Green. Most people do not know that that was the church green. Most people do not know that the pastor of that church taught his people to fight and to stand against wickedness and tyranny.

[John Weaver] And that he stood there and watched some of his men died. And one of those men who died It was a man by the name of Caleb Harrington, an old man. And he died on the steps of the church house. Why was he not in the green with the other men? Because he was running back into the church house that Jonas Clark pastored to get more power for the men. The ammunition was kept in the church building. Ah.

[John Weaver] You see, we would think today, oh, how horrible. No. It was not horrible in 2 Chronicles. It was not horrible in 2 Kings. It was not horrible in 1776. It's only horrible enough today because we've lost the concept of fighting and standing for truth and righteousness, holiness, liberty and freedom and justice.

[John Weaver] Now, I want you to look in your Bibles to Second Chronicles chapter nine and verse 19. You see. Those Levites were not just keepers of the doors and gates, But the Bible tells us something else as well. Look at 2 Chronicles 9 and verse 19. It must be 1 Chronicles. I don't have that. Let me check. 1 Chronicles 9 and verse 19. Yeah, that's 1 Chronicles, not 2. 1 Chronicles.

[John Weaver] First Chronicles 9 verse 19, here are some names given of some of the Levites. And Shalom, the son of Korah, the son of Biseph, the son of Korah and his brethren, and Korah was a Levite, of the house of his father, the Korahites, who were all Levites, were over the work of the service, keepers of the gates of the tabernacle, and their fathers being over the host of the Lord were keepers of the entry. Now watch, and their fathers being over the host of the Lord. Someone tell me, what does the word host refer to? The army. So here are some of these Levites. They were not just keepers of the gates and keepers of the entry. They were that, but they were also over the host of the Lord.

[John Weaver] And since you're in 1 Chronicles, look in 1 Chronicles 12, because in verses 6 through 8, we have some of them listed as David's mighty men. The Bible says, There's Elkanah, and Jeshiah, and Azariel, and Joeser, and Jehoshabim, the Korhites, same ones. And then verse 8, And of the Gadites there separated themselves unto David, unto the hold of the wilderness men of might, and men of war fit for the battle, that could handle Sheol and Buckler, whose faces were like the faces of lions, and were swift as the rose upon the mountain. But note, here's a listing of David's mighty men, and here's some of the Levites that are there. They're fighters. They're fighters. Now, do you understand?

[John Weaver] We may never, ever be called upon to fight with physical weapons. And truthfully, I hope we're not. But the fact is, we are called to be warrior priests and we are called to be fighters And it is certainly no disgrace to be involved in a righteous fight with physical weapons if it comes to that. David was one of the greatest warriors of all times. And yet he was a man after God's own heart. You remember how they sang, Saul has killed his thousands and David his tens of thousands. I want you to see what David confessed in Psalm 144 and verse 1. Turn there. Psalm 144, we'll read verses 1 and 2. Look at David's confession. Psalm 144, verse 1. David says, Blessed be the Lord my strength, who teacheth my hands to war and my fingers to fight.

[John Weaver] my goodness and my fortress, my high tower and my deliverer, my shield, and he in whom I trust, who subdueth my people under me." What did David say? It was God who taught my hands to fight and my fingers to war. I hope you know that one of the names and titles of God in Scripture is the Lord is a man of war. See what I'm trying to say, folks. The truth of the matter is this, whether or not we're ever called upon or ever find it necessary to fight with physical weapons, the scripture does teach that there is indeed a war between good and evil, a war between right and wrong, a war between the kingdom of God and the kingdom of darkness.

[John Weaver] And therefore, we must be warrior priests. We are in a war, whether we like it or not. That's why, from the womb of the morning, thou hast the due of thy youth. In other words, here God is sovereignly in His grace, producing these heroic, strong, courageous soldier saints. Look in your Bibles. to Ephesians chapter 6. And I'll just take the time to read it. I do encourage you. To look at those Old Testament passages.

[John Weaver] In regards to the high priest and his accoutrements, his attire. And think about this, but look what the Apostle Paul. Wrote Ephesians 6 beginning there with verse 10. Just demonstrating the fact that we are in a war. Whether you want to admit it or not.

[John Weaver] Finally, my brethren, be strong in the Lord and in the power of his might. Oh, man. Be strong in the Lord and the power of his might, not your own. Put on the whole armor of God, why? that you may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil. For we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rules of darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high places. Wherefore, taking you the whole armor of God, why, that you may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand." What is he saying? You need this armor if you're going to fight. You need this armor if you're going to be a soldier saint. You need this armor if you're going to be a warrior priest.

[John Weaver] Verse 14, he tells you how. Stand therefore, having your loins girded about with truth, and having on the breastplate of righteousness, and your feet shod with the preparation of the gospel of peace. Above all, taking the shield of faith, wherewith you shall be able to quench all the fire and darks of the wicked, and take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God. Praying always with all prayer and supplication of the Spirit, and washing thereto with all perseverance and supplication for all saints.

[John Weaver] Here is the armor that we need. Let me ask you, why in the world would you need armor if you're not in a battle? Why would you need armor if you're not in a war? And the fact is, we are in a war. God has called us to be warrior-priests. The kingship of Christ and the priesthood of Christ produces a people who are kings and priests unto our God, but they are a certain kind of priest. They are a warrior priest.

[John Weaver] Now let me make some applications and I think you've already seen what I'm driving at. The first one is this. It should be obvious to everyone that one of the reasons that we're in such dire straits in our country is that Christians have lost the concept of warrior priesthood. Instead of standing, fighting, and holding the standard high, we've back-battled, compromised, negotiated, and surrendered. We do not act like warriors, nor act like priests. We've lost our biblical attitude and therefore we have lost our biblical actions. We will never regain biblical actions until we regain a biblical attitude. We cannot act right until we think right. One of the things that's wrong with modern day Christendom is we do not think biblically. We do not think scripturally. We think humanistically.

[John Weaver] We say, man, I don't want to get into a controversy. I do if it's a right one. And if it's for truth and righteousness, I don't want to fight just to be fighting. But I want to fight for that which is true and right and holy and just. There's nothing to be ashamed of.

[John Weaver] Secondly, Scripture also reveals another truth, and I want you to see this, I can quote it, but turn in your Bibles. to 2 Timothy chapter 2. Scripture reveals another truth and that is the reason why we get so entangled and involved in this life. Look at 2 Timothy 2 and verse 4. No man that woreth entangled himself with affairs of this life, that he may please him who hath chosen him to be a soldier." Wow! No man but Warren. Entangled himself with affairs of this life. Why? That he may please him who hath chosen him to be a soldier. God says, if you are fighting the battle You don't have time to get involved and entangled with things in this life. You're fighting for survival. You're fighting for your children and your grandchildren and your great-grandchildren.

[John Weaver] Where is the average Christian today? He is caught up in comfort, consolation, and prosperity above everything else. His desire is not to please his commander-in-chief in being a good soldier. His desire is to be as comfortable as he possibly can be. And that's it.

[John Weaver] Now, look at verse three. Thou therefore, what? Endure hardness as a good soldier of Jesus Christ. Why should we endure hardness? Because hardness keeps us going, keeps us fit, keeps us fighting. And if we're concerned about our Lord and His Kingdom, He said the hardness won't bother you. You'll only endure the hardest as a good soldier of Jesus Christ. You'll be so busily engaged in the conflict that you're not going to be getting entangled in the affairs of this life.

[John Weaver] You will be a warrior. Now, let me give you the hymn, or the words to the hymn, that we've forgotten as well, another one. Am I a soldier of the cross, a follower of the Lamb, And shall I feared on his cause or blush to speak his name? Must I be carried to the skies on flowery beds of ease while others fought to win the prize and sail through bloody seas?

[John Weaver] Are there no foes for me to face? Must I not stem the flood? Is this vile world a friend of grace to help me unto God? Sure, I must fight if I would reign. Increase my courage, Lord. I'll bear the toil, endure the pain, supported by thy word." Listen to that second stanza,"...must I be carried to the skies on flowery beds of ease, while others fall to win the prize and sail through bloody seas?"

[John Weaver] that condemns our own lethargy and apathy and indolence. My prayer is that we learn to fight and we learn to fight for righteousness and truth and stand remembering that our Lord has commanded us to occupy, do business, hold the fort, till He comes. Are you one of Christ's soldier saints? We'll get from the kingship to the priesthood by understanding our Lord produces warrior priests. Let's pray. Father, speak our hearts.

[John Weaver] Help us deliver Thee Help us be holy and godly. And Lord, may we learn to fight biblically, scripturally. And may we stand for that which is right. Give us grace to serve Thee acceptably with reverence and godly fear. In Thy name we pray, Amen.

Messiah's Divine Rights - Part 6

John Weaver | SermonAudio

Lecture Metadata	Details
Speaker	John Weaver
Source	SermonAudio
Media ID	3100575942
Subject	New Testament Studies
Course	Revelation: Christ and the Churches
Genre	Sermon
Date	2005-03-06
Dictation Name
Book	Book 188: Messiah's Divine Rights — Chapter 6
Source Timed Segments	92

Formatted Transcript

Introduction and Review of Psalm 110:1-3

Weaver recaps the previous message on the distinction between free will and freedom of the will, emphasizing that God makes His people willing in the day of His power.

But Psalm 110, verse 1:

Scripture Reading — Psalm 110:1-5

"The Lord said unto my Lord, Sit thou at my right hand, until I make thine enemies thy footstool. The Lord shall send the rod of thy strength out of Zion: rule thou in the midst of thine enemies. Thy people shall be willing in the day of thy power, in the beauties of holiness from the womb of the morning: thou hast the dew of thy youth. The Lord hath sworn, and will not repent, Thou art a priest for ever after the order of Melchizedek. The Lord at thy right hand shall strike through kings in the day of his wrath."

"He shall judge among the heathen, he shall fill the places with the dead bodies; he shall wound the heads over many countries. He shall drink of the brook in the way: therefore shall he lift up the head."

Now, you'll remember last time I dealt particularly in verse 3, "Thy people shall be willing in the day of thy power." And I brought a distinction which I believe is a very vital one, a very important one, as well as a very biblical one, that is a distinction between what is known as free will and freedom of will. And I'm not going to take the time to go into that today, but just let me say at the outset, the theory or the concept of free will is totally and completely unbiblical, while the concept of freedom of the will is indeed biblical. And if you are not aware of those differences, I would encourage you to listen to the message from last time over again. That's number five on Messiah's divine rights. Now, just for a quick overview to pick up where we have been and where we are today, I want you to understand that there must be a transition between verses one through three and verse four. And the reason I say that is because actually the first three verses of Psalm 110 is dealing with the kingship of Christ. And when you get to verse four, it is dealing with the priesthood of Christ. So how do you make a transition then from discussing the kingship of Christ to the priesthood of Christ? What is that transition? Well, based upon the first three verses, we know that God has instituted Jesus Christ, both Lord and Christ, by his sovereign will.

Transition from Kingship to Priesthood

The transition from Christ's kingship in verses 1-3 to His priesthood in verse 4 is found in the latter part of verse 3, which speaks of the offspring of Christ.

In that position, according to the Bible, Christ rules over his enemies with a rod of iron. In ruling over his enemies, he may do one of three things. He may either destroy them, subjugate them, or save them. They are in His hands, they are His enemies, and He may do with them as He wills. But the Bible tells us also in verse 3 that He will make His people willing in the day of Thy power, or in the day of His power.

Now, I just want to encourage you to try to refresh your mind. When I taught the last time on the difference between free will and the freedom of the will, I told you that the question is not, were you willing to come to Christ when you came to Christ? Very obviously, those who come to Christ willingly come to Him. The question really is, who made you willing? There were several verses I did not get to when I preached last time, but let me just give them to you right now. For instance, Philippians 2 and verse 13 says this:

Scripture Reading — Philippians 2:13

"For it is God which worketh in you both to will and to do of his good pleasure."

Now listen to that. It is God who worketh in you both to will and to do His good pleasure. So it is God then who not only puts the "to do" in us, He also puts the will in us as well. That's why the Bible tells us in the book of Hebrews chapter 12 and verse 2 that He is the author and the finisher of our faith. That is, He is the one who began it and He is also the one who ends it. That's why Philippians 1 and verse 6 says, "Being confident of this very thing, that he which hath begun a good work in you will perform it until the day of Jesus Christ." So God is the one who begins and God is the one who finishes.

He is the Alpha and the Omega in salvation. Now, all of this is brought out in the first three verses. Now, let me just tell you the transition from the kingship of Christ to the priesthood of Christ is found in the latter part of verse three, where the Bible says, "in the beauties of holiness, from the womb of the morning, thou hast the dew of thy youth."

Interpretations of 'the dew of thy youth'

Commentators John Trapp and Adam Clarke view the phrase as a simile for the multitude and heavenly generation of Christ's converts. Weaver adds that it also depicts a holy army of courageous, vigorous soldier saints.

Now we've got to ask ourselves what in the world is the meaning of that phrase. Now let me give you very quickly two broad overviews of the latter part of verse 3. I'm going to give you two quotes. One of them is from the old Puritan John Trapp. And here is what he said concerning the latter part of verse 3: "In the beauties of holiness"—in other words, in church assemblies, and the beauty of holy ordinances, at the administration of Christ's birth-dew, that is, the influence of His Spirit and His presence in those ordinances, is "from the womb of the morning"—in other words, is of that generating and enlivening virtue that the dew of the teeming morning is to the seeds and plants of the earth.

Now here, you may not have understood what he said up to that point, but here he continues: "...an apt similitude both to express the multitude of Christ's converts and the manner of their heavenly generation." Now all he is saying so far is this, that the latter part of verse 3 is a similitude that expresses the multitude of the converts of Jesus Christ and the manner of their heavenly generation. The second commentator that I'm going to quote is Adam Clarke. Here's what he said. "From the womb of the morning, as the dew flows from the womb of the morning, so shall all the godly flow from thee. They are the dew of thy youth. They are the offspring of thine own nativity. As the human nature of our Lord was begotten by the creative energy of God in the womb of the Virgin, so the followers of God are born, not of blood, nor the will of flesh, but by the Divine Spirit."

Scripture Reading — Revelation 15:4

Now, I want you to note that both Adam Clarke and John Trapp have said essentially the same thing. They have said that the latter part of verse 3 speaks then not only of the multitude of the converts of Jesus Christ, but also in the manner of their heavenly conversion as well. Each of these commentators hit upon the right thought. But neither one of these commentators developed that thought. Verse 3, the latter part, does indeed represent the offspring of Jesus Christ. But there's a little more to it than that, and I want to enlarge upon the latter part of verse 3. You see, when you and I look at the Bible and read, "in the beauties of holiness," that is not a phrase that is difficult for us to comprehend. We understand that in the sense that we know that God is holy. The Bible says in Revelation 15:4, "Thou only art holy." Everything that God is and everything that God does is holy. Did you realize that God is more often styled the Holy One in Scripture than any other title? So we understand the holiness of God. The phrase that's going to give us a little problem is this: "from the womb of the morning thou hast the dew of thy youth."

Now what in the world does that mean? Let me give you an old translation of that verse. Listen carefully. This is from the Bible printed by Barker, who was the King's printer in London, England in 1615, and here is how he renders the entire verse. Listen carefully: "Thy people shall come willingly at the time of assembling thine army in the holy beauty. The youth of thy womb shall be as the morning dew."

Now he adds just another thing, not just the multitude of Christ's converts, not just simply the manner in which they are converted, but he also points out the fact that they are indeed a holy army. Now, I wish I had time today to deal with the biblical teaching concerning dew. But you and I both know that even today, men are struck with astonishment at seeing the earth moistened and refreshed with dew, even though its descent is imperceptible. And what David is saying is this: Likewise, there's going to be an innumerable offspring born to Christ who shall spread over the whole earth, although that may be imperceptible to you and I. By the way, let me just stop right here and interject a thought. I run into this everywhere I go. I hear people saying, "Well, Brother Weaver, there are just so few of us. I mean, we're just a small group."

You know something, that is called tunnel vision. We've got an Elijah complex. "Lord, I only am left." And what did God tell Elijah? That's not true. He said, "I've got 7,000." It's never about the need to bail or kiss his ring. I mean, you know, come on. Do you realize there are people all over this country in every state that believe the truth and know the truth?

They may be in small groups, but they are everywhere. And this is exactly what God is saying. The dew falls imperceptibly. And by the way, the word "youth" in verse 3, when he says, "from the womb of the morning thou hast the dew of thy youth," the word "youth" could be also translated there as "young men" or "soldiers." It refers then to persons who are courageous, heroic, strong, active, and vigorous, much like the apostles. of the first preachers of the gospel in the first century. And they are fitly compared to dew for several reasons. Number one, like dew they have their origin from heaven—that is, God regenerated them, God saved them. Like dew they fructify the earth—that is, there was fruit produced on the earth. Like dew they were innumerable. Like dew, they were diffused over the entire earth. And like dew, they came from the morning, that is, the dawn, from the beginning of the gospel day of salvation. Yes, he said, "from the dew of the morning, thou hast indeed," or "from the womb of the morning, thou hast the dew of thy youth."

The Beauties of Holiness and Warrior Priests

The 'beauties of holiness' refer to the righteous adornment of God's people, who are made kings and priests. Weaver introduces the concept of warrior priests, citing Old Testament Levites who guarded the tabernacle and temple.

So what the latter part of verse 3 is showing us is this: The Messiah, then, is leading his people, and he is represented, then, as continually in the vigor of his youth, and he is producing soldier saints who will follow him in his grace and in his mercy. Now, let's stop just for a moment. The scripture says, "in the beauties of holiness," that is, we are to be adorned with the beautiful robes of righteousness and true holiness. I can quote this verse, but I want you to turn in your Bibles to the book of Ephesians chapter 4 and look at verse 24. Ephesians 4 and verse 24. I want you to note what the scripture says. You will remember that when Adam was created, he was created with original righteousness, holiness, knowledge, and dominion.

Well, the Bible tells us that, of course, we get back all of that and more in Jesus Christ. But the Bible says in Ephesians 4 and verse 24,

Scripture Reading — Ephesians 4:24

"And that ye put on the new man, which after God is created in righteousness and true holiness."

So the saints of God, once again, are to be adorned in righteousness and true holiness. Now, the Bible tells us in Revelation 19 and verse 14, that the saints were adorned with the fine linen which represent purity and righteousness. So the Bible then is telling us that Jesus Christ as the God-man, as the King of Kings and Lord of Lords, as he is ruling in the midst of his people, he is producing a soldier sainthood that will have righteousness and holiness. Now, look in your Bibles, if you would please, to the book of Revelation, chapter one, and then the first Peter, chapter two. Let me show you. Revelation, chapter one, and look, if you would please, at verse six. Revelation one, verse six.

In fact, let's read verse five, just so you can see the context. Revelation 1 verse 5. Revelation 1 verse 5, note the Bible says,

Scripture Reading — Revelation 1:5-6

"And from Jesus Christ, who is the faithful witness, and the first begotten of the dead, and the prince of the kings of the earth. Unto him that loved us, and washed us from our sins in his own blood, and hath made us kings and priests unto God and his Father." "To him be glory and dominion for ever and ever. Amen."

Now, what has Jesus Christ made us? He's made us kings and what? Priests. Now, look in your Bibles, if you would please, to 1 Peter chapter 2. 1 Peter chapter 2. And notice, if you would please, verse 5. 1 Peter 2 and verse 5. Once again, the Word of God has this to say. First Peter 2 verse five. Note carefully,

Scripture Reading — 1 Peter 2:5, 9

"Ye also, as lively stones, are built up a spiritual house, an holy priesthood, to offer up spiritual sacrifices, acceptable to God by Jesus Christ."

Now look in verse nine, "But ye are a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, an holy nation, a peculiar people; that ye should shew forth the praises of him who hath called you out of darkness into his marvellous light."

Now, the Bible is talking in Psalm 110 and verse 3 about the beauties of holiness. That could refer, number one, to the beautiful and glorious garments of the Levitical priesthood. Would you just stop for a moment? I don't want to have to turn there in the Bible, but would you just stop and think of all those beautiful garments that Aaron, the high priest, had. You remember not only the linen ephod, the crown, the mitre. You remember the stones that was on the breastplate. I mean, these were garments of beauty, garments displayed his righteousness. Do you remember what was on the crown on the mitre that he wore? "Holiness to the Lord." The second thing this could refer to is the military robes where soldiers are furnished and adorned. By the way, I'm going to point this out in just a moment. Do you realize that we as Christians are to be Christian soldiers involved in the Christian warfare. Listen carefully. If you watch any of the history channel, and you watch any of the ancient battles, you'll find that many of the soldiers were adorned indeed in many glorious and beautiful uniforms.

Old Testament Evidence for Warrior Priests

Scripture shows Levites performing military duties: guarding doors, keeping the charge of the sanctuary, and bearing weapons. The Hebrew words for 'keep' and 'charge' imply sentry duty and protection.

Usually they were dressed basically alike. There's a reason for that. So you can tell your own and not be fighting against your own man. That is for sure. But they also were very proud of their uniforms. The Apostle Paul, and we'll get to it in just a little bit, but the Apostle Paul describes the armor of the Christian. In Ephesians chapter six, we're not going to turn there right now, but we're going to get there.

If you were to do a study and read Exodus 28 where the robes and the garments of the high priest are described, then read Isaiah 59 verses 17 through 21 and Isaiah 61 verse 10. Let me tell you what I think based upon those passages. I believe that the armor that the Apostle Paul is describing in Ephesians chapter 6 is from the garments that the high priest wore. Why? Because Christ is supposedly producing soldier saints. The youth, the young men that are courageous, that are heroic, that are bold, that are brave? You know what we've forgotten? That Christ is coming back leading a large what? Army.

Now, we have lost a concept and we have forgotten the truth that God's people are to be warrior priests. Let me tell you one of the most neglected and most forgotten hymns in our time. You can go in any church you want to go in. Hardly ever will you hear this hymn sung. "Onward, Christian soldiers." Are you listening? Let me read the stanzas. "Onward, Christian soldiers, marching as to war.

With the cross of Jesus going on before. Christ, the royal master, leads against the foe. Forward in the battle, see his banners go." And then, of course, you'd have the refrain. Here's the next stanza. "At the sign of triumph, Satan's host doth flee. On then, Christian soldiers, on to victory. Hell's foundations quiver at the shout of praise. Brothers, lift your voices, loud your anthems raise." Listen, "Like a mighty army moves the church of God. Brothers, we are treading where the saints have trod."

"We are not divided, all one body, we, one in hope and doctrine, one in charity. What the saints establish, that I hold for true. What the saints believe, that I believe too. Long as earth endureth, men the faith will hold. Kingdoms, nations, empires in destruction rolled. Crowns and thrones may perish. Kingdoms rise and wane, but the church of Jesus constant will remain. Gates of hell can never against that church prevail."

"We have Christ's own promise, and that cannot fail. Onward then, ye people! Join our happy throng! Blend with our dear voices in the triumph song. Glory, laud, and honor unto Christ the King! This through countless ages, men and angels sing." Did you hear that? "Like a mighty army moves the Church of God." That's not so in this day and age, is it? You know why? We have lost the concept of warrior priesthood. It's a beautiful hymn. And it is an accurate, biblical hymn.

Yet what we do is when we think of priests, we normally think of intercession, sacrifice, and worship. And we just simply limit our understanding to those things. Now, it is true, according to 1 Peter 2 and verse 5, that as priests we are to offer up spiritual sacrifices acceptable unto God through Jesus Christ. That is part of our priestly duty. We are also, according to 1 Peter 2 and verse 9, called upon to show forth the praises of Him who has called us out of darkness into His marvelous light. That is also equally true. And then in Hebrews 13 in verse 15, the Bible commands us to offer up the sacrifice of praise continually.

That is the fruit of our lips giving thanks unto his name. That's priestly work. And when you read Romans 12 verses 1 and 2,

Scripture Reading — Romans 12:1-2

"I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that ye present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable unto God, which is your reasonable service. And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God."

Did you hear what I just quoted?

Scripture Reading — Romans 12:1-2

"I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that ye present your bodies"

what? "A living sacrifice." That is part of our priestly duties. Do you know if I were to ask you, what were the duties of Old Testament priests? Most of you could tell me 99% of their duties. They did offer sacrifices. They did pray. They did sing. They offered praise. They prayed.

They did a lot of things, but I want you to look in your Bibles, the first Chronicles Chapter 23. First Chronicles 23. Let me show you how limited we are in our understanding of a priesthood. First Chronicles 23, beginning there with verse 27. Because here are the duties of the Levites spelled out. 1 Chronicles 23 verse 27. 1 Chronicles 23 verse 27. "For by the last words of David the Levites were numbered from twenty years old and above."

Scripture Reading — 1 Chronicles 23:27-32

"Because their office was to wait on the sons of Aaron for the service of the house of the Lord, in the courts, and in the chambers, and in the purifying of all holy things, and the work of the service of the house of God."

Now let's stop right there. We understand that they waited upon Aaron. They served in the courts in the chambers. They served about the purifying of holy things. They did generally the work in the tabernacle in the temple. He goes further in verse 29.

Scripture Reading — 1 Chronicles 23:27-32

"Both for the shewbread, and for the fine flour for meat offering, and for the unleavened cakes, and for that which is baked in the pan, and for that which is fried, and for all manner of measure and size."

In other words, they did the cooking, the baking, the shewbread that was there continually before the Lord. They took care of that. Verse 30:

Scripture Reading — 1 Chronicles 23:27-32

"And to stand every morning to thank and praise the Lord, and likewise at even."

So they were engaged in private, personal and public praise. Verse 31:

Scripture Reading — 1 Chronicles 23:27-32

"And to offer all burnt sacrifices unto the Lord in the sabbaths, in the new moons, and on the set feasts, by number, according to the order commanded unto them, continually before the Lord."

We understand that. Verse 32: "And"—so we're continuing on the priestly duties—"and that they should keep the charge of the tabernacle of the congregation, and the charge of the holy place, and the charge of the sons of Aaron their brethren, in the service of the house of the Lord.

Scripture Reading — 1 Chronicles 23:27-32

" Now wait a minute. Is it very simple to understand verses 27 through 31? But when you get to verse 32, he continues to describe their duties and says that they should keep the charge of the tabernacle of the congregation, and the charge of the holy place, and the charge of the sons of Aaron, their brethren in the service of the house of the Lord. Now, my question is, what does it mean to keep the charge of the tabernacle? What does it mean to keep the charge of the holy place? What does it mean to keep the charge of the sons of Aaron and their brethren? Now, look at the word "

keep." You need to underline this without me going into this in great detail. Let me check the word "keep" in practically every one of these places. I'm going to show you. In fact, it is the word "keep" is the Hebrew word shamar, S-H-A-M-A-R. OK, the word shamar means to guard, to protect, to keep. OK, now watch. "And they shall guard and protect the charge of the tabernacle of the congregation. And they shall"—and the charge once again—"guard and protect the charge of the holy place and guard and protect the charge of the sons of Aaron." So the words they're keeping this—now the word "charge." Look at the word "charge." The Hebrew word is Mishmereth, M-I-S-H-M-E-R-E-T-H, which refers then to a watch, or a sentry duty, or an act of protection. Now go back to verse 32: "And they shall keep"—guard, protect—

Scripture Reading — 1 Chronicles 23:27-32

"their sentry post, their sentry duty of the tabernacle of the congregation, and the sentry post and the sentry duty of the holy place, and the sentry post and the sentry duty of the sons of Aaron."

In other words, what you have in First Chronicles 23 in verse 32 is a military duty. A warrior priest duty of the Levitical priests. Now I could show you this 100 times in Scripture, but go in your Bibles if you would to the Book of Numbers chapter one. Numbers chapter one. Numbers one. And let's begin reading there with verse 53. The book of Numbers is so full of these terms. Numbers 1 verse 53, Numbers chapter 1 verse 53. "But the Levites shall pitch round about the tabernacle of testimony, that there be no wrath upon the congregation of the children of Israel: and the Levites shall keep"—guard, protect—"the charge"—the sentry duty—"of the tabernacle of testimony."

Now, let me spell something out for you. There were Levitical priests who were armed guards around the tabernacle and later on around the temple as well. Look at Numbers chapter three and verse 32. Numbers 3 verse 32.

Scripture Reading — Numbers 1:53

"And Eleazar the son of Aaron the priest shall be chief over the chief of the Levites, and have the oversight of them that keep the charge of the sanctuary."

That is, that guard and protect the sanctuary. So they had a hierarchy in their priesthood, especially in relationship to this warrior priest.

Now, let me show you how serious this was. Now, go back to Numbers chapter three and let's begin reading there verse five. Now, remember, they were charged to keep the charge of the tabernacle, to keep the charge of the holy place, and to keep the charge of the sons of Aaron, you remember that. OK, Numbers three, verse five.

Scripture Reading — Numbers 3:5-10

"And the Lord spake unto Moses, saying, Bring the tribe of Levi near, and present them before Aaron the priest, that they may minister unto him. And they shall keep his charge, and the charge of the whole congregation before the tabernacle of the congregation, to do the service of the tabernacle. And they shall keep all the instruments of the tabernacle of the congregation, and the charge of the children of Israel, to do the service of the tabernacle. And thou shalt give the Levites unto Aaron and to his sons: they are wholly given unto him out of the children of Israel."

Now watch,

Scripture Reading — Numbers 3:5-10

"And thou shalt appoint Aaron and his sons, and they shall wait on their priest's office: and the stranger that cometh nigh shall be put to death."

Hold it. If a stranger comes near to Aaron, or near to the holy place, or near to the tabernacle, who's not supposed to be there, what's the penalty?

Death. Here's my question. Who's going to put him to death? Levitical priests. Why? They were given a charge. They were obligated to protect, to guard, and to keep their sentry post. It is a military command.

Now, you'll find the same thing in Numbers chapter 18 verses 1 through 7. Any stranger that came near was to be automatically put to death. And those priests didn't say, "Oh wait, we've got to get the local sheriff down here. We've got to get the police down here or we've got to call the army." No, no, no. They just dispatched them themselves. They took care of it.

Weapons in the House of God

Examples from 2 Chronicles 23 and 1 Chronicles 9 show Levites armed with spears and shields, and weapons stored in the temple. Weaver connects this to the American Revolution, where a church stored ammunition.

Now, I want you to look carefully in your Bibles to 2 Kings chapter 12 and 2 Chronicles chapter 34. Let me show you something that's probably been overlooked by most people in their Bible study. 2 Chronicles and 2 Kings. We're going to 2 Kings first. 2 Kings 12. Just find that passage, 2 Kings 12. Then go ahead and find 2 Chronicles 34. So, we will read 2 Kings 12 first, and then go to 2 Chronicles 34. Now, 2 Kings chapter 12, verse 9. 2 Kings 12, verse 9. Look what the Bible says.

"But Jehoiada the priest took a chest, and bored a hole in the lid of it, and set it beside the altar, on the right side as one cometh into the house of the Lord: and the priests that kept the door put therein all the money that was brought into the house of the Lord." Now, did you notice anything peculiar about that verse? Well, just hold it. Just hold it and look at 2nd Chronicles 34 and verse 9. See if you can figure it out over here. 2nd Chronicles 34 verse 9. "And when they came to Hilkiah the high priest, they delivered the money that was brought into the house of God, which the Levites that kept the doors had gathered of the hand of Manasseh and Ephraim, and of all the remnant of Israel, and of all Judah and Benjamin; and they returned to Jerusalem." Now twice it has been said that certain Levites did what? They kept the doors.

You remember I told you the word "keep" was the Hebrew word shamar, which means to guard and protect. It's the same word here. So there were Levitical priests then that kept or guarded the doors. You do know you did not just simply waltz into the tabernacle or the temple. There were guards at the door. If you were a stranger or you were not allowed there, they executed you. It's just that simple.

Now, let me show you how this was understood throughout the Bible. Look at Psalm 84, verse 10. Look what David said. I've heard this verse quoted by people so many times and the fact is, they don't know what they're saying when they quote the verse. Look what David said, Psalm 84 and verse 10. Isn't this a wonderful verse? He said,

Scripture Reading — Psalm 84:10

"For a day in thy courts is better than a thousand."

David said,

Scripture Reading — Psalm 84:10

"I had rather be a doorkeeper in the house of my God, than to dwell in the tents of wickedness."

Someone who says, "Well, isn't that mighty humble of David?" Well, yeah, it teaches humility. David said,

Scripture Reading — Psalm 84:10

"I'd rather be a doorkeeper in the house of my God."

But guess what? Guess what? The word "doorkeeper" is there. The Hebrew word for doorkeeper means one who stands guard, one who keeps and protects the threshold. David said, "I'd rather be that guard sitting there executing the people who come in who aren't supposed to be there, than to dwell in the tents of wickedness."

So what are you saying? Now, I could multiply these verses, but let's go back in our Bibles to Numbers chapter 4. I believe you're seeing the same principle, Numbers chapter 4, and look at verse 3. In fact, we're going to look at several verses here. And just see if any of you have alternate readings in your Bibles. OK. Look at Numbers chapter four and verse three: "From thirty years old and upward even until fifty years old, all that enter into the host, to do the work in the tabernacle of the congregation." Now I'm looking at the phrase "to do the work." You see that? Numbers four and verse three: "to do the work." Now look in verse twenty three. Same chapter. "From thirty years old and upward until fifty years old shalt thou number them; all that enter in to perform the service, to do the work in the tabernacle of the congregation." We're still talking about the Levites. There's that phrase "to do the work." Now, look at verse 30: "From thirty years old and upward even unto fifty years old shalt thou number them, every one that entereth into the service, to do the work of the tabernacle of the congregation."

So three times in this one chapter, we've read "to do the work." Now, if you would look in your Bibles to Numbers chapter eight and verse 24. Here, it's used just a little differently, but it's the same thing. Numbers eight, verse 24: "This is it that belongeth unto the Levites: from twenty and five years old and upward they shall go in to wait upon the service of the tabernacle of the congregation." So "to wait upon the service" or "to do the work." Now, does anyone have any marginal readings in your Bible that there is an alternate translation? I'll tell you what it is. You may have it. It literally is if you translate it "to war the warfare." "To war the warfare." In other words, when you read verse three, like Numbers four:

Scripture Reading — Numbers 4:3, 23, 30

"From thirty years old and upward even until fifty years old, all that enter into the host to war the warfare in the tabernacle of the congregation."

Every time it can be "to war the warfare."

It is the same Hebrew word. Now, the point I'm trying to make is, in the Old Testament and without me going into the New Testament, in New Testament times, there was the concept of a warrior priesthood. Brother Ernie, do you have it in your Bible there? Yeah, "to war the warfare." So there was a concept then of a warrior priesthood.

Now let me tell you what has happened in our day and time. We not only have lost the concept of being a warrior priesthood, and by the way, when we use the word warrior, we think of someone who is heroic, brave, courageous, willing to fight, willing to stand. We have not only lost the concept of a warrior priesthood, we have turned completely and totally in the opposite direction. And think today that the real Christian just lets everybody run all over him and wipe their feet all over him because he's displaying such humility and submissiveness. You got me? Let me go a step further. And the thing that concerns me is this is among professing Christians. I can understand it with the world, but so many, even professing Christians, somehow, when you talk about weaponry, view weaponry as somehow being unethical and unholy and unrighteous. And you'll hear Christians, "Oh, guns."

"I'd never let my kids have a gun." Or knives. "No! No!" Now let me ask you a question. Is a rifle sinful in and of itself? No. How about a sword? I remember when my oldest grandson was about five or six years old. He was into karate and, oh, he wanted to be a ninja. You know, this kind of stuff. And Granny Alice made him a ninja uniform and that kind of thing. And so he sent me this little book that he had seen this sword in.

And he wrote me a letter. And he said, "Papa, please get this sword for me." And it was a real sword. And his mother had gotten a hold of the letter and the book. And she wrote a little note down there, "Papa, not the real one, the wooden one." Well, Casey, unknowing to her, had seen what she had written. So he wrote under that, "No Papa, the real one." So I got him the real one. And of course he had to keep it on his wall until he got big enough, you know, to play with and he could only hold it supervised. I understand that's no problem. But, you know, we tend to think that somehow a sword or weapon is evil in and of itself. That is not true. That is not true. I want you to turn in your Bibles to Second Chronicles, Chapter 23. If weaponry, if weaponry is something that is inherently evil, then I want you to explain something to me. Look in 2 Chronicles chapter 23.

Let's begin there with verse 2. 2 Chronicles 23. Verse 2. The Bible says, of course, Jehoiada is a high priest and they're protecting the young king in this context. Now watch this. "And they went about in Judah, and gathered the Levites out of all the cities of Judah, and the chief of the fathers of Israel, and they came to Jerusalem. And all the congregation made a covenant with the king in the house of God."

"And he said unto them, Behold, the king's son shall reign, as the Lord hath said of the sons of David. This is the thing that ye shall do." Now, remember, he's talking to the Levites. "This is the thing that ye shall do; A third part of you entering on the sabbath, of the priests and of the Levites, shall be porters of the doors"—that is, you're going to keep or guard the doors. "And a third part shall be at the king's house; and a third part at the gate of the foundation: and all the people shall be in the courts of the house of the Lord. But let none come into the house of the Lord, save the priests, and they that minister of the Levites; they shall go in, for they are holy: but all the people shall keep the watch of the Lord." Are you looking? "And the Levites"—those Levitical priests—"and the Levites shall compass the king round about, every man with his weapons in his hand; and whosoever else cometh into the house, he shall be put to death: but be ye with the king when he cometh in, and when he goeth out." Now who was guarding the king?

The Levites. They had weapons. Watch. "So the Levites and all Judah did according to all things that Jehoiada the priest had commanded, and took every man his men that were to come in on the sabbath, with them that were to go out on the sabbath: for Jehoiada the priest dismissed not the courses. Moreover Jehoiada the priest"—now, Jehoiada the high priest—"delivered to the captains of hundreds spears, and bucklers, and shields, that had been king David's, which were"—where? Where were they? "In the house of God." Oh! They kept those swords and those spears and those offensive and defensive weapons in the house of God. You'll find the same thing written in 2 Kings chapter 11. They kept them in the house of God. Let me just point this out. Everyone has heard of the battle of Lexington Concord. The shot was heard around the world. Lexington Green. Most people do not know that that was the church green. Most people do not know that the pastor of that church taught his people to fight and to stand against wickedness and tyranny.

And that he stood there and watched some of his men died. And one of those men who died, it was a man by the name of Caleb Harrington, an old man. And he died on the steps of the church house. Why was he not in the green with the other men? Because he was running back into the church house that Jonas Clark pastored to get more powder for the men. The ammunition was kept in the church building. Ah.

You see, we would think today, "Oh, how horrible." No. It was not horrible in 2 Chronicles. It was not horrible in 2 Kings. It was not horrible in 1776. It's only horrible enough today because we've lost the concept of fighting and standing for truth and righteousness, holiness, liberty and freedom and justice.

David and the Call to Fight

David, a man after God's own heart, was a warrior who confessed God taught his hands to war. Christians are called to be warrior priests engaged in spiritual warfare.

Now, I want you to look in your Bibles to Second Chronicles chapter nine and verse 19. You see, those Levites were not just keepers of the doors and gates, but the Bible tells us something else as well. Look at 2 Chronicles 9 and verse 19. It must be 1 Chronicles. I don't have that. Let me check. 1 Chronicles 9 and verse 19. Yeah, that's 1 Chronicles, not 2. 1 Chronicles.

First Chronicles 9 verse 19, here are some names given of some of the Levites. "And Shallum the son of Kore, the son of Ebiasaph, the son of Korah, and his brethren, of the house of his father, the Korahites, were over the work of the service, keepers of the gates of the tabernacle: and their fathers, being over the host of the Lord, were keepers of the entry." Now watch, "and their fathers, being over the host of the Lord." Someone tell me, what does the word "host" refer to? The army. So here are some of these Levites. They were not just keepers of the gates and keepers of the entry. They were that, but they were also over the host of the Lord. And since you're in 1 Chronicles, look in 1 Chronicles 12, because in verses 6 through 8, we have some of them listed as David's mighty men. The Bible says, "Elkanah, and Jesiah, and Azareel, and Joezer, and Jashobeam, the Korhites," same ones. And then verse 8, "And of the Gadites there separated themselves unto David into the hold to the wilderness men of might, and men of war fit for the battle, that could handle shield and buckler, whose faces were like the faces of lions, and were as swift as the roes upon the mountains." But note, here's a listing of David's mighty men, and here's some of the Levites that are there. They're fighters. They're fighters. Now, do you understand?

We may never, ever be called upon to fight with physical weapons. And truthfully, I hope we're not. But the fact is, we are called to be warrior priests and we are called to be fighters. And it is certainly no disgrace to be involved in a righteous fight with physical weapons if it comes to that. David was one of the greatest warriors of all times. And yet he was a man after God's own heart. You remember how they sang, "Saul has killed his thousands and David his tens of thousands." I want you to see what David confessed in Psalm 144 and verse 1. Turn there. Psalm 144, we'll read verses 1 and 2. Look at David's confession. Psalm 144, verse 1. David says, "Blessed be the Lord my strength, which teacheth my hands to war, and my fingers to fight."

"My goodness, and my fortress; my high tower, and my deliverer; my shield, and he in whom I trust; who subdueth my people under me." What did David say? It was God who taught my hands to fight and my fingers to war. I hope you know that one of the names and titles of God in Scripture is "the Lord is a man of war." See what I'm trying to say, folks. The truth of the matter is this, whether or not we're ever called upon or ever find it necessary to fight with physical weapons, the scripture does teach that there is indeed a war between good and evil, a war between right and wrong, a war between the kingdom of God and the kingdom of darkness. And therefore, we must be warrior priests. We are in a war, whether we like it or not. That's why, "from the womb of the morning, thou hast the dew of thy youth." In other words, here God is sovereignly in His grace, producing these heroic, strong, courageous soldier saints. Look in your Bibles to Ephesians chapter 6. And I'll just take the time to read it. I do encourage you to look at those Old Testament passages.

New Testament Armor and the Soldier's Mindset

Ephesians 6 describes the armor needed for spiritual battle. 2 Timothy 2:3-4 commands believers to endure hardness as good soldiers and avoid entanglement with worldly affairs.

In regards to the high priest and his accoutrements, his attire. And think about this, but look what the Apostle Paul wrote. Ephesians 6 beginning there with verse 10. Just demonstrating the fact that we are in a war. Whether you want to admit it or not. "Finally, my brethren, be strong in the Lord, and in the power of his might." Oh, man. Be strong in the Lord and the power of his might, not your own. "Put on the whole armour of God," why? "that ye may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil. For we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high places. Wherefore take unto you the whole armour of God," why, "that ye may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand." What is he saying? You need this armor if you're going to fight. You need this armor if you're going to be a soldier saint. You need this armor if you're going to be a warrior priest.

Verse 14, he tells you how. "Stand therefore, having your loins girt about with truth, and having on the breastplate of righteousness; and your feet shod with the preparation of the gospel of peace; above all, taking the shield of faith, wherewith ye shall be able to quench all the fiery darts of the wicked. And take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God: praying always with all prayer and supplication in the Spirit, and watching thereunto with all perseverance and supplication for all saints." Here is the armor that we need. Let me ask you, why in the world would you need armor if you're not in a battle? Why would you need armor if you're not in a war? And the fact is, we are in a war. God has called us to be warrior-priests. The kingship of Christ and the priesthood of Christ produces a people who are kings and priests unto our God, but they are a certain kind of priest. They are a warrior priest.

Now let me make some applications and I think you've already seen what I'm driving at. The first one is this. It should be obvious to everyone that one of the reasons that we're in such dire straits in our country is that Christians have lost the concept of warrior priesthood. Instead of standing, fighting, and holding the standard high, we've back-pedaled, compromised, negotiated, and surrendered. We do not act like warriors, nor act like priests. We've lost our biblical attitude and therefore we have lost our biblical actions. We will never regain biblical actions until we regain a biblical attitude. We cannot act right until we think right. One of the things that's wrong with modern day Christendom is we do not think biblically. We do not think scripturally. We think humanistically.

We say, "Man, I don't want to get into a controversy." I do if it's a right one. And if it's for truth and righteousness, I don't want to fight just to be fighting. But I want to fight for that which is true and right and holy and just. There's nothing to be ashamed of. Secondly, Scripture also reveals another truth, and I want you to see this, I can quote it, but turn in your Bibles to 2 Timothy chapter 2. Scripture reveals another truth and that is the reason why we get so entangled and involved in this life. Look at 2 Timothy 2 and verse 4. "No man that warreth entangleth himself with the affairs of this life; that he may please him who hath chosen him to be a soldier." Wow! "No man that warreth entangleth himself with the affairs of this life." Why? "That he may please him who hath chosen him to be a soldier." God says, if you are fighting the battle, you don't have time to get involved and entangled with things in this life. You're fighting for survival. You're fighting for your children and your grandchildren and your great-grandchildren.

Where is the average Christian today? He is caught up in comfort, consolation, and prosperity above everything else. His desire is not to please his commander-in-chief in being a good soldier. His desire is to be as comfortable as he possibly can be. And that's it.

Application: Recovering the Warrior Priesthood

Christians have lost the warrior priest concept, leading to compromise and surrender. Believers must regain a biblical attitude, fight for righteousness, and live as soldier saints.

Now, look at verse three. "Thou therefore endure hardness, as a good soldier of Jesus Christ." Why should we endure hardness? Because hardness keeps us going, keeps us fit, keeps us fighting. And if we're concerned about our Lord and His Kingdom, He said the hardness won't bother you. You'll only endure hardness as a good soldier of Jesus Christ. You'll be so busily engaged in the conflict that you're not going to be getting entangled in the affairs of this life. You will be a warrior. Now, let me give you the hymn, or the words to the hymn, that we've forgotten as well, another one. "Am I a soldier of the cross, a follower of the Lamb, And shall I fear to own his cause, or blush to speak his name? Must I be carried to the skies on flowery beds of ease, while others fought to win the prize, and sailed through bloody seas?"

Closing Hymn and Prayer

Weaver quotes the hymn 'Am I a Soldier of the Cross' to challenge lethargy and calls believers to occupy and hold the fort until Christ returns, closing in prayer.

"Are there no foes for me to face? Must I not stem the flood? Is this vile world a friend to grace, to help me on to God? Sure I must fight if I would reign; increase my courage, Lord. I'll bear the toil, endure the pain, supported by thy word." Listen to that second stanza, "Must I be carried to the skies on flowery beds of ease, while others fought to win the prize, and sailed through bloody seas?"

That condemns our own lethargy and apathy and indolence. My prayer is that we learn to fight and we learn to fight for righteousness and truth and stand remembering that our Lord has commanded us to occupy, do business, hold the fort, till He comes. Are you one of Christ's soldier saints? We'll get from the kingship to the priesthood by understanding our Lord produces warrior priests. Let's pray. Father, speak our hearts. Help us to live for Thee. Help us be holy and godly. And Lord, may we learn to fight biblically, scripturally. And may we stand for that which is right. Give us grace to serve Thee acceptably with reverence and godly fear. In Thy name we pray, Amen.

Study Guide

Major Themes

Warrior Priesthood

Summary: Believers are called to be warrior priests, combining priestly duties of worship and sacrifice with the courage and combativeness of soldiers in a spiritual war.

Evidence: Weaver states, 'God has called us to be warrior-priests. The kingship of Christ and the priesthood of Christ produces a people who are kings and priests unto our God, but they are a certain kind of priest. They are a warrior priest.'

Sovereign Grace in Producing Soldier Saints

Summary: The latter part of Psalm 110:3 depicts God sovereignly producing a multitude of courageous, vigorous followers of Christ, likened to dew from the morning.

Evidence: Weaver explains, 'from the womb of the morning, thou hast the dew of thy youth... here God is sovereignly in His grace, producing these heroic, strong, courageous soldier saints.'

Loss of Biblical Militancy in Modern Christianity

Summary: Modern Christians have abandoned the concept of warrior priesthood, opting for passivity, compromise, and comfort rather than standing and fighting for truth.

Evidence: Weaver laments, 'one of the reasons that we're in such dire straits in our country is that Christians have lost the concept of warrior priesthood. Instead of standing, fighting, and holding the standard high, we've back-pedaled, compromised, negotiated, and surrendered.'

Spiritual Warfare and the Armor of God

Summary: Christians are in a spiritual battle against evil forces and must put on the whole armor of God described in Ephesians 6 to stand firm.

Evidence: Weaver reads Ephesians 6:10-18 and asks, 'why in the world would you need armor if you're not in a battle? Why would you need armor if you're not in a war? And the fact is, we are in a war.'

The Believer as a Good Soldier

Summary: Using 2 Timothy 2:3-4, Weaver emphasizes that Christians must endure hardship and avoid entanglement with worldly affairs to please their Commander.

Evidence: Weaver quotes, 'No man that warreth entangleth himself with the affairs of this life; that he may please him who hath chosen him to be a soldier.'

Biblical Legitimacy of Physical Weapons in Righteous Causes

Summary: Weapons are not inherently evil; Old Testament priests bore arms, and there may be times when physical fighting for righteousness is justified.

Evidence: Weaver asks, 'Is a rifle sinful in and of itself? No. How about a sword?' and cites 2 Chronicles 23 where Levites guarded the king with weapons.

Key Arguments

Psalm 110:3b describes the generation of warrior saints

Summary: The phrase 'from the womb of the morning thou hast the dew of thy youth' refers not only to the multitude of converts but to their character as courageous, vigorous soldiers.

Evidence: Weaver says, 'the word "youth"... could be also translated there as "young men" or "soldiers." It refers then to persons who are courageous, heroic, strong, active, and vigorous.'

Old Testament priests had military duties

Summary: The Levites were charged with guarding the tabernacle and temple, bearing weapons, and executing intruders, demonstrating a warrior aspect to the priesthood.

Evidence: Weaver explains, 'there were Levitical priests who were armed guards around the tabernacle and later on around the temple as well' and cites Numbers 3:32 and 1 Chronicles 23:32.

The Hebrew terminology implies warfare

Summary: The words 'keep' (shamar) and 'charge' (mishmereth) in priestly contexts mean to guard and protect, and the phrase 'to do the work' can be translated 'to war the warfare.'

Evidence: Weaver states, 'the word shamar means to guard, to protect, to keep... the word "charge"... refers then to a watch, or a sentry duty, or an act of protection.'

Weapons were stored in the house of God

Summary: 2 Chronicles 23 and 2 Kings 11 record that spears, bucklers, and shields were kept in the temple, showing that weaponry was not considered unholy in a sacred context.

Evidence: Weaver reads, 'Jehoiada the priest delivered to the captains of hundreds spears, and bucklers, and shields, that had been king David's, which were in the house of God.'

David, a man after God's heart, was a warrior

Summary: David's confession in Psalm 144:1 that God taught his hands to war demonstrates that fighting for righteousness is compatible with godliness.

Evidence: Weaver quotes, 'Blessed be the Lord my strength, which teacheth my hands to war, and my fingers to fight.'

Christians are commanded to be soldiers

Summary: 2 Timothy 2:3-4 explicitly calls believers to endure hardness as good soldiers and to avoid civilian entanglements, confirming the warrior identity.

Evidence: Weaver reads, 'Thou therefore endure hardness, as a good soldier of Jesus Christ. No man that warreth entangleth himself with the affairs of this life.'

The armor of God implies active combat

Summary: The detailed armor in Ephesians 6 is unnecessary unless believers are engaged in real spiritual warfare against demonic forces.

Evidence: Weaver argues, 'why in the world would you need armor if you're not in a battle? Why would you need armor if you're not in a war?'

Modern Christianity has embraced passivity

Summary: Instead of fighting for truth, many Christians have adopted a false humility that allows evil to prevail, viewing any form of militancy as unspiritual.

Evidence: Weaver observes, 'we have turned completely and totally in the opposite direction... think today that the real Christian just lets everybody run all over him.'

Scripture References

Psalm 110:1-5

Context: Weaver reads the opening verses of Psalm 110 to set the stage for the message on Christ's kingship and priesthood.

Psalm 110:3

Context: The latter part of verse 3 is the focus of the message, interpreted as describing the generation of warrior saints.

Philippians 2:13

Context: Cited to support that God works in believers both to will and to do His good pleasure, reinforcing sovereign grace in making people willing.

Hebrews 12:2

Context: Mentioned as evidence that Jesus is the author and finisher of faith, underscoring God's initiative in salvation.

Philippians 1:6

Context: Quoted to show that God begins and completes the good work in believers.

Revelation 15:4

Context: Referenced to affirm God's unique holiness: 'Thou only art holy.'

Ephesians 4:24

Context: Cited to show that believers are to put on the new man created in righteousness and true holiness, connecting to 'beauties of holiness.'

Revelation 19:14

Context: Mentioned to illustrate that saints are adorned in fine linen representing righteousness.

Revelation 1:5-6

Context: Read to show that Christ has made believers kings and priests unto God.

1 Peter 2:5, 9

Context: Quoted to establish the believer's identity as a holy and royal priesthood offering spiritual sacrifices.

Hebrews 13:15

Context: Referenced as a command to offer the sacrifice of praise continually, part of priestly duty.

Romans 12:1-2

Context: Quoted to show that presenting our bodies as living sacrifices is priestly service.

1 Chronicles 23:27-32

Context: Read extensively to demonstrate the Levites' duties, including guarding the tabernacle and holy place, interpreted as military sentry duty.

Numbers 1:53

Context: Cited to show Levites were to pitch around the tabernacle and keep the charge of it, implying armed guard duty.

Numbers 3:32

Context: Referenced to show Eleazar oversaw those who kept the charge of the sanctuary.

Numbers 3:5-10

Context: Read to show the Levites' charge to keep the tabernacle and that strangers coming near were to be put to death.

2 Kings 12:9

Context: Cited to show priests kept the doors of the temple, implying guard duty.

2 Chronicles 34:9

Context: Referenced alongside 2 Kings 12:9 to reinforce that Levites kept the doors.

Psalm 84:10

Context: Quoted to show David's desire to be a doorkeeper (guard) in God's house, interpreted as a military role.

Numbers 4:3, 23, 30

Context: Read to show the phrase 'to do the work' can be translated 'to war the warfare,' indicating priestly military service.

Historical References

John Trapp (Puritan commentator)

Context: Weaver quotes Trapp's interpretation of Psalm 110:3b as a similitude expressing the multitude and heavenly generation of Christ's converts.

Adam Clarke (commentator)

Context: Weaver quotes Clarke's view that the dew of thy youth refers to the offspring of Christ's nativity, born by the Divine Spirit.

Barker's Bible (1615 translation)

Context: Weaver cites an old translation rendering Psalm 110:3 as 'The youth of thy womb shall be as the morning dew,' emphasizing a holy army.

Battle of Lexington and Concord (American Revolution)

Context: Weaver recounts that the church green was the site of the battle, the pastor taught his people to fight, and ammunition was stored in the church building.

Jonas Clark (pastor at Lexington)

Context: Mentioned as the pastor who taught his congregation to stand against tyranny and witnessed their deaths at Lexington.

Caleb Harrington (militiaman at Lexington)

Context: Described as an old man who died on the church steps while retrieving powder for the men during the battle.

Hymn 'Onward, Christian Soldiers'

Context: Weaver quotes stanzas of this hymn to illustrate the forgotten concept of the church as a mighty army.

Hymn 'Am I a Soldier of the Cross'

Context: Weaver quotes stanzas to challenge modern Christian lethargy and call for endurance in spiritual warfare.

Important Quotes

Thy people shall be willing in the day of thy power, in the beauties of holiness from the womb of the morning: thou hast the dew of thy youth.

Significance: This is the key verse Weaver expounds, arguing it describes the generation of warrior saints.

The theory or the concept of free will is totally and completely unbiblical, while the concept of freedom of the will is indeed biblical.

Significance: Summarizes Weaver's theological distinction from the previous sermon, foundational to his view of sovereign grace.

From the womb of the morning, as the dew flows from the womb of the morning, so shall all the godly flow from thee. They are the dew of thy youth. They are the offspring of thine own nativity.

Significance: Adam Clarke's commentary quoted to support the idea that believers are spiritually generated by Christ.

Thy people shall come willingly at the time of assembling thine army in the holy beauty. The youth of thy womb shall be as the morning dew.

Significance: Barker's 1615 translation emphasizing the military aspect of the verse.

Like a mighty army moves the church of God.

Significance: From the hymn 'Onward, Christian Soldiers,' used to illustrate the forgotten militant identity of the church.

No man that warreth entangleth himself with the affairs of this life; that he may please him who hath chosen him to be a soldier.

Significance: Key New Testament command used to call believers to single-minded devotion as soldiers of Christ.

Must I be carried to the skies on flowery beds of ease, while others fought to win the prize, and sailed through bloody seas?

Significance: From 'Am I a Soldier of the Cross,' used to convict believers of spiritual lethargy.

Discussion Questions

What does it mean to be a 'warrior priest' according to the biblical evidence presented in this sermon?

Context: Weaver argues that believers are both priests and soldiers, citing Old Testament Levites and New Testament commands.

How does the distinction between free will and freedom of the will affect our understanding of God's work in making us willing?

Context: Weaver briefly reviews his previous message, emphasizing that God is the one who makes His people willing.

In what ways have modern Christians lost the concept of being soldiers for Christ, and what are the consequences?

Context: Weaver laments the loss of militancy and the embrace of comfort and passivity.

How should we understand the presence of weapons in the temple and the Levites' role as armed guards?

Context: Weaver cites 2 Chronicles 23 and other passages to show that physical weapons were kept in the house of God for righteous defense.

What does it practically mean to 'endure hardness as a good soldier of Jesus Christ' in our daily lives?

Context: Weaver applies 2 Timothy 2:3-4, urging believers to avoid entanglement with worldly affairs and embrace hardship for the sake of the mission.

How can we balance the call to be warriors with the call to love our enemies and turn the other cheek?

Context: Weaver emphasizes fighting for truth and righteousness but does not directly address this tension; the question arises from his strong militant language.

What role do hymns like 'Onward, Christian Soldiers' and 'Am I a Soldier of the Cross' play in shaping our identity as believers?

Context: Weaver quotes these hymns to recover a vision of the church as a fighting force.

How does the imagery of dew from the womb of the morning shape our understanding of how God grows His church?

Context: Weaver explains that the dew represents the imperceptible, sovereign, and widespread generation of Christ's followers.

Applications

Recover the warrior priest identity

Summary: Believers must embrace their calling as both priests and soldiers, actively engaging in spiritual warfare rather than retreating into passivity.

Evidence: Weaver states, 'God has called us to be warrior-priests... We will never regain biblical actions until we regain a biblical attitude.'

Avoid entanglement with worldly affairs

Summary: As soldiers of Christ, Christians should prioritize their commander's pleasure over comfort and prosperity, refusing to be distracted by civilian pursuits.

Evidence: Weaver applies 2 Timothy 2:4: 'No man that warreth entangleth himself with the affairs of this life; that he may please him who hath chosen him to be a soldier.'

Endure hardship for the sake of the fight

Summary: Hardness and difficulty are part of the Christian soldier's training and should be embraced as keeping us fit for battle.

Evidence: Weaver says, 'Why should we endure hardness? Because hardness keeps us going, keeps us fit, keeps us fighting.'

Stand and fight for truth and righteousness

Summary: Christians must be willing to contend for biblical truth and moral righteousness, even when it involves controversy or conflict.

Evidence: Weaver declares, 'I want to fight for that which is true and right and holy and just. There's nothing to be ashamed of.'

Put on the whole armor of God

Summary: Recognizing the reality of spiritual warfare, believers must daily appropriate the armor described in Ephesians 6 to stand against the devil's schemes.

Evidence: Weaver reads Ephesians 6:10-18 and emphasizes the necessity of armor for battle.

Think biblically rather than humanistically

Summary: A wrong mindset leads to wrong actions; Christians must align their thinking with Scripture to act as warrior priests.

Evidence: Weaver states, 'We cannot act right until we think right. One of the things that's wrong with modern day Christendom is we do not think biblically.'

Be willing to use physical means in righteous causes if necessary

Summary: While the primary battle is spiritual, there may be times when physical defense of righteousness is justified, as modeled by Old Testament priests and American patriots.

Evidence: Weaver cites the example of Lexington and the Levites bearing weapons, saying, 'it is certainly no disgrace to be involved in a righteous fight with physical weapons if it comes to that.'

Occupy and hold the fort until Christ returns

Summary: Believers are to actively do business for the kingdom and guard the truth, not retreat or surrender, until the Lord comes.

Evidence: Weaver closes with, 'our Lord has commanded us to occupy, do business, hold the fort, till He comes.'

deepseek | deepseek-v4-pro | clean_readable_transcript | 2026-06-05T21:30:04Z

deepseek | deepseek-v4-pro | weaver_study | 2026-06-06T13:28:10Z

Clean Transcript

Messiah's Divine Rights - Part 6

Clean readable transcript. This view follows the Commentary.net cleaned segment text while preserving timestamps for audio follow-along.

But Psalm 110, verse 1: "The Lord said unto my Lord, Sit thou at my right hand, until I make thine enemies thy footstool. The Lord shall send the rod of thy strength out of Zion: rule thou in the midst of thine enemies. Thy people shall be willing in the day of thy power, in the beauties of holiness from the womb of the morning: thou hast the dew of thy youth. The Lord hath sworn, and will not repent, Thou art a priest for ever after the order of Melchizedek. The Lord at thy right hand shall strike through kings in the day of his wrath."
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"He shall judge among the heathen, he shall fill the places with the dead bodies; he shall wound the heads over many countries. He shall drink of the brook in the way: therefore shall he lift up the head."
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Now, you'll remember last time I dealt particularly in verse 3, "Thy people shall be willing in the day of thy power." And I brought a distinction which I believe is a very vital one, a very important one, as well as a very biblical one, that is a distinction between what is known as free will and freedom of will. And I'm not going to take the time to go into that today, but just let me say at the outset, the theory or the concept of free will is totally and completely unbiblical, while the concept of freedom of the will is indeed biblical. And if you are not aware of those differences, I would encourage you to listen to the message from last time over again.
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That's number five on Messiah's divine rights. Now, just for a quick overview to pick up where we have been and where we are today, I want you to understand that there must be a transition between verses one through three and verse four. And the reason I say that is because actually the first three verses of Psalm 110 is dealing with the kingship of Christ. And when you get to verse four, it is dealing with the priesthood of Christ. So how do you make a transition then from discussing the kingship of Christ to the priesthood of Christ? What is that transition? Well, based upon the first three verses, we know that God has instituted Jesus Christ, both Lord and Christ, by his sovereign will.
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In that position, according to the Bible, Christ rules over his enemies with a rod of iron. In ruling over his enemies, he may do one of three things. He may either destroy them, subjugate them, or save them. They are in His hands, they are His enemies, and He may do with them as He wills. But the Bible tells us also in verse 3 that He will make His people willing in the day of Thy power, or in the day of His power.
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Now, I just want to encourage you to try to refresh your mind. When I taught the last time on the difference between free will and the freedom of the will, I told you that the question is not, were you willing to come to Christ when you came to Christ? Very obviously, those who come to Christ willingly come to Him. The question really is, who made you willing? There were several verses I did not get to when I preached last time, but let me just give them to you right now.
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For instance, Philippians 2 and verse 13 says this: "For it is God which worketh in you both to will and to do of his good pleasure." Now listen to that. It is God who worketh in you both to will and to do His good pleasure. So it is God then who not only puts the "to do" in us, He also puts the will in us as well. That's why the Bible tells us in the book of Hebrews chapter 12 and verse 2 that He is the author and the finisher of our faith. That is, He is the one who began it and He is also the one who ends it. That's why Philippians 1 and verse 6 says, "Being confident of this very thing, that he which hath begun a good work in you will perform it until the day of Jesus Christ." So God is the one who begins and God is the one who finishes.
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He is the Alpha and the Omega in salvation. Now, all of this is brought out in the first three verses.
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Now, let me just tell you the transition from the kingship of Christ to the priesthood of Christ is found in the latter part of verse three, where the Bible says, "in the beauties of holiness, from the womb of the morning, thou hast the dew of thy youth."
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Now we've got to ask ourselves what in the world is the meaning of that phrase. Now let me give you very quickly two broad overviews of the latter part of verse 3. I'm going to give you two quotes. One of them is from the old Puritan John Trapp. And here is what he said concerning the latter part of verse 3: "In the beauties of holiness"—in other words, in church assemblies, and the beauty of holy ordinances, at the administration of Christ's birth-dew, that is, the influence of His Spirit and His presence in those ordinances, is "from the womb of the morning"—in other words, is of that generating and enlivening virtue that the dew of the teeming morning is to the seeds and plants of the earth.
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Now here, you may not have understood what he said up to that point, but here he continues: "...an apt similitude both to express the multitude of Christ's converts and the manner of their heavenly generation." Now all he is saying so far is this, that the latter part of verse 3 is a similitude that expresses the multitude of the converts of Jesus Christ and the manner of their heavenly generation. The second commentator that I'm going to quote is Adam Clarke. Here's what he said.
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"From the womb of the morning, as the dew flows from the womb of the morning, so shall all the godly flow from thee. They are the dew of thy youth. They are the offspring of thine own nativity. As the human nature of our Lord was begotten by the creative energy of God in the womb of the Virgin, so the followers of God are born, not of blood, nor the will of flesh, but by the Divine Spirit."
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Now, I want you to note that both Adam Clarke and John Trapp have said essentially the same thing. They have said that the latter part of verse 3 speaks then not only of the multitude of the converts of Jesus Christ, but also in the manner of their heavenly conversion as well. Each of these commentators hit upon the right thought. But neither one of these commentators developed that thought. Verse 3, the latter part, does indeed represent the offspring of Jesus Christ. But there's a little more to it than that, and I want to enlarge upon the latter part of verse 3.
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You see, when you and I look at the Bible and read, "in the beauties of holiness," that is not a phrase that is difficult for us to comprehend. We understand that in the sense that we know that God is holy. The Bible says in Revelation 15:4, "Thou only art holy." Everything that God is and everything that God does is holy. Did you realize that God is more often styled the Holy One in Scripture than any other title? So we understand the holiness of God. The phrase that's going to give us a little problem is this: "from the womb of the morning thou hast the dew of thy youth."
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Now what in the world does that mean? Let me give you an old translation of that verse. Listen carefully. This is from the Bible printed by Barker, who was the King's printer in London, England in 1615, and here is how he renders the entire verse. Listen carefully: "Thy people shall come willingly at the time of assembling thine army in the holy beauty. The youth of thy womb shall be as the morning dew."
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Now he adds just another thing, not just the multitude of Christ's converts, not just simply the manner in which they are converted, but he also points out the fact that they are indeed a holy army. Now, I wish I had time today to deal with the biblical teaching concerning dew. But you and I both know that even today, men are struck with astonishment at seeing the earth moistened and refreshed with dew, even though its descent is imperceptible.
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And what David is saying is this: Likewise, there's going to be an innumerable offspring born to Christ who shall spread over the whole earth, although that may be imperceptible to you and I. By the way, let me just stop right here and interject a thought. I run into this everywhere I go. I hear people saying, "Well, Brother Weaver, there are just so few of us. I mean, we're just a small group."
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You know something, that is called tunnel vision. We've got an Elijah complex. "Lord, I only am left." And what did God tell Elijah? That's not true. He said, "I've got 7,000." It's never about the need to bail or kiss his ring. I mean, you know, come on. Do you realize there are people all over this country in every state that believe the truth and know the truth?
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They may be in small groups, but they are everywhere. And this is exactly what God is saying. The dew falls imperceptibly. And by the way, the word "youth" in verse 3, when he says, "from the womb of the morning thou hast the dew of thy youth," the word "youth" could be also translated there as "young men" or "soldiers." It refers then to persons who are courageous, heroic, strong, active, and vigorous, much like the apostles.
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of the first preachers of the gospel in the first century. And they are fitly compared to dew for several reasons. Number one, like dew they have their origin from heaven—that is, God regenerated them, God saved them. Like dew they fructify the earth—that is, there was fruit produced on the earth. Like dew they were innumerable. Like dew, they were diffused over the entire earth. And like dew, they came from the morning, that is, the dawn, from the beginning of the gospel day of salvation. Yes, he said, "from the dew of the morning, thou hast indeed," or "from the womb of the morning, thou hast the dew of thy youth."
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So what the latter part of verse 3 is showing us is this: The Messiah, then, is leading his people, and he is represented, then, as continually in the vigor of his youth, and he is producing soldier saints who will follow him in his grace and in his mercy.
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Now, let's stop just for a moment. The scripture says, "in the beauties of holiness," that is, we are to be adorned with the beautiful robes of righteousness and true holiness. I can quote this verse, but I want you to turn in your Bibles to the book of Ephesians chapter 4 and look at verse 24. Ephesians 4 and verse 24. I want you to note what the scripture says. You will remember that when Adam was created, he was created with original righteousness, holiness, knowledge, and dominion.
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Well, the Bible tells us that, of course, we get back all of that and more in Jesus Christ. But the Bible says in Ephesians 4 and verse 24, "And that ye put on the new man, which after God is created in righteousness and true holiness." So the saints of God, once again, are to be adorned in righteousness and true holiness. Now, the Bible tells us in Revelation 19 and verse 14, that the saints were adorned with the fine linen which represent purity and righteousness. So the Bible then is telling us that Jesus Christ as the God-man, as the King of Kings and Lord of Lords, as he is ruling in the midst of his people, he is producing a soldier sainthood that will have righteousness and holiness. Now, look in your Bibles, if you would please, to the book of Revelation, chapter one, and then the first Peter, chapter two. Let me show you. Revelation, chapter one, and look, if you would please, at verse six. Revelation one, verse six.
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In fact, let's read verse five, just so you can see the context. Revelation 1 verse 5. Revelation 1 verse 5, note the Bible says, "And from Jesus Christ, who is the faithful witness, and the first begotten of the dead, and the prince of the kings of the earth. Unto him that loved us, and washed us from our sins in his own blood, and hath made us kings and priests unto God and his Father."
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"To him be glory and dominion for ever and ever. Amen."
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Now, what has Jesus Christ made us? He's made us kings and what? Priests.
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Now, look in your Bibles, if you would please, to 1 Peter chapter 2. 1 Peter chapter 2. And notice, if you would please, verse 5. 1 Peter 2 and verse 5. Once again, the Word of God has this to say. First Peter 2 verse five. Note carefully, "Ye also, as lively stones, are built up a spiritual house, an holy priesthood, to offer up spiritual sacrifices, acceptable to God by Jesus Christ." Now look in verse nine, "But ye are a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, an holy nation, a peculiar people; that ye should shew forth the praises of him who hath called you out of darkness into his marvellous light."
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Now, the Bible is talking in Psalm 110 and verse 3 about the beauties of holiness. That could refer, number one, to the beautiful and glorious garments of the Levitical priesthood. Would you just stop for a moment? I don't want to have to turn there in the Bible, but would you just stop and think of all those beautiful garments that Aaron, the high priest, had. You remember not only the linen ephod, the crown, the mitre. You remember the stones that was on the breastplate. I mean, these were garments of beauty, garments displayed his righteousness. Do you remember what was on the crown on the mitre that he wore? "Holiness to the Lord." The second thing this could refer to is the military robes where soldiers are furnished and adorned. By the way, I'm going to point this out in just a moment. Do you realize that we as Christians are to be Christian soldiers involved in the Christian warfare. Listen carefully. If you watch any of the history channel, and you watch any of the ancient battles, you'll find that many of the soldiers were adorned indeed in many glorious and beautiful uniforms.
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Usually they were dressed basically alike. There's a reason for that. So you can tell your own and not be fighting against your own man. That is for sure. But they also were very proud of their uniforms. The Apostle Paul, and we'll get to it in just a little bit, but the Apostle Paul describes the armor of the Christian. In Ephesians chapter six, we're not going to turn there right now, but we're going to get there.
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If you were to do a study and read Exodus 28 where the robes and the garments of the high priest are described, then read Isaiah 59 verses 17 through 21 and Isaiah 61 verse 10. Let me tell you what I think based upon those passages. I believe that the armor that the Apostle Paul is describing in Ephesians chapter 6 is from the garments that the high priest wore. Why?
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Because Christ is supposedly producing soldier saints. The youth, the young men that are courageous, that are heroic, that are bold, that are brave? You know what we've forgotten? That Christ is coming back leading a large what? Army.
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Now, we have lost a concept and we have forgotten the truth that God's people are to be warrior priests. Let me tell you one of the most neglected and most forgotten hymns in our time. You can go in any church you want to go in. Hardly ever will you hear this hymn sung. "Onward, Christian soldiers." Are you listening? Let me read the stanzas. "Onward, Christian soldiers, marching as to war.
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With the cross of Jesus going on before. Christ, the royal master, leads against the foe. Forward in the battle, see his banners go." And then, of course, you'd have the refrain. Here's the next stanza. "At the sign of triumph, Satan's host doth flee. On then, Christian soldiers, on to victory. Hell's foundations quiver at the shout of praise. Brothers, lift your voices, loud your anthems raise." Listen, "Like a mighty army moves the church of God. Brothers, we are treading where the saints have trod."
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"We are not divided, all one body, we, one in hope and doctrine, one in charity. What the saints establish, that I hold for true. What the saints believe, that I believe too. Long as earth endureth, men the faith will hold. Kingdoms, nations, empires in destruction rolled. Crowns and thrones may perish. Kingdoms rise and wane, but the church of Jesus constant will remain. Gates of hell can never against that church prevail."
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"We have Christ's own promise, and that cannot fail. Onward then, ye people! Join our happy throng! Blend with our dear voices in the triumph song. Glory, laud, and honor unto Christ the King! This through countless ages, men and angels sing." Did you hear that? "Like a mighty army moves the Church of God." That's not so in this day and age, is it? You know why? We have lost the concept of warrior priesthood. It's a beautiful hymn. And it is an accurate, biblical hymn.
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Yet what we do is when we think of priests, we normally think of intercession, sacrifice, and worship. And we just simply limit our understanding to those things.
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Now, it is true, according to 1 Peter 2 and verse 5, that as priests we are to offer up spiritual sacrifices acceptable unto God through Jesus Christ. That is part of our priestly duty. We are also, according to 1 Peter 2 and verse 9, called upon to show forth the praises of Him who has called us out of darkness into His marvelous light. That is also equally true. And then in Hebrews 13 in verse 15, the Bible commands us to offer up the sacrifice of praise continually.
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That is the fruit of our lips giving thanks unto his name. That's priestly work. And when you read Romans 12 verses 1 and 2, "I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that ye present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable unto God, which is your reasonable service. And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God."
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Did you hear what I just quoted? "I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that ye present your bodies" what? "A living sacrifice." That is part of our priestly duties. Do you know if I were to ask you, what were the duties of Old Testament priests? Most of you could tell me 99% of their duties. They did offer sacrifices. They did pray. They did sing. They offered praise. They prayed.
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They did a lot of things, but I want you to look in your Bibles, the first Chronicles Chapter 23. First Chronicles 23. Let me show you how limited we are in our understanding of a priesthood. First Chronicles 23, beginning there with verse 27. Because here are the duties of the Levites spelled out. 1 Chronicles 23 verse 27. 1 Chronicles 23 verse 27. "For by the last words of David the Levites were numbered from twenty years old and above."
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"Because their office was to wait on the sons of Aaron for the service of the house of the Lord, in the courts, and in the chambers, and in the purifying of all holy things, and the work of the service of the house of God." Now let's stop right there. We understand that they waited upon Aaron. They served in the courts in the chambers. They served about the purifying of holy things. They did generally the work in the tabernacle in the temple.
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He goes further in verse 29. "Both for the shewbread, and for the fine flour for meat offering, and for the unleavened cakes, and for that which is baked in the pan, and for that which is fried, and for all manner of measure and size." In other words, they did the cooking, the baking, the shewbread that was there continually before the Lord. They took care of that. Verse 30: "And to stand every morning to thank and praise the Lord, and likewise at even." So they were engaged in private, personal and public praise. Verse 31: "And to offer all burnt sacrifices unto the Lord in the sabbaths, in the new moons, and on the set feasts, by number, according to the order commanded unto them, continually before the Lord." We understand that. Verse 32: "And"—so we're continuing on the priestly duties—"and that they should keep the charge of the tabernacle of the congregation, and the charge of the holy place, and the charge of the sons of Aaron their brethren, in the service of the house of the Lord."
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Now wait a minute. Is it very simple to understand verses 27 through 31? But when you get to verse 32, he continues to describe their duties and says that they should keep the charge of the tabernacle of the congregation, and the charge of the holy place, and the charge of the sons of Aaron, their brethren in the service of the house of the Lord. Now, my question is, what does it mean to keep the charge of the tabernacle? What does it mean to keep the charge of the holy place? What does it mean to keep the charge of the sons of Aaron and their brethren? Now, look at the word "keep."
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You need to underline this without me going into this in great detail. Let me check the word "keep" in practically every one of these places. I'm going to show you. In fact, it is the word "keep" is the Hebrew word shamar, S-H-A-M-A-R. OK, the word shamar means to guard, to protect, to keep. OK, now watch. "And they shall guard and protect the charge of the tabernacle of the congregation. And they shall"—and the charge once again—"guard and protect the charge of the holy place and guard and protect the charge of the sons of Aaron." So the words they're keeping this—now the word "charge." Look at the word "charge." The Hebrew word is Mishmereth, M-I-S-H-M-E-R-E-T-H, which refers then to a watch, or a sentry duty, or an act of protection. Now go back to verse 32: "And they shall keep"—guard, protect—"their sentry post, their sentry duty of the tabernacle of the congregation, and the sentry post and the sentry duty of the holy place, and the sentry post and the sentry duty of the sons of Aaron."
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In other words, what you have in First Chronicles 23 in verse 32 is a military duty. A warrior priest duty of the Levitical priests.
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Now I could show you this 100 times in Scripture, but go in your Bibles if you would to the Book of Numbers chapter one. Numbers chapter one. Numbers one. And let's begin reading there with verse 53. The book of Numbers is so full of these terms. Numbers 1 verse 53, Numbers chapter 1 verse 53. "But the Levites shall pitch round about the tabernacle of testimony, that there be no wrath upon the congregation of the children of Israel: and the Levites shall keep"—guard, protect—"the charge"—the sentry duty—"of the tabernacle of testimony."
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Now, let me spell something out for you. There were Levitical priests who were armed guards around the tabernacle and later on around the temple as well. Look at Numbers chapter three and verse 32. Numbers 3 verse 32. "And Eleazar the son of Aaron the priest shall be chief over the chief of the Levites, and have the oversight of them that keep the charge of the sanctuary." That is, that guard and protect the sanctuary. So they had a hierarchy in their priesthood, especially in relationship to this warrior priest.
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Now, let me show you how serious this was. Now, go back to Numbers chapter three and let's begin reading there verse five.
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Now, remember, they were charged to keep the charge of the tabernacle, to keep the charge of the holy place, and to keep the charge of the sons of Aaron, you remember that. OK, Numbers three, verse five. "And the Lord spake unto Moses, saying, Bring the tribe of Levi near, and present them before Aaron the priest, that they may minister unto him. And they shall keep his charge, and the charge of the whole congregation before the tabernacle of the congregation, to do the service of the tabernacle. And they shall keep all the instruments of the tabernacle of the congregation, and the charge of the children of Israel, to do the service of the tabernacle. And thou shalt give the Levites unto Aaron and to his sons: they are wholly given unto him out of the children of Israel." Now watch, "And thou shalt appoint Aaron and his sons, and they shall wait on their priest's office: and the stranger that cometh nigh shall be put to death." Hold it. If a stranger comes near to Aaron, or near to the holy place, or near to the tabernacle, who's not supposed to be there, what's the penalty?
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Death. Here's my question. Who's going to put him to death? Levitical priests. Why? They were given a charge. They were obligated to protect, to guard, and to keep their sentry post. It is a military command.
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Now, you'll find the same thing in Numbers chapter 18 verses 1 through 7. Any stranger that came near was to be automatically put to death. And those priests didn't say, "Oh wait, we've got to get the local sheriff down here. We've got to get the police down here or we've got to call the army." No, no, no. They just dispatched them themselves. They took care of it.
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Now, I want you to look carefully in your Bibles to 2 Kings chapter 12 and 2 Chronicles chapter 34. Let me show you something that's probably been overlooked by most people in their Bible study. 2 Chronicles and 2 Kings. We're going to 2 Kings first. 2 Kings 12. Just find that passage, 2 Kings 12. Then go ahead and find 2 Chronicles 34. So, we will read 2 Kings 12 first, and then go to 2 Chronicles 34. Now, 2 Kings chapter 12, verse 9. 2 Kings 12, verse 9. Look what the Bible says.
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"But Jehoiada the priest took a chest, and bored a hole in the lid of it, and set it beside the altar, on the right side as one cometh into the house of the Lord: and the priests that kept the door put therein all the money that was brought into the house of the Lord."
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Now, did you notice anything peculiar about that verse? Well, just hold it. Just hold it and look at 2nd Chronicles 34 and verse 9. See if you can figure it out over here. 2nd Chronicles 34 verse 9. "And when they came to Hilkiah the high priest, they delivered the money that was brought into the house of God, which the Levites that kept the doors had gathered of the hand of Manasseh and Ephraim, and of all the remnant of Israel, and of all Judah and Benjamin; and they returned to Jerusalem." Now twice it has been said that certain Levites did what? They kept the doors.
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You remember I told you the word "keep" was the Hebrew word shamar, which means to guard and protect. It's the same word here. So there were Levitical priests then that kept or guarded the doors. You do know you did not just simply waltz into the tabernacle or the temple. There were guards at the door. If you were a stranger or you were not allowed there, they executed you. It's just that simple.
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Now, let me show you how this was understood throughout the Bible. Look at Psalm 84, verse 10. Look what David said. I've heard this verse quoted by people so many times and the fact is, they don't know what they're saying when they quote the verse. Look what David said, Psalm 84 and verse 10. Isn't this a wonderful verse? He said, "For a day in thy courts is better than a thousand." David said, "I had rather be a doorkeeper in the house of my God, than to dwell in the tents of wickedness." Someone who says, "Well, isn't that mighty humble of David?" Well, yeah, it teaches humility. David said, "I'd rather be a doorkeeper in the house of my God." But guess what? Guess what? The word "doorkeeper" is there. The Hebrew word for doorkeeper means one who stands guard, one who keeps and protects the threshold. David said, "I'd rather be that guard sitting there executing the people who come in who aren't supposed to be there, than to dwell in the tents of wickedness."
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So what are you saying? Now, I could multiply these verses, but let's go back in our Bibles to Numbers chapter 4. I believe you're seeing the same principle, Numbers chapter 4, and look at verse 3. In fact, we're going to look at several verses here. And just see if any of you have alternate readings in your Bibles. OK. Look at Numbers chapter four and verse three: "From thirty years old and upward even until fifty years old, all that enter into the host, to do the work in the tabernacle of the congregation." Now I'm looking at the phrase "to do the work." You see that? Numbers four and verse three: "to do the work." Now look in verse twenty three. Same chapter. "From thirty years old and upward until fifty years old shalt thou number them; all that enter in to perform the service, to do the work in the tabernacle of the congregation." We're still talking about the Levites. There's that phrase "to do the work." Now, look at verse 30: "From thirty years old and upward even unto fifty years old shalt thou number them, every one that entereth into the service, to do the work of the tabernacle of the congregation."
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So three times in this one chapter, we've read "to do the work." Now, if you would look in your Bibles to Numbers chapter eight and verse 24. Here, it's used just a little differently, but it's the same thing. Numbers eight, verse 24: "This is it that belongeth unto the Levites: from twenty and five years old and upward they shall go in to wait upon the service of the tabernacle of the congregation." So "to wait upon the service" or "to do the work."
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Now, does anyone have any marginal readings in your Bible that there is an alternate translation? I'll tell you what it is. You may have it. It literally is if you translate it "to war the warfare." "To war the warfare." In other words, when you read verse three, like Numbers four: "From thirty years old and upward even until fifty years old, all that enter into the host to war the warfare in the tabernacle of the congregation." Every time it can be "to war the warfare."
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It is the same Hebrew word. Now, the point I'm trying to make is, in the Old Testament and without me going into the New Testament, in New Testament times, there was the concept of a warrior priesthood. Brother Ernie, do you have it in your Bible there? Yeah, "to war the warfare." So there was a concept then of a warrior priesthood.
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Now let me tell you what has happened in our day and time. We not only have lost the concept of being a warrior priesthood, and by the way, when we use the word warrior, we think of someone who is heroic, brave, courageous, willing to fight, willing to stand. We have not only lost the concept of a warrior priesthood, we have turned completely and totally in the opposite direction.
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And think today that the real Christian just lets everybody run all over him and wipe their feet all over him because he's displaying such humility and submissiveness. You got me? Let me go a step further. And the thing that concerns me is this is among professing Christians. I can understand it with the world, but so many, even professing Christians, somehow, when you talk about weaponry, view weaponry as somehow being unethical and unholy and unrighteous. And you'll hear Christians, "Oh, guns."
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"I'd never let my kids have a gun." Or knives. "No! No!"
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Now let me ask you a question. Is a rifle sinful in and of itself? No. How about a sword? I remember when my oldest grandson was about five or six years old. He was into karate and, oh, he wanted to be a ninja. You know, this kind of stuff. And Granny Alice made him a ninja uniform and that kind of thing. And so he sent me this little book that he had seen this sword in.
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And he wrote me a letter. And he said, "Papa, please get this sword for me." And it was a real sword. And his mother had gotten a hold of the letter and the book. And she wrote a little note down there, "Papa, not the real one, the wooden one." Well, Casey, unknowing to her, had seen what she had written. So he wrote under that, "No Papa, the real one." So I got him the real one. And of course he had to keep it on his wall until he got big enough, you know, to play with and he could only hold it supervised.
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I understand that's no problem. But, you know, we tend to think that somehow a sword or weapon is evil in and of itself. That is not true. That is not true. I want you to turn in your Bibles to Second Chronicles, Chapter 23. If weaponry, if weaponry is something that is inherently evil, then I want you to explain something to me. Look in 2 Chronicles chapter 23.
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Let's begin there with verse 2. 2 Chronicles 23. Verse 2. The Bible says, of course, Jehoiada is a high priest and they're protecting the young king in this context. Now watch this. "And they went about in Judah, and gathered the Levites out of all the cities of Judah, and the chief of the fathers of Israel, and they came to Jerusalem. And all the congregation made a covenant with the king in the house of God."
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"And he said unto them, Behold, the king's son shall reign, as the Lord hath said of the sons of David. This is the thing that ye shall do."
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Now, remember, he's talking to the Levites. "This is the thing that ye shall do; A third part of you entering on the sabbath, of the priests and of the Levites, shall be porters of the doors"—that is, you're going to keep or guard the doors. "And a third part shall be at the king's house; and a third part at the gate of the foundation: and all the people shall be in the courts of the house of the Lord. But let none come into the house of the Lord, save the priests, and they that minister of the Levites; they shall go in, for they are holy: but all the people shall keep the watch of the Lord." Are you looking? "And the Levites"—those Levitical priests—"and the Levites shall compass the king round about, every man with his weapons in his hand; and whosoever else cometh into the house, he shall be put to death: but be ye with the king when he cometh in, and when he goeth out." Now who was guarding the king?
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The Levites. They had weapons. Watch. "So the Levites and all Judah did according to all things that Jehoiada the priest had commanded, and took every man his men that were to come in on the sabbath, with them that were to go out on the sabbath: for Jehoiada the priest dismissed not the courses. Moreover Jehoiada the priest"—now, Jehoiada the high priest—"delivered to the captains of hundreds spears, and bucklers, and shields, that had been king David's, which were"—where? Where were they?
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"In the house of God." Oh! They kept those swords and those spears and those offensive and defensive weapons in the house of God. You'll find the same thing written in 2 Kings chapter 11. They kept them in the house of God. Let me just point this out. Everyone has heard of the battle of Lexington Concord. The shot was heard around the world. Lexington Green. Most people do not know that that was the church green. Most people do not know that the pastor of that church taught his people to fight and to stand against wickedness and tyranny.
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And that he stood there and watched some of his men died. And one of those men who died, it was a man by the name of Caleb Harrington, an old man. And he died on the steps of the church house. Why was he not in the green with the other men? Because he was running back into the church house that Jonas Clark pastored to get more powder for the men. The ammunition was kept in the church building. Ah.
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You see, we would think today, "Oh, how horrible." No. It was not horrible in 2 Chronicles. It was not horrible in 2 Kings. It was not horrible in 1776. It's only horrible enough today because we've lost the concept of fighting and standing for truth and righteousness, holiness, liberty and freedom and justice.
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Now, I want you to look in your Bibles to Second Chronicles chapter nine and verse 19. You see, those Levites were not just keepers of the doors and gates, but the Bible tells us something else as well. Look at 2 Chronicles 9 and verse 19. It must be 1 Chronicles. I don't have that. Let me check. 1 Chronicles 9 and verse 19. Yeah, that's 1 Chronicles, not 2. 1 Chronicles.
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First Chronicles 9 verse 19, here are some names given of some of the Levites. "And Shallum the son of Kore, the son of Ebiasaph, the son of Korah, and his brethren, of the house of his father, the Korahites, were over the work of the service, keepers of the gates of the tabernacle: and their fathers, being over the host of the Lord, were keepers of the entry." Now watch, "and their fathers, being over the host of the Lord." Someone tell me, what does the word "host" refer to? The army. So here are some of these Levites. They were not just keepers of the gates and keepers of the entry. They were that, but they were also over the host of the Lord.
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And since you're in 1 Chronicles, look in 1 Chronicles 12, because in verses 6 through 8, we have some of them listed as David's mighty men. The Bible says, "Elkanah, and Jesiah, and Azareel, and Joezer, and Jashobeam, the Korhites," same ones. And then verse 8, "And of the Gadites there separated themselves unto David into the hold to the wilderness men of might, and men of war fit for the battle, that could handle shield and buckler, whose faces were like the faces of lions, and were as swift as the roes upon the mountains." But note, here's a listing of David's mighty men, and here's some of the Levites that are there. They're fighters. They're fighters. Now, do you understand?
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We may never, ever be called upon to fight with physical weapons. And truthfully, I hope we're not. But the fact is, we are called to be warrior priests and we are called to be fighters. And it is certainly no disgrace to be involved in a righteous fight with physical weapons if it comes to that. David was one of the greatest warriors of all times. And yet he was a man after God's own heart. You remember how they sang, "Saul has killed his thousands and David his tens of thousands." I want you to see what David confessed in Psalm 144 and verse 1. Turn there. Psalm 144, we'll read verses 1 and 2. Look at David's confession. Psalm 144, verse 1. David says, "Blessed be the Lord my strength, which teacheth my hands to war, and my fingers to fight."
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"My goodness, and my fortress; my high tower, and my deliverer; my shield, and he in whom I trust; who subdueth my people under me." What did David say? It was God who taught my hands to fight and my fingers to war. I hope you know that one of the names and titles of God in Scripture is "the Lord is a man of war." See what I'm trying to say, folks. The truth of the matter is this, whether or not we're ever called upon or ever find it necessary to fight with physical weapons, the scripture does teach that there is indeed a war between good and evil, a war between right and wrong, a war between the kingdom of God and the kingdom of darkness.
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And therefore, we must be warrior priests. We are in a war, whether we like it or not. That's why, "from the womb of the morning, thou hast the dew of thy youth." In other words, here God is sovereignly in His grace, producing these heroic, strong, courageous soldier saints. Look in your Bibles to Ephesians chapter 6. And I'll just take the time to read it. I do encourage you to look at those Old Testament passages.
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In regards to the high priest and his accoutrements, his attire. And think about this, but look what the Apostle Paul wrote. Ephesians 6 beginning there with verse 10. Just demonstrating the fact that we are in a war. Whether you want to admit it or not.
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"Finally, my brethren, be strong in the Lord, and in the power of his might." Oh, man. Be strong in the Lord and the power of his might, not your own. "Put on the whole armour of God," why? "that ye may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil. For we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high places. Wherefore take unto you the whole armour of God," why, "that ye may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand." What is he saying? You need this armor if you're going to fight. You need this armor if you're going to be a soldier saint. You need this armor if you're going to be a warrior priest.
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Verse 14, he tells you how. "Stand therefore, having your loins girt about with truth, and having on the breastplate of righteousness; and your feet shod with the preparation of the gospel of peace; above all, taking the shield of faith, wherewith ye shall be able to quench all the fiery darts of the wicked. And take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God: praying always with all prayer and supplication in the Spirit, and watching thereunto with all perseverance and supplication for all saints."
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Here is the armor that we need. Let me ask you, why in the world would you need armor if you're not in a battle? Why would you need armor if you're not in a war? And the fact is, we are in a war. God has called us to be warrior-priests. The kingship of Christ and the priesthood of Christ produces a people who are kings and priests unto our God, but they are a certain kind of priest. They are a warrior priest.
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Now let me make some applications and I think you've already seen what I'm driving at. The first one is this. It should be obvious to everyone that one of the reasons that we're in such dire straits in our country is that Christians have lost the concept of warrior priesthood. Instead of standing, fighting, and holding the standard high, we've back-pedaled, compromised, negotiated, and surrendered. We do not act like warriors, nor act like priests. We've lost our biblical attitude and therefore we have lost our biblical actions. We will never regain biblical actions until we regain a biblical attitude. We cannot act right until we think right. One of the things that's wrong with modern day Christendom is we do not think biblically. We do not think scripturally. We think humanistically.
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We say, "Man, I don't want to get into a controversy." I do if it's a right one. And if it's for truth and righteousness, I don't want to fight just to be fighting. But I want to fight for that which is true and right and holy and just. There's nothing to be ashamed of.
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Secondly, Scripture also reveals another truth, and I want you to see this, I can quote it, but turn in your Bibles to 2 Timothy chapter 2. Scripture reveals another truth and that is the reason why we get so entangled and involved in this life. Look at 2 Timothy 2 and verse 4. "No man that warreth entangleth himself with the affairs of this life; that he may please him who hath chosen him to be a soldier." Wow! "No man that warreth entangleth himself with the affairs of this life." Why? "That he may please him who hath chosen him to be a soldier." God says, if you are fighting the battle, you don't have time to get involved and entangled with things in this life. You're fighting for survival. You're fighting for your children and your grandchildren and your great-grandchildren.
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Where is the average Christian today? He is caught up in comfort, consolation, and prosperity above everything else. His desire is not to please his commander-in-chief in being a good soldier. His desire is to be as comfortable as he possibly can be. And that's it.
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Now, look at verse three. "Thou therefore endure hardness, as a good soldier of Jesus Christ." Why should we endure hardness? Because hardness keeps us going, keeps us fit, keeps us fighting. And if we're concerned about our Lord and His Kingdom, He said the hardness won't bother you. You'll only endure hardness as a good soldier of Jesus Christ. You'll be so busily engaged in the conflict that you're not going to be getting entangled in the affairs of this life.
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You will be a warrior. Now, let me give you the hymn, or the words to the hymn, that we've forgotten as well, another one. "Am I a soldier of the cross, a follower of the Lamb, And shall I fear to own his cause, or blush to speak his name? Must I be carried to the skies on flowery beds of ease, while others fought to win the prize, and sailed through bloody seas?"
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"Are there no foes for me to face? Must I not stem the flood? Is this vile world a friend to grace, to help me on to God? Sure I must fight if I would reign; increase my courage, Lord. I'll bear the toil, endure the pain, supported by thy word." Listen to that second stanza, "Must I be carried to the skies on flowery beds of ease, while others fought to win the prize, and sailed through bloody seas?"
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That condemns our own lethargy and apathy and indolence. My prayer is that we learn to fight and we learn to fight for righteousness and truth and stand remembering that our Lord has commanded us to occupy, do business, hold the fort, till He comes. Are you one of Christ's soldier saints? We'll get from the kingship to the priesthood by understanding our Lord produces warrior priests. Let's pray. Father, speak our hearts.
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Help us to live for Thee. Help us be holy and godly. And Lord, may we learn to fight biblically, scripturally. And may we stand for that which is right. Give us grace to serve Thee acceptably with reverence and godly fear. In Thy name we pray, Amen.
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deepseek | deepseek-v4-pro | clean_readable_transcript | 2026-06-05T21:30:04Z

Messiah's Divine Rights - Part 6

John Weaver | Freedom Ministries

John Weaver continues his series on Psalm 110, focusing on the transition from Christ's kingship (verses 1-3) to His priesthood (verse 4). He argues that the latter part of verse 3 ('in the beauties of holiness, from the womb of the morning: thou hast the dew of thy youth') describes the Messiah producing a multitude of 'soldier saints'—a warrior priesthood. Weaver contends that modern Christianity has lost the biblical concept of warrior priests, who are called to fight for truth and righteousness, and instead has embraced passivity and compromise.

Introduction and Review of Psalm 110:1-3

Weaver recaps the previous message on the distinction between free will and freedom of the will, emphasizing that God makes His people willing in the day of His power.

But Psalm 110, verse 1:

Scripture Reading — Psalm 110:1-5

"The Lord said unto my Lord, Sit thou at my right hand, until I make thine enemies thy footstool. The Lord shall send the rod of thy strength out of Zion: rule thou in the midst of thine enemies. Thy people shall be willing in the day of thy power, in the beauties of holiness from the womb of the morning: thou hast the dew of thy youth. The Lord hath sworn, and will not repent, Thou art a priest for ever after the order of Melchizedek. The Lord at thy right hand shall strike through kings in the day of his wrath."

Transition from Kingship to Priesthood

The transition from Christ's kingship in verses 1-3 to His priesthood in verse 4 is found in the latter part of verse 3, which speaks of the offspring of Christ.

Scripture Reading — Philippians 2:13

"For it is God which worketh in you both to will and to do of his good pleasure."

Interpretations of 'the dew of thy youth'

Scripture Reading — Revelation 15:4

Now, I want you to note that both Adam Clarke and John Trapp have said essentially the same thing. They have said that the latter part of verse 3 speaks then not only of the multitude of the converts of Jesus Christ, but also in the manner of their heavenly conversion as well. Each of these commentators hit upon the right thought. But neither one of these commentators developed that thought. Verse 3, the latter part, does indeed represent the offspring of Jesus Christ. But there's a little more to it than that, and I want to enlarge upon the latter part of verse 3. You see, when you and I look at the Bible and read, "in the beauties of holiness," that is not a phrase that is difficult for us to comprehend. We understand that in the sense that we know that God is holy. The Bible says in Revelation 15:4, "Thou only art holy." Everything that God is and everything that God does is holy. Did you realize that God is more often styled the Holy One in Scripture than any other title? So we understand the holiness of God. The phrase that's going to give us a little problem is this: "from the womb of the morning thou hast the dew of thy youth."

The Beauties of Holiness and Warrior Priests

Well, the Bible tells us that, of course, we get back all of that and more in Jesus Christ. But the Bible says in Ephesians 4 and verse 24,

Scripture Reading — Ephesians 4:24

"And that ye put on the new man, which after God is created in righteousness and true holiness."

In fact, let's read verse five, just so you can see the context. Revelation 1 verse 5. Revelation 1 verse 5, note the Bible says,

Scripture Reading — Revelation 1:5-6

"And from Jesus Christ, who is the faithful witness, and the first begotten of the dead, and the prince of the kings of the earth. Unto him that loved us, and washed us from our sins in his own blood, and hath made us kings and priests unto God and his Father." "To him be glory and dominion for ever and ever. Amen."

Scripture Reading — 1 Peter 2:5, 9

"Ye also, as lively stones, are built up a spiritual house, an holy priesthood, to offer up spiritual sacrifices, acceptable to God by Jesus Christ."

Old Testament Evidence for Warrior Priests

That is the fruit of our lips giving thanks unto his name. That's priestly work. And when you read Romans 12 verses 1 and 2,

Scripture Reading — Romans 12:1-2

"I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that ye present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable unto God, which is your reasonable service. And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God."

Did you hear what I just quoted?

Scripture Reading — Romans 12:1-2

"I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that ye present your bodies"

Scripture Reading — 1 Chronicles 23:27-32

"Because their office was to wait on the sons of Aaron for the service of the house of the Lord, in the courts, and in the chambers, and in the purifying of all holy things, and the work of the service of the house of God."

Scripture Reading — 1 Chronicles 23:27-32

"Both for the shewbread, and for the fine flour for meat offering, and for the unleavened cakes, and for that which is baked in the pan, and for that which is fried, and for all manner of measure and size."

In other words, they did the cooking, the baking, the shewbread that was there continually before the Lord. They took care of that. Verse 30:

Scripture Reading — 1 Chronicles 23:27-32

"And to stand every morning to thank and praise the Lord, and likewise at even."

So they were engaged in private, personal and public praise. Verse 31:

Scripture Reading — 1 Chronicles 23:27-32

"And to offer all burnt sacrifices unto the Lord in the sabbaths, in the new moons, and on the set feasts, by number, according to the order commanded unto them, continually before the Lord."

Scripture Reading — 1 Chronicles 23:27-32

" Now wait a minute. Is it very simple to understand verses 27 through 31? But when you get to verse 32, he continues to describe their duties and says that they should keep the charge of the tabernacle of the congregation, and the charge of the holy place, and the charge of the sons of Aaron, their brethren in the service of the house of the Lord. Now, my question is, what does it mean to keep the charge of the tabernacle? What does it mean to keep the charge of the holy place? What does it mean to keep the charge of the sons of Aaron and their brethren? Now, look at the word "

Scripture Reading — 1 Chronicles 23:27-32

"their sentry post, their sentry duty of the tabernacle of the congregation, and the sentry post and the sentry duty of the holy place, and the sentry post and the sentry duty of the sons of Aaron."

Scripture Reading — Numbers 1:53

"And Eleazar the son of Aaron the priest shall be chief over the chief of the Levites, and have the oversight of them that keep the charge of the sanctuary."

That is, that guard and protect the sanctuary. So they had a hierarchy in their priesthood, especially in relationship to this warrior priest.

Scripture Reading — Numbers 3:5-10

"And the Lord spake unto Moses, saying, Bring the tribe of Levi near, and present them before Aaron the priest, that they may minister unto him. And they shall keep his charge, and the charge of the whole congregation before the tabernacle of the congregation, to do the service of the tabernacle. And they shall keep all the instruments of the tabernacle of the congregation, and the charge of the children of Israel, to do the service of the tabernacle. And thou shalt give the Levites unto Aaron and to his sons: they are wholly given unto him out of the children of Israel."

Now watch,

Scripture Reading — Numbers 3:5-10

"And thou shalt appoint Aaron and his sons, and they shall wait on their priest's office: and the stranger that cometh nigh shall be put to death."

Hold it. If a stranger comes near to Aaron, or near to the holy place, or near to the tabernacle, who's not supposed to be there, what's the penalty?

Weapons in the House of God

Scripture Reading — Psalm 84:10

"For a day in thy courts is better than a thousand."

David said,

Scripture Reading — Psalm 84:10

"I had rather be a doorkeeper in the house of my God, than to dwell in the tents of wickedness."

Someone who says, "Well, isn't that mighty humble of David?" Well, yeah, it teaches humility. David said,

Scripture Reading — Psalm 84:10

"I'd rather be a doorkeeper in the house of my God."

Scripture Reading — Numbers 4:3, 23, 30

"From thirty years old and upward even until fifty years old, all that enter into the host to war the warfare in the tabernacle of the congregation."

Every time it can be "to war the warfare."

David and the Call to Fight

David, a man after God's own heart, was a warrior who confessed God taught his hands to war. Christians are called to be warrior priests engaged in spiritual warfare.

New Testament Armor and the Soldier's Mindset

Ephesians 6 describes the armor needed for spiritual battle. 2 Timothy 2:3-4 commands believers to endure hardness as good soldiers and avoid entanglement with worldly affairs.

Application: Recovering the Warrior Priesthood

Christians have lost the warrior priest concept, leading to compromise and surrender. Believers must regain a biblical attitude, fight for righteousness, and live as soldier saints.

Closing Hymn and Prayer

Weaver quotes the hymn 'Am I a Soldier of the Cross' to challenge lethargy and calls believers to occupy and hold the fort until Christ returns, closing in prayer.

Messiah's Divine Rights - Part 6

John Weaver | SermonAudio

Lecture Metadata	Details
Speaker	John Weaver
Source	SermonAudio
Media ID	3100575942
Subject	New Testament Studies
Course	Revelation: Christ and the Churches
Genre	Sermon
Date	2005-03-06
Dictation Name
Book	Book 188: Messiah's Divine Rights — Chapter 6
Source Timed Segments	92

Lecture Guide

Outline

Introduction and Review of Psalm 110:1-3: Weaver recaps the previous message on the distinction between free will and freedom of the will, emphasizing that God makes His people willing in the day of His power.
Transition from Kingship to Priesthood: The transition from Christ's kingship in verses 1-3 to His priesthood in verse 4 is found in the latter part of verse 3, which speaks of the offspring of Christ.
Interpretations of 'the dew of thy youth': Commentators John Trapp and Adam Clarke view the phrase as a simile for the multitude and heavenly generation of Christ's converts. Weaver adds that it also depicts a holy army of courageous, vigorous soldier saints.
The Beauties of Holiness and Warrior Priests: The 'beauties of holiness' refer to the righteous adornment of God's people, who are made kings and priests. Weaver introduces the concept of warrior priests, citing Old Testament Levites who guarded the tabernacle and temple.
Old Testament Evidence for Warrior Priests: Scripture shows Levites performing military duties: guarding doors, keeping the charge of the sanctuary, and bearing weapons. The Hebrew words for 'keep' and 'charge' imply sentry duty and protection.
Weapons in the House of God: Examples from 2 Chronicles 23 and 1 Chronicles 9 show Levites armed with spears and shields, and weapons stored in the temple. Weaver connects this to the American Revolution, where a church stored ammunition.
David and the Call to Fight: David, a man after God's own heart, was a warrior who confessed God taught his hands to war. Christians are called to be warrior priests engaged in spiritual warfare.
New Testament Armor and the Soldier's Mindset: Ephesians 6 describes the armor needed for spiritual battle. 2 Timothy 2:3-4 commands believers to endure hardness as good soldiers and avoid entanglement with worldly affairs.
Application: Recovering the Warrior Priesthood: Christians have lost the warrior priest concept, leading to compromise and surrender. Believers must regain a biblical attitude, fight for righteousness, and live as soldier saints.
Closing Hymn and Prayer: Weaver quotes the hymn 'Am I a Soldier of the Cross' to challenge lethargy and calls believers to occupy and hold the fort until Christ returns, closing in prayer.

Major Themes

Key Arguments

Psalm 110:3b describes the generation of warrior saints

The phrase 'from the womb of the morning thou hast the dew of thy youth' refers not only to the multitude of converts but to their character as courageous, vigorous soldiers.

Weaver says, 'the word "youth"... could be also translated there as "young men" or "soldiers." It refers then to persons who are courageous, heroic, strong, active, and vigorous.'

Old Testament priests had military duties

The Levites were charged with guarding the tabernacle and temple, bearing weapons, and executing intruders, demonstrating a warrior aspect to the priesthood.

Weaver explains, 'there were Levitical priests who were armed guards around the tabernacle and later on around the temple as well' and cites Numbers 3:32 and 1 Chronicles 23:32.

The Hebrew terminology implies warfare

The words 'keep' (shamar) and 'charge' (mishmereth) in priestly contexts mean to guard and protect, and the phrase 'to do the work' can be translated 'to war the warfare.'

Weaver states, 'the word shamar means to guard, to protect, to keep... the word "charge"... refers then to a watch, or a sentry duty, or an act of protection.'

Weapons were stored in the house of God

2 Chronicles 23 and 2 Kings 11 record that spears, bucklers, and shields were kept in the temple, showing that weaponry was not considered unholy in a sacred context.

Weaver reads, 'Jehoiada the priest delivered to the captains of hundreds spears, and bucklers, and shields, that had been king David's, which were in the house of God.'

David, a man after God's heart, was a warrior

David's confession in Psalm 144:1 that God taught his hands to war demonstrates that fighting for righteousness is compatible with godliness.

Weaver quotes, 'Blessed be the Lord my strength, which teacheth my hands to war, and my fingers to fight.'

Christians are commanded to be soldiers

2 Timothy 2:3-4 explicitly calls believers to endure hardness as good soldiers and to avoid civilian entanglements, confirming the warrior identity.

Weaver reads, 'Thou therefore endure hardness, as a good soldier of Jesus Christ. No man that warreth entangleth himself with the affairs of this life.'

The armor of God implies active combat

The detailed armor in Ephesians 6 is unnecessary unless believers are engaged in real spiritual warfare against demonic forces.

Weaver argues, 'why in the world would you need armor if you're not in a battle? Why would you need armor if you're not in a war?'

Modern Christianity has embraced passivity

Instead of fighting for truth, many Christians have adopted a false humility that allows evil to prevail, viewing any form of militancy as unspiritual.

Weaver observes, 'we have turned completely and totally in the opposite direction... think today that the real Christian just lets everybody run all over him.'

Scripture References

Psalm 110:1-5: Weaver reads the opening verses of Psalm 110 to set the stage for the message on Christ's kingship and priesthood.
Psalm 110:3: The latter part of verse 3 is the focus of the message, interpreted as describing the generation of warrior saints.
Philippians 2:13: Cited to support that God works in believers both to will and to do His good pleasure, reinforcing sovereign grace in making people willing.
Hebrews 12:2: Mentioned as evidence that Jesus is the author and finisher of faith, underscoring God's initiative in salvation.
Philippians 1:6: Quoted to show that God begins and completes the good work in believers.
Revelation 15:4: Referenced to affirm God's unique holiness: 'Thou only art holy.'
Ephesians 4:24: Cited to show that believers are to put on the new man created in righteousness and true holiness, connecting to 'beauties of holiness.'
Revelation 19:14: Mentioned to illustrate that saints are adorned in fine linen representing righteousness.
Revelation 1:5-6: Read to show that Christ has made believers kings and priests unto God.
1 Peter 2:5, 9: Quoted to establish the believer's identity as a holy and royal priesthood offering spiritual sacrifices.
Hebrews 13:15: Referenced as a command to offer the sacrifice of praise continually, part of priestly duty.
Romans 12:1-2: Quoted to show that presenting our bodies as living sacrifices is priestly service.
1 Chronicles 23:27-32: Read extensively to demonstrate the Levites' duties, including guarding the tabernacle and holy place, interpreted as military sentry duty.
Numbers 1:53: Cited to show Levites were to pitch around the tabernacle and keep the charge of it, implying armed guard duty.
Numbers 3:32: Referenced to show Eleazar oversaw those who kept the charge of the sanctuary.
Numbers 3:5-10: Read to show the Levites' charge to keep the tabernacle and that strangers coming near were to be put to death.
2 Kings 12:9: Cited to show priests kept the doors of the temple, implying guard duty.
2 Chronicles 34:9: Referenced alongside 2 Kings 12:9 to reinforce that Levites kept the doors.
Psalm 84:10: Quoted to show David's desire to be a doorkeeper (guard) in God's house, interpreted as a military role.
Numbers 4:3, 23, 30: Read to show the phrase 'to do the work' can be translated 'to war the warfare,' indicating priestly military service.

Historical References

John Trapp (Puritan commentator): Weaver quotes Trapp's interpretation of Psalm 110:3b as a similitude expressing the multitude and heavenly generation of Christ's converts.
Adam Clarke (commentator): Weaver quotes Clarke's view that the dew of thy youth refers to the offspring of Christ's nativity, born by the Divine Spirit.
Barker's Bible (1615 translation): Weaver cites an old translation rendering Psalm 110:3 as 'The youth of thy womb shall be as the morning dew,' emphasizing a holy army.
Battle of Lexington and Concord (American Revolution): Weaver recounts that the church green was the site of the battle, the pastor taught his people to fight, and ammunition was stored in the church building.
Jonas Clark (pastor at Lexington): Mentioned as the pastor who taught his congregation to stand against tyranny and witnessed their deaths at Lexington.
Caleb Harrington (militiaman at Lexington): Described as an old man who died on the church steps while retrieving powder for the men during the battle.
Hymn 'Onward, Christian Soldiers': Weaver quotes stanzas of this hymn to illustrate the forgotten concept of the church as a mighty army.
Hymn 'Am I a Soldier of the Cross': Weaver quotes stanzas to challenge modern Christian lethargy and call for endurance in spiritual warfare.

Important Quotes

Thy people shall be willing in the day of thy power, in the beauties of holiness from the womb of the morning: thou hast the dew of thy youth.

This is the key verse Weaver expounds, arguing it describes the generation of warrior saints.

The theory or the concept of free will is totally and completely unbiblical, while the concept of freedom of the will is indeed biblical.

Summarizes Weaver's theological distinction from the previous sermon, foundational to his view of sovereign grace.

From the womb of the morning, as the dew flows from the womb of the morning, so shall all the godly flow from thee. They are the dew of thy youth. They are the offspring of thine own nativity.

Adam Clarke's commentary quoted to support the idea that believers are spiritually generated by Christ.

Thy people shall come willingly at the time of assembling thine army in the holy beauty. The youth of thy womb shall be as the morning dew.

Barker's 1615 translation emphasizing the military aspect of the verse.

Like a mighty army moves the church of God.

From the hymn 'Onward, Christian Soldiers,' used to illustrate the forgotten militant identity of the church.

No man that warreth entangleth himself with the affairs of this life; that he may please him who hath chosen him to be a soldier.

Key New Testament command used to call believers to single-minded devotion as soldiers of Christ.

Must I be carried to the skies on flowery beds of ease, while others fought to win the prize, and sailed through bloody seas?

From 'Am I a Soldier of the Cross,' used to convict believers of spiritual lethargy.

Discussion Questions

[Question]

What does it mean to be a 'warrior priest' according to the biblical evidence presented in this sermon?

[Context]

Weaver argues that believers are both priests and soldiers, citing Old Testament Levites and New Testament commands.

[Question]

How does the distinction between free will and freedom of the will affect our understanding of God's work in making us willing?

[Context]

Weaver briefly reviews his previous message, emphasizing that God is the one who makes His people willing.

[Question]

In what ways have modern Christians lost the concept of being soldiers for Christ, and what are the consequences?

[Context]

Weaver laments the loss of militancy and the embrace of comfort and passivity.

[Question]

How should we understand the presence of weapons in the temple and the Levites' role as armed guards?

[Context]

Weaver cites 2 Chronicles 23 and other passages to show that physical weapons were kept in the house of God for righteous defense.

[Question]

What does it practically mean to 'endure hardness as a good soldier of Jesus Christ' in our daily lives?

[Context]

Weaver applies 2 Timothy 2:3-4, urging believers to avoid entanglement with worldly affairs and embrace hardship for the sake of the mission.

[Question]

How can we balance the call to be warriors with the call to love our enemies and turn the other cheek?

[Context]

Weaver emphasizes fighting for truth and righteousness but does not directly address this tension; the question arises from his strong militant language.

[Question]

What role do hymns like 'Onward, Christian Soldiers' and 'Am I a Soldier of the Cross' play in shaping our identity as believers?

[Context]

Weaver quotes these hymns to recover a vision of the church as a fighting force.

[Question]

How does the imagery of dew from the womb of the morning shape our understanding of how God grows His church?

[Context]

Weaver explains that the dew represents the imperceptible, sovereign, and widespread generation of Christ's followers.

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