Sermon Central
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The Sword, A Swarm Of Flies, And A Wolf Series
Contributed by Richard Bell on Dec 1, 2000 (message contributor)
Summary: With the assurance of God’s presence in every situation we have great reason to worship.
THE SWORD, A SWARM OF FLIES, AND A WOLF
INTRODUCTION: When we receive God’s assurance of His presence and victory, we have every reason to worship. In view of the circumstances, are you able to worship God right now? We need to offer up shouts of victory—based solely upon His promise.
I. WORSHIP GOD FOR HIS PROMISES
1. Gideon worshiped God upon the interpretation of the dream and returned to the people of God (v.15).
2. Gideon encouraged his 300 with promise of victory.
3. Note that the victory had already been won—even BEFORE they set one foot on the battle field (v.15).
4. The 300 were divided into 3 companies of 100 (v.16). Instead of normal weapons, each man carried into battle:
a. Trumpet—God’s Word in every man’s HAND
b. Pitcher—empty vessel for God to fill
c. Lamp—type of the Holy Spirit
5. Paul made it clear that the warfare we see as carnal is really spiritual, and the victory can only be won by the Spirit and power of God.
Ephesians 6:10-17 Finally, my brethren, be strong in the Lord, and in the power of his might. Put on the whole armour of God, 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, that ye may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand. 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.
II. WORSHIP GOD BY EXAMPLE
1. Gideon said, “as I do, so shall ye do.” Notice he didn’t tell them to do as he “said” (v.17).
2. Oh, how the church needs people that will set the example of faith not by words, but actions!
3. Gideon didn’t take credit, but told them to shout glory to God—“the sword of the Lord, and of Gideon.” That statement also showed that they believed victory had already taken place before it happened. It was a done thing.
4. Gideon’s 300 took a bold step of faith and watched God work a miracle (vv.20-22). Look at the sequence here:
a. They blew the trumpets—God’s Word “no quarters”.
b. Broke the pitchers—as vessels, they became available to God for His use.
c. Cried out “the sword of the Lord and of Gideon”—praise to God Almighty (omnipotent).
d. FINALLY THEY STOOD STILL—allowed God to do His work.
5. “The LORD set every man’s sword against his fellow, even THROUGHOUT ALL THE HOST . . .” It was TOTAL victory!
6. When we allow God to have His way He will always bring total victory.
III. WORSHIP GOD AFTER THE VICTORY
1. What remained of the enemy fled (v.22). That tells me that there would be a remnant of the enemy to be on guard for. ILLUSTRATE: After Jesus’ victory over temptation in the wilderness, the devil would later try to destroy Him.
Luke 4:13 And when the devil had ended all the temptation, he departed from him for a season.
2. Encouraged by the turn of events, many that departed returned and joined the battle (vv.23,24). Notice that they weren’t rejected by the 300, but were to take part in the “mop up.”
3. There are those that have left the church for different reasons, not all good. As God moves in a mighty way here in this last day revival, I believe some will return. They must be forgiven and welcomed back. THEY ARE NOT FAILURES! God will still use them. He is a God of forgiveness, love, and grace. We must do the same.
CONCLUSION: Remember my title to this message? The two princes of the Midianites, Oreb and Zeeb, were slain—Oreb upon a rock, and Zeeb at the winepress.
Oreb—swarm of flies. Even a swarm of filthy flies can’t overcome our Rock. Jesus is greater than the greatest host.
Zeeb—wolf. The devil is a predator. Wine is a type of joy also of blood. The winepress crushes the grapes. Jesus shed His blood on the cross of Calvary for the forgiveness of our sins and salvation. We have the joy of salvation. The predator can’t steal our joy—only if we allow it.
