Abraham in Arms is a 1678 artillery election sermon by Puritan minister Samuel Nowell, preached in Boston and based on Genesis 14:14, where Abraham arms 318 trained servants to rescue his nephew Lot from captors.
Nowell uses the biblical narrative to justify defensive warfare and military training as godly duties, portraying Abraham as the ideal religious general who balances piety with martial preparation, leading to victory and blessing. He argues that such readiness—training from age 20, maintaining arms, and obeying commands—is essential for self-preservation, deterring enemies (including Native Americans in colonial New England), and fulfilling natural and divine law, while rebuking neglect and exhorting rulers, officers, and soldiers to embrace the role as honorable Christian service akin to spiritual warfare.
Abraham in Arms
Or the first religious general with his army engaging in a war for which he had wisely prepared and by which, not only an eminent victory was obtained, but a blessing gained also.
Delivered in an Artillery Election Sermon, June 3, 1678.
To the Reader
Friendly Reader,
A desire to please my friends has led me, against my better judgment, to agree to the publication of these notes, which were taken by one of the listeners. I am unable to add to them because of my inability to write due to an infirmity in my right hand, which God has allowed to affect me, almost completely taking away the use of my hand. Therefore, what is made public is not my own notes, but it agrees in substance with what was delivered. This reason also convinced me to let this be published; I thought that others, more capable, seeing this imperfect work find acceptance with some, might be encouraged to preach and print something more effective to revive our military discipline and the spirit of soldiery, which seems to be declining in an age when it is needed more than ever.
The love I have for this country, where I was born, has made me take the risk of sharing this with the world. I hope that those who find fault with it will try to improve it in some way and pray for the author, who is a friend to all with such a spirit.
Samuel Nowell.
Sermon (In Modern English)
"And when Abram heard that his brother was taken captive, he armed his trained servants, born in his own house, three hundred and eighteen, and pursued them to Dan." - Genesis 14:14
Our Father Abraham is highly praised in Scripture for two things concerning his family, in addition to his own faith and piety, as the Scripture tells us: we see his care regarding his family.
1. To teach them piety. Gen. 18:19. "For I have chosen him, so that he will direct his children and his household after him to keep the way of the Lord by doing what is right and just."
2. We see Abraham's care to teach his servants military skills in the words, he armed his trained servants. These were the ones he had trained to be ready for the kind of service God, through His providence, called him to. His trained or instructed servants were prepared for this task through instruction or training, which is the usual term we use for this purpose. Abraham's effort and care in this work are highly praised because of his success in war, or his military achievement, which is detailed in this chapter. Abraham goes to war, succeeds, and receives a blessing from it—Melchizedek's blessing upon his return from the battlefield. We see,
The highest practice of piety and the practice of war can fit well in one person. Religion and arms can be joined together; they fit so well that the Lord takes on the name "The Lord is a Man of War, the Lord is his name." This is the first song ever written to celebrate God's praises, and in that song, God is praised for this, as if it were one of His greatest attributes: "The Lord is a man of War." The creation is overlooked, and the first piece of praise given to God is "The Lord is a Man of War" (Exod. 15:1-3). "I will sing to the Lord, for he has triumphed gloriously, the horse and his rider he has thrown into the sea, the Lord is a Man of War, the Lord is his name."
In this chapter, we have the first mention in the Bible of any warlike action. There had been war before, as suggested at the beginning of the chapter. The kings of Sodom and Gomorrah had served Chedorlaomer for twelve years, but in the thirteenth year, they rebelled. In the fourteenth year, Chedorlaomer, along with three other kings, made war on them, defeated them, and took Lot captive. This is the first mention of any battle fought, and it shows a remarkable example of bravery in Abraham and his army, as notable as any in the entire Bible. Although Gideon and his three hundred men fought against a large army, they used more strategy, like breaking pitchers with lamps inside them at night to scare the enemy. But Abraham won his battle with straightforward fighting. It is the first action of a Christian soldier, the first time we read about a Christian soldier being armed, or a religious leader with his army, combining faith and military action, as seen in Abraham arming his own servants.
In this story, four things are suggested:
1. The reason Abraham armed his soldiers at this time: when Abraham heard that his brother Lot was taken captive.
2. We have a description of the leader of the army in this mission or war, and that is Abraham.
3. We have a description of his soldiers: 1. The number of them was three hundred and eighteen. 2. The quality of them was that they were trained men; they had their weapons ready and knew how to use them. He immediately took up arms; he didn't have to search for weapons or teach the men how to use them. Everything was ready, suitable to pursue and overtake the enemy.
4. We have the success of it, along with the results: the success is that he rescues his brother Lot, defeats the enemy, and achieves a complete victory by freeing all the captives. The results of this were:
1. He receives a blessing from Melchizedek for it. Melchizedek was clearly a symbol of Jesus Christ. God supported and encouraged Abraham in this mission, so much that He gave a special blessing to encourage soldiers in a just war. He receives a special blessing from Christ; it's more significant than if an angel had done it. Melchizedek clearly represents Jesus Christ, who is a priest forever in the order of Melchizedek.
2. Abraham's return of the goods and people to the King of Sodom shows his noble and gallant spirit, just like when he fought with Chedorlaomer. The King of Sodom offers Abraham the goods if he would return the people. But Abraham says, "No, I will not take even the smallest thing, from a thread to a shoe strap, so that the King of Sodom cannot say he made Abraham rich." This shows that Abraham did not risk his life for personal gain or advantage; his spirit was above that. He did not expect any reward from people but was satisfied with God's blessing, the rich blessing he received. It was a great piece of praise (though for a bad cause) for Sisera's soldiers who came to the waters of Tanach and fought without taking any money. If it had not been for a bad cause, it would have been a high commendation for them, but it was a wicked cause, so they lost the praise they otherwise would have had. Those soldiers of Jesus Christ, who do not value their lives even to death, will show themselves to have the same spirit as Abraham, not seeking gain or reward from people, but the advancement of a good cause.
But to suggest something to you from the words,
1. From the occasion of Abraham taking up arms: When Abram heard that his nephew Lot was taken captive, he acted to rescue his relative. It is lawful to take up arms to defend friends and allies. This is shown by Abraham's example, as he and his allies, who were in an offensive and defensive league, took action. Aner, Eshcol, and Mamre were his allies. Although there isn't a specific mention of such a league, there was a strong friendship and connection between Abram and Lot. Through Abram's wisdom, they parted amicably, even though they couldn't live together. Therefore, Abram engaged in a war to rescue Lot and his family.
1. Therefore, our recent war was justified, even though the conflict initially started with our neighbors.
2. Therefore, it is lawful to defend through war what we have lawfully obtained, like our possessions, lands, and inheritance here, to which we have as legitimate a claim as anyone ever had since Israel's claim to Canaan. Their claim was not only a gift from Providence but also a promise. Ours is only a gift from Providence, but we can still lawfully defend it. As Jephthah said to the children of Ammon, "What Chemosh your god gives you to possess, won't you possess it?" (Judges 11:24) So, what God has providentially given us, without harming others, is what we may lawfully defend.
There are usually considered to be three causes of war.
- To protect ourselves.
- To get back what has been taken away
- To punish for wrongs done.
But to move past the reasons for the war; through God's goodness, we have peace. Abram armed his trained servants, or soldiers, totaling three hundred and eighteen. This was a small number to face four kings like Chedorlaomer, who is thought to be Nimrod's successor, and Tidal, King of Nations, who could not have been a minor prince or had a small number of soldiers. So, three hundred and eighteen men would reasonably be just a small group to face such an army, an army boosted by success and victory over the five kings of Sodom and Gomorrah and the neighboring cities. They likely had a large army, though it's not specifically mentioned; they had an army that was boosted by success, with heightened spirit and courage, which makes men much more formidable. When men are emboldened by success, they will attempt anything, even if very risky. Here was just a small group going out against such an army. But what won't a few men dare to do if the cause, the courage, and the leadership are like Abram's?
But to point out some things from the words, Abram armed his trained servants: Abram was outstanding in his position.
- Before going to war, his servants were trained men.
- For how he handled the situation and managed it when he took it on.
I will mainly talk about the first of these.
Doctrine: Training soldiers to be ready for war is a commendable practice and a duty of great importance, not of the lowest rank.
Frequent training to teach people military skills so they are ready and skilled for war is a commendable practice and a duty that God expects from all leaders, like Abraham, in their respective roles. By "God's Abrahams," I mean civil rulers who should encourage such exercises with their authority and presence when possible. Military officers have the duty to actually instruct people; they represent Abraham, and God expects them to take care of this responsibility, just as Abraham did successfully.
This leads to the second point: It is the duty of those who want to be considered part of Abraham's family to learn from those whom God requires to teach them how to use their weapons and understand military order.
If it is Abraham's duty to teach, it is the duty of Abraham's servants, those who represent them, to learn from those God places over them, how to use their weapons and understand military order, so they can be skilled for war. It is commendable for people or soldiers to be skilled for war, as Scripture frequently mentions. I will refer to two places: "1 Chronicles 12:33, 35, 36" mentions Zebulun's people who went to battle, skilled for war, with all instruments of war, fifty thousand who could keep rank. Here, men were trained to be skilled and fit for war. Similarly, in the following verse, the Danites were skilled for war, twenty-eight thousand; Asher's people who went to battle were skilled in war, forty thousand. In Song of Solomon 3:7-8, it says, "Behold his bed, which is Solomon's, threescore valiant men are about it, of the valiant of Israel, they all hold swords, being expert in war. Every man hath his sword upon his thigh, because of fear in the night." It is a high commendation for any people when rulers take care, and people are willing to learn and listen to rulers, so they can be instructed to be skilled in war. It is part of the general calling to which God calls every capable man (not those who are unable or children), but according to Scripture, from twenty years and upward, all who were ready to go to war. It is not a side issue but something men should focus on. It is a duty and praiseworthy skill to be skilled for war. Being a good soldier is a matter of praise or honor, which is why the Apostle uses it in a spiritual sense: "Therefore, my son, endure hardness as a good soldier of Jesus Christ" (2 Tim. 2:3). It is strange in this confused age that people think they should not use the sword: the best of men have done it, and it has been considered among their most praiseworthy actions. Some are said to have their hands cleave to their swords because they used them so much for the advantage of the Church. In "Hebrews 11:33-34," when the Apostle mentions the heroes of faith, he mentions these two together: "Who through faith subdued kingdoms, wrought righteousness"; these two can well go together. It is considered one of the great works of their faith; there is nothing where the glory of the faith of many believers shone more than in its use in war. There is no higher ordinary or outward occasion where we have a greater opportunity or use for faith and other graces.
A soldier can and should be a holy person, and the more fit he is for a soldier. But that it is a duty of great consequence, I will speak to the doctrine in these two parts:
- It is a good practice.
- It is the duty of God's Abrahams to take care of this work to instruct soldiers so they may be ready for war:
1. It is a good practice that can be seen in four or five ways.
1. The Lord himself claims the honor of military skill: if it weren't an honorable work, God wouldn't take credit for it. "He teaches my hands to war, and my fingers to fight" (Psalm 144:1). Military skill is such a piece of divine wisdom that the Lord won't lose the honor of it. Since every good and perfect gift comes from him, he claims every good and perfect gift as his own, but he especially claims the honor of giving military skill. God is the Author of it, "The Lord is a man of war: the Lord is his name" (Exodus 15:3). I could show you through specific examples that the Lord claims the honor of it. Everything, every part that belongs to a soldier, God claims as being from him, everything that is honorable or praiseworthy.
1. The ability to give spirit and courage to people, to lift their spirits, is something God claims as His own. "Make bright the arrows, gather the shields; the Lord hath raised up the spirit of the kings of the Medes" (Jer. 51:11). He lifts people's spirits, especially when they are prepared for war; God is involved in this.
2. God claims that He teaches how to make weapons of war and how to use them. God not only gives people the spirit for such work but also teaches them how to create and make weapons. He is involved in sharpening and polishing them. He guides the blacksmith to form weapons for war, as stated in (Isa. 54:16-17): "Behold, I have created the smith who blows the coals in the fire and brings forth an instrument for his work. And I have created the waster to destroy, and no weapon that is formed against you shall prosper." God uses this as an argument to encourage His people to trust in Him, saying there is no weapon of war that He does not direct in its making. He sharpens the sword and polishes it for battle: "If I sharpen my glittering sword, and my hand takes hold on vengeance" (Deut. 32:41). He oversees the forming of weapons and teaches men how to organize the battle. God gives wisdom to people, teaching them by the order of His own host, the stars. More importantly, He provides a captain for His own host, as seen in (Josh. 5:13-14): "It came to pass, when Joshua was by Jericho, he lifted up his eyes and looked, and behold, there stood a man opposite him with a sword drawn in his hand; and Joshua went to him and said to him, 'Are you for us or for our adversaries?' And he said, 'No, but as Captain of the Host of the Lord, I have now come.'" It was an angel who appeared. When any of His hosts are called forth, the Lord takes care, as He did for Israel when He intended to give them Canaan. He sent His angel to go with them; He was invisibly and constantly with them, for He came to be the Captain of the Lord's hosts. Therefore, that good king encouraged the people, saying the Lord is with us to fight our battles. He has a hand in organizing the battle (2 Chron. 32:8). He appears prominently on the day of battle, raising the spirits on one side and taking them away from the other. "The race is not to the swift, nor the battle to the strong" (Eccles. 9:11), for God overrules it and gives it where He pleases. It is the Lord of Hosts who musters the host of the battle (Isa. 13:4-5): "The noise of a multitude in the mountains, like the noise of a great people, a tumultuous noise of the kingdoms of nations gathered together: the Lord of Hosts musters the host of the battle. They come from a far country, from the end of heaven, even the Lord, and the weapons of His indignation." Therefore, we often hear the expression, "The battle is the Lord's," used for encouragement by those who have been commanders of God's people when in danger: "Be not afraid, for the battle is the Lord's" (1 Sam. 17:47). The fact that the battle is the Lord's is shown by God turning the battle with a small accident, as He often does: one stone directed right can win the day, as it was with the Philistines fighting against Israel. One arrow shot at random struck the king of Israel between the joints of his armor, and that one stroke turned the day. God protects the head in the day of battle. God specifically says He has a hand in everything, in forming weapons, giving skill, and raising the spirit. God has a hand in it, especially in protecting the head in the day of battle. How close do bullets or instruments of death come, but God covers the head in the day of battle. Therefore, it is commendable to teach and instruct men to be skilled in war because God has such a great hand in it and claims the honor of it.
2. The wisest rulers and holiest people have always been careful about preparing for war during times of peace. They have instructed others in the use of weapons. David, for example, made a law to teach the people of Israel how to use the bow (2 Sam. 1:18). This was the weapon by which Israel's heroes, Saul and Jonathan, fell. David made it a law to teach the use of this specific weapon that had been so destructive to God's people. Abraham trained his servants, and Jacob, known for his holiness, was skilled with the sword and bow. He won a piece of land with it, which he gave to Joseph in his will at his death (Gen. 48:22). It is clear he taught his children how to use it, as seen by the misuse of it by Simeon and Levi. Jacob himself was skilled with it, had won a significant portion of land with it, and taught it to his children, who were evidently very adept with it. Solomon, the wise man, even though he had such peace in his days that "there was no adversary, nor evil occurrence," made great preparations for war. The Scripture praises him for this preparation. So, the holiest and wisest people have always been concerned about this.
3. Throughout history, wise rulers of nations have always been careful about this matter, and the Scripture criticizes those who have failed in it. The people of Laish were complacent; in the Book of Judges, the Danites had not yet claimed their inheritance, so they sent men to Laish (Judges 18:7). "Then the five men departed, and came to Laish and saw the people that were therein, how they dwelt carelessly after the manner of the Zidonians, quiet and secure, and had no business with any man." They made no preparations for war and assumed they would have peace. These people were seen as ripe for destruction, and it was considered their great folly and shame. This lack of preparation led to their downfall. We can find many examples in both the Bible and other writings of how the people of Israel and other nations carefully attended to this issue. The number of Israelites, from twenty years old and up, included all who were able to go to war. This implies that the Children of Israel, along with their rulers, paid attention to knowing who was capable of going to war. The number of Israelites was always recorded in their muster rolls; therefore, it was the responsibility of military officers to count the people. Joab, the general, and the lower-ranking officers were sent out to count the people, and they were counted from twenty years old and up, all who were able to go to war.
4. When God sends animals as a form of judgment, they act like they are under military command, which shows the advantage of having a plan. In Joel 2:7, we read about the caterpillars, locusts, and cankerworms. God sends them as a great army, and they sound like chariots on mountain tops, like a fire burning stubble, like strong people ready for battle. They run like mighty men, climb walls like soldiers, and march without breaking rank. By doing this, God shows the importance of military order to rational people. When irrational creatures are sent by God for judgment to fulfill His plans, and they march in this way, it highlights that the order used in war and military discipline is very beneficial. God gives even irrational creatures the instinct to act in such an organized manner when He uses them.
5. The field or camp has been well-known for producing all kinds of people; it has developed talents to such a degree that it made many individuals the wonders of the world in their time.
II. It is not only a commendable practice, but it is a duty.
1. The law of nature, which teaches people to protect themselves, requires this as a means to that end. Whatever is necessary for our defense is a duty. It requires and commands whatever is a means to this end. So, becoming familiar with or practicing the use of weapons or other military exercises can be enforced by the commandment that requires people to use all means to preserve life and defend themselves. It would be pointless to make a law requiring duty if we didn't use the proper means for our own preservation. Even if a prince, no matter how great, steps on a worm, it will turn; they have that instinct to defend themselves. There are our rights both as humans and as Christians, our civil rights and liberties as humans and our religious liberties and rights as Christians; both of which we are to defend with the sword, as far as we are able, or to commit ourselves to God in the way of duty in doing so. There is such a thing as liberty and property given to us by both the laws of God and humans. When these are invaded, we may defend ourselves. God has not given powerful people in the world absolute power over others, to devour them at will, like big fish do to little ones. He has set rulers their limits, and by His law has determined people's liberties and property. "He that rules over men must be just" (2 Sam. 23:3), ruling in the fear of God. Therefore, kings are commanded to read the Book of the Law because it is a boundary of their authority, as well as of the people's liberty. Naboth's vineyard, taken away by Ahab in the manner it was, was avenged by God on Ahab and Jezebel too. If we have what is our right and due, another being stronger cannot make our right null and void. Therefore, the law that gives us a right requires attendance on the work of this day, which is martial exercise, in order to defend ourselves by arms when the providence of God calls us to it.
2. God, through His providence, keeps some nations and people unconquered, just like He did with Israel in the past. He left some people unconquered on purpose to teach Israel how to fight. The Lord has done the same with us here in this wilderness. "These are the nations which the Lord left, to test Israel by them, that is, all who had not experienced any of the wars of Canaan; only in order that the generations of the sons of Israel might be taught war, those who had not experienced it formerly" (Judges 3:1-2). It was Israel's duty to learn so they could become skilled in war; God left some nations unconquered on purpose to teach them. The Lord has dealt with us similarly. Even though He has given us a good country, we don't have full possession of it, and our difficult experiences have shown us that some have been left to teach us war. Therefore, it is our duty to maintain military exercises that can make us skilled in war.
3. Our Savior Christ's command is an argument that it is a duty: "He that hath no sword, let him sell his garment and buy one" (Luke 22:36). This implies learning how to use it or doing whatever is necessary to defend ourselves in difficult times. It is the duty and wisdom of any people to prepare themselves so they can defend themselves. Our Savior's command shows that the use of a sword is as necessary as having clothes: "He that hath no sword, let him sell his garment and buy one." Also, when our Savior tells us that in the latter days there will be wars and rumors of wars, more in these days than at other times, it is to teach us the wisdom to be ready and prepared to play our part in our time. Military skill ought to be taught and learned in the latter days more than at other times.
4. Our military strength is, under God, the appointed means, or in the ordinary way of Providence, the proper and only means for our preservation; therefore, it is a duty to encourage soldiers. God can work miracles, but when ordinary means are available, he will not perform miracles. When Israel came out of Egypt, God took the battle into his own hands. They were frightened by Egypt following them, better prepared for war than they were, and their spirits were low due to hard bondage. God miraculously fought for them and destroyed Pharaoh. But when God's people have time to prepare themselves, the Lord directs us to use these means, and they are the only means of our preservation. They are the only walls and defenses of God's heritage here. God's vineyard has no other walls but only our soldiers and our poverty. We have no walled towns like in other places; our forts and castles are weak. We don't have any money to hire soldiers; our naval strength is small, and we don't have much friendship or favor in the world with those who might help us, or our friends are too far away to help us in time of need. So we have nothing left but this: first, that hedge which God made around Job (Job 1:10), and second, as to means, it is only that wall of bones (as someone calls it), better than a wall of stones—our soldiers. Although it may seem weak to some, just as when God made the fear of Jacob and his family fall on the nations, not one dared to rise up to disturb Jacob and his family. The resolution shown by Simeon and Levi, together with the fear of God, created such awe and dread of that little family in the surrounding country. They knew they were determined men and would sell their lives dearly; this, as a means, had a great influence on all around, so none dared pursue Jacob. This has been our defense. Soldiers have been the wall, the strength, the glory of this little commonwealth. Our military skill, our readiness, and expertise in military exercises are what we have been famed for abroad in other countries, both among the Dutch and French. What the Governor of Manadus saw in the short time he was here gave us no small credit in Holland. What made the Indians live peacefully with us for so long? They had hatred toward us many years before it broke out. What was the reason it didn't break out? They saw we had skill, that skill in military discipline which they did not understand. That was an awe and dread to them, and it is still today, so they dare not meet us on equal terms.
Application #1
Therefore, it is not inappropriate for a Christian to learn to be a soldier, not just a spiritual soldier, but in the literal sense. Being a soldier is an honor, a praise, and a glory, especially to be a good soldier. This is true not only for people but also for us as Christians, to have the honor of being good soldiers. It was part of Abraham's honor and glory that he acted as a soldier so honorably. In fact, it is a duty, not just a matter of choice, but a point of duty, a praiseworthy part, for someone who learns and acts their role honorably. There is such a connection between spiritual and physical warfare that everything related to a soldier is used to represent some grace or duty of a Christian, something related to a Christian. Nothing outward exists that cannot be used for some spiritual and good purpose. As Solomon said, "I beheld the vineyard of the slothful, and from there I learned instruction." There is nothing related to a soldier that cannot be used for spiritual purposes. All parts of his armor excellently represent some grace or duty of a Christian. "Put on the whole armor of God," and there it shows how everything related to a soldier represents something a good person should learn and have. All his weapons, all his movements, and strategies in war are used to instruct a Christian in some act of religion. The Church Militant is therefore compared to an army with banners, for order and for being formidable (Song of Solomon 6:4, 10). Again, John the Baptist gives instructions to soldiers when they approach him, to be content with their wages or pay. Everyone should know their duty, and their instruction was to be content with their pay; the work was legitimate, and instruction is given for better organizing it.
Application #2
Therefore, those who either completely ignore or rush through this work are at fault. If this is so fitting for a Christian, then those who neglect it or do not take it seriously are greatly to blame. They do not make it a matter of conscience to prepare themselves or teach others to be skilled for war. What we have suffered because of this is a strong enough reason to emphasize it. Some people have to look for their weapons when their houses or towns are under attack; others have weapons so rusty they cannot be used. These are not good things—the lack of weapons or their unfitness for the work and service God calls us to. It is a great wrong to have them in poor condition. Abraham's soldiers were ready immediately upon notice; they did not have to look for their weapons, and Abraham did not have to buy them. They were ready to pursue and follow the enemy; they did not need to train then to learn their order and rank because they were already trained and prepared beforehand.
Application #3
An encouragement to this duty, that Abraham was so careful about, the training of his servants: under which,
1. I would suggest some additional thoughts to encourage and motivate you to do it.
2. Some Directions: more specifically, 1. To those who are like Abraham, leaders in the community, both in government and the military. 2. To those like Abraham's servants, including lower-ranking officers and soldiers.
1. Some considerations as a means to excite and stir up to this duty to be fit for war:
1. The greatest task that soldiers will ever have is still ahead, and many believe it is not far off: the most important work ever done for the Lord Jesus Christ is still to come, which is the defeat of Gog and Magog, as the enemies of the Church are called in Scripture. Whether it is the Pope, the Turk, or anyone else who opposes the growth of Christ's Kingdom, God plans for His Son to be recognized and declared as the King of Nations, as well as the King of Saints. He will take His great power and reign, and the kingdoms of this world will become the kingdoms of our Lord and of His Christ. The Lamb will have followers who do not love their lives even to death. He has work to do in the world, and it is believed that this work is near, so we should be encouraged to be servants waiting for our Lord. The Lord Jesus is not coming to bring peace on Earth, but a sword. Reformation has never happened without conflict; whether in Germany, Holland, or anywhere else, there has always been some kind of war to defend it or lay its foundation. The sword will be drawn for Christ's sake, and this should motivate us to maintain our military skills and exercises so that we are better prepared for it.
2. I think our biggest challenges are behind us for several reasons. I believe we won't live peacefully for long, or at least we have no reason to expect that we will, for these reasons.
1. None of the notable rulers in Europe have any interest in America without having been watching us closely for a long time, which I could easily prove. But the situation itself is enough to convince us of this. No merchant fails to notice another's actions, trading, and the advantages they gain. No farmer ignores his neighbor's success to see how he benefits from his work, so he can do the same. It's the same with other things. No colony grows and prospers without neighboring colonies watching and observing it. Our own daily observations should be enough to make us believe this. There isn't a small island in America that the rulers or states of Europe aren't competing for, as we saw recently with Tobago, St. Christopher, etc. If they are interested in these, what can we expect?
2. Rome will not make peace with you, and you should not make peace with it. It's clear that Rome's agents are actively working, as we've seen signs in the world. If the Beast's deadly wound mentioned in (Rev. 13:3) is ever healed, we will likely feel its impact. If their councils end up controlling the world, it is foolish for us to expect peace.
3. The sins of New England are increasing, wickedness is everywhere, and the love of many is growing cold. Therefore, trouble will come. Usually, the sword is one way God punishes this sin among His people, so there is a likelihood of more trouble to come.
4. The people of the land will not join or mix with us to become one group, which makes it more likely they will remain as problems for us. When Hamor and Shechem suggested a firm peace with Jacob's family, they said, "Let us marry together and make one nation or people" (Gen. 34:9). This is a strategy used by the French today, not far from us; they might think this will help them avoid some punishment that is looming over them, but the outcome is in God's hands. When God intended for the Canaanites to be destroyed, He forbade Israel from marrying them; they were to be thorns to Israel, and Israel was to remove them in the end. Therefore, we can probably and reasonably expect frequent trouble from the heathen. Two nations are in the womb and will be striving (Gen. 25:23). That is a second consideration: we must either learn to defend ourselves or decide to be servants. It is a lowly spirit like Issachar, a strong donkey lying down between two burdens; he saw that rest was good and the land was pleasant, so he bowed his shoulders to bear and became a servant to forced labor (Gen. 49:14-15). Some are so servile that they will pay tribute to heathens rather than endure a little difficulty. Let low-spirited men have Issachar’s lot if they make his choice.
3. The world, even though pride and lust make them want to fight, are not inclined to raise soldiers. There is so much excessive drinking and immoral behavior that it hurts people's consciences, and in times of danger and trouble, it will come back to haunt them. Wounded consciences will be felt then, just like it was with Joseph's brothers when they were in distress, they cried, "We are truly guilty concerning our brother" (Gen. 42:21). Many human stories could confirm this. Here's one: A captain in the Low Countries challenged Major-General Skippon. When the Lord Veer heard about it, he said, "Tomorrow I intend to assault such a town, and then I shall see who will be the best soldier." When a breach was made in the wall, this boastful man was ordered to enter but refused, saying, "I am not fit to die." Conscience will confront people when they face the threat of death. A man who didn't know how to put on his spur correctly, if he was honest, was considered a better candidate to be a soldier than those who would curse at every word and dismiss hell and eternal damnation. Excessive drinking, luxury, filthiness, and immorality in the world corrupt people, making them unlikely to raise soldiers for Christ, to serve Christ. "He that striveth for mastery must be temperate in all things" (1 Cor. 9:25). Let me tell you how we raise soldiers, both in old England and New. Every farmer's son, when he goes to the market town, must have money in his pocket; and when he meets with his friends, they go to the tavern or ale-house and rarely leave before they are drunk or well tipsy. It's rare to find men we can call drunkards, but there are plenty of heavy drinkers in New England. This makes youth weak and indulgent, besides the harm to their consciences; this makes men not so bold. "The righteous are bold as a lion" (Prov. 28:1).
There has been a question about whether atheism or piety makes better soldiers. Recent experiences, as well as the example of Abraham, teach us that a well-established conscience is better than a hardened conscience for filling a person with courage. Some people drink to forget the fear of death, but David, who was a courageous soldier, knew that the best way to inspire his spirit was to rely on God's promise. He encouraged himself in God, understanding that the assurance of God's love is more uplifting than an abundance of grain and wine. "Many are asking, 'Who can show us any good?' Let the light of your face shine upon us, O Lord. You have filled my heart with greater joy than when their grain and new wine abound" (Ps. 4:6-7). A well-established conscience and faith in the promises of God are above all the means that the simple, sinful world uses. That atheism cannot do as much as a good conscience can be shown by two reasons.
1. Because an atheist has no guarantee of a reward, while a believer does. This should make a believer more courageous because they are sure of a reward. When someone goes into battle, it's uncertain if they will survive or win. If either of these happens, an atheist has no reward if they lose the battle or their life. But a true Christian is assured of their reward. Those who do their work as service to God know that "our labor is not in vain in the Lord" (1 Cor. 15:58). This assurance naturally gives them a better spirit for their work.
2. A true Christian benefits from death; it's not the same for an atheist. "For to me, to live is Christ, and to die is gain" (Phil. 1:21). That's why Solomon says, "the day of death is better than the day of a man's birth," especially for the saints, because it's the end of all a man's sin and sorrow and the start of his eternal joy. Someone who fights with this faith will surely surpass someone who has no such hope. An atheist doesn't expect anything in the world to come; he can't believe in a reward in the afterlife if he thinks there is no God. He can't face death as boldly as someone who knows they will gain from it. Hope motivates all our actions. Even the heathen, who didn't have true peace of conscience, had some sense of natural conscience excusing them and expressed it in a strange way. What does such a person need to fear? Not the violent storms they might face or the cruelty of tyrants, not even if the world were to collapse. It's just a heathen saying, but it shows their strange understanding of the benefit of a peaceful natural conscience, though they didn't know peace with God. A person who is whole and sound inside can face death better than anyone else, for any other reason. The psalmist expresses it differently: "He shall not be afraid of evil tidings; his heart is fixed, trusting in the Lord" (Ps. 112:7).
2. Let's move on to some directions:
1. To those who represent Abraham, rulers in the community, both civil and military: God expects you to act like Abraham. 1. I would like to offer a few words of encouragement to you. 2. By way of direction. For encouragement.
1. Through God's goodness and favor, you have people under you with enough spirit and courage. They have a large share of that, which is a great blessing to this country and a mercy we should all thank God for. There has been more of an excess of courage than a lack of it; most of our losses have happened because of it. You have men full of activity and courage, eager to move forward even in danger. You have people raised in this country who have the heart of lions, like "lion-like men" in 1 Chronicles 11:22. What is said about the horse can similarly be applied to men: "He mocks at fear, he is not afraid, neither does he turn back from the sword" (Job 39:22-25). I mention this because I have seen and heard about the courage of soldiers, which has been more refreshing than the finest delicacies or feasts could be. It's inspiring to see the hearts of men rise in danger rather than be discouraged by it. If we had the mines of Mexico and Peru, it wouldn't be as much of a mercy and blessing to the country as this is.
2. They can endure hardship, which is another encouraging thing for rulers, and it's a great blessing. A tender, soft, and overly delicate people is a curse and misery when God allows a people to become like that. By the way, I might encourage rulers, governors, and parents to raise their children in a way that they can endure hardship. Even though Isaac was a great prince, as the king of the Philistines acknowledged him, when he sent Jacob away, he didn't even send a servant with him. Jacob took some stones and made a pillow out of them; it was a hard pillow, with no feathers in it. But when he had the hardest night's lodging, he had the best night's rest. He saw a vision of a ladder reaching to heaven; it was as comforting a night as Jacob ever had. Isaac was a prince, acknowledged by the king of the Philistines, yet he raised Jacob in such a way that he wouldn't complain about this hardship—being sent out alone, sleeping in the woods with only a stone for a pillow, having just a piece of bread in his pocket, and water to drink. He endured without complaining or grumbling. It's likely his father didn't raise him in luxury.
Someone leaving New England advised parents: "You do not know what difficulties your children may face."
Here's some advice in a few words.
1. Require everyone to participate in training exercises or attend them: Leaders should ensure this so they have soldiers ready for any mission. There are good laws, but they need to be enforced strictly.
2. Maintain strict military discipline: A soldier without discipline is the worst kind of creature, and those who are commanders should ensure this. You know the commendable example of the centurion, "I say to one, 'Go,' and he goes; and to another, 'Come,' and he comes" (Matt. 8:9). Discipline is essential for the work. Captains are greatly at fault if they are too lenient and do not enforce their authority in the field. What might not be a problem or could be overlooked at home should not be allowed in the field.
3. Encourage your cavalry exercises as well. Foreign rulers know they can easily defeat you in infantry, but they don't know how to defeat you in cavalry. Those who have had a grudge against this place have been afraid of this; they have plenty of foot soldiers behind us, yet they don't know how to match us in cavalry.
4. Look favorably upon, and try to attend as much as possible, meetings that are the focus of this day. Encourage artillery trainings. 1. It's a way to motivate diligent and skilled men by giving them titles that match their activity and skill. In grammar schools, being a captain for a day makes young students work hard at their studies. It's a way to honor and respect active men, as their diligence, valor, and activity deserve. The law of nature teaches that virtuous skill deserves honor. 2. It's a training ground for officers beyond our regular trainings, or a better way to prepare those who are officers, as artillery meetings mostly consist of such individuals. It's also a good way to test the skill of soldiers beyond what is usually done.
2. A few words to lower-ranking officers and soldiers, those who are like Abraham's servants: strive to be good soldiers. To help with that, fellow soldiers, I would like to suggest a few things: 1. Some advice for you as Christian soldiers. 2. Some advice for you as literal soldiers, or men.
1. Like Christian-Soldiers, just these two words:
1. Put on the full armor of God. This is how to become a good soldier—by having complete armor, especially for your inner self. Without protection for your conscience, you will fail. If your conscience is wounded or not safe, if the breastplate of righteousness is not on, and if you have a guilty conscience, you will feel the sad effects when you face danger. Put on your spiritual armor and make sure you have that breastplate of righteousness. I recommend keeping a good conscience; with that breastplate, you can face death without fear. When your vital parts are protected, anyone with courage or spirit won't worry about a scratch on the arm or leg. If you have a good and large breastplate that can defend your vital parts, it will make you bold because you know your life is generally secure, and anyone with spirit will risk their limbs. Take care of your inner self, therefore, if you want to be good soldiers. Guard your heart well and make sure you have a good breastplate to protect it. Abraham first taught piety: engage God with you, and even a coward would fight. Having your conscience against you in battle is very sad; it frightens you more than the enemy. "God has departed from me and answers me no more, and the Philistines are upon me" (1 Sam. 28:15-16). That made the Philistines seem as bad as so many devils to him.
2. Be self-controlled and endure hardships. Do not live as if your main goal is to satisfy your physical desires. Someone who is always focused on indulging themselves will never bring honor to the profession of a soldier or to themselves.
2. A few suggestions for you as soldiers.
1. Be obedient to officers, to those God places in authority over you. Arguing against commands is not appropriate for a soldier. "I am a man under authority, and I say to one, 'Go,' and he goes," says the centurion (Luke 7:8).
2. Go to, or attend trainings as if it's not a chore, but consider it your enjoyment and privilege, like those who want to be skilled in war. When the Lord Jesus calls on anyone, they won't be amateurs. It won't be long before the Lord Jesus calls out soldiers, and those he will use shall be skilled for war. Therefore, let's get used to this work. That deadly attack at Black Point should make people appreciate training; they were unprepared there, raw and undisciplined. Let's work to be skilled for war, to be like our leader, Jesus Christ. "The Lord is a man of war" (Exod. 15:3).
Lastly, make sure your weapons are ready, like a soldier who keeps them in good condition and knows how to use them well, "according to that of David, be commanded to teach them the use of the bow" (2 Sam. 1:18).