A Call To Arms!

The definition for this phrase is a command to report for active military duty or a summons to engage in active hostilities. It is generally applied to a call to defend or make ready for confrontation. It is understood as a call to arms to defend against attack. In Bible times such a call was usually a trumpet which was a ram’s horn. It was very important that both the trumpeter and the entire army recognize the sound of the trumpet’s call to battle. 1 Cor. 14:8, “For if the trumpet give an uncertain sound, who shall prepare himself to the battle?” Paul used this analogy in a different context but still supports the principle of this statement. If the call is to result in a significant response to ascertain victory, the sound of the trumpet must be consistent and universal. The sound must be the same every time.

The principle of consistency and universality applies to the teachings of the Word of God. The point is that the Word of God is a Word from God. God never changes! Malachi 3:6, “For I am the LORD, I change not;” God’s Word never changes! It is equally applicable in each generation. James 1:17, “Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, and cometh down from the Father of lights, with whom is no variableness, neither shadow of turning.” Every good and perfect gift is from above and comes down from our Father who is the Light of men and in whom there is no variation, inconsistency or shifting shadow. God and His Word are consistent and universal in every generation. 

This same principle applies to the Church of God, the Body of Christ. The sound of the trumpet must be the same every time and for all people. To be more specific, the interpretation of the Word of God must be the same every time and to all generations. Holy counsel and guidance must be the same each time and for each person. As an instrument and emissary of our never-changing God, the Body of Christ must maintain the standard of Holy Scripture and be consistent and universal in every generation. (continued)