Children As Warriors - Zac Poonen
Summary
The central message is to learn from little children, whose pure, helpless cries represent the perfect form of praise to God. This childlike dependence is contrasted with the sophisticated praise of the world, and it is also shown to be the source of God's strength and power against enemies. Furthermore, the speaker emphasizes that children are a divine gift and a legacy, who must be prepared like arrows for the spiritual battle.
Outline
The message in plain words, in the order it unfolds. Select a time to jump the video to that moment.
Out of the mouth of infantsWhen religious leaders grew indignant at children shouting hosannas in the temple, Jesus defended them by quoting scripture about God perfecting praise from the mouths of infants.Matthew 21:14
The helpless cry of a childUnlike adults who usually have backup plans, a child's cry is marked by absolute helplessness, reflecting the exact attitude of total dependence we should have toward God.
Jesus embodied childlike dependenceJesus demonstrated the greatest attitude in the kingdom of heaven by living his earthly life in a state of helpless dependence upon his Father.
Comparing the New Testament with the Old TestamentCareful Bible study by comparing New Testament quotes with their Old Testament roots—such as Jesus referencing Psalm 8—reveals deep and wonderful truths.
Praise establishes strengthPsalm 8 connects the praise of babes with the establishment of strength, showing that coming to God like helpless children releases His power.
Power against enemiesPraising God like little children not only grants divine power, but also puts the devil to flight and stops the enemy.
Overcoming a wandering mind in prayerWhen your mind wanders or prayer feels blocked by spiritual opposition, switching to praising God clears the way and defeats the enemy.
Children as a gift and legacyScripture describes children as a gift, a reward, and a legacy from the Lord, which is why the church family provides a home to dedicate them.Psalm 127:3
Children as arrows in the hand of a warriorParents are like warriors holding a bow, called to prepare their children over many years so they can be released straight into battle against the enemy.
Continuing the battle for the next generationGod intends for the battle against satanic darkness to continue into the next generation through children who stand firmly for Him.
Closing every backdoor to the devilTo keep children safe, parents must humble themselves, recognize their own helplessness, and surrender every area of life to God so the devil gets no foothold.
Being both strict and mercifulParents must be merciful because children inherited a corrupt nature from them, yet strict to drive out that nature and shape them into true spiritual warriors.
