“A Humble Conquering”

“In all these things we are more than conquerors through Him who loved us”

Romans 8:37

 

What a curious thing to be called a “conqueror”! In fact, it almost seems irrational and nonsensical to identify the post-modern Believer as being “more than a conqueror” (Romans 8:37). I was intrigued by this topic, which compelled me to look up the definition of “conquer” hoping to further my understanding of this concept. I found the results to be fascinating: “to gain mastery over or win by overcoming obstacles or opposition,” and “to overcome by mental or moral power.” It didn’t solely refer to armed forces marching on a victory bound path - clothed in its military splendor. Neither did it describe a conqueror as an individual who had already obtained the victory.

Rather, the most remarkable aspect of being a conqueror, which I see from the Apostle Paul, is that a conqueror is known as an individual who has already obtained a previous victory and who is continuously working toward their next victory. Wow… what an incredible metaphor to use for the Believer! When I think in terms of Scriptural context, I am reminded that it was Christ who obtained the first victory for us (our previously obtained victory). Also, I cannot help but reflect on the ministry of the Spirit in Romans 8:14, which states that it is the Holy Spirit who leads us into/through our next victories. In both these areas, it is God who gave us the victory over sin, by the cross, and it is God who enables us to overcome the recurring battles of life. It seems to me, to truly be a conqueror, you must receive the victorious work of Christ and be led of the Spirit through each season of life – ever striving to overcome!

Though I say these things, the Bible still states it best: “they have conquered him [the devil and his work] by the blood of the Lamb and by the word of their testimony” (Rev. 12:11a). I know (and I will never forget) that there are many things that need to be defeated in the life of the Believer. Everything from secret sins to attitude adjustments, there are many things that need to be defeated. There are many things that demand to be overcome. It seems to me, As Paul was trying to show in his metaphor, we have already been given the victory and that the Lord will victoriously guide us through whatever needs to be defeated in our lives. We are more than conquerors because of the blood of Jesus and because of the strengthening of the Spirit of God. “Let us live up to what we have already attained” (Phil. 3:16)!