Today’s Thought “On Guard!” G. Ward

“The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy; I came that they may have life, and have it abundantly.” John 10:10

Fencing, also known as sword fighting is an Olympic sport that’s been strong competition for two centuries. When a participant yields to a defensive position at the commencement of the match they shout En garde (French for "on guard”) as a warning for their perspective opponent.

Entirely misunderstood and decontextualized by so many believers is the idea Jesus sought to extinguish; that is allowing false teaching’s pervasion amidst His truth. The thief in this passage was never the Devil, it is the human imposter (cf.* Jn.10:1), presuppositionally assessing what he feels Jesus is saying (cf.2 Pe.1:20-21). Many manipulate the scriptures to impose on man horrible theorizing to exalt themselves. It’s caused many to read (without study) to then conclude that the words from Holy God is with myriads of interpretations. To that I yell, “En garde!” Again, while the Devil is with the character of a thief, Jesus referred to a humanistic robbery of a grace meant for man.

Happy Friday!