Bible Society of South Africa

The best defence – 15 March 2022

By Xanthe Hancox

(Di)temana ya Bibele

LUKASE 14

28“Ga ke re ge o nyaka go aga tora o thoma ka go dula fase wa akanya tshenyegelo ya gona, gore o bone ge eba o na le tšhelete ye e lekanego go phetha modiro woo? 29Gape ge o ka se dire bjalo, o tla re o beile motheo wa tla palelwa ke go phetha tora yeo, gomme wa kwerwa ke bohle ba ba di bonago. 30Ba re: ‘Moisa yo o kgonne go thoma go aga, fela go phetha go mo paletše.’

LUKASE 14:28-30NSO00Bula go Mmadi wa Bibele

Both this parable and the one following it (Luke 14:31-33) about a king drawing up battle plans speak about building a strategic defence. Towers provided a lookout for watchmen to warn against an approaching enemy. Then the king could rally his troops and defend his territory.

But a half-completed building project or a foolish battle plan are both bad ideas. A wise person adds up the figures and considers the costs in whatever needs to be done.

Jesus offers a defensive tactic for success in the battles that await kingdom warriors. The strategy is a strong commitment to preparation.

The life of a disciple includes many trials and tests of faithfulness. At times we lose heart and are ready to give up. But Jesus discloses the secret of success – a decisive commitment to the Word of God.

The repeated theme in these verses is whether you are able to carry out a task. Each of us must ask, “Am I able to be his disciple?” This is a serious question. But Christ has won the victory. Because of Jesus, you and I can say, “Yes, I am able. ‘I can do all this through him who gives me strength.’” (Philippians 4:13) It takes a radical belief in the power of Christ in us to stand firm and endure.

Prayer: Lord, help me count the cost and commit to serving you. Please give me the grace to pursue the course you have given me, and in your strength, to prevail. Amen

Bible Society of South Africav.4.26.9
RE HWETŠE GO