Let's Be A "Knightly Soldier" Of Christ!

Before he enlisted in the Union Army to fight during the US Civil War, Joshua Chamberlain was a quiet and unassuming college professor. However, in the trial and testing of military combat, he distinguished himself for his heroism in holding the line on Little Round Top during the Battle of Gettysburg (see video). He was later awarded the Congressional Medal of Honor.

To recognize Chamberlain’s contribution to the Union victory, General Ulysses S. Grant designated him to receive the first flag of surrender at Appomattox Courthouse. The defeated troops of the South expected to be ridiculed and humiliated. Instead, Chamberlain showed them kindness and respect. For this, the Confederate commanding officer wrote in his memoirs that Chamberlain was “one of the knightliest soldiers of the Federal Army” (source).

As a committed soldier, Chamberlain’s actions reflected the grace of our loving Savior (John 1:17; Romans 5:21; cf. 2 Corinthians 5:20-21). The Scriptures teach that as committed Christian soldiers (2 Timothy 2:3-4; cf. 1 Timothy 1:18-19; 1 Timothy 6:12), we too need to stand for what we believe (2 Timothy 1:13-14; cf. 1 Timothy 6:20; Titus 1:3; Titus 1:9; 1 Thessalonians 2:4). However, we also need to be kind to those with whom we disagree.

Paul exhorted Timothy: “as a good soldier of Jesus Christ …. be gentle to all, able to teach, patient, in humility correcting those who are in opposition“(2 Timothy 2:3,24-25).

Beloved, in whatever conflict and reconciliation, our response should reflect the gracious heart of a “knightly soldier” of Christ.

—Mike Riley, Gospel Snippets