Being on old (and aging) soldier, I've used the phrase hundreds of
times to literally mean "prepare your weapon for firing". It
did not matter if I was giving orders to soldiers armed with an M-1911 pistol,
an M-16 rifle, a TOW anti-tank missile or an M-60 tank. I also used the
phrase more generically to tell the soldiers to "get ready to go" or
"get ready for action".
It has been almost 20 years since I wore the uniform, but this
phrase still comes to mind, especially in our work as missionaries. Now
Trisha and I are "locked and loaded" as we prepare for a summer full
of Christian battle. Now through December, our schedule is filled with
activities and events where the gospel will be presented to thousands of
people.
You won't find the phrase "lock and load" in the Bible,
however, check this out.
"Those who cleanse themselves from the latter will be
instruments for special purposes, made holy, useful to the Master and prepared (locked and loaded)
to do any good work." 2 Timothy 2:21 (NIV)
"Preach the word; be prepared (locked and loaded)
in season and out of season; correct, rebuke and encourage-with great patience
and careful instruction." 2 Timothy 4:2
(NIV)
"But in your hearts revere Christ as Lord. Always be prepared
(locked and loaded)
to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that
you have. But do this with gentleness and respect," 1 Peter 3:15
So for old times sake, allow this old soldier to once again say,
"Soldiers, lock and load!"
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