Back to the Future (Part 3)

It is often that we hear the following statement said of many people we know, "So and so over came ___________." (a particular obstacle in one's life) We can fill in the blank with a variety of situations: alcohol addiction, cancer, depression, loss of job, debt... It is a wonderful feeling to be able to celebrate with those who were facing such great, negative odds in life, only to come out of the other side as victors, as overcomers. The same idea can be clearly seen in the pages of Scripture, in Revelation chapters 2 & 3. In each letter that John is commanded to write to the seven different churches is Asia Minor, Jesus uses these words when speaking to each church, "He who overcomes." (2:7,11,17,26:3:5,12,21)

First, to better understand those who overcome, we must define the overcomers in the eyes of God. 1 John 5:4 gives us that definition, "For whatever is born of God overcomes the world; and this is the victory that has overcome the world - our faith." Simply, those who overcome the world are those who know and acknowledge Jesus Christ as Savior and Lord. Second, what is the hardship that a Christian must overcome? The quick answer would be sin and death that all men are bound to in this life. Yet the seven letters were sent to churches, distinct body of believers who overcame the persecution of their faith in Christ. They overcame the assault of false teachers and doctrine upon their congregations. They overcame the desires of the fresh with the spiritual desires of the Spirit of God. It is the true believer that will overcome the spiritual attack of one's faith and growth in this life. The overcomers are those who stand firm in the spiritual battle against the wicked assault of the enemy. The overcomers are those who stand under the blood of the Lamb in the face of mounting opposition. Are you an overcomer? An overcomer will not have an easy life on earth, but it will be less stressful as you stand with Christ. Until next time, keep walking close to Christ.