"He Isn't A Soldier"
We believe there is a lesson in the following Associated Press report:
An army spokesman said Friday that 15 year-old, Walter Lee Martin is not recognized as a soldier — despite two periods, of service in Vietnam — because he did not enlist, was not drafted and did not enter the Army through any regular means.
"He was not officially in, did not officially enlist or enter through any normal method," Barrante said. "He was, in fact, not a soldier. He isn't a soldier."
Two periods of service in Vietnam, twice wounded in action; yet no purple hearts, no honorable discharge, no veteran's benefits; he did not legally enlist.
This reminds us of a host of men and women whom we have observed serving among the soldiers in the army of the Lord. They serve faithfully and even sacrificially. They reject the sins of the flesh and live a pure life. They attend services regularly, give liberally of their money, are ready unto every good work. They often study the Scriptures, defend the faith and attack error. Often they are outstanding in their performance as soldiers — except that they have never enlisted.
The "Captain of our salvation" knew in advance there would be such individuals. He warned in advance of the fate they may expect:
"Many will say to me in that day, Lord, Lord, did we not prophesy by thy name, and by thy name cast out demons, and by thy name do many mighty works? And then will I profess unto them, I never knew you: depart from me, ye that work iniquity." (Matthew 7:22, 23)
What a pity to spend a lifetime enduring "hardship as a good soldier" only to miss the veteran's benefits because of a failure to enlist.
There was no way that the young man described above could have legally enlisted; he was ineligible. But anyone who is a sinner can enlist in the army of the Lord if he is willing to leave his sin. The conditions are simple:
"He that believeth and is baptized shall be saved." (Mark 16:16) "Repent ye, and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ unto the remission of your sins; and ye shall receive the gift of the Holy Spirit " (Acts 2:38)
— 109 French Way, Athens, Ala.