Read: 2 Samuel 11:14-27

Memory Verse: Hebrews 10:25

Not forsaking the assembling of ourselves together, as the manner of some is; but exhorting one another: and so much the more, as ye see the day approaching.

In the early days of the Roman Republic, military tactics were influenced by the methods used by the successful Greek Army. The combat formation used by the Greeks and Romans was called the phalanx. This involved the soldiers standing side by side in ranks. Just before contact with the enemy, the soldiers moved in very close together so that each man’s shield helped to protect the man on his left.

With only about three feet between the rows of soldiers, the Romans would move toward the enemy. The phalanx was a very difficult barrier to break through. If a man in the front was killed, he was replaced by the man behind. The shields would not only be used to protect the soldiers but to push the enemy soldiers to the ground or to make them break ranks. As long as the soldier stayed in the assembly he was safe.

Romans 1:12 states “That is, that I may be comforted together with you by the mutual faith both of you and me.” There is comfort, strength, and protection in being assembled together with other believers. They become a part of the phalanx of protection that keeps us safe from the attacks of the devil.

A Christian Phalanx gives a powerful word picture that is not simply reduced to just speaking out. But it describes a unified body of Christ (Acts 2:1) that has put on the whole armor of God (Ephesians 6:10-20). A unified body of Christ that is filled with the Holy Ghost will speak in such a way that His Word will cut into the hearts of men (Hebrews 4:12).

There is nothing more effective than Christ’s body standing hip to hip endued with the Holy Ghost (Acts 1:8), equipped with the Word of God (Romans 10:17), And the desire and empowerment to speak boldly (1 Samuel 17:45-47, Ephesians 6:20).

Meditation for the Day: How is “mutual” with other Christians? How can you strengthen your faith through your relationship with other believers?

Assignment: Make a list of five people who you can join with to make your “mutual faith” stronger.

For Fun: Look up more information about the phalanx online.