Sniper for Sin

"Here is a trustworthy saying that deserves full acceptance: Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners – of whom I am the worst. But for that very reason I was shown mercy so that in me, the worst of sinners, Christ Jesus might display his unlimited patience as an example for those who would believeon him and receive eternal life.” – 1 Timothy 1:15-16

In the Marines we trained to make every shot count. “One shot, one kill” was a constant refrain. It seems very cold blooded but in many ways it is actually quite humane. While artillery and bombs may kill hundreds in an instant, the infantryman must kill one person at a time. In this fashion the infantryman more easily separates innocent bystanders from enemy combatants. Of course there is a down side, it is messy, extremely difficult and exhausting. The effort of the infantryman lessens with his increased efficiency. Therefore he sets his goal to make only one shot for each kill.

Precision and accuracy win the emotional battle much faster than death tolls. Just consider playing the basketball game of H-O-R-S-E. Ever played with someone who was really good at shooting? They were very precise and accurate. They could call, “All net” or bank-shots at will. They could shoot three point shots and hook shots. Did you have to wait until you lost before you felt defeated? No. The same is true in war. The Marines know that they only need to prove their skill and the battle will be won. No one will continue to fight when they are certain that every bullet will find its mark.

Marines for God must strive for biblical accuracy and scriptural precision. We are fighting for the soul of men, we must drive the demons of sin from the heart. These enemies are also discouraged by our skilled application of God's word. "We demolish arguments and every pretension that sets itself up against the knowledge of God, and we take captive every thought to make it obedient to Christ. And we will be ready to punish every act of disobedience, once your obedience is complete."- 2 Corinthians 10:5-6.

The epitome of Marine marksmanship is the marine sniper. Marine snipers are responsible for targets that are 600 to 1000 yards. They have been known to hit targets over 1 mile away. For a little perspective, Marines qualify each year with the M16A2 rifle at 200, 300 and 500 yard targets. At the 500 yard range, you are required to take 10 shots at a 4 foot tall silloutte target from a prone position (lying on stomach). The effects of wind at the relatively short distance can be severe. Breathing incorrectly can cause the bullet to miss the 6foot by 6 foot target area completely (let alone the 4foot silloutte). Therefore a shot made to twice that distance or more is the result of significant skill.

The Marine for God should strive for this level of skill. We must be prepared to provide more than a simple answer. We must be surgical in our argument. As Paul writes, we aim to demolish arguments made against God. We are not shooting to wound, or scare them off, or make them think twice. We are not leaving room for negotiation with Satan. Marines don't fire 'warning shots'. It is one shot, one kill efficiency.

Does your evangelism reflect this level of accuracy or are you more of the secret agent Christian?

Can you compassionately listen to a co-worker's rants without agreeing with their sinful emotions; patiently waiting for the opportunity to open God's word?

Does your daily bible study prepare you for delivering a convincing blow to Satan's lies entrenched in the heart of your neighbor?

I am convicted as I write these words and hope that you are inspired to join me in re-doubling our efforts. It will take training, patience and courage to overcome our inhibitions.