Every now and then elements within the church dabble in triumphalism. There is something perpetually attractive about the notion of the greatest power in the universe being on one’s own team. The reality is, of course, that God never joins anyone’s team. We are invited to participate in God’s kingdom.
The difference may sound subtle but it is significant. The conquering we do has far less to do with vanquishing threats or enemies around us. It has far more to do with overcoming destructive urges within and between us. When we become overwhelming conquerors, it is our victory over self-centredness, fear deception and violence that we are touting.
This conquering is more profound and its impact more far reaching than any other. We grow into the new humanity that God is calling us to be. We become increasingly free from destructive impulses. As a result we are liberated to offer ourselves to the world in life-giving ways. That is conquering!
