The concept of a "great and strong army" is a recurring theme throughout the Bible, symbolizing both the might of earthly kingdoms and the divine power of God. In the biblical narrative, armies often serve as instruments of God's judgment, protection, or deliverance, reflecting His sovereignty over nations and history.

Old Testament Context

In the Old Testament, the strength and size of an army are frequently highlighted in the context of Israel's battles and the surrounding nations. For instance, the Assyrian army is described as a formidable force, instilling fear in the hearts of many. In Isaiah 36:2, the Assyrian king Sennacherib sends his commander with a "great army" to confront Jerusalem, showcasing the might of Assyria. However, the narrative emphasizes that no matter how great an earthly army may be, it is ultimately subject to the will of God. In 2 Kings 19:35, the angel of the Lord strikes down 185,000 Assyrian soldiers, demonstrating God's supreme power over even the most formidable human forces.

The Israelites themselves are often depicted as a strong army when they are obedient to God. In Joshua 10:7, Joshua and "all the people of war with him, and all the mighty men of valor" are described as a powerful force as they follow God's command to conquer the Promised Land. The success of Israel's army is consistently attributed to divine intervention rather than mere human strength.

New Testament Perspective

In the New Testament, the imagery of a great and strong army takes on a more spiritual dimension. Ephesians 6:10-18 speaks of the "armor of God," urging believers to stand firm against spiritual forces of evil. This passage metaphorically describes the church as an army equipped not with physical weapons, but with spiritual armor, emphasizing faith, righteousness, and the Word of God as tools for spiritual warfare.

The Book of Revelation also presents vivid imagery of armies in the context of end-times prophecy. Revelation 19:14 describes the armies of heaven, clothed in fine linen, following Christ on white horses. This depiction underscores the ultimate victory of Christ and His followers over the forces of evil, highlighting the theme of divine triumph.

Theological Implications

The biblical portrayal of great and strong armies serves as a reminder of God's omnipotence and the futility of relying solely on human strength. Psalm 20:7 encapsulates this sentiment: "Some trust in chariots and others in horses, but we trust in the name of the LORD our God." The Bible consistently teaches that true strength and victory come from reliance on God rather than military might.

Throughout Scripture, the concept of a great and strong army is used to illustrate the contrast between human power and divine authority. Whether through the miraculous deliverance of Israel or the ultimate victory of Christ, the Bible affirms that God's purposes will prevail, regardless of the size or strength of earthly armies.