Re-reading 2 Corinthians 10:1-6, we see that combat analogies are not alien to the peace preached in the gospel ministry. Here's my paraphrase of Paul's message to both detractors and allies at the church in first-century Corinth.
"I am asking you politely, because Christ Himself takes an even-mannered approach. So you think I act like a wimp when I'm around, and talk tough when I'm not? I'll ask you again. Don't force me to come on strong. (That is what I've got to do with those who've been implying that we operate from our own fleshly power for our own fleshly ends.)
True, we go through life dealing with the same needs and realities other men do. But we're not shooting blanks in this war that's raging in the invisible realm. We're stocked with heavy artillery to get the job done knocking out Enemy strongholds.
We demolish every resisting argument--every prideful pretension, those walls people set up to shield themselves from any awareness of God. (i.e., accountability to God.)
We capture every single thought and make it march in the direction where Christ is taking us. Not one instance of insubordination will go unpunished--once you all are following orders."
Ministry is the work of faith. And faith will keep us on the advance. This week, what needs to fall down so His cause moves forward?
