Spiritual Warfare
Everything that happens in the natural realm is at the very least influenced by the spiritual realm.
As Christ followers, we believe this to be true. Both for the good and evil spirits in our world. Bill reiterates how important developing our generosity and our spiritual gifts are to fulfilling our purpose and calling. The reality, though, is that our enemy wants to thwart our growth and prevent us from fully embracing who God has created us to be.
In John 10:10, Jesus encourages his disciples. “The thief’s purpose is to steal and kill and destroy. My purpose is to give them a rich and satisfying life.”
In 1 Peter 5:8, Peter warns us to be diligent in resisting the enemy. "Stay alert! Watch out for your great enemy, the devil. He prowls around like a roaring lion, looking for someone to devour.”
Following along with Ephesians 6:10-18, we catch a glimpse into our enemy’s strategies, but more importantly, we also the ways God has prepared us to resist the devil’s strategies if we will depend on God.
10 A final word: Be strong in the Lord and in his mighty power. 11 Put on all of God’s armor so that you will be able to stand firm against all strategies of the devil. 12 For we are not fighting against flesh-and-blood enemies, but against evil rulers and authorities of the unseen world, against mighty powers in this dark world, and against evil spirits in the heavenly places.
13 Therefore, put on every piece of God’s armor so you will be able to resist the enemy in the time of evil. Then after the battle you will still be standing firm. 14 Stand your ground, putting on the belt of truth and the body armor of God’s righteousness. 15 For shoes, put on the peace that comes from the Good News so that you will be fully prepared. 16 In addition to all of these, hold up the shield of faith to stop the fiery arrows of the devil. 17 Put on salvation as your helmet, and take the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God.
18 Pray in the Spirit at all times and on every occasion. Stay alert and be persistent in your prayers for all believers everywhere.
The enemy’s strategy 1 – Make people your enemy. VS. 12
The enemy’s strategy 2 – The Evil One will try to create doubt that leads to deceit. VS. 13, 14
The enemy’s strategy 3 – The evil one wants to get you on a slow slope toward an unrighteous lifestyle. V. 14
The enemy’s strategy 4 – The evil one wants to steal your peace and replace it with a theology of an uncaring and impotent God. V. 15
The enemy’s strategy 5 - The Evil One works to weaken us through fear and unbelief. V. 16
The enemy’s strategy 6 – The Evil One wants you to doubt your salvation and all that Jesus purchased at the cross and ultimately the authority of the Word. V. 17
The enemy’s strategy 7 – operate in your strength and wisdom and stay self-absorbed. V. 18
Reflection Questions
Recognizing Spiritual Warfare in Everyday Life: The message discusses the subtle and not-so-subtle ways the enemy works to distract and deceive us. Can you identify specific instances in your life where you’ve encountered spiritual opposition? How did you recognize it, and what strategies did you use to overcome it?
Understanding the Role of Doubt and Deception: Strategy 2 mentioned in the sermon is about how the Evil One creates doubt that leads to deceit. How do you typically respond when you experience doubt in your faith? What practices or scriptures help you combat doubt and stay grounded in truth?
Dealing with Fear and Its Impact on Faith: Strategy 5 focuses on how the Evil One uses fear to weaken us and short-circuit our faith. Have you ever felt paralyzed by fear in your spiritual journey? How can faith and trust in God help you overcome fear and remain steadfast in your walk with Christ?
The Importance of Prayer and Community in Spiritual Warfare: The sermon emphasizes the need for prayer and community support to stand firm against the enemy’s attacks. How can we, as a faith community, better support each other in times of spiritual warfare? What role does persistent prayer play in strengthening our collective spiritual resilience?