180 likes | 184 Views
Learn about the invisible battle for souls and God's glory. Discover common misconceptions and biblical truths about spiritual warfare. Strengthen your faith and put on the armor of God.
E N D
Grace Bible ChurchGlorifying God by Making Disciples of Jesus Christ
Spiritual Warfare, Part 1: The Nature of the Battle Introduction The Corinthians thought they were spiritual, but they were carnal & Paul had to correct their many errors True spirituality is Characterized by Biblical love Demonstrated in edification
The Nature of Our Battle Ephesians 6:10 -12 This often invisible battle is for the eternal souls of men and the glory of God, not land, wealth or power
Common Societal Misconceptions Misconception: Spectacular manifestations of overt occultism: Reality: Most of our battles with Satan and his hosts are fought in the ordinary mundane things of life Spiritual warfare can be presented in such a way as to overwhelm us and thus make us afraid
Common Societal Misconceptions Spiritual warfare can be portrayed as fun and games, something to laugh at and not take seriously Too many get their theology from stories, TV & movies instead of the Bible Horror films seek to make you afraid - something frightening is out there
Common Societal Misconceptions Demonic portrayals cause fear of being involved with spiritual things, or teach you superstition for protection Not all adults are reasonable, and many people do pick up superstitions from horror stories / movies Occultic ideas can be presented in a humorous or even positive manner to make it more acceptable
Common Societal Misconceptions Many current TV shows include New Age thought and even the directly Occultic & demonic. Children are particular targets - are you showing discretion in what you let them see and do? Those not prepared are easy prey for the devil who roams as a roaring lion seeking to devour (1 Peter 5:8)
Common Christian Misconceptions Many Christians hold to superstitions or reject the reality of the demonic Novels / books / stories by evangelicals can teach superstition and incorrect theology Peretti’s books are exciting, but their portrayal of demons, angels and spiritual warfare is not Biblical
Common Christian Misconceptions Prayer is personal communication with the living God, not an incantation If we do not know the truth and live according to it, then we are easy prey for our adversary
The Biblical Description Ephesians 6:10-12 Ephesians 6:10 - "finally" in the sense of "as for what you still have to do in addition to the rest” In view of what God has already done for us, it is reasonable to we find our strength in Him
The Biblical Description Ephesians 6:10-12 God has: Chosen us in Him Redeemed us by Jesus’ death Forgiven us our sins Given us the Holy Spirit Made us alive in Him
The Biblical Description Ephesians 6:10-12 We are strengthened spiritually by Using our spiritual gifts to edify Living righteously Submitting to the Holy Spirit Having proper relationships In our family At work.
The Biblical Description Ephesians 6:10-12 Being strong in the Lord is preliminary preparation for battle Acts 19:13-16 describes men trying to fight demons in their own power We must abide in Christ - trust and obey Him - to be strong in Him (John 15; 1 Tim. 1:7; Isaiah 40:28-31)
The Biblical Description Ephesians 6:10-12 God equips us with armor enabling us to stand firm against the schemes of the devil "stand firm" (i{sthmi / histêmi) is a military term meaning to "hold your position." "schemes" / "wiles" (meqodeiva / methodeia) from which we get "method."
The Biblical Description Ephesians 6:10-12 Sin and the devil are the problem, not people. If we lose that focus, we succumb to his schemes “Struggle” / “wrestle” - (pavlh / palê) is descriptive of face to face combat. We are attacked on a personal level, so we must be prepared to fight at that level.
The Biblical Description Ephesians 6:10-12 Demons are fallen angels and they are organized and ranked Principalities / rulers Powers / forces World-forces of this darkness Spiritual forces of wickedness in the heavenly places.
Conclusion We must understand the truth or we will be led astray by lies & deceit & left vulnerable Our scheming adversary seeks to exploit your weaknesses & cause you to refrain from living for God & His glory You must be strong in the Lord & put on the armor He has provided.
Grace Bible ChurchGlorifying God by Making Disciples of Jesus Christ