In what ways do “enemy forces” do battle in us in the area of our thoughts?

2. Group Questions… In what ways do “enemy forces” do battle in us in the area of our thoughts? Read the Ephesians 6:11-18. Then read the following and list how each verse shows God’s relationship to the armor: 2 Cor. 5:21, Jn. 16:6, Jn. 17:7, Psalm 28:7, Eph. 2:14, Jn 1:1, Matt. 1:21 Read Ephesians 4:22-5:1,3. Make a list of Paul’s commands for righteous living.

3. Spiritual Warfare “the Christian’s struggle against otherworldly forces” (Millard Erickson)

4. Clinton Arnold Spiritual warfare is a way of characterizing our common struggle as Christians. Whether we want to think about it or not, the truth is that we all face supernatural opposition as we set out to live the Christian life… There is virtually no part of our existence over which the Evil One does not want to maintain or reassert his unhealthy and perverse influence. Conversely, Jesus longs to reign as Lord over every area of our lives. This is the locus of intense struggle for believers. To which kingdom – and source of power – do we yield?

5. Stronghold An entrenched pattern of thought, an ideology, value, or behavior that is contrary to the word and will of God. An entrenched pattern of thinking and acting that we believe cannot change, even though we know that such thoughts and actions are contrary to God’s will.

6. Ephesians 4:25-27 Therefore, having put away falsehood, let each one of you speak the truth with his neighbor, for we are members one of another. Be angry and do not sin; do not let the sun go down on your anger, and give no opportunity to the devil.

7. Development of a Stronghold… We place ourselves in the way of temptation. Satan entices us to give in to temptation We fail, and Satan strikes with accusations We listen to the accusations, assuming we cannot change. We lose our hope Having lost our hope, we again place ourselves in the way of temptation – and lose the battles.

8. Questions to Consider… Has the sin become habitual? That is, do I continually commit the sin, even though I know that God is displeased? Have I given up fighting the sin? Am I close to saying, “What’s the point of trying?” Do I continue placing myself in the way of temptation? Though I know that temptation – and probably failure – await, do I still move in the devil’s direction? With regard to my sin, is it hard for me to believe Bible promises such as 1 Cor. 10:13? Have I stopped spending time with God, reading His Word and praying, because I’m so overwhelmed by the guilt of my sin?

9. 2 Corinthians 10:3-5 For though we walk in the flesh, we are not waging war according to the flesh. For the weapons of our warfare are not of the flesh but have divine power to destroy strongholds. We destroy arguments and every lofty opinion raised against the knowledge of God, and take every thought captive to obey Christ,

10. An Action Plan… Study God’s Word each day – know the truth Believe and accept the truths of God’s Word. Daily reject the lies that the enemy sends – claim the truth against the lies Daily ask for God’s guidance and protection

11. Ephesians 6:11 Put on the whole armor of God, that you may be able to stand against the schemes of the devil.

12. D. Martyn Lloyd-Jones Faith is not merely an intellectual belief or theory. Of course, faith includes what you believe, but faith never stops at mere intellectual assent and belief. Faith is always practical. Faith always applies the truth.

13. Ephesians 6:11 Put on the whole armor of God, that you may be able to stand against the schemes of the devil.

14. Ephesians 6:14 Stand therefore, having fastened on the belt of truth, and having put on the breastplate of righteousness,