Engaging in Spiritual Warfare: Aligning with God's Kingdom
Summary
### Summary
Today, we concluded our series "Which Side Are You On?" by delving into the spiritual warfare that surrounds us. We live in a world rife with conflict—political, cultural, and even physical wars. But amidst all this, God has a side, and aligning ourselves with Him is crucial for our spiritual growth and victory. Over the past weeks, we've discussed the importance of viewing everything through a spiritual lens and loving our political enemies. Today, we focused on Ephesians 6, where Paul instructs us to put on the full armor of God to stand firm against the devil's schemes.
We are not fighting against flesh and blood but against spiritual forces of evil. This means that our real enemies are not people but the demonic forces influencing them. We must recognize that we are in a spiritual battle and that our goal is to tear down Satan's strongholds in our lives and communities. Just like in the game of Monopoly, where you aim to take over properties, we aim to reclaim lives from the grip of sin, sickness, and poverty and bring them into God's kingdom.
To win this war, we must guard our castles—our lives—by not giving the devil any foothold through unforgiveness or disobedience. We must also report for duty in prayer, understanding that prayer is not just communion with God but also a form of spiritual warfare. Our prayers can summon divine reinforcements and bring about breakthroughs. Lastly, we must take Satan's territory by winning souls for Christ, thereby diminishing his influence and expanding God's kingdom.
### Key Takeaways
1. Spiritual Warfare is Real and Ongoing: We are in a constant battle against spiritual forces of evil, not just against people. Recognizing this helps us focus our efforts on the real enemy and not get distracted by human conflicts. Understanding that our struggles are spiritual in nature allows us to use spiritual weapons effectively. [04:43]
2. Guard Your Castle: Unforgiveness and disobedience give the devil a foothold in our lives. We must be vigilant in guarding our hearts and lives against these entry points. By maintaining a posture of forgiveness and obedience, we can keep the enemy at bay and protect our spiritual well-being. [10:51]
3. Prayer as Warfare: Prayer is not just about communion with God but also a powerful weapon against the enemy. Consistent, fervent prayer can bring about divine intervention and breakthroughs. We must be persistent in prayer, understanding that it has the power to change situations and bring about God's will on earth. [23:15]
4. Collective Responsibility: Our spiritual battles are not just personal but collective. We have a responsibility to pray for our fellow believers and our nation. By standing in the gap for others, we can help bring about God's intervention in their lives and in our communities. [27:36]
5. Winning Souls is Warfare: Evangelism is a direct assault on the kingdom of darkness. By leading people to Christ, we are reclaiming territory from the enemy and expanding God's kingdom. This not only diminishes Satan's influence but also brings more people into the light of God's love and truth. [39:10]
### YouTube Chapters
1. [0:00] - Welcome
2. [01:30] - Series Recap: Which Side Are You On?
3. [03:01] - This is War: Introduction
4. [04:43] - Spiritual Warfare: Not Against Flesh and Blood
5. [06:14] - Identifying the Real Enemy
6. [07:47] - Monopoly Analogy: Reclaiming Lives
7. [09:10] - The Devil's Intent: Devouring Us
8. [10:51] - Guard Your Castle: Unforgiveness and Disobedience
9. [12:54] - Giving Place to the Devil
10. [14:26] - Testimonies of Unforgiveness and Healing
11. [16:58] - Spiritual Authority: Keeping Satan Out
12. [18:26] - Resisting the Devil
13. [20:14] - Using Your Authority in Faith
14. [21:37] - Report for Duty in Prayer
15. [23:15] - Prayer as Warfare
16. [24:51] - The Power of Persistent Prayer
17. [26:19] - Always on Duty: Praying for Others
18. [27:36] - Watchmen on the Wall: Collective Responsibility
19. [30:13] - Supplicating in the Spirit
20. [31:31] - Daniel's Example: Fasting and Praying
21. [32:52] - The First Day: God Hears and Answers
22. [34:20] - Spiritual Warfare in the Heavenlies
23. [36:01] - Breakthrough is Imminent
24. [37:39] - Our Spiritual Responsibility
25. [39:10] - Taking Satan's Territory: Winning Souls
26. [40:29] - Conclusion and Invitation
Study Guide
### Bible Reading
1. Ephesians 6:10-18 (NIV)
> Finally, be strong in the Lord and in his mighty power. Put on the full armor of God, so that you can take your stand against the devil’s schemes. For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms. Therefore put on the full armor of God, so that when the day of evil comes, you may be able to stand your ground, and after you have done everything, to stand. Stand firm then, with the belt of truth buckled around your waist, with the breastplate of righteousness in place, and with your feet fitted with the readiness that comes from the gospel of peace. In addition to all this, take up the shield of faith, with which you can extinguish all the flaming arrows of the evil one. Take the helmet of salvation and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God. And pray in the Spirit on all occasions with all kinds of prayers and requests. With this in mind, be alert and always keep on praying for all the Lord’s people.
2. 1 Peter 5:8-9 (NIV)
> Be alert and of sober mind. Your enemy the devil prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour. Resist him, standing firm in the faith, because you know that the family of believers throughout the world is undergoing the same kind of sufferings.
3. James 4:7 (NIV)
> Submit yourselves, then, to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you.
### Observation Questions
1. According to Ephesians 6:12, who are we truly fighting against in our spiritual battles? How does this understanding shift our perspective on conflicts with people? [04:43]
2. What are the components of the "full armor of God" mentioned in Ephesians 6:13-17? How does each piece help us in spiritual warfare?
3. In 1 Peter 5:8, how is the devil described, and what is he seeking to do? How should believers respond according to verse 9? [09:10]
4. What does James 4:7 instruct believers to do in order to make the devil flee from them? How does this align with the concept of spiritual authority discussed in the sermon? [18:26]
### Interpretation Questions
1. Why is it important to recognize that our struggle is not against flesh and blood but against spiritual forces? How does this affect the way we approach conflicts and challenges in our lives? [04:43]
2. How can unforgiveness and disobedience give the devil a foothold in our lives, as mentioned in Ephesians 4:26-27? What are some practical steps to guard against these entry points? [10:51]
3. The sermon emphasized the power of prayer as a form of spiritual warfare. How does consistent and fervent prayer bring about divine intervention and breakthroughs? [23:15]
4. What does it mean to have a collective responsibility in spiritual battles, and how can we stand in the gap for others through prayer and support? [27:36]
### Application Questions
1. Reflect on a recent conflict or challenge you faced. How might viewing it through a spiritual lens change your approach to resolving it? [04:43]
2. Are there areas in your life where you might be giving the devil a foothold through unforgiveness or disobedience? What steps can you take this week to address these areas? [10:51]
3. How can you incorporate more consistent and fervent prayer into your daily routine? Identify a specific time and place where you can commit to praying regularly. [23:15]
4. Think of someone in your life who is struggling spiritually or physically. How can you stand in the gap for them through prayer and support this week? [27:36]
5. Evangelism is described as a direct assault on the kingdom of darkness. Identify one person you can share the gospel with this week. What steps will you take to initiate that conversation? [39:10]
6. Reflect on the concept of spiritual authority. Are there areas in your life where you need to exercise this authority more effectively? How can you start doing that today? [18:26]
7. How can you be more vigilant in guarding your "castle" against the devil's schemes? What practical measures can you implement to protect your spiritual well-being? [10:51]
Devotional
Day 1: Recognizing the Real Enemy
We are in a constant battle against spiritual forces of evil, not just against people. Recognizing this helps us focus our efforts on the real enemy and not get distracted by human conflicts. Understanding that our struggles are spiritual in nature allows us to use spiritual weapons effectively. The Apostle Paul reminds us in Ephesians 6 that our fight is not against flesh and blood but against the rulers, authorities, and powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms. This perspective shifts our focus from human adversaries to the spiritual forces at work behind the scenes.
By acknowledging the reality of spiritual warfare, we can better prepare ourselves to stand firm against the devil's schemes. This involves putting on the full armor of God, which includes truth, righteousness, the gospel of peace, faith, salvation, and the Word of God. These spiritual tools equip us to withstand the attacks of the enemy and to remain steadfast in our faith. [04:43]
Ephesians 6:12-13 (ESV): "For we do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the cosmic powers over this present darkness, against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly places. Therefore take up the whole armor of God, that you may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand firm."
Reflection: Think of a recent conflict or challenge you faced. How can recognizing the spiritual forces at work behind the scenes change your approach to this situation?
Day 2: Guarding Your Heart
Unforgiveness and disobedience give the devil a foothold in our lives. We must be vigilant in guarding our hearts and lives against these entry points. By maintaining a posture of forgiveness and obedience, we can keep the enemy at bay and protect our spiritual well-being. The Bible warns us that harboring unforgiveness can lead to bitterness and resentment, which can open the door for the enemy to gain a foothold in our lives.
Guarding our hearts involves being mindful of our thoughts, attitudes, and actions. It means choosing to forgive those who have wronged us and seeking to live in obedience to God's Word. When we do this, we close the door to the enemy and create an environment where God's peace and presence can dwell. [10:51]
Proverbs 4:23 (ESV): "Keep your heart with all vigilance, for from it flow the springs of life."
Reflection: Is there someone you need to forgive today? Ask God to help you release any unforgiveness and to guard your heart against bitterness.
Day 3: The Power of Prayer
Prayer is not just about communion with God but also a powerful weapon against the enemy. Consistent, fervent prayer can bring about divine intervention and breakthroughs. We must be persistent in prayer, understanding that it has the power to change situations and bring about God's will on earth. The Bible teaches us that the prayer of a righteous person is powerful and effective.
When we engage in prayer, we are not only communicating with God but also engaging in spiritual warfare. Our prayers can summon divine reinforcements and bring about breakthroughs in our lives and the lives of others. By committing to a life of prayer, we align ourselves with God's purposes and invite His power to work in and through us. [23:15]
James 5:16b (ESV): "The prayer of a righteous person has great power as it is working."
Reflection: Set aside a specific time today to pray fervently for a situation in your life or the life of someone you know. How can you make prayer a more consistent part of your daily routine?
Day 4: Collective Responsibility in Prayer
Our spiritual battles are not just personal but collective. We have a responsibility to pray for our fellow believers and our nation. By standing in the gap for others, we can help bring about God's intervention in their lives and in our communities. The Bible calls us to bear one another's burdens and to pray for all people, including those in authority.
When we pray for others, we are participating in God's work of redemption and restoration. Our prayers can make a difference in the lives of those around us and in the broader community. By interceding for others, we join in the spiritual battle and help to advance God's kingdom on earth. [27:36]
1 Timothy 2:1-2 (ESV): "First of all, then, I urge that supplications, prayers, intercessions, and thanksgivings be made for all people, for kings and all who are in high positions, that we may lead a peaceful and quiet life, godly and dignified in every way."
Reflection: Who in your life or community needs prayer today? Take a moment to intercede for them and ask God to intervene in their situation.
Day 5: Evangelism as Spiritual Warfare
Evangelism is a direct assault on the kingdom of darkness. By leading people to Christ, we are reclaiming territory from the enemy and expanding God's kingdom. This not only diminishes Satan's influence but also brings more people into the light of God's love and truth. The Great Commission calls us to go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them and teaching them to obey everything Jesus has commanded.
Sharing the gospel is a powerful way to push back the darkness and bring hope to those who are lost. When we lead others to Christ, we are participating in the greatest mission of all—bringing people into a saving relationship with Jesus. This act of evangelism is a vital part of our spiritual warfare, as it directly challenges the enemy's hold on people's lives. [39:10]
Matthew 28:19-20 (ESV): "Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you. And behold, I am with you always, to the end of the age."
Reflection: Who in your life needs to hear the gospel? Pray for an opportunity to share the love of Christ with them and ask God for the courage to speak boldly.
Quotes
1. "And one of the keys to going to the next level is being on the Lord's side. And so the last couple of weeks, we've learned a couple of things to help us to do that. We've learned, number one, that everything is a spiritual thing, that there's a spiritual war going on in this world. We need to see things through that lens." [01:30] (22 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
2. "We are at war against Satan's powers. In fact, the scripture, of course, says we're not fighting against flesh and blood, and sometimes that's something we struggle with. We're dealing with people that are evil, people that are doing us wrong, and we see them as the enemy. And we know biblically that there's some truth to that. We just finished preaching it, but there's actually something even more spiritual happening there." [04:43] (25 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
3. "So that's what the Word of God is telling us here, that I'm actually fighting against the devil. In fact, 2 Corinthians chapter 10 says this, for though we walk in the flesh, we walk in flesh and blood bodies, we do not war after the flesh. For the weapons of our warfare are not carnal. This is talking about Satan's chasms. This is talking about Satan's territory. And really, we're at war against Satan and his forces." [06:14] (34 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
4. "First Peter chapter five and verse eight says this, stay alert. Watch out for your great enemy, not just God, but your great enemy. Even if you're somebody that's not a Christian, you're kind of kicking the tires on your faith. He's also your enemy. What's his name? The devil. What's he doing? He prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour. So he's looking to see who I can gulp down. That's what that means. Who I can harm, who I can destroy." [09:10] (34 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
5. "You can be angry and sin not. You can be angry, be upset and rage and exasperated and not sin. It's not a sin to become angry, but it's what you do when you're angry that can lead to sin. And one of the things that you do that can lead to sin is when you choose to remain angry. When you choose to now enter into unforgiveness, you let the sun go down on your wrath. You hold a grudge." [10:51] (27 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
6. "I want you to get the point that if Satan is having and he's attacking you and he's making some progress, he has a right to attack you at any time. But if he's actually making progress, you know, no weapon formed against you shall prosper. This weapon is prospering. It might be you opened the door. You can feel the wind coming through. You know, in the winter, you feel the cold air coming through your house. Who left the window open? You did." [15:39] (24 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
7. "You have authority when you speak and you believe Satan and the world around you has to obey you because God has made you just like Jesus. So I said, whatever you bind on earth will be bound by heaven and whatever you lose will be loose. You have authority. And some of us have been allowing too many things in our lives because everybody else deals with it. Well, I guess I got to deal with it. No, baby, you are different. You're not a normal man. You are a Superman." [20:14] (33 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
8. "There's a number of scriptures that talk about how those of us who are followers of Jesus are soldiers in God's army. The Bible even talks about a little deep how as soldiers, we ought to be focusing on, you know, making sure that we're after our mission. We're not getting too entangled in things. There's plenty of scripture there. You're a soldier. If you're a follower of Jesus, you are a soldier. You have a rank in the spirit." [21:37] (28 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
9. "Prayer is not just communion with God. We think about prayer and communicating with God. We think about being full of joy and getting answers. But there's another aspect of prayer that's actually warfare against the enemy. It's actually warfare. Prayer is war. And you see that here with the context. He's saying, no, I'm going to put on your armor. You're fighting against the enemy. I need you to be able to stand against him. But also, I need you, once you put on your armor, to protect yourself, to pray so you can help others." [23:15] (41 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
10. "So he's telling you here, man, I need you praying. I need you to pray always, which tells me prayer is important. Like it makes a difference in this spiritual war. It makes a difference in the world around us. James 5, 16 says the effectual fervent prayer of a righteous man makes tremendous power. What kind of power? Spiritual power available. Paul said it over and over again. Even in Ephesians 6, he says, pray for me. Strive together and pray for me." [24:51] (32 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
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