Equipped for Battle: Standing Firm in Faith
Summary
### Summary
Today, we explored why many Christians struggle to stand firm in their faith and how the full armor of God, as described in Ephesians 6, equips us to withstand the devil's schemes. Paul emphasizes the importance of being strong in the Lord and putting on the full armor of God to stand against spiritual forces of evil. We delved into the significance of the "gospel of peace" and how being prepared with the right spiritual footwear, much like the Roman soldiers' caligae sandals, enables us to stand firm and be ready for any challenge.
We also discussed the characteristics of "wobbly Christians" who lack a firm foothold in Christ. These Christians often don't know what spiritual resources are available to them, struggle to commit to a local church, are unsure of their beliefs, and face challenges in raising their children in the faith. The devil uses these weaknesses to destabilize their faith and effectiveness.
Moreover, we examined the importance of sharing the gospel of peace. The devil aims to destroy our peace with God and with one another, but we are called to be peacemakers, bringing the good news to those who are suffering. Personal stories, such as my father's ministry at St. Jude's Children Research Hospital, illustrate the power of presence and compassion in sharing the gospel.
Finally, we reflected on the assurance of God's love and the strength we receive from Him to stand firm. We prayed for the Holy Spirit to fill us with peace and readiness to share the gospel, affirming our identity in Christ and our mission to bring the good news to anyone, anywhere.
### Key Takeaways
1. The Full Armor of God: Ephesians 6 teaches us to put on the full armor of God to stand against the devil's schemes. This includes the belt of truth, the breastplate of righteousness, and feet fitted with the readiness that comes from the gospel of peace. Being spiritually prepared is crucial for standing firm in our faith. [02:40]
2. Characteristics of Wobbly Christians: Wobbly Christians often don't know the spiritual resources available to them, struggle to commit to a local church, and are unsure of their beliefs. These weaknesses make them easy prey for the devil. A mature believer, on the other hand, knows that God has given them access to the full armor of God and stands firm in their faith. [12:51]
3. Importance of Spiritual Community: Commitment to a local church is essential for spiritual growth and stability. The devil uses the consumer mindset to keep Christians from settling into a church, making them critics rather than pupils. Being part of a godly community provides the strength and accountability needed to stand firm. [15:46]
4. Raising the Next Generation: Parenting in the faith is challenging but crucial. The enemy seeks to distract parents with various philosophies, but the essential question remains: Will we raise our children in the ways of the Lord? Teaching children the scriptures and providing a coherent worldview is vital for their spiritual development. [21:39]
5. Sharing the Gospel of Peace: The devil aims to destroy our peace with God and with one another. We are called to be peacemakers, sharing the gospel of peace with those who are suffering. Our presence and compassion can make a significant impact, demonstrating God's love and bringing hope to those in need. [27:42]
### YouTube Chapters
[0:00] - Welcome
[01:04] - Father's Day Greeting
[01:50] - Middle School Shoe Story
[02:40] - Spiritual War and Armor of God
[03:38] - Roman Soldiers' Sandals
[04:44] - Importance of Preparedness
[06:08] - Eternal Position in Christ
[07:21] - Spiritual Alertness
[08:23] - Spiritual Disciplines
[09:59] - Temptations of Exhaustion and Boredom
[11:21] - Triple Threat Position in Basketball
[12:51] - Characteristics of Wobbly Christians
[14:17] - Full Armor of God
[15:46] - Commitment to Local Church
[17:21] - Spiritual Authority and Community
[18:40] - Knowing What You Believe
[20:12] - David and Goliath Story
[21:39] - Raising the Next Generation
[23:05] - Parenting Philosophies
[24:33] - Sharing the Gospel of Peace
[26:03] - Division and Disruption
[27:42] - Personal Story: St. Jude's Hospital
[30:10] - Honoring Parents' 50th Anniversary
[31:31] - Ministry of Presence
[32:49] - Being Ready to Share the Gospel
[34:12] - Moving Towards Suffering
[35:38] - Assurance of God's Love
[36:56] - Prayer for Peace and Readiness
[38:25] - Closing Prayer and Affirmations
Study Guide
### Bible Study Discussion 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.
#### Observation Questions
1. What are the different pieces of the full armor of God mentioned in Ephesians 6:10-18?
2. According to the sermon, what are some characteristics of "wobbly Christians"? [12:51]
3. How did the Roman soldiers' caligae sandals give them an advantage in battle, and how does this relate to the "gospel of peace"? [03:38]
4. What does Paul mean when he says our struggle is not against flesh and blood but against spiritual forces? [02:40]
#### Interpretation Questions
1. Why is it important for Christians to be spiritually prepared with the full armor of God? How does this preparation help us stand firm in our faith? [02:40]
2. How does the sermon describe the impact of not committing to a local church on a believer's spiritual stability? [15:46]
3. What role does the "gospel of peace" play in a Christian's life, according to the sermon? How can it help us in our daily spiritual battles? [24:33]
4. How does the sermon illustrate the importance of sharing the gospel of peace through personal stories, such as the ministry at St. Jude's Children Research Hospital? [27:42]
#### Application Questions
1. Reflect on your own spiritual life. Are there any areas where you feel "wobbly" in your faith? What steps can you take to strengthen your spiritual foundation? [12:51]
2. How committed are you to your local church community? What can you do to deepen your involvement and support the church's mission? [15:46]
3. Think about the "gospel of peace" and its significance. How can you actively share this peace with those around you, especially those who are suffering? [24:33]
4. Parenting in the faith is challenging. If you are a parent, what specific actions can you take to raise your children in the ways of the Lord? If you are not a parent, how can you support parents in your community? [21:39]
5. The sermon emphasizes the importance of being ready to share the gospel at any time. Identify one person in your life who needs to hear the good news. How can you prepare yourself to share the gospel with them this week? [32:49]
6. The sermon mentions the importance of presence and compassion in ministry. How can you be more present and compassionate in your interactions with others, especially those who are going through difficult times? [27:42]
7. Reflect on the assurance of God's love and the strength we receive from Him. How can you remind yourself of this assurance daily, and how can it impact your actions and decisions? [35:38]
Devotional
Day 1: The Full Armor of God
The full armor of God, as described in Ephesians 6, is essential for Christians to stand firm against the devil's schemes. This armor includes the belt of truth, the breastplate of righteousness, and feet fitted with the readiness that comes from the gospel of peace. Being spiritually prepared is crucial for standing firm in our faith. Just as Roman soldiers wore caligae sandals to be ready for any challenge, Christians must equip themselves with the gospel of peace to face spiritual battles. This readiness allows believers to stand firm and be prepared for any spiritual attack. [02:40]
Ephesians 6:13-15 (ESV): "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. Stand therefore, having fastened on the belt of truth, and having put on the breastplate of righteousness, and, as shoes for your feet, having put on the readiness given by the gospel of peace."
Reflection: Are you spiritually prepared to face the challenges of today? What steps can you take to ensure you are putting on the full armor of God daily?
Day 2: Characteristics of Wobbly Christians
Wobbly Christians often lack a firm foothold in Christ because they are unaware of the spiritual resources available to them, struggle to commit to a local church, and are unsure of their beliefs. These weaknesses make them easy prey for the devil. In contrast, mature believers know that God has given them access to the full armor of God and stand firm in their faith. Understanding and utilizing these spiritual resources is crucial for stability and growth in the Christian walk. [12:51]
James 1:6-8 (ESV): "But let him ask in faith, with no doubting, for the one who doubts is like a wave of the sea that is driven and tossed by the wind. For that person must not suppose that he will receive anything from the Lord; he is a double-minded man, unstable in all his ways."
Reflection: In what areas of your faith do you feel wobbly or uncertain? How can you seek God's guidance and the support of your church community to strengthen these areas?
Day 3: Importance of Spiritual Community
Commitment to a local church is essential for spiritual growth and stability. The devil uses the consumer mindset to keep Christians from settling into a church, making them critics rather than pupils. Being part of a godly community provides the strength and accountability needed to stand firm. A spiritual community offers support, encouragement, and a place to grow in faith together. It is within this community that believers can find the strength to withstand spiritual attacks and grow in their relationship with God. [15:46]
Hebrews 10:24-25 (ESV): "And let us consider how to stir up one another to love and good works, not neglecting to meet together, as is the habit of some, but encouraging one another, and all the more as you see the Day drawing near."
Reflection: Are you fully committed to your local church community? How can you actively participate and contribute to the spiritual growth of others in your church?
Day 4: Raising the Next Generation
Parenting in the faith is challenging but crucial. The enemy seeks to distract parents with various philosophies, but the essential question remains: Will we raise our children in the ways of the Lord? Teaching children the scriptures and providing a coherent worldview is vital for their spiritual development. Parents must be intentional in guiding their children in the faith, ensuring they understand and embrace the teachings of Christ. This foundation will help them stand firm in their faith as they grow. [21:39]
Deuteronomy 6:6-7 (ESV): "And these words that I command you today shall be on your heart. You shall teach them diligently to your children, and shall talk of them when you sit in your house, and when you walk by the way, and when you lie down, and when you rise."
Reflection: How are you actively teaching and modeling the faith to your children or the next generation? What specific steps can you take to ensure they are growing in their relationship with God?
Day 5: Sharing the Gospel of Peace
The devil aims to destroy our peace with God and with one another. We are called to be peacemakers, sharing the gospel of peace with those who are suffering. Our presence and compassion can make a significant impact, demonstrating God's love and bringing hope to those in need. Personal stories, such as ministry at St. Jude's Children Research Hospital, illustrate the power of presence and compassion in sharing the gospel. Being ready to share the gospel and moving towards those who are suffering is a vital part of our Christian mission. [27:42]
Isaiah 52:7 (ESV): "How beautiful upon the mountains are the feet of him who brings good news, who publishes peace, who brings good news of happiness, who publishes salvation, who says to Zion, 'Your God reigns.'"
Reflection: Who in your life is in need of the gospel of peace? How can you show God's love and compassion to them today, and be ready to share the good news?
Quotes
### Quotes for Outreach
1. "We are in a spiritual war. And so Paul doesn't say lay down or sit down. Yes, we'll be sitting in heaven. In fact, we are already seated in heavenly places, Paul says in Ephesians two, because our eternal position is so secure. But the work that we have to do here on earth is to stand. Which takes strength. which is why Paul says in verse 10 to be strong in the Lord and in his mighty power. The assumption is that we're weak and we need help. We're like infants. Babies don't just stand and walk on their own. It takes time. They have to be fed. They have to be nurtured. You have to train them to gain the strength and the skill to be able to stand on their own." (52 seconds)(Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
2. "The gospel of peace that we are to preach, that we are to share. It's right there in Ephesians 2. And so Satan wants to come and to destroy your peace, to allow little disagreements with your spouse, or with your roommate, or with your co-worker, to feel like big things. Satan loves to stir up disagreements, division, disruption, anything that will create drama in you and your family. Satan wants to fill you with anxiety and worry, so that you will be distracted from, from your one true mission. Because he knows if you're caught up with inner turmoil, if you've got turmoil all around you, then you will not live out your God-given mission in life." (41 seconds)(Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
3. "Jesus said, blessed are the peacemakers for they will be called children of God, not the peace lovers, but the peacemakers. And it's sort of like the same theme of unity we talked about in chapter four, where Paul says make every effort to keep the unity through the bond of peace. We, made the point before that we don't create the unity that's only something God can do, breaking down the wall of hostility that separates us from God and from one another. We can't create unity, but we can work to keep the unity. We can't create peace, but we can keep the peace that has come from God." (36 seconds)(Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
4. "The point here is that Jesus, the point here in our text, is that Jesus wants you to take the gospel of peace to those around you who are suffering, who are suffering in sin, who are suffering in poverty, who are suffering in sickness and anxiety and addiction, and to share the hope of Christ. He wants you to be ready, to be prepared, because you never know when God is going to open up the heart and the mind of someone to not just see the gospel demonstrated in action, but to hear the gospel truth spoken in words." (36 seconds)(Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
5. "The devil wants to keep you from standing, wants to keep you from being prepared, wants to keep you from being stable, wants to keep you from moving those feet towards the spiritual needs of those around you. So, so, so we must be ready to put on the gospel of peace to go anywhere. Anywhere that God may call us." (21 seconds)(Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
### Quotes for Members
1. "Wobbly Christians who have no firm foothold in Christ are easy prey for the devil and I don't know about you but I see a lot of wobbly Christianity today Christians who are unsure of who God says that they are and therefore are unsure of what they are called to do you know wobbly Christians tend to underestimate the power of the enemy and they're a few characteristics of wobbly Christians the first one is that a wobbly Christian doesn't know what is in their wardrobe when you're a believer you have access Paul says here to the full armor of God to the belt of truth the breastplate of righteousness for to shoes that carry the gospel of peace to a shield of faith the helmet of salvation to the sword of the spirit it's all in your wardrobe it's all available and wobbly Christians will only put on one or two pieces of the armor and will develop a religious mindset that makes you think you're not a Christian." (53 seconds)(Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
2. "The second thing I see with wobbly Christians today is that they have difficult a difficult time settling into a church visit a lot of churches shop around that a lot of churches talk about a lot of churches but never really settle into and commit to one this is not a new scheme by the way the devil's been doing this way before the growth of the so-called consumer mindset in america listen to what the senior devil screw tape tells his junior double he says this surely you know that if a man that's us can't be cured of church going the next best thing is to send him all over the neighborhood looking for the church that suits him until he becomes a taster or connoisseur of churches he says that the search for for the suitable church makes the man listen to this a critic where the enemy that's that's god actually wants him to be a pupil." (60 seconds)(Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
3. "The third characteristic of a wobbly Christian is they don't know what they believe and this is what paul is talking about in chapter four when he said when he talks about not being mature as a believer and being tossed back and forth by the waves wobbly christians tend to major on the minors they take secondary issues and they make them primary issues they tend to live from one hot button issue to another they live from one headline to another they want the church to speak to any and every issue like we're a sunday morning talk show the temptation for wobbly christians is to think that our real enemy is flesh and blood specific people or political parties or political parties or leaders and the temptation especially for a wobbly christian in dc is to create a third way for every issue." (49 seconds)(Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
4. "The fourth point is that they don't know how to raise their kids and this is a scheme of the enemy that when we don't know what we believe when we're not plugged into the community of the local church when we don't know the weapons that we've been given to fight off the evil around us you know who suffers the most the next generation and let me be real parenting is hard there are so many parenting philosophies out there today there's attachment parenting authoritative parenting permissive parenting authority authoritarian parenting free range parenting helicopter parenting tiger parenting positive parenting slow parenting holistic parenting gentle parenting unconditional parenting mindful parenting respectful respectful parenting and there's so many debates that are happening today about the merits of breastfeeding versus bottle feeding or on-demand feeding versus scheduled feeding or co-sleep versus cribs sleeping and all these debates i'm not saying that these debates are are not important but do you notice the scheme of the enemy he wants to distract you with parenting philosophies that are downstream from the sensual question that you should be asking as parents and the question is this will i raise my child in the ways of the lord." (78 seconds)(Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
5. "The fifth scheme of the enemy that is characteristic of wobbly Christians is that they don't share their faith. And we'll land with this one. Ephesians 6, 15, this is what it's talking about. Your feet fitted with the readiness that comes from the gospel of peace. And we know that the greatest thing that Satan wants to destroy is your peace. Your peace with God first and foremost. That's what sin does. It destroys your fellowship with God. And when you don't have fellowship with God, that's what brings you peace. But the enemy also wants to destroy your peace with one another. The devil comes to create confusion, and to cause division, to break down our relationships with one another. And he uses the root sin of pride to advance this agenda." (47 seconds)(Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
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