Exercising Authority Over Darkness Through Faith
Summary
In this sermon, I was led to discuss the concept of encountering darkness through authority and prayer. I emphasized the increasing activity in the spiritual world, particularly the powers of darkness that aim to destroy life as we know it and the Christian way of life. However, I also highlighted the authority that God has given us as believers in Christ. I explained that we have been called to a ministry in the heavenlies, where we can exercise an authority to which the powers of darkness must give place. I also stressed that we are constantly encountering the darkness of this world and that Satan is the ruler of this world, but God wants us to exercise the authority He has given us now.
In the second part of the sermon, I focused on the concept of righteousness through faith in Jesus and the new birth. I explained that we are not limited to what fallen man is limited to because of Jesus and the new birth. I also discussed the existence of an unseen, intangible world which surrounds us and mixes and merges together with this physical world. I emphasized the importance of discerning spirits and the need to encounter the darkness when it begins to interfere with our lives. I also warned against seeking out mediums and fortune tellers, and instead encouraged seeking guidance from the Holy Spirit.
Key Takeaways:
- Believers in Christ have been called to a ministry in the heavenlies where they can exercise authority over the powers of darkness. ([00:34])
- Righteousness is achieved through faith in Jesus and the new birth, not through our own works. ([15:22])
- There is an unseen, intangible world that surrounds us and mixes with our physical world, filled with angels and demons. ([17:29])
- Discerning spirits is not about judging people, but about seeing into the spirit world of demons, angels, and the spirits of men. ([18:14])
- Believers should not seek guidance from mediums or fortune tellers, but from the Holy Spirit. ([32:54])
Study Guide
Bible Passages:
1. 2 Corinthians 4:4
2. Revelation 12:9
3. John 16:11
Key Points from the sermon:
1. As believers, we have been called to a ministry in the heavenlies, where we exercise authority over the powers of darkness.
2. The powers of darkness are real and active, but they must give place to the authority of believers.
3. We have the authority to change what is happening in our schools, colleges, cities, and governments.
4. The devil seeks to discourage and isolate believers, but we must encourage ourselves in the Lord and remain in fellowship with other believers.
Observation Questions:
1. What does 2 Corinthians 4:4 say about Satan's role in this world?
2. How is Satan described in Revelation 12:9?
3. What does John 16:11 say about the judgment of the prince of this world?
Interpretation Questions:
1. What does it mean that Satan is the god of this world, as stated in 2 Corinthians 4:4?
2. How does Revelation 12:9's description of Satan as the Great Dragon and the old serpent relate to his role and influence in the world?
3. What does it mean that the prince of this world is judged, as mentioned in John 16:11?
Application Questions:
1. How can we exercise our authority as believers in our daily lives?
2. How can we resist the devil's attempts to discourage and isolate us?
3. How can we encourage ourselves in the Lord and remain in fellowship with other believers?
Devotional
Day 1: The Power of Prayer for Authorities
Prayer is a powerful tool that God has given us to communicate with Him. It is through prayer that we can intercede for those in authority, asking God to guide them in their decisions and actions. This is seen in the scriptures, particularly in the New Testament.
1 Timothy 2:1-2 - "I urge, then, first of all, that petitions, prayers, intercession and thanksgiving be made for all people— for kings and all those in authority, that we may live peaceful and quiet lives in all godliness and holiness."
Reflection: Reflect on the last time you prayed for those in authority. What specific issues or decisions did you pray for? How can you make praying for authorities a regular part of your prayer routine?
Day 2: The Authority of Believers
As believers, we have been given authority over the powers of darkness. This authority is not something we earn or achieve, but a gift given to us through Christ's victory on the cross.
Luke 10:19 - "I have given you authority to trample on snakes and scorpions and to overcome all the power of the enemy; nothing will harm you."
Reflection: Do you feel confident in your authority as a believer? If not, what steps can you take to better understand and exercise your authority over the powers of darkness?
Day 3: The Role of Angels in Our Lives
Angels are God's messengers and protectors. They play a significant role in our lives, guiding and protecting us in ways we may not always recognize.
Psalm 91:11 - "For he will command his angels concerning you to guard you in all your ways."
Reflection: Have you ever experienced a situation where you felt the protection or guidance of angels? How can you better acknowledge and appreciate the role of angels in your life?
Day 4: The Deception of the Devil
The devil is a master of deception, using lies and half-truths to lead us away from God. But through the truth of God's word, we can resist his deception and stand firm in our faith.
John 8:44 - "You belong to your father, the devil, and you want to carry out your father’s desires. He was a murderer from the beginning, not holding to the truth, for there is no truth in him. When he lies, he speaks his native language, for he is a liar and the father of lies."
Reflection: Can you recall a time when you felt deceived by the devil's lies? How did you overcome it and what scriptures did you use to resist his deception?
Day 5: The Importance of Community in Resisting the Devil
Community is a powerful tool in resisting the devil's attempts to discourage and deceive us. Together, we can encourage each other, pray for each other, and stand firm in our faith.
Hebrews 10:24-25 - "And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds, not giving up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but encouraging one another—and all the more as you see the Day approaching."
Reflection: How has being part of a community of believers helped you resist the devil's attempts to discourage you? What steps can you take to further strengthen your community and encourage others in their faith journey?
Quotes
1. "Authority is delegated power. Its value depends upon the force behind the user. If you are the user, the value of this delegated power, this Authority, depends upon the force that is behind you. All of Heaven is behind you." - 12:07
2. "Never think that we will not encounter attacks from the darkness of this world. But here's the difference for those who understand the authority and we're walking it, you will come out on top. The devil will not be able to defeat you, he will not be able to stop the plan of God in your life." - 42:14
3. "The devil is going to do everything he can to keep you from walking in the fullness of Victory, the fullness of God's blessings. That's the reason we are praying for each and every one of you constantly." - 50:17
4. "If you will begin to believe that in your heart, confess with your mouth, you will experience the reality of it in your life. Now having said that, I must warn you to never seek Angels, never seek contact with angels, never seek contact with the Dead." - 23:35
5. "There are so many times that people have been deceived by these demons masquerading as angels of light. Now let's to be careful. They are bounds to the spirit world that cannot be crossed without a cost." - 25:38
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