Standing Firm in Faith Amidst Spiritual Battles
Summary
### Summary
Good morning, Live Oak! Today, we gathered to celebrate the amazing work God is doing in our lives. We began with a heartfelt prayer, asking God to open our hearts and transform us from the inside out, filling us with faith, hope, love, joy, and peace. We then moved into a time of dedication, celebrating the new life God has blessed us with and committing to support and pray for each other as a family.
We discussed the troubling trend of church closures and the importance of staying true to God's Word. When churches turn away from preaching the Word and lifting up Jesus, they lose their way. This week, our church is stepping in to help a smaller church in Grand Isle, which hasn't had a vacation Bible school in 25 years. We're sending a team to minister to the children and support the local leadership.
Our focus today was on dealing with crises, particularly when faced with opposition from those who seek to bring us down. We looked at the story of Elijah, Ahab, and Jezebel from 1 Kings. Elijah, a prophet of God, stood against the evil leadership of Ahab and Jezebel, who led Israel into idolatry and child sacrifice. Despite the overwhelming odds, Elijah remained steadfast in his faith, demonstrating the power of God through prayer and action.
We explored the spiritual battle behind our conflicts, emphasizing that our struggle is not just against people but against spiritual forces of wickedness. We must recognize the spiritual element in our struggles and rely on God's strength to overcome them. Elijah's story reminds us that even in the face of great evil, God is with us, and His power is greater than any opposition we face.
Finally, we discussed the importance of not tolerating evil and standing firm in our faith. Weak and evil leadership can lead to confusion, closed places of worship, and compromised promises. We must expose and expel toxic influences, reclaim our true identity in Christ, and stick to our commitment to serve God. By choosing faith over fear and relying on God's strength, we can overcome any crisis and stand victorious.
### Key Takeaways
1. Spiritual Transformation: We must open our hearts to God, allowing Him to transform us from the inside out. This transformation brings faith, hope, love, joy, and peace, which are essential for navigating life's challenges. When we are filled with God's Spirit, we can face any situation with confidence and grace. [01:00]
2. The Importance of Community: Celebrating life's milestones together strengthens our bonds as a church family. Whether it's the birth of a child or supporting a struggling church, we are called to be there for each other, offering prayers, support, and encouragement. This sense of community is vital for our spiritual growth and resilience. [15:42]
3. Standing Firm in Faith: When faced with opposition, we must stand firm in our faith, just as Elijah did. Recognizing the spiritual battle behind our conflicts helps us rely on God's strength rather than our own. By lifting up Jesus and staying true to His Word, we can overcome any challenge. [18:25]
4. Rejecting Tolerance of Evil: Tolerating evil leads to spiritual decay. We must be vigilant in rejecting influences that lead us away from God. Jesus warned against tolerating the spirit of Jezebel, which promotes immorality and idolatry. Instead, we should strive for repentance and a return to God's ways. [36:12]
5. Faith Over Fear: Choosing faith over fear empowers us to face life's crises with courage. Elijah's story shows that when we trust in God's presence and power, we can accomplish great things. Faith assures us that God is with us today and will be with us tomorrow, dispelling fear and strengthening our resolve. [49:48]
### YouTube Chapters
[0:00] - Welcome
[01:00] - Opening Prayer
[15:15] - Importance of Fellowship
[15:42] - Child Dedication
[17:24] - Epidemic of Church Closures
[18:25] - Staying True to God's Word
[19:26] - Supporting a Smaller Church
[24:28] - Introduction to 1 Kings
[25:00] - Dealing with Crises
[26:03] - Handling Opposition
[28:07] - Elijah Confronts Ahab
[29:36] - God's Power Displayed
[30:12] - Jezebel's Threat
[31:39] - Spiritual Warfare
[35:25] - Old Demons, New Names
[41:39] - Elijah's Boldness
[49:48] - Faith Over Fear
[55:08] - Closing Prayer
[55:41] - Invitation to Prayer
[01:01:15] - Introduction of New Members
Study Guide
### Bible Reading
1 Kings 16:29-33 (NIV)
> In the thirty-eighth year of Asa king of Judah, Ahab son of Omri became king of Israel, and he reigned in Samaria over Israel twenty-two years. Ahab son of Omri did more evil in the eyes of the Lord than any of those before him. He not only considered it trivial to commit the sins of Jeroboam son of Nebat, but he also married Jezebel daughter of Ethbaal king of the Sidonians, and began to serve Baal and worship him. He set up an altar for Baal in the temple of Baal that he built in Samaria. Ahab also made an Asherah pole and did more to arouse the anger of the Lord, the God of Israel, than did all the kings of Israel before him.
1 Kings 18:17-21 (NIV)
> When he saw Elijah, he said to him, “Is that you, you troubler of Israel?” “I have not made trouble for Israel,” Elijah replied. “But you and your father’s family have. You have abandoned the Lord’s commands and have followed the Baals. Now summon the people from all over Israel to meet me on Mount Carmel. And bring the four hundred and fifty prophets of Baal and the four hundred prophets of Asherah, who eat at Jezebel’s table.” So Ahab sent word throughout all Israel and assembled the prophets on Mount Carmel. Elijah went before the people and said, “How long will you waver between two opinions? If the Lord is God, follow him; but if Baal is God, follow him.” But the people said nothing.
Ephesians 6:12 (NIV)
> 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.
### Observation Questions
1. What actions did Ahab take that were considered evil in the eyes of the Lord? (1 Kings 16:29-33)
2. How did Elijah respond to Ahab's accusation of being a "troubler of Israel"? (1 Kings 18:17-18)
3. What challenge did Elijah present to the people of Israel on Mount Carmel? (1 Kings 18:21)
4. According to Ephesians 6:12, who or what is our struggle truly against? [31:39]
### Interpretation Questions
1. Why do you think Ahab's marriage to Jezebel and his worship of Baal were particularly offensive to God? (1 Kings 16:31-33)
2. How does Elijah's confrontation with Ahab and the prophets of Baal illustrate the importance of standing firm in one's faith? (1 Kings 18:17-21)
3. What does Ephesians 6:12 suggest about the nature of the conflicts and crises we face in our lives? [31:39]
4. How can recognizing the spiritual element in our struggles change the way we approach conflicts and opposition? [32:20]
### Application Questions
1. Reflect on a time when you faced a significant crisis or opposition. How did your faith influence your response? How might recognizing the spiritual element in that situation have changed your approach? [32:20]
2. Elijah stood firm in his faith despite overwhelming odds. What are some practical ways you can stand firm in your faith when faced with opposition or difficult circumstances? [18:25]
3. The sermon emphasized the importance of community and supporting one another. How can you actively support and pray for someone in your church family who is going through a tough time? [15:42]
4. Tolerating evil can lead to spiritual decay. Are there any influences in your life that you need to reject or distance yourself from to stay true to God's ways? [36:12]
5. Choosing faith over fear empowers us to face life's crises with courage. Identify a specific fear you are currently facing. How can you choose faith over fear in this situation? [49:48]
6. The story of Elijah shows the power of prayer and action. What is one specific area in your life where you need to rely more on God's strength and take decisive action? [29:36]
7. How can you help your church stay true to God's Word and avoid the pitfalls that lead to spiritual decay and church closures? [18:25]
Devotional
Day 1: Spiritual Transformation Begins Within
Description: Spiritual transformation is a profound process that starts from within. It involves opening our hearts to God and allowing Him to work in us, changing us from the inside out. This transformation is not just about outward behavior but about a deep, inner change that brings faith, hope, love, joy, and peace. When we are filled with God's Spirit, we are equipped to face life's challenges with confidence and grace. This inner transformation is essential for navigating the complexities of life and maintaining a steadfast faith. [01:00]
Ephesians 3:16-17 (ESV): "That according to the riches of his glory he may grant you to be strengthened with power through his Spirit in your inner being, so that Christ may dwell in your hearts through faith—that you, being rooted and grounded in love."
Reflection: What areas of your heart do you need to open up to God for transformation? How can you invite His Spirit to bring about change in those areas today?
Day 2: The Strength of Community
Description: The importance of community in our spiritual journey cannot be overstated. Celebrating life's milestones together, such as the birth of a child or supporting a struggling church, strengthens our bonds as a church family. This sense of community is vital for our spiritual growth and resilience. When we support and pray for each other, we create a nurturing environment where faith can flourish. Being part of a community means sharing in each other's joys and burdens, which helps us grow stronger in our faith. [15:42]
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: How can you actively contribute to the sense of community in your church? What specific actions can you take this week to support and encourage someone in your congregation?
Day 3: Standing Firm in Faith
Description: Standing firm in faith is crucial, especially when faced with opposition. The story of Elijah, Ahab, and Jezebel from 1 Kings illustrates the importance of remaining steadfast in our faith despite overwhelming odds. Elijah's unwavering faith in God allowed him to confront evil leadership and demonstrate God's power through prayer and action. Recognizing the spiritual battle behind our conflicts helps us rely on God's strength rather than our own. By lifting up Jesus and staying true to His Word, we can overcome any challenge. [18:25]
1 Corinthians 16:13-14 (ESV): "Be watchful, stand firm in the faith, act like men, be strong. Let all that you do be done in love."
Reflection: Think of a recent challenge or opposition you faced. How did you respond? How can you better rely on God's strength and stand firm in your faith in similar situations in the future?
Day 4: Rejecting Tolerance of Evil
Description: Tolerating evil leads to spiritual decay and confusion. Weak and evil leadership can compromise our faith and close places of worship. We must be vigilant in rejecting influences that lead us away from God. Jesus warned against tolerating the spirit of Jezebel, which promotes immorality and idolatry. Instead, we should strive for repentance and a return to God's ways. By exposing and expelling toxic influences, we reclaim our true identity in Christ and stick to our commitment to serve God. [36:12]
Revelation 2:20-21 (ESV): "But I have this against you, that you tolerate that woman Jezebel, who calls herself a prophetess and is teaching and seducing my servants to practice sexual immorality and to eat food sacrificed to idols. I gave her time to repent, but she refuses to repent of her sexual immorality."
Reflection: Are there any influences in your life that are leading you away from God? What steps can you take to reject these influences and return to God's ways?
Day 5: Choosing Faith Over Fear
Description: Choosing faith over fear empowers us to face life's crises with courage. Elijah's story shows that when we trust in God's presence and power, we can accomplish great things. Faith assures us that God is with us today and will be with us tomorrow, dispelling fear and strengthening our resolve. By choosing faith, we can overcome any crisis and stand victorious. This choice requires daily commitment and reliance on God's promises. [49:48]
Isaiah 41:10 (ESV): "Fear not, for I am with you; be not dismayed, for I am your God; I will strengthen you, I will help you, I will uphold you with my righteous right hand."
Reflection: What is one area of your life where fear is holding you back? How can you choose faith over fear in this area today, trusting in God's presence and power?
Quotes
### Quotes for Outreach
1. "So glad you're here on this Lord's Day. God's doing amazing work in the lives of so many people. So many exciting things are happening in the hearts and minds of men and women and boys and girls. And we're just glad to be a part of what God's doing." [01:00] (10 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
2. "So if you believe that what we're doing is making a difference, please continue to pray, support, show up, and please give whenever you can. Let's pray. Father, I pray your blessings upon us. I pray, God, you will use us for your glory. And I pray, God, you will take what we offer this day to further your kingdom, to bring hope and healing to our hurting land, that your word may go forth and that Jesus may be lifted up." [19:26] (24 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
3. "When you have faith, fear leaves and faith gets stronger. What is faith? Faith is saying, look, I have God with me today, and I know God's gonna be with me tomorrow. And as long as I know God's with me today and tomorrow, I'm not afraid. But fear says this, there is no God today, and there is no God tomorrow. And when you have that kind of attitude, fear overtakes you." [49:48] (21 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
4. "For at the name of Jesus, demons flee. Because you see, greater is he that's in you. Greater is he that's in you than he that is in the world. And that's how you handle the spirit of Jezebel. And that's how you handle spiritual warfare. And that's how you manage the crisis. When someone comes against you because you're a man or woman of God, doing the work of God and bringing the word of Greater is he that's in you than he that is in the world." [54:17] (40 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
### Quotes for Members
1. "When there is envy in your life or there is jealousy in your life, we sometimes forget about this principle. When there are threats of destruction coming against us, we sometimes forget how the Bible reminds us, in Ephesians chapter 6, that our struggle is not against flesh and blood. Our struggle is not just against that person who hates us. Our struggle is not against that group of people who want to come against us. Our struggle is not against that person who has it in for us. But the Word of God says our struggle is against the rulers and the powers and the world forces of this darkness and against the spiritual forces of wickedness." [32:20] (36 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
2. "Weak and evil leadership destroys a nation, destroys a community, destroys a family, and destroys a church. Ahab and Jezebel are now ruling Israel. He was weak, she was evil. He was king, but she ran the kingdom. He was weak, but she was controlling. He was indecisive, she was domineering. He was spineless, but she killed anyone who got in her way. Aren't you glad that would never happen today?" [36:54] (36 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
3. "When you promote and applaud perversion, here's what I know. Eventually, babies are produced, and then they are sacrificed. Old demons. New names, new day, same result. And because Baal was being worshiped in Israel, and child sacrifices were rampant, here's what happened. The leadership was evil, and the people became indifferent. And when the leadership is evil, and the people become indifferent, and babies are being sacrificed on altars, that gets God's attention." [38:46] (36 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
4. "So when you encounter them, when you encounter a Jezebel spirit, here's what I will argue. There are five things you're called to do. Five ways of managing the Jezebel spirit that wants to come into your life. Number one, you expose the abuse. You expose the toxic relationship. You expose the person creating it. Number two, you expose the person creating it. In other words, you come out of hiding. That's what God said to Elijah. Elijah, come out of that cave. Come out of the cave, dude. Come on, you belong to me. You're my guy. You're my man. You're the one that I'm using. Come out of the cave." [52:38] (35 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
5. "So Elijah, he chooses faith over fear. Elijah then displayed and declared and demonstrated the power of God. Elijah prays and fire from heaven comes down. And Elijah is now victorious. He has just seen the hand of God. And now Jezebel is angry. She wants Elijah's death. How dare that man of God offend me? Whoa, and we are, and now it's on. See, this is the Jezebel spirit. It's all about control without earning or being given the role of authority. The Jezebel spirit seeks to destroy lives and ruin lives." [50:32] (50 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
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