The message centers on the reality that every believer faces a lifelong battle between the flesh and the Spirit. Using the story of the man delivered from the legion of demons, the preacher reminds us that salvation changes our desires, but it does not remove the presence of the flesh. Before salvation there was no conflict — the flesh simply ruled — but once God creates a new heart, a war begins. The flesh still pulls toward sin, distraction, and carnality, while the Spirit urges righteousness, prayer, Scripture, and obedience. Victory comes not by personal strength but by walking in the Spirit, setting the mind on things above, and continually returning to the cross to crucify the flesh. Paul’s teaching about Ishmael and Isaac illustrates this inner conflict: the child of the flesh rises up against the child of promise, and the believer must “cast out the bondwoman” by surrendering fully to God. The message warns that the flesh cannot be managed, negotiated with, or trusted — it must be crucified daily. When believers walk in the Spirit, they live in liberty, free from condemnation, and empowered to resist temptation. But when they follow the flesh, they become entangled again in bondage. The call is simple and urgent: take the flesh to the cross, surrender completely, and walk in the Spirit so the world sees the freedom and victory found only in Jesus Christ.
Whitwell, Tennessee — Fairview Union Church
