Spiritual Warfare
Pastor Kent Landhuis
THEME - Be strong in the Lord and in the power of his might!
TEXT - Ephesians 6:10-17
1. Know your enemy.
Ephesians 6:10-12
1 Peter 5:8
2. Know your armor. (Ephesians 6:13-17)
Belt of Truth
Breastplate of Righteousness
Shoes of the Gospel of Peace
Shield of Faith
Helmet of Salvation
Sword of the Spirit: Word of God
3. Know your posture.
Ephesians 6:10-12
Romans 12:21
NEXT STEPS
1. Rehearse your identity in Christ.
2. Stand firm no matter what.
3. Check out this resource: The Whole Armor of God: How Christ's Victory Strengthens Us for Spiritual Warfare. Iain M. Duguid
THE ARMOR OF GOD Ephesians 6:14-17
Paul uses the language of “putting off the old” and “putting on the new” as a description of the Christian life. Consider what it means that Jesus put on the Armor of God for us. Stand firm in your identity in Christ Jesus!
The Belt of Truth. “Stand firm then, with the belt of truth buckled around your waist.” The enemy is the father of lies. He is defeated with the truth.
The Breastplate of Righteousness. “…with the breastplate of righteousness in place…” When the enemy tempts us with sinful entanglements, righteousness protects our hearts from being destroyed by sin.
Shoes of the Gospel of Peace. “…and with your feet fitted with the readiness that comes from the gospel of peace.” The gospel (the good news) is forgiveness of sins, union with Christ, and peace with God by grace alone, through faith alone, in Christ alone.
The Shield of Faith. “In addition to all this, take up the shield of faith,” Faith extinguishes the fiery darts of the accusations of the enemy.
The Helmet of Salvation. “Take the helmet of salvation” Salvation comes when we trust in Jesus’ death and resurrection as the payment for our sins. Ultimate victory rests in the completed work of Jesus Christ.
The Sword of the Spirit: Word of God. “…and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God.” God’s Word destroys the enemy’s lies and guides us to victory.
