2009-09-06
Ephesians - Spiritual Warfare 2
Steve Lane

A. Review/Introduction
Work as if you were working for the Lord -- not men.
1 Peter 2: 11 - Our citizenship is in Heaven and we are to lay up treasure in our real home.
We are to be Tent makers. Our real purpose is the cause of Christ.

Spiritual Warfare (introduction) Ephesians 6: 10 - 12
A soldier is not putting on his gear primarily for his own cause, but for a greater...
What is it that Satan and demons opposing?
The gospel
He is fighting to hold on to souls in bondage. (2 Timothy 2: 26)

We need to progress beyond always being engaged in internal conflicts; to wage war, moving on in Romans 6 and Galatians 2: 20
He has many schemes that fit into his agenda: division in the church, self focus...

B. Be Strong in the Lord and in His Mighty Power Ephesians 6: 10

Aware of your complete weakness, not some false humility common among religious folk.
Preparation for the battle ahead - James 4: 6 - 7
There is a connection with humility and great power. (Gal 2:20, Psalm 62)
Romans 13: 11

C. Take Your Stand Against the Devil Ephesians 6: 11

If we are going to take a stand against his schemes, we cannot do it half heartedly.
We respond with despair if we don’t have the full armor.

D. The Enemy has an Army, and We are at War Ephesians 6: 12

We catch a glimpse of the organization of the enemy forces.
Even with the full armor, prayer is almost always associated with spiritual battle.

The enemy will toy with you, and easily defeat you without your armor.

E. Stand Your Ground Ephesians 6: 13

What are we to do then? The day of evil will come.
Be alert and watchful, aware of his schemes, be a warrior of prayer.
You can not afford to be found walking around in the flesh -- open and vulnerable.
We will not make a difference here if we are not battle-ready.
He will even keep you away from meaningful fellowship: teaching, accountability, partnership and corporate prayer.

Be alert! Wake up! You have enemies who are not letting up.

Put on your armor!