59 Spiritual Warfare

Anchor of Truth

Episode 59 Spiritual Warfare

What is spiritual warfare? This term is often used today, but the meaning behind the term is quite different in many cases. Are we involved in a war? If so, what is the war and what are the weapons of this war? Let us turn to the scriptures for guidance in this matter. It is very easy for us to take bits of scripture here and there and construct our own idea of the conflict based on our own reasoning as relates to our current situation. It is challenging to step back from the immediate conflict and gain God’s view. But I believe this is the right way to come to God’s answer. Then we can view our current situation properly and know how to go forward in God’s grace.

• The war is between God and Satan o The conflict originated in heaven o The conflict is a conflict in authority (who will be God) • The conflict was brought to earth when Satan deceived Adam and Eve o God gave Adam authority over the earth o Satan usurped that authority through deception o Satan is called “the god of this age” (2 Cor. 4:4) • Christ won the conflict with Satan at Calvary o Now is Satan cast out (John 12:31, 14:30, 16:11) o Jesus won by submission to the Father (Phil 2:5-11) o In the resurrection the triumph was complete (I Cor. 15) o All authority has now been given to Jesus (Matt. 28:18-20) o Satan is now a defeated foe, waiting for his final doom o God leaves him loose for His purpose • Our victory is “In Christ” o We enter into union with Him in the Spirit o We are now seated with Him in heavenly places by faith (Eph. 2:1-10) o His victory is now our victory as we abide in Him • Some key elements in our warfare—having done all we stand (Eph. 6:10-20) o Truth o Righteousness o Gospel of peace o Faith o Salvation o The word of God o Prayer

• Additional resources at http://www.ntchurchsource.com/ • Theme song “Will Your Anchor Hold” sung by J. Ashley Milne • Comments and questions welcome. Email [e-mail]