Invisible World Series

Sermon: The Invisible World

Thesis: We live in a world we can all see, touch, smell, hear and even taste. Most would agree with this truth. But I want to propose to you that there is another world invisible that exists within this world we see. There is a realm which is real too, but the issue is it’s an invisible realm, but it exists all around us – what happens in this spiritual dimension impacts things in our real world. The Bible warns us of the existence of this spiritual unseen realm and tells us to be aware of it and as believers to use the weapons God has provided to us to deal with it.

Reality Check: You are in the middle of a spiritual conflict between Two Kingdoms! They are at war! BUT You are on the winning side as a believer in Jesus Christ! But the battle is still raging around us!

You may be thinking: If Jesus won why is there still a battle happening?

Illustration: Japan surrendered in World War 2 but some of their soldiers refused to surrender because it was dishonorable, and they had pledged to fight this war to the death for the Emperor who claimed to be god. So, soldiers on both sides died after Japan surrendered for many months! This is what is happening today in this invisible realm! People are being destroyed even though the war is won!

Quote: Florence Nightingale said, “Life is a hard fight, a struggle, a wrestling with the principle of evil, hand to hand, foot to foot. Every inch of the way is disputed.”

The legacy of Florence Nightingale, the first professional nurse

Florence Nightingale was a pioneer in nursing and social care. Today, her work is more relevant to the Red Cross and the public than ever. Who was Florence Nightingale and what did she do? Florence Nightingale is best known as the founder of modern nursing. She was born on 12 May 1820 in the Italian city of Florence, after which she was named. The second daughter in a prominent and wealthy British family, growing up it was clear Florence was devoted to serving others. As a teenager, she would spend time helping the sick and poor in the village near her family estate and believed nursing was her calling. In 1844 she announced her decision to work as a nurse, which, due to her social standing, her parents did not approve of and forbade her from pursuing. Despite their objections in 1850, she studied as a nursing student for four months at the Kaiserwerth Deaconesses’ Institute, in the city of Düsseldorf. Above taken from the Red Cross website.

Scripture Texts: Ephesians 6:10-12: Speaks of this conflict!

10Finally, be strong in the Lord and in the strength of His might. 11Put on the full armor of God, so that you will be able to stand firm against the schemes of the devil. 12For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the powers, against the world forces of this darkness, against the spiritual forces of wickedness in the heavenly places.

Introduction: The Invisible World:

I wish I could give you glasses that would open up the spiritual realm to you – I wish it was that simple – you just put them on and you can see the demons at work – you see their schemes – you see how they lie and twist the truth – you see what they are doing to your family – to your church and school – and you see the traps and the ambushed set to ruin your life – you with these glasses see the chaos they create and understand how they manipulate and use people as pawns - but for a reason beyond my human knowledge and understanding God has chosen to keep this world unseen to most.

I have been given glimpses into this unseen world throughout my 40 years of ministry! Perspective is everything in the Christian Walk, understanding that these forces are real and do impact your world is crucial to winning the battles in life.

I have seen manifestations of demonic spirits; weird and unexplainable things have happened when in the middle of ministry – share some stories

• The witch at New Life

• The bat at Outreach Church

• Urban Coalition experiences

I have seen and felt spiritual attacks on my family, I have struggled with demonic forces. Usually, this battle is in my mind and within my spirit. I have seen demonic forces used to wreak havoc in church and in schools. BUT - I have seen supernatural events for the good as well to rectify what evil intended to destroy. I have witnessed good things like healings, deliverances, people saved, people set free from addictions and bondages. I have seen financial miracles come in – in the nick of time!