INTRODUCTION
Outline.
2. The Engagement Strategies
Remarks.
1. This is lesson two in this sermon-series: “Fit-to-Fight,” “The Engagement Strategies” in “Ephesus’ Operations Order.” This lesson will deal with the saint’s need to understand the battle environment and rules of engagement: for their battle in the spiritual warfare, against the wiles of the devil and his allies. We will review Paul’s Operations Order (OPORD) written to Ephesus’ that would enable them: to be fit-to-fight! He wrote: “Finally, my brethren, be strong in the Lord, and the power of his might. Put on the whole armor of God, that ye may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil,” Ephesians 6:10-11. This begins his final directives to the church. It constitutes an assured victory for them over the “wiles of the devil” in their warfare; and, to all the saints in every age, affording them the same triumph. This sermon uses elements of the Army’s 5 Paragraph Operations Order, Reference, 7, at the end of this lesson.
2. In lesson two, we will consider the saint’s engagement strategies in sustained warfare: during their temptations, trials, and spiritual conflicts. Paul mentions: “For we (you and I) wrestle not against flesh and blood, but principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high places,” Ephesians 6:12. These are the devil's principalities, powers, rulers of this world's darkness, and spiritual wickedness in high places (above the earthly realm). Paul was currently engaged in a battle for the gospel's message; he waged within the household of Caesar and the Roman government: while a prisoner of Rome.
3. With this brief introduction behind us, let’s consider lesson two, in this sermon-series: “the engagement strategies.”
BODY OF LESSON
II THE ENGAGEMENT STRATEGIES
A. Paul mentions: “For we wrestle not against flesh and blood.” There is warfare, a “battle of life,” that all must assume while looking at the world's current condition. There can be no question whether we wrestle or war against flesh and blood, or even against evil powers in the world. We see conflicts and hear of wars and rumors of war. Jesus promised: “There shall be wars and rumors of wars,” Matthew 24:6; Mark 13:7; Luke 21:9. But these are not the wars Paul writes about unto the saints at Ephesus. He wrote--
1. First, to the Hebrews: “Forasmuch then as the children are partakers of flesh and blood, He (Jesus) also himself likewise took part of the same; that through death he might destroy him that had the power of death, that is, the devil: And deliver them who through fear of death were all their lifetime subject to (fear and) bondage,” Hebrews 2:14-15. David wrote: “Precious in the sight of the LORD is the death of His saints,” Psalms 116:15. The Lord--
a. Jesus came by “flesh and blood,” John 1:13; John 1:1-3.
b. But, His conflict was not with or among enemies of “flesh and blood.”
c. It was against the “principalities and powers of the devil.”
d. And the Lord, “Having spoiled (all) principalities and powers, he made a shew of them openly, triumphing over them in it,” Colossians 2:15; Ephesians 2:20-23.
e. Christ, “Who is gone into heaven, and is on the right hand of God; angels and authorities and powers being made subject unto him,” 1 Peter 3:22; Hebrews 1:1-3.
2. Further, to Corinth: “For though we walk in the flesh, we do not war after the flesh: (For the weapons of our warfare are not carnal, but mighty through God to the pulling down of strongholds); Casting down imaginations, and every high thing that exalteth itself against the knowledge of God, and bringing into captivity every thought to the obedience of Christ; And having in a readiness to revenge all disobedience, when your obedience is fulfilled,” 2 Corinthians 10:3-6. Our warfare—
a. Not after the flesh: (For the weapons of our warfare are not carnal, but mighty through God to the pulling down of strongholds).
b. Casting down imaginations, and every high thing that exalteth itself against the knowledge of God.
c. Bringing into captivity every thought to the obedience of Christ.
d. And having in a readiness to revenge all disobedience, when your obedience is fulfilled.
e. Conclusion: Paul reminds the saints that though they were in the body, they walked not after the flesh. Similarly, though we do war, our weaponry is not carnal; but, mighty through God; who hath given us the victory over the law of sin and death, through Jesus Christ our Lord. It is Christ that enables me to cast down imaginations and every high thing that exalts itself against the knowledge of God: whether it be philosophies, human wisdom, principalities, powers, or the rulers of the darkness of this world: bringing into captivity every thought, word or deed to the obedience of Christ. I am set with the message of Christ: to preach the gospel to the poor; to heal the brokenhearted; to bring deliverance to the captives; to recovering the sight of the blind; and to set at liberty them that are bruised: to preach a sufficient time for the Lord, till your obedience is fulfilled.
3. Next, to Timothy:
a. First, “Fight the good fight of faith, lay hold on eternal life, whereunto thou art also called, and hast professed a good profession before many witnesses,” 1 Timothy 6:12; 1 Timothy 1:18; 2 Timothy 2:1-2.
b. Second, “Thou, therefore, endure hardness, as a good soldier of Jesus Christ. No man that warreth entangleth himself with the affairs of this life; that he may please Him who hath chosen him to be a soldier,” 2 Timothy 2:3-4.
c. Third, “I have fought a good fight,” 2 Timothy 4:7. Paul here informs Timothy that he too was still engaged in the “good fight.” He was awaiting his final sentence from Nero, after which he would be “beheaded” on the execution block in Rome. Paul encourages Timothy to join him in Rome, 2 Timothy 4:9; 2 Timothy 4:21. Observe--
1) It was Paul’s plea to see the lad again before his execution and death. Tradition teaches that Timothy was permitted to see Paul before his end; however, the scriptures are silent on this issue.
2) Paul reminded Timothy of his faith and prepared for his persecutions for Christ Jesus's name, Hebrews 13:23. Paul's closing remarks to the Hebrews; lead us to believe he was just recently released from prison and would be joining Paul in their visit to the brethren.
d. Fourth, “But thou hast fully known my doctrine, manner of life, purpose, faith, longsuffering, charity, (and) patience. Persecutions, afflictions, which came unto me at Antioch, at Iconium, at Lystra; what persecutions I endured: but out of them all: the Lord delivered me. Yes, and all that will live godly in Christ Jesus shall suffer persecution. But evil men and seducers shall wax worse and worse, deceiving, and being deceived,” 2 Timothy 3:10-13; 2 Timothy 4:16-18. Paul defines his struggles against the evil one to the Roman saints.
4. Additionally, to Rome: “For I delight in the law of God after the inward man: But I see another law in my members, warring against the law of my mind, and bringing me into captivity to the law of sin which is in my members. O wretched man that I am! Who shall deliver me from the body of this death? I thank God through Jesus Christ our Lord. So then with the mind, I serve the law of God; but with the flesh the law of sin,” Romans 7:22-25.
a. This is the war that is raging within the Christian every day.
b. Thank God for Christ’s deliverance: “There is therefore now no condemnation to them which are in Christ Jesus, who walk not after the flesh, but after the Spirit. For the law of the Spirit of life in Christ Jesus hath made me free from the law of sin and death. For what the law could not do, in that it was weak through the flesh, God sending his own Son in the likeness of sinful flesh, and for sin, condemned sin in the flesh: That the righteousness of the law might be fulfilled in us, who walk not after the flesh, but after the Spirit,” Romans 8:1-4.
c. Paul no longer lived by the law; nor walked after the flesh; but now lives in Christ Jesus, by faith. He wrote: "For I through the law died to the law that I might live to God. I have been crucified with Christ; it is no longer I who live, but Christ lives in me; and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave Himself for me. I do not set aside the grace of God; for if righteousness comes through the law, then Christ died in vain,” Galatians 2:19-21.
5. Finally, to Galatia: “This I say then, Walk in the Spirit, and ye shall not fulfill the lust of the flesh. For the flesh lusteth (warreth) against the Spirit and the Spirit (warreth) against the flesh: These are contrary to the other: so that ye cannot do the things that ye would. But if you be led of the Spirit, ye are not under the law,” Galatians 5:16-18. Ye are freed from the law of sin and death!
a. The saints are in a constant war against sin, evil, and unrighteousness. The flesh warreth against the Spirit; and, the Spirit against the flesh: these are contrary one to the other.
b. We are no longer under the law of sin and death. We have been delivered from these by Jesus Christ. Who shall deliver us from the body of this death!
c. If we then are led by the Spirit: “There is therefore now no condemnation to them which are in Christ Jesus, who walk not after the flesh, but after the Spirit,” Romans 8:1.
6. Conclusion: The warfare we face is not one against another (after the flesh) but after the Spirit. We have the tactical advantage because we understand the enemy's situation and strategies and have the equipment safeties to withstand their attacks. We will discuss this idea in the last point. For now, we must ask: Who are those things that oppose us? In the Ephesians’ OPORD, Paul gave the saints a vivid description of those powers and beings they were wrestling or fighting against. Observe--
B. First, for we wrestle “against principalities.” The “principalities,” describes all the angelic hosts and authorities, whether of good or evil. It would be best that we review this word in its original language.
1. The word “principalities” in Gr., is arche or är-kha', which means chief (in various applications of order, time, place, or rank):—beginning, first (estate), magistrate, principality, principle, rule: of angels and demons.
2. Some have speculated that these are the powers of both angels and demons. These angelic beings were expelled from heaven for rebellion and disobedience to God, who now are in chains of darkness waiting for Judgment Day.
a. First, Jesus taught chief rulers: “Ye are of your father the devil, and the lusts of your father ye will do. He was a murderer from the beginning and abode not in the truth because there is no truth in him. When he speaketh a lie, he speaketh of his own: for he is a liar, and the father of it,” John 8:44.
b. Peter wrote: “For if God spared not the angels that sinned but cast them down to hell, and delivered them into chains of darkness, to be reserved unto judgment,” 2 Peter 2:4. The satanic angels are restrained by the chains of darkness in hell.
c. Jude wrote: “And the angels that kept not their first estate or (principality) but left their habitation, he hath reserved in everlasting chains under darkness unto the judgment of the great day,” Jude 1:6.
1) There are wicked angels, but God binds them to what they can do unto us. We do not need to fear their evil work, nor the workings of the evil one.
2) The powers of the evil one and his forces: are under the divine restraints of the Lord. One angel threw “Satan into the bottomless pit,” Revelations 20:1-3.
3) He and his forces have been subdued. Satan's working now is done through evil men and women: the principalities and powers of this present world.
d. The Lord’s angels that are sent have enormous power. It took one to smite the Assyrians’ camp that warred against King Hezekiah, Isaiah 37:33-38. Observe--
1) Jesus said: “God’s little ones (children) have an angel in heaven watching over them,” Matthew 18:10. We are the children of God, 1 John 3:1-2; 1 John 4:4. It is your protective angel He sends when after your hours of suffering and trials when you need comforting and strengthening, Matthew 4:11; Luke 22:43. They watch over all of God’s children to protect and preserve us from evil. Notice--
2) David wrote: “The angel of the Lord encamps all around those who fear Him: And delivers them,” Psalms 34:7; Psalms 34:17.
a) The Lord hates evil! “He preserves the souls of His saints; He delivers them out of the hand of the wicked,” Psalms 97:10.
b) Doesn’t this sound a lot like us, who are now engaged in life’s struggles and resisting the attacks of the wicked ones from every side?
c) Do not fear what “man can do unto you,” Hebrews 13:6b; Psalms 27:3; Psalms 118:6. Our God can deliver us and sustain us during every trial of faith.
d) Conclusion: The saints have help in times of trouble. The Lord will deliver them and preserve them. He watches over them to deliver them from the hand of the wicked. The Lord is ever with us: “He will never leave us, nor forsake us,” Hebrews 13:6a. Little children do not be afraid; do not be faint-hearted; "be strong in the Lord and the power of His might."
3) Paul wrote: “Are they (angels) not all ministering spirits sent forth to minister for those who will inherit salvation?” Hebrews 1:14; Hebrews 2:1-4.
4) Is this not the saints of God? Acts 28:28; 1 Peter 1:9-10; Hebrews 5:8-9; Jude 1:3.
3. The Ephesians had once practiced sorcery, Acts 19:19a. Paul reminds them of their engagement with the evils of darkness and wicked spirits to worship the gods of this world.
a. But they burned their books of art and sorceries, Acts 19:19b. They now serve the living God.
b. They are no longer the children of darkness; but, they are now the children of light, Ephesians 5:8-13.
4. Ephesus wrestling or waring. Not against “flesh and blood.” Paul surely was not suggesting none of their enemies were flesh and blood. For it was men in the flesh that arrested, imprisoned, beat and crucified the Lord; and now terrorize the saints at Ephesus. They are instruments of the evil one. Satan working in them and all other unscrupulous persons, powers, principalities are instruments and workers of evil and the darkness of this world. They are carnal and corrupted people in power and government: doing the will of the evil one. They are the sources and origin of all our spiritual conflicts and warfare for the cause of Christ.
5. These are the same “principalities” that Paul wrote to the Romans: “For I am persuaded, that neither death, nor life, nor angels, nor principalities, nor powers, nor things present, nor things to come: Nor height, nor depth, nor any other creature, shall be able to separate us from the love of God, which is in Christ Jesus our Lord,” Romans 8:38-39. Fix your heart and mind upon things above, Colossians 3:1-2; Philippians 4:8.
C. Second, “against powers.” Paul separated this "wiles" from principalities in an earlier discussion. Although “principalities and powers are presented in the same phrase within the scriptures: Romans 8:38; Ephesians 1:21; and Titus 3:1. I have separated them like Paul here, to describe each separately as one of the devil's "wiles" or "schemes."
1. The word “powers” in Gr., is exousia or eks-ü-se'-ä, which means privilege, i.e., force, capacity, competency, freedom, or a magistrate, potentate, token of control, or delegated influence:—authority, jurisdiction, liberty, power, right, strength. The apostle seems to be alluding to forces that are both superhuman, and human that had been endowed authority and power from another source. Observe--
a. Power from above. Jesus said to Pilate: “Thou couldest have no power “exousia” at all against me, except God gave it to thee from above: therefore he that delivered me unto thee hath the greater sin," John 19:11. Pilate's authority to rule was given to him from above: God. In the same manner, consider--
b. Jesus had power. Jesus taught: “Therefore doth my Father love me, because I lay down my life, that I might retake it. No man taketh it from me, but I lay it down of myself. I have the power to lay it down, and I have the power to retake it. This commandment have I received of my Father,” John 10:17-18. He had power, divine authority; that was given to Him by the Father. The word “power” in Gr., is “exousia,” in both cases. Here Christ is claiming divine power: superhuman.
2. Authorities appointed by God. Paul wrote: “Let every soul be subject unto the higher powers. For there is no power but of God: the powers that be are ordained of God. Whosoever, therefore, resisteth the power resisteth the ordinance of God: and they that shall receive to themselves damnation. For rulers are not terrors to good works, but the evil. Wilt thou then not be afraid of the power? Do that which is good and thou shalt have praise of the same: For he is the minister of God to thee for good. But if thou do that which is evil, be afraid; for he beareth not the sword in vain: for he is the minister of God, a revenger to execute wrath upon him that doeth evil. Wherefore, you must need be subject, not only for wrath, but also for conscience sake," Romans 13:1-5. In this passage, we see that God sets up the higher powers “exousia” for good; and, we must be subject to these powers for both suffering the wrath given to them to execute; and, for our conscience sake to be pleasing and acceptable to God. Still another—
3. To be subject unto them. Paul wrote Titus: “Put them (the saints) in mind to be subject to principalities and powers, to obey magistrates, to be ready to every good work,” Titus 3:1; 1 Timothy 6:12-16. We will let Peter provide his inspiration on this issue. Observe—
4. Submit yourselves. Peter wrote: “Submit yourselves to every ordinance of man for the Lord's sake: whether it be to the king, as supreme; Or unto governors, as unto them that are sent by him for the punishment of evildoers, and for the praise of them that do well. For so is the will of God, that with well doing ye may put to silence the ignorance of foolish men: As free, and not using your liberty for a cloke of maliciousness, but as the servants of God. Honor all men. Love the brotherhood. Fear God. Honor the king (i.e., the President),” 1 Peter 2:13-17.
5. Summary: These inspired writers gave us a commandment to be subject to these authorities and higher powers that God sets up. We are to obey the laws (traffic laws and directions to wear a face-covering while in public places). As Christians, we should be the best citizens in the country. God has appointed these authorities and higher powers; to do well and execute judgment on those that are evil and disobedient. We obey them to avoid the wrath granted to them by God on the defiant; and, for conscience sake before God.
NOTE: Christians would never align themselves to ungodliness and unrighteousness for any reason. No wicked voice could turn them from God to serve the evil one or one of his allies.
a. Some are called such, within specific religious orders: that speak evil of authorities and dignities. However,
b. Peter wrote: “But chiefly them that walk after the flesh in the lust of uncleanness, and despise government. Presumptuous are they, self-willed, they are not afraid to speak evil of dignities,” 2 Peter 2:10-11.
c. Jude wrote: “Likewise, these filthy dreamers defile the flesh, despise dominion, and speak evil of dignities. When contending with the devil, Michael the archangel disputed about Moses's body, durst not bring (make) against him a railing accusation, but said: The Lord rebuke thee. But these speak evil of those things which they know not: but what they know naturally, as brute beasts, in those things they corrupt themselves,” Jude 1:8-10; Titus 3:10-11.
d. Paul mistakenly spake against the high priest, and apologies; while making his defense before the Jewish council in Jerusalem, Acts 23:5.
6. Conclusion: Now, let's make "heads and tails" of these powers. They are put in place by God for good. But when they turn to evil or behave contrary to the will and ordinances of God, they must be exposed. In like manner, when they work for the good and wellbeing of the nation's good, we are commanded to: obey them.
a. When they, on the other hand, are working for evil and in ungodly behavior, we are to: resist them. Satan and his "powers" must be fought and ousted within the ordained Constitution and this country's laws.
b. That means: voted them out! No Christian should be a party to or attempt to overthrow the government and powers that God has ordained. We pray to God about them and then exercise our rights under the law: to vote them out of office. Christians, too, should exercise their rights to vote to effect (cause) change that is good, righteous, and honorable for all citizens of the United States of America.
c. This the Nation did in the 2020 Presidential Election. Now we must get behind this duly appointed government of God and support their efforts to heal the country. All in opposition to their good is against God! Be it known: “Your arms are too short to fight against God.” Observe--
1) Jewish council stood against the apostles, Peter and John.
a) Peter and John said unto them, during their first questioning: “Whether it is right in the sight of God to hearken unto you...we cannot but speak the things we have seen and heard,” Acts 4:19-20. Like Jeremiah: ”His word was in their hearts like a burning fire shut up in their bones, they could not contain...For I have heard the defaming of many, fear on every side...All my familiars watched for my halting...But the Lord is with me as a mighty terrible one,” Jeremiah 20:9-11.
b) Peter said unto them, at their second questioning: “We ought to obey God rather than men,” Acts 5:29.
c) Dr. Gamaliel’s said unto them: “Then stood there up one in the council, a Pharisee, named Gamaliel, a doctor of the law, had in reputation among all the people...Said unto them, Ye men of Israel...And now I say unto you, Refrain from these men, and let them alone: for if this counsel or this work be of men, it will come to naught: But if it is of God, ye cannot overthrow it; lest haply ye be found even to fight against God,” Acts 5:33-39. Observe—
2) First, no evangelist, minister, or religious leader could ever agree to any legislation, laws, or policies by any local or state powers, governors, senators, or even a president; that is evil and opposes the constitutional duties of their office. These laws and policies that are enacted that are evil and transgress their powers before God must be opposed by righteous men and women everywhere.
3) Further, it is to these “powers and authorities” we are wrestling and warring against as the soldiers of Christ. These evils and unjust laws and policies must be uncovered, exposed, and overturned lawfully. When we find ourselves in conflict with such ungodliness and unrighteousness, we must stand against, withstand, and speak in disagreement wherever possible.
4) Finally, on the other hand, when they are good laws and policies that uplift all Americans, we must stand in support of them and obey them in support of these powers, and for conscience's sake before God.
d. Conclusion: The "children of God" cannot support or be a party to any evil and unrighteous acts that oppose the "powers" established by God. Any Christian claiming membership to any “hate group” or “terrorist’s movement” is not walking uprightly before God and men. Such memberships in, and support these groups and movements, are sinful and destructive to the faith of Christ!
D. Third, “against the rulers of the darkness of this world.” Paul now makes the application of these principalities, powers, and authorities at a local level. To which the people of Ephesus were fully aware of at this time. These are the "rulers of the darkness of the world," Ephesians 6:12c. We stand against all the rulers of the darkness of this world in our messages and warfare. They attempt to destroy good; and obscure “light” with “darkness, evil and wickedness.” These are all the workings of the evil one.
1. For, “the darkness” is obviously “the darkness of this present world,” as a world that is overshadowed by sin, evilness, and is so kept, wholly or partially, from the light of God by the evil one, 1 John 5:19; Luke 10:18.
2. Jesus said: Of the prince of this world, the devil.
a. First, “Now is the judgment of this world: now shall the prince of this world be cast out,” John 13:31. God has judged the prince of the world and cast him out of His presence.
b. Second, “Now is the judgment of this world: now shall the prince of this world be cast out,” John 12:31. Thus the fulfillment is Isaiah 14:12.
c. Third, “Hereafter I will not talk much with you: for the prince of this world cometh, and hath nothing in me,” John 14:30. This statement references Judas, John 13:21; John 13:26-27; John 6:70-71; John 17:12.
d. Fourth, “Of judgment, because the prince of this world is judged,” John 16:11.
e. Conclusion: Jesus calls Satan the “prince of this world.” When Satan is working in a person, that person has “nothing in them of Christ.” These are full of all unrighteousness and ungodliness working all that which is evil and unjust toward the children of God and all men. Such was the case with Judas: “Who was a guide to them that took Jesus,” Acts 1:16. See his end and reward, Acts 1:17-20. Paul continued--
3. He wrote: The “prince of the power of the air” and the world. Satan is described as being the prince of the power of the air and the world of darkness.
a. To Ephesus: “And you hath he quickened, who were dead in trespasses and sins; Wherein in time past ye walked according to the course of this world, according to the prince of the power of the air, the spirit that now worketh in the children of disobedience: Among whom also we all had our conversation in times past in the lusts of our flesh, fulfilling the desires of the flesh and the mind; and were by nature the children of wrath, even as others,” Ephesians 2:1-3.
b. To Corinth: “But if our gospel is hidden, it is hidden to them that are lost: In whom the god of this world hath blinded the minds of them which believe not, lest the light of the glorious gospel of Christ, who is the image of God, should shine unto them. For we preach not ourselves, but Christ Jesus the Lord; and ourselves your servants for Jesus' sake. For God, who commanded the light to shine out of darkness, hath shined in our hearts, to give the light of the knowledge of the glory of God in the face of Jesus Christ. But we have this treasure in earthen vessels, that the Excellency of the power may be of God, and not of us,” 2 Corinthians 4:3-7.
c. Conclusion: It is Satan, the god of this world--
1) That can blind the eyes of them which believe not, lest the light of the glorious gospel of Christ should shine unto them, 2 Corinthians 4:3-4.
a) Christ has come to give light and illumination to the eyes of the believers.
b) Satan works to bring darkness and blindness to the eyes of the disbelievers.
2) Can grant powers unto those that would subject themselves unto his evils, and work in darkness against the light of Jesus Christ, Matthew 4:8-9; Luke 4:6.
3) Can tempt and confuse those that are yet walking in the darkness of this world, Ephesians 4:17-19; Ephesians 2:12; Acts 26:16-20.
4) Can exercise control over and enslave them that "yield themselves" to obey his will, John 8:44; Acts 8:9-11; Acts 13:10; Romans 6:16-23.
4. John wrote: “And we know that we are of God, and the whole world lieth in wickedness,” 1 John 5:19.
a. John continued: “Love not the world, neither the things that are in the world. If any man loves the world, the love of the Father is not in him. For all that is in the world, the lust of the flesh, the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life are not of the Father but the world. And the world passeth away, and the lust thereof: but he that doeth the will of God abideth forever,” 1 John 2:15-17.
b. The whole world lieth in wickedness, consisting of the lust of the flesh, lust of the eyes, and the pride of life. All these are instruments of Satan’s temptations. He has used them since his inception of sin into the world.
1) He is the tempter, deceiver, the beguiler of sin and wickedness.
2) He tempted Eve, with these same “wiles” devices, methods, schemes of evil, and deception, Genesis 3:1-7.
3) He tempted Jesus with these same devices, Matthew 4:1-11.
4) He tempts us with these same tools of wickedness, 1 John 2:15-17.
c. James wrote of Satan’s methods of temptations, James 1:12-15.
NOTE: Illustrate temptations are not sins; but, to yield to temptation is sin.
5. Paul wrote: “There hath no temptation taken you but such as is common to man: but God is faithful, who will not suffer you to be tempted above that ye are able; but will with the temptation also make a way to escape, that ye may be able to bear it,” 1 Corinthians 10:13. Paul encourages us--
a. That we are not tempted with some unique or rare “wile” or trick of the devil. But with that which is “common to every man.”
b. That God is faithful and will not suffer us to be tempted above that which we can.
c. That He will, with the temptation, make a way to escape.
d. That we may be able to bear it. What a tremendous promise.
6. Don’t fret; resist the devil. Peter wrote: “Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil, as a roaring lion, walketh about, and seeking whom he may devour: Who resist steadfast in the faith, knowing that the same afflictions are accomplished in your brethren that are in the world. But the God of all grace, who hath called us unto his eternal glory by Christ Jesus, after that ye have suffered a while, make you perfect, establish, strengthen, settle you. To him be glory and dominion forever and ever. Amen,” 1 Peter 5:8-11. Here is some sound guidance from one that walked with Jesus. Observe—
a. Be sober and vigilant. Stay awake and alert.
b. Because your adversary is now walking about, seeking who he may devour.
c. Resist him steadfast in the faith.
d. Knowing the same afflictions is being dealt unto your brethren.
e. God who hath called you shall permit you to suffer a while:
1) To make you perfect,
2) To establish you,
3) To strengthen you, and
4) To settle you. See James 1:1-4; Romans 5:1-5.
e. Conclusion: After this strengthening period, you will overcome these trials, tribulations, and temptations. God is using this suffering to enable you to overcome a more critical test of your life: that is yet ahead of you. We need this fortification!
NOTE: Illustrate, we can't keep birds from flying over our heads; but, we can keep them from building a nest in our hair. In like manner, we cannot keep away the temptations of life, but we can call upon the Lord for strengthening in the days of sufferings, trials, or temptations.
E. Fourth, “against spiritual wickedness in high places.” The "spiritual powers" are not spiritual principles, but "spiritual hosts" of wickedness; and the phrase "in the heavenly places" has reference to “the power of the air” in, Ephesians 2:2.
1. Spiritual wickedness. The term “spiritual wickedness” in Gr., is pneumatikos or pnyü-mä-te-ko's and poneria or po-na-re'-ä, which means actions belonging to spirits, or to be higher than man but inferior to God: wicked spirits working in depravity, i.e., malice; plots, sins:—iniquity, wickedness, and unrighteousness. Christ came to destroy the powers and the workings of the devil.
a. To free men and women from the power of darkness, by “translating them into the kingdom of God’s dear Son,” Colossians 1:13-14. It is the "gospel of Christ,' that enlightens the believer to their true source of divine light; and, frees them from the power or workings of Satan, by translating them "into the kingdom of Christ and God," Ephesians 5:5.
b. It was for this work, Paul was arrested and imprisoned. He preached this unto both Jews and Gentiles: that Jesus was the Christ, and commissioned him to preach: "Confounding the Jews who dwelt in Damascus, proving that (Jesus) is the very Christ," Acts 9:20-22. He began his witness immediately after his conversion to Christ, through Ananias’ preaching and baptizing of him, Acts 9:15-16; Acts 9:17-19; Acts 22:16. Luke further wrote--
1) First, of the Jews: “And he said unto me, Depart: for I will send thee far hence unto the Gentiles. And they gave him audience unto this word, and then lifted their voices, and said: Away with such a fellow from the earth: for it is not fit that he should live. And as they cried out, and cast off their clothes, and threw dust into the air: The chief captain commanded him to be brought into the castle and bade that he should be examined by scourging; that he might know wherefore they cried so against him,” Acts 22:21-24.
2) Second, of the Gentiles: “But the Lord said unto him, Go thy way: for he is a chosen vessel unto me, to bear my name before the Gentiles, and kings, and the children of Israel: For I will shew him how great things he must suffer for my name's sake,” Acts 9:15-16.
3) Third, Paul’s preaching to King Agrippa of Jesus’ words to him near Damascus: “But rise, and stand upon thy feet: for I have appeared unto thee for this purpose, to make thee a minister and a witness both of these things which thou hast seen, and of those things in the which I will appear unto thee; Delivering thee from the people, and from the Gentiles, unto whom now I send thee, To open their eyes, and to turn them from darkness to light, and from the power of Satan unto God, that they may receive forgiveness of sins, and inheritance among them which are sanctified by faith that is in me,” Acts 26:15-18; Acts 26:29-21.
4) Fourth, Paul’s words to Rome: “Be it known therefore unto you, that the salvation of God is sent unto the Gentiles, and that they will hear it. And when he had said these words, the Jews departed, and had great reasoning among themselves,” Acts 28:28-29.
c. Conclusions: Paul’s was now in a Roman prison for preaching Christ unto the Jews and Gentile that they should turn them from darkness to light, and from the power of Satan unto God, that they may receive forgiveness of sins, and inheritance among them which are sanctified by faith that is in Christ Jesus. These are the spirits working spiritual wickedness in high places. Finally--
2. They reside in high places. These are the “spiritual powers” of the “spirits that now worketh in the children of disobedience;” through the “prince of the power of the air,” Ephesians 2:2.
a. These are agents of the devil currently ruling, governing, working, manifesting all evils and ungodliness: to entice, deceive and enslave the "children of darkness,” whose eyes have been blinded "by the god of this world," from the gospel of light, 2 Corinthians 4:3-4.
b. For God, “Who commanded the light to shine out of darkness, hath shined in our hearts, to give the light of the knowledge of the glory of God in the face of Jesus Christ,” 2 Corinthians 4:6.
c. Christ who said: “I am the light of the world: he that followeth me shall not walk in darkness, but shall have the light of life,” John 8:12; John 9:5; John 12:35.
d. Why do these walk in darkness? Jesus said: “For God so loved the world...For God sent not his Son into the world to condemn the world; but that the world through him might be saved,” John 3:16-17. He continued:
1) First, “He that believeth on him is not condemned: but he that believeth not is condemned already because he hath not believed in the name of the only begotten Son of God.”
2) Second, “And this is the condemnation, that light has come into the world, and men loved darkness rather than light because their deeds were evil.”
3) Third, “For every one that doeth evil hateth the light, neither cometh to the light, lest his deeds should be reproved.”
4) Fourth, “But he that doeth truth cometh to the light, that his deeds may be made manifest, that they are wrought in God,” John 3:17-31.
3. Christ sits in heavenly places. Let’s not compare these to the saints, which "have been raised together, and made to sit together in heavenly places in Christ Jesus," Ephesians 2:4-6; Ephesians 1:10; Ephesians 3:14-15. Recall, I have discussed the role of the angelic host in the lives of the children of God earlier in this lesson.
4. The saints are blessed. Paul wrote: “Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who hath blessed us with all spiritual blessings in heavenly places in Christ,” Ephesians 1:3. Paul affirms that Christ, who sits in heavenly places, has blessed us (the children of God) with all “spiritual blessing in heavenly places.”
5. Conclusion: Evil and ungodliness reside in high places, whose workings are manifested by evil. Blessing comes from heavenly places, through Jesus Christ, who sits at the “right hand of God in heavenly places,” Ephesians 1:20-23; Colossians 3:1; Hebrews 1:3.
a. Where: “Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, and cometh down from the Father of lights, with who is no variableness, neither shadow of turning. Of his own will begat he us with the word of truth, that we should be a kind of firstfruits of his creatures,” James 1:17-18.
b. We have become new creations, Ephesians 2:10. New creatures in Christ Jesus, 2 Corinthians 5:17. Whereby, Christ has: "Given unto us exceeding great and precious promises: that by these we might be partakers of the divine nature, having escaped the corruption that is in this world through lust," 2 Peter 1:3-4. At our next gathering, we will consider the last lesson, in this sermon-series: “Fit-to-Fight,” “the equipment safeties.” May God bless each of you as I conclude this lesson, recall we discussed--
CONCLUSION
A. Outline.
2. The Engagement Strategies
B. Summarize main points.
1. In this second lesson in the sermon-series: “Fit-to-Fight” we considered the saint's “engagement strategies” in sustained warfare: during their temptations, trials, and spiritual conflicts. Paul mentions: "For we (you and I) wrestle not against flesh and blood, but principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high places," Ephesians 6:12.
2. These are the devil's principalities, powers, rulers of this world's darkness, and spiritual wickedness in high places (above the earthly realm). Paul was engaged in a battle for the gospel's message; he waged within the household of Caesar and the Roman government: while a prisoner of Rome.
C. Invitation. Present the pattern of conversion, H.B.R.C.B.
D. Exhortation.
E. Motivation.
References:
1. Matthew Henry's Concise Commentary on the Bible, by Matthew Henry, Christian Classics Ethereal Library, Grand Rapids, MI, 1706.
2. The People's New Testament, by B. W. Johnson, Christian Publishing Company, Grand Rapids, MI, 1891.
3. The New Greek-English Interlinear New Testament; United Bible Societies,’ Fourth, Corrected Edition, Tyndale House Publishers, Inc., Wheaton, IL, 1990.
4. Textus Receptus, taken from the Greek Text of Stephens 1550, The Englishman’s Greek New Testament, Zondervan Publishing House, Grand Rapids, Michigan, First Zondervan Printing, 1970.
5. New Testament Commentary, “Galatians, Ephesians, Philippians, Colossians and Philemon,” by William Hendriksen, Baker Books House Company, P. O. Box 6287, Grand Rapids, Michigan, 49516, First Printing, December 1995.
6. Commentary Critical and Explanatory on the Whole Bible, by Robert Jamieson, A. R. Fausset, and David Brown, BlueLetterBible.org, 1871.
7. The Operations Process, Field Manual No. 5-0, Headquarters Department of the Army, Washington, DC, 26 March 2010.
I submit this verse unto you that I may: “Render therefore to all their dues: tributes to whom tribute is due; custom to whom custom; fear to whom fear; and honor to whom honor, (is due),” Romans 13:7. I acknowledge my consultation with these distinguished authors in this lesson.
Ron Freeman, Evangelist
ronald.e.freeman@wwmchurchofchrist.org
https://wwmchurchofchrist.org/
Website: https://en.gravatar.com/refreeman
