-
Spiritual Warfare: Transformed By The Truth Ephesians 6:12-13 Series
Contributed by Dean Courtier on Jan 28, 2024 (message contributor)
Summary: As we immerse ourselves in the truth of Ephesians 6:12-13, we enter the realm of spiritual warfare—the unseen battle that shapes the course of our lives. Today, let's explore the transformative truth that equips us for this ongoing struggle.
Spiritual Warfare: Transformed by the Truth Ephesians 6:12-13
Introduction:
As we immerse ourselves in the truth of Ephesians 6:12-13, we enter the realm of spiritual warfare—the unseen battle that shapes the course of our lives. Today, let's explore the transformative truth that equips us for this ongoing struggle.
Point 1: The Reality of Spiritual Warfare
Ephesians 6:12 (NLT) "For we are not fighting against flesh-and-blood enemies, but against evil rulers and authorities of the unseen world, against mighty powers in this dark world, and against evil spirits in the heavenly places."
Paul unveils the reality of our battle, emphasising that our struggle extends beyond the physical realm. The adversaries we face are not mere mortals but spiritual forces operating in realms beyond our sight.
Charles Spurgeon reminds us, "Without Christ, not one step can we safely take."
2 Corinthians 10:4 (NLT) - "We use God’s mighty weapons, not worldly weapons, to knock down the strongholds of human reasoning and to destroy false arguments."
Point 2: The Armour of God
Ephesians 6:13 (NLT) "Therefore, put on every piece of God’s armour so you will be able to resist the enemy in the time of evil. Then after the battle, you will still be standing firm."
Paul urges believers to don the full armour of God—an array of spiritual defences essential for our protection and victory. This divine armour equips us to stand firm against the schemes of the enemy.
A.W. Tozer emphasises the significance of spiritual armour, stating, "The devil is a better theologian than any of us and is a devil still."
Ephesians 6:14-17 (NLT) - "Stand your ground, putting on the belt of truth and the body armour of God’s righteousness. For shoes, put on the peace that comes from the Good News so that you will be fully prepared. In addition to all of these, hold up the shield of faith to stop the fiery arrows of the devil. Put on salvation as your helmet, and take the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God."
Point 3: Standing Firm in Truth
Ephesians 6:13b (NLT) "...Then after the battle, you will still be standing firm."
The emphasis on standing firm echoes throughout the passage. In the face of spiritual onslaught, the believer's foundation is the truth of God's Word. Victory is not merely surviving the battle but standing firm in the truth.
John 8:32 (NLT) - "And you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free."
Conclusion: Transformed by the Truth in Warfare
As we navigate the spiritual warfare woven into the fabric of our existence, may we grasp the reality of the unseen battle. Let us consciously put on the armour of God, standing firm in the truth that transforms us. The victory is not in our might but in surrender to the truth that sets us free.
Application:
Evaluate your spiritual armour. Are you consistently engaging in prayer, grounding yourself in God's Word, and relying on the truth of His promises?
Call to Action:
This week, purposefully engage in prayer, saturate your mind with the truth of Scripture, and stand firm in your identity as a victorious child of God.
In the name of the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit. Amen.