InstaStudy

Spiritual Warfare

An outline for studying spiritual warfare.

1. Identifying the Adversary

1.1 Understanding the Enemy

Verses: Ephesians 6:12; 1 Peter 5:8
  • Our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against spiritual forces.
  • The devil is like a roaring lion, seeking whom he may devour.
  • We must be aware of the enemy's tactics and strategies.

1.2 The Nature of Satan

Verses: John 8:44; Revelation 12:9
  • Satan is a liar and the father of lies.
  • He deceives the whole world.
  • He was a murderer from the beginning.

2. Equipping for Battle

2.1 The Armor of God

Verses: Ephesians 6:13-17
  • We must put on the whole armor of God to stand against the enemy.
  • The armor includes truth, righteousness, peace, faith, salvation, and the Word of God.
  • Prayer is essential for wielding the armor effectively.

2.2 The Belt of Truth

Verses: John 14:6; John 8:32
  • Truth is essential for spiritual warfare.
  • Knowing the truth sets us free from deception.
  • Jesus is the way, the truth, and the life.

2.3 The Sword of the Spirit

Verses: Hebrews 4:12; Ephesians 6:17
  • The Word of God is living and powerful.
  • It is sharper than any two-edged sword.
  • We must use the Word to combat the enemy's lies.

3. Wielding Spiritual Weapons

3.1 The Power of Prayer

Verses: James 5:16; Ephesians 6:18
  • The effective, fervent prayer of a righteous man avails much.
  • We must pray in the Spirit on all occasions.
  • Prayer is a powerful weapon against the enemy.

3.2 Fasting and Spiritual Warfare

Verses: Matthew 17:21; Isaiah 58:6
  • Fasting can break strongholds and loose the bonds of wickedness.
  • Some demons only come out through prayer and fasting.
  • Fasting humbles us and draws us closer to God.

4. Achieving Victory

4.1 Overcoming Temptation

Verses: 1 Corinthians 10:13; James 4:7
  • God is faithful and will not allow us to be tempted beyond what we can bear.
  • Resist the devil, and he will flee from you.
  • We must flee from youthful lusts and pursue righteousness.

4.2 Casting Down Imaginations

Verses: 2 Corinthians 10:5
  • We must cast down arguments and every high thing that exalts itself against the knowledge of God.
  • Bring every thought into captivity to the obedience of Christ.
  • Renew our minds with the Word of God.

5. Maintaining the Victory

5.1 The Authority of the Believer

Verses: Luke 10:19; Mark 16:17-18
  • We have been given authority to trample on serpents and scorpions.
  • In Jesus' name, we can cast out demons and heal the sick.
  • This authority is exercised through faith and obedience.

5.2 Living in the Spirit

Verses: Galatians 5:16; Romans 8:14
  • Walk in the Spirit, and you will not gratify the desires of the flesh.
  • Those who are led by the Spirit of God are the sons of God.
  • The Spirit empowers us to overcome the enemy.