InstaStudy

Spiritual Warfare: Engaging and Overcoming

This study explores the reality of spiritual conflict, equipping believers with biblical understanding and practical strategies to stand firm against the adversary and live in the victory provided through the Lord.

1. Understanding the Adversary

1.1 The Origin and Nature of Satan

Verses: Isaiah 14:12-15; Ezekiel 28:12-17; Luke 10:18
  • Satan was a created being, Lucifer, who fell due to pride.
  • He is a real, personal enemy, not merely an abstract force.
  • His ultimate destiny is eternal judgment.

1.2 Demonic Forces and Their Tactics

Verses: Ephesians 6:11-12; 1 Peter 5:8; John 8:44
  • Satan operates through a hierarchy of evil spirits.
  • Their primary tactics include deception, temptation, and accusation.
  • They seek to steal, kill, and destroy.

1.3 The Battlefield: Mind, Will, and Emotions

Verses: 2 Corinthians 10:3-5; Romans 12:2; Philippians 4:7-8
  • Spiritual warfare primarily takes place in our thoughts and attitudes.
  • The enemy targets our minds with lies and doubt.
  • Renewing our minds with God's Word is crucial for victory.

2. Our Authority and Identity in Christ Jesus

2.1 Jesus' Victory Over All Principalities

Verses: Colossians 2:15; Hebrews 2:14; 1 John 3:8
  • Jesus, the one God manifested in flesh, triumphed over all demonic powers at the cross.
  • He disarmed them and made a public spectacle of them.
  • His victory is complete and absolute.

2.2 Our Position as Believers

Verses: Ephesians 2:6; Romans 8:37; Luke 10:19
  • We are seated with Christ in heavenly places, far above all demonic authority.
  • Through Him, we are more than conquerors.
  • We have been given authority to tread on serpents and scorpions.

2.3 The Power of the Name of Jesus

Verses: Philippians 2:9-11; Acts 4:12; Mark 16:17
  • God has highly exalted Jesus and given Him a name above every name.
  • There is salvation and power in no other name.
  • Demons tremble and flee at the mention of His name.

3. The Armor of God and Spiritual Weapons

3.1 Girding with Truth and Righteousness

Verses: Ephesians 6:14; John 17:17; 2 Corinthians 5:21
  • Truth protects us from deception and lies.
  • Righteousness, received through Christ, guards our hearts.
  • Living righteously strengthens our stand against evil.

3.2 The Gospel of Peace and the Shield of Faith

Verses: Ephesians 6:15-16; Romans 10:15; Hebrews 11:6
  • Sharing the good news brings stability and readiness.
  • Faith extinguishes all the fiery darts of the wicked one.
  • Our trust in God's promises is our ultimate defense.

3.3 The Helmet of Salvation and the Sword of the Spirit

Verses: Ephesians 6:17; 1 Thessalonians 5:8; Hebrews 4:12
  • Assurance of salvation protects our minds from doubt and despair.
  • The Word of God is our offensive weapon, sharp and powerful.
  • We use scripture to counter the enemy's attacks.

3.4 Prayer and Supplication

Verses: Ephesians 6:18; James 5:16; 1 Thessalonians 5:17
  • Constant prayer is essential for spiritual strength and vigilance.
  • We pray in the Spirit, interceding for ourselves and others.
  • Prayer connects us to the power of the Almighty.

4. Living in Victory and Maintaining Deliverance

4.1 Repentance and Water Baptism in Jesus' Name

Verses: Acts 2:38; Acts 8:16; Acts 19:5
  • Repentance turns us from sin and towards God.
  • Water baptism in the name of Jesus Christ is for the remission of sins.
  • This act identifies us with His death, burial, and resurrection.

4.2 Receiving the Holy Spirit

Verses: Acts 2:4; Acts 10:44-46; Acts 19:6
  • The Holy Spirit is the Spirit of God, dwelling within believers.
  • It empowers us for victorious living and spiritual warfare.
  • Speaking in other tongues is the initial evidence of receiving the Spirit.

4.3 Consecration and Holiness

Verses: 1 Peter 1:15-16; Hebrews 12:14; Romans 12:1
  • Living a holy life removes footholds for the enemy.
  • We are called to be set apart for God's purposes.
  • Presenting our bodies as a living sacrifice is an act of worship.

4.4 Fellowship and Accountability

Verses: Hebrews 10:24-25; Ecclesiastes 4:9-12; Galatians 6:1-2
  • Community with other believers provides strength and encouragement.
  • We are called to bear one another's burdens.
  • Accountability helps us stay on the path of righteousness.