InstaStudy

Spiritual Warfare

A study on understanding and overcoming the forces of darkness through faith and the power of God.

1. Understanding the Enemy

1.1 The Nature of Satan

Verses: John 8:44; Revelation 12:9
  • Satan is a liar and the father of lies, constantly deceiving humanity.
  • He is the ancient serpent, also called the Devil, who leads the whole world astray.

1.2 The Kingdom of Darkness

Verses: Ephesians 6:12; Colossians 1:13
  • Our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms.
  • God has rescued us from the dominion of darkness and brought us into the kingdom of his Son.

2. Our Armor in God

2.1 The Belt of Truth

Verses: Ephesians 6:14; John 17:17
  • Truth is the foundation of our defense, securing all other pieces of armor.
  • God's word is truth, and living in accordance with it protects us from deception.

2.2 The Breastplate of Righteousness

Verses: Ephesians 6:14; 2 Corinthians 5:21
  • Righteousness guards our hearts from the attacks of the enemy.
  • We are made righteous through the sacrifice of Jesus Christ, and we maintain this righteousness through obedience.

2.3 The Gospel of Peace

Verses: Ephesians 6:15; Romans 10:15
  • Readiness to share the gospel equips us to stand firm in spiritual battles.
  • Sharing the good news of Jesus Christ brings peace to others and strengthens our own faith.

2.4 The Shield of Faith

Verses: Ephesians 6:16; Hebrews 11:1
  • Faith extinguishes all the flaming arrows of the evil one.
  • Faith is confidence in what we hope for and assurance about what we do not see, based on God's promises.

2.5 The Helmet of Salvation

Verses: Ephesians 6:17; 1 Thessalonians 5:8
  • Salvation protects our minds from doubt and despair.
  • Having the hope of salvation allows us to endure trials and resist temptation.

2.6 The Sword of the Spirit

Verses: Ephesians 6:17; Hebrews 4:12
  • The Word of God is our offensive weapon against the enemy.
  • It is living and active, sharper than any double-edged sword, penetrating to divide soul and spirit.

3. Weapons of Warfare

3.1 Prayer and Fasting

Verses: Ephesians 6:18; Matthew 17:21
  • Praying in the Spirit on all occasions with all kinds of prayers and requests is essential.
  • Fasting intensifies our prayers and weakens the power of the enemy.

3.2 The Name of Jesus

Verses: Philippians 2:9-11; Acts 3:6
  • God exalted Jesus to the highest place and gave him the name that is above every name.
  • In the name of Jesus, we can command healing, deliverance, and victory over the enemy.

3.3 The Blood of Jesus

Verses: Revelation 12:11; Hebrews 9:14
  • We overcome the enemy by the blood of the Lamb and by the word of our testimony.
  • The blood of Jesus cleanses us from all sin and gives us access to God's presence.

4. Living in Victory

4.1 Renewing Your Mind

Verses: Romans 12:2; Philippians 4:8
  • Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind.
  • Think about whatever is true, noble, right, pure, lovely, admirable, excellent, or praiseworthy.

4.2 Resisting the Devil

Verses: James 4:7; 1 Peter 5:9
  • Submit yourselves, then, to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you.
  • Stand firm in the faith, knowing that the family of believers throughout the world is undergoing the same kind of sufferings.