Weekly Sermons

The God of our struggle

Affirmation:

The secret of victory in the Christian life is saying “Yes” to God the Holy Spirit, one decision at a time.

And I also say to you that you are Peter, and on this rock I will build my church, and the gates of Hades shall not prevail against it.   -Matthew 16:18

Jesus’ words let us know that there is a spiritual battle going on in this world that He has equipped believers to victorious in!

Read Ephesians 6:10-20              The God of our struggle               Let’s Pray!

The essence of our life’s battle is spiritual                                                   V. 10-12

Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the Devil walks about like a roaring lion, seeking whom he may devour. Resist him, steadfast in the faith, knowing that the same sufferings are experienced by your brotherhood in the world.                         -1 Peter 5:8-9

Christians are in a battle, not WITH people, but FOR people!

For I am not ashamed of the gospel of Jesus Christ, for it is the power of God to everyone who believes.                                 -Romans 1:16a

The equipment for our spiritual battle                                                          V. 13-20

Put on the belt of truth                                                                           V. 14

The key here about the belt of truth is that God’s truth sustains and focuses the believer in their spiritual fight.

Therefore gird up the loins of your mind, be sober…        -1 Peter 1:13a

Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, that you may prove what is that good and acceptable and perfect will of God.                                       -Romans 12:2

Put on the breastplate of righteousness, faith and love              V. 14

For He made Him who knew no sin to become sin for us, that we might become the righteousness of God in Him.                -2 Corinthians 5:21

The key about the breastplate of righteousness is that Christians have God’s protection as they serve Him.

But let us who are of the day be sober, putting on the breastplate of faith and love, and as a helmet the hope of salvation.           -1 Thessalonians 5:8

Guard your heart with all diligence, for out of it spring the issues of life.                                                                                                                  -Prov. 4:23

Put on the gospel boots                                                              V. 15

The key to putting on the gospel boots is our readiness to share the gospel, fulfilling the Great Commission purpose God has for every believer.

Do you have a firm belief that the number one thing you could do today is lead someone to Jesus?

But sanctify the Lord God in your hearts, and always be ready to give a defense to everyone who asks you a reason for the hope that is in you, with meekness and fear.                            -1 Peter 3:15

Take up the shield of faith                                                         V. 16

The key to wielding the shield of faith is to deflect away Satan’s lies with confidence in God’s person, precepts, promises, and power.

Take up the helmet of salvation                                              V. 16

The key here is us having assurance of salvation. If you know you are trusting Christ alone for salvation, you can enter a day without fear! You are eternally secure in Jesus!

Take up the sword of the Spirit (the Bible)                          V. 17

Take up prayer in the Spirit                                                       V. 17-20