There’s Something Spiritual Going On

Sermon Summary

Main Message

This message emphasizes the importance of recognizing the spiritual realm in our lives. We often focus on the physical aspects, such as arguments or disagreements with others, but neglect the underlying spiritual forces at play. The Bible teaches us that our struggles are not just about human interactions, but also involve spiritual entities. This understanding is crucial for living a life that honors God and overcomes the enemy's schemes.

Key Scripture References

• Ephesians 6:12 - "For we do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this age, against spiritual hosts of wickedness in the heavenly places." This verse highlights that our battles are not just with people, but also with spiritual forces. The word "wrestle" implies a fierce struggle, emphasizing the intensity of the spiritual warfare we face.
• Ephesians 6:13 - "Therefore take up the whole armor of God, that you may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand." This verse connects the idea of spiritual warfare with the need for spiritual preparation. We must put on the armor of God, which includes truth, righteousness, peace, faith, salvation, and the word of God, to effectively engage in this battle.
• 2 Corinthians 10:3-5 - "For though we walk in the flesh, we do not war according to the flesh, for the weapons of our warfare are not carnal but mighty in God for pulling down strongholds, casting down arguments and every high thing that exalts itself against the knowledge of God." This passage emphasizes that our spiritual battles require spiritual tools. We must use the power of God's word to overcome the enemy's strongholds.
• 1 Peter 5:8-9 - "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." This verse highlights the importance of being aware of our spiritual enemy and resisting his attacks with faith.
• Matthew 16:19 - "And I will give you the keys of the kingdom of heaven; and whatever you bind on earth will be bound in heaven, and whatever you loose on earth will be loosed in heaven." This passage connects our spiritual authority as believers with the power to bind and loose. We have the ability to influence the spiritual realm through prayer and obedience.
• James 4:7 - "Therefore submit to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you." This verse emphasizes the importance of submitting to God's authority and resisting the enemy's attacks. When we do so, He will flee from us.

Key Takeaways

• We must recognize that our struggles are not just about human interactions but also involve spiritual forces. This understanding is crucial for living a life that honors God and overcomes the enemy's schemes.
• The Bible teaches us to put on the armor of God, including truth, righteousness, peace, faith, salvation, and the word of God, to effectively engage in spiritual warfare. We must use the power of God's word to overcome the enemy's strongholds.
• We have the authority as believers to bind and loose in the spiritual realm through prayer and obedience. This requires us to submit to God's authority and resist the enemy's attacks.
• Our battles are not just with people, but also with spiritual forces. We must be aware of our spiritual enemy and resist his attacks with faith.

This Week's Challenge

This week, take time to examine your life and identify areas where you may be struggling spiritually. Ask God to reveal any strongholds or areas of resistance in your life. Then, commit to putting on the armor of God and using the power of His word to overcome these challenges. Additionally, pray for others who may be struggling with spiritual battles, asking God to give them strength and wisdom to resist the enemy's attacks.

Reflection Questions

• What areas of your life do you feel like you're struggling spiritually? How can you apply the principles of Ephesians 6:12-13 to overcome these challenges?
• How can you, as a family or small group, come together to pray and support one another in spiritual warfare? What specific actions can you take to strengthen each other's faith?
• As you go about your daily life, be aware of the spiritual forces at play. How can you use the power of God's word to overcome the enemy's schemes and bring glory to God?