The Spiritual Warfare Of The Believer

Spiritual Warfare Of The Believer

II Corinthians 10:3-4 (KJV) For though we walk in the flesh, we do not war after the flesh: (For the weapons of our warfare are not carnal, but mighty through God to the pulling down of strong holds;)

As always, the words of the King James Bible will be our: (Acts 17:2, 11)

• Source of information.
• Basis of reasoning.
• Standard of measure.
• Final authority. 

When listening to teaching and preaching, it’s good to remember:

• There are no infallible preachers or teachers on the planet. (Romans 3:4; I Thessalonians 2:13)
• Christians need to be careful not to set up human (Preacher-Teacher) idols in their hearts. 
• We must measure all things by the words of God (the Scriptures, Authorized Version otherwise known as King James Bible). 
• If you disagree with something a preacher or teacher says, that’s okay.
• You don’t have to agree with everything a preacher says on everything to be saved. 

I. The Outcome.

 I want to say clearly and emphatically.

a. God wins the war. “He shall reign forever and ever.” The Lord Jesus Christ is the Victor.

 Revelation 11:15 (KJV) And the seventh angel sounded; and there were great voices in heaven, saying, The kingdoms of this world are become the kingdoms of our Lord, and of his Christ; and he shall reign for ever and ever.

b. The Devil and all rebel beings are defeated and will never harm anyone again.

Revelation 20:10 (KJV) And the devil that deceived them was cast into the lake of fire and brimstone, where the beast and the false prophet are, and shall be tormented day and night for ever and ever.

c. God creates New Heavens and a New Earth wherein dwells righteousness.

2 Peter 3:13 (KJV) Nevertheless we, according to his promise, look for new heavens and a new earth, wherein dwelleth righteousness.

II,  All Believers are involved in SPIRITUAL warfare. (I say the believer, even though these passages deal largely with Ministers.)
 
1, II Corinthians 10:3-4 (KJV) For though we walk in the flesh, we do not war after the flesh: (For the weapons of our warfare are not carnal, but mighty through God to the pulling down of strong holds;)

a. Ministers in the direct context,
b. We are not in fleshly, carnal, or physical warfare. Enemies are not physical.
c. We are in a spiritual warfare. Enemies are literal spirit beings.

2. II Timothy 2:3-4 (KJV) Thou therefore endure hardness, as a good soldier of Jesus Christ. No man that warreth entangleth himself with the affairs of this life; that he may please him who hath chosen him to be a soldier.

•  Again, ministers are in direct context, but true for all.
• Christian minister must remain disentangled from the affairs of this life.
• Ministers are sometimes accused or misrepresented who remain disentangled from the world’s politics, endeavors, values, ambitions, gains.
• Not physical warfare. 

3. I Corinthians 9:7 (KJV) Who goeth a warfare any time at his own charges? who planteth a vineyard, and eateth not of the fruit thereof? or who feedeth a flock, and eateth not of the milk of the flock?

•  Ministers in context.
• Bible believing Ministers, Evangelists (Missionaries), Pastors-Teachers are involved in intensified spiritual warfare because they are involved in the immediate purpose and working of God.
• They are targets of concentrated spiritual attacks because they preach and teach publicly. Anyone engaged in soulwinning will be under a concentrated spiritual attack. Anyone preaching or teaching the truth.
• The Devil wants to hinder, stop, or destroy their ministry.

4. I Timothy 1:18 (KJV) This charge I commit unto thee, son Timothy, according to the prophecies which went before on thee, that thou by them mightest war a good warfare;

• Minister in context again.
• Evangelists, (Missionaries), Pastors-Teachers are engaged in spiritual warfare on an intensified level.

III. With whom are we at war? The spiritual enemies of the believer. 

Ephesians 6:10-13 (KJV) Finally, my brethren, be strong in the Lord, and in the power of his might. Put on the whole armour of God, that ye may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil. For we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high places. Wherefore take unto you the whole armor of God, that ye may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand.

1. Paul speaking to Christians.
2. Enemies are not flesh and blood. We don’t have physical enemies. 
3. But this doesn’t mean that people, false religious people, apostate people, Bible-rejecting people, etc. won’t oppose you or do everything in their power to stop you.
4. But there is a spiritual force behind all this opposition.

• Spirit beings in rebellion to God.

1. The Devil (Lucifer, SATAN, THE Dragon) – THE uNCLEAN sPIRIT (Devils, unclean spirits)

1 Peter 5:8 (KJV) Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil, as a roaring lion, walketh about, seeking whom he may devour:

1 Timothy 4:1 (KJV) Now the Spirit speaketh expressly, that in the latter times some shall depart from the faith, giving heed to seducing spirits, and doctrines of devils; 

Isaiah 14:12-15 (KJV) How art thou fallen from heaven, O Lucifer, son of the morning! how art thou cut down to the ground, which didst weaken the nations! For thou hast said in thine heart, I will ascend into heaven, I will exalt my throne above the stars of God: I will sit also upon the mount of the congregation, in the sides of the north: I will ascend above the heights of the clouds; I will be like the most High. Yet thou shalt be brought down to hell, to the sides of the pit.

2. Angels

Colossians 2:18 (KJV) Let no man beguile you of your reward in a voluntary humility and worshipping of angels, intruding into those things which he hath not seen, vainly puffed up by his fleshly mind,

Romans 8:38 (KJV) For I am persuaded, that neither death, nor life, nor angels, nor principalities, nor powers, nor things present, nor things to come,

3. Principalities (Princes).

Ephesians 6:12 (KJV) For we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high places.

Romans 8:38 (KJV) For I am persuaded, that neither death, nor life, nor angels, nor principalities, nor powers, nor things present, nor things to come,

Ephesians 3:10 (KJV) To the intent that now unto the principalities and powers in heavenly places might be known by the church the manifold wisdom of God,

Daniel 10:13 (KJV) But the prince of the kingdom of Persia withstood me one and twenty days: but, lo, Michael, one of the chief princes, came to help me; and I remained there with the kings of Persia. (Look what this guy looks like, See verses 5-13)

Daniel 10:20-21 (KJV) Then said he, Knowest thou wherefore I come unto thee? and now will I return to fight with the prince of Persia: and when I am gone forth, lo, the prince of Grecia shall come. But I will shew thee that which is noted in the scripture of truth: and there is none that holdeth with me in these things, but Michael your prince.

John 12:31 (KJV) Now is the judgment of this world: now shall the prince of this world be cast out.

Ephesians 2:2 (KJV) Wherein in time past ye walked according to the course of this world, according to the prince of the power of the air, the spirit that now worketh in the children of disobedience:

4. Powers. (Spiritual, Spirit Powers)

Ephesians 6:12 (KJV) For we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high places.

Mark 13:25 (KJV) And the stars of heaven shall fall, and the powers that are in heaven shall be shaken.

Luke 21:26 (KJV) Men's hearts failing them for fear, and for looking after those things which are coming on the earth: for the powers of heaven shall be shaken.

Romans 8:38, 39 (KJV) For I am persuaded, that neither death, nor life, nor angels, nor principalities, nor powers, nor things present, nor things to come, Nor height, nor depth, nor any other creature, shall be able to separate us from the love of God, which is in Christ Jesus our Lord.

Ephesians 3:10 (KJV) To the intent that now unto the principalities and powers in heavenly places might be known by the church the manifold wisdom of God,

Colossians 1:16 (KJV) For by him were all things created, that are in heaven, and that are in earth, visible and invisible, whether they be thrones, or dominions, or principalities, or powers: all things were created by him, and for him:

Colossians 2:15 (KJV) And having spoiled principalities and powers, he made a shew of them openly, triumphing over them in it.

1 Peter 3:22 (KJV) Who is gone into heaven and is on the right hand of God; angels and authorities and powers being made subject unto him.

5. Rulers of the darkness of this world.

Ephesians 6:12 (KJV) For we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high places.

Luke 22:53 (KJV) When I was daily with you in the temple, ye stretched forth no hands against me: but this is your hour, and the power of darkness.

Colossians 1:13 (KJV) Who hath delivered us from the power of darkness, and hath translated us into the kingdom of his dear Son:

6. Spiritual wickedness in high places

Ephesians 6:10-13 (KJV) Finally, my brethren, be strong in the Lord, and in the power of his might. Put on the whole armour of God, that ye may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil. For we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high places.

Isaiah 24:20-21 (KJV) The earth shall reel to and fro like a drunkard, and shall be removed like a cottage; and the transgression thereof shall be heavy upon it; and it shall fall, and not rise again. And it shall come to pass in that day, that the LORD shall punish the host of the high ones that are on high, and the kings of the earth upon the earth.

Ephesians 3:10 (KJV) To the intent that now unto the principalities and powers in heavenly places might be known by the church the manifold wisdom of God,

IV. WHAT IS THE GOAL OF THE ENEMY. What is the warfare over?
 

1. He can’t have the Heavens… They belong to God and will be recreated. Genesis 14:22 (KJV) And Abram said to the king of Sodom, I have lift up mine hand unto the LORD, the most high God, the possessor of heaven and earth,
2. He can’t have the Earth…. This belongs to God. 1 Corinthians 10:26 (KJV) For the earth is the Lord's, and the fulness thereof.
3. He can’t have the Nations…. God has a plan for these. Psalm 86:9 (KJV) All nations whom thou hast made shall come and worship before thee, O Lord; and shall glorify thy name. Psalm 82:8 (KJV) Arise, O God, judge the earth: for thou shalt inherit all nations.
4. He can’t have the Governments…. Those belong to His Son Isaiah 9:6 (KJV) For unto us a child is born, unto us a son is given: and the government shall be upon his shoulder: and his name shall be called Wonderful, Counseller, The mighty God, The everlasting Father, The Prince of Peace.
5. THEN WHAT IS THE PURPOSE OF THE BATTLE? WHAT DOES THE DEVIL FIGHT WITH EVERY BELIEVER OVER? Thoughts? Time? Truth? Speaking? Preaching? Teaching?
6. The purpose of the Warfare is to damn the lost souls that he holds captive and hostage.  2 Timothy 2:24-26 (KJV) And the servant of the Lord must not strive; but be gentle unto all men, apt to teach, patient, In meekness instructing those that oppose themselves; if God peradventure will give them repentance to the acknowledging of the truth; And that they may recover themselves out of the snare of the devil, who are taken captive by him at his will.

V. THE SPIRITUAL WAR IS OVER SOULS.
 

1. the lord is involved in saving SOULS:
    
   1. I Timothy 1:15 (KJV) This is a faithful saying, and worthy of all acceptation, that Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners; of whom I am chief.
      He came to save sinners.
   2. The Battle is not to establish the political rule of the church over the world. (Luke 1)
   3. The Battle is not to enable the church to control all world affairs. (Luke
   4. The Battle is not to spread the Kingdom of Heaven on earth.  
   5. Christian Spiritual Warfare is to get sinners off the planet and into heaven before the earth burns to a crisp.
   6. The Battle is not to “Christianize” the nations.  The Lord Jesus Christ is evangelizing sinners.
   7. The Battle is not to establish world peace through the church. (Isaiah 9; Luke 1)
   8. The Battle is not to take back the governments of the world through the church.
   9. He is calling believers to preach the gospel.
   10. The Battle is not to enable the church to bring about a perfect society. Man’s rejection of God’s word will never allow this to happen. 
   11. Jesus Christ is going to do these wonderfulthings. 

The above are:

• Sidetrack (Diversions)
• Distract (Distractions)
• Entangle
• Divide (Divisions)

God is interested in and all the spiritual battle going on around us is over the salvation of a soul.

VI. God Has Made Provision for Our Protection, Battle, victory.

Ephesians 6:10-18 (KJV) Finally, my brethren, be strong in the Lord, and in the power of his might. Put on the whole armour of God, that ye may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil. For we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high places. Wherefore take unto you the whole armour of God, that ye may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand. Stand therefore, having your loins girt about with truth, and having on the breastplate of righteousness; And your feet shod with the preparation of the gospel of peace; Above all, taking the shield of faith, wherewith ye shall be able to quench all the fiery darts of the wicked. And take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God: Praying always with all prayer and supplication in the Spirit, and watching thereunto with all perseverance and supplication for all saints;

1.Put on the whole armor of god….

•  The armor is God’s. These are not things that we generate or produce.
• It must be put on. You and I must put this armor on!
• It must be put on in its entirety.

2. Having your Loins girt about with truth. Loins (heart and mind) filled with truth. Wrapped in truth. Tell yourself the truth. Preach and teach the truth to yourself. Self protection.

•  John 14:6 (KJV) Jesus saith unto him, I am the way, the truth, and the life: no man cometh unto the Father, but by me. Heart and mind filled with Jesus Christ.

1. Thoughts about Him.
2. Scriptures regarding Him.
3. Belief and confidence in Him.
4. Songs about His Sacrifice, Salvation, and Victory.

•  John 17:17 (KJV) Sanctify them through thy truth: thy word is truth.

1.  Truth of the word of God.
2. The way of Salvation.
3. The power of Jesus’ Blood.
4. The truths of our security in Christ.
5. The promises of the word.
6. The Character (Name) of God

3. Having on the BREASTPLATE OF RIGHTEOUSNESS.

The righteousness of God. 

Romans 10:3-4 (KJV) For they being ignorant of God's righteousness, and going about to establish their own righteousness, have not submitted themselves unto the righteousness of God. For Christ is the end of the law for righteousness to every one that believeth.
Philippians 3:9 (KJV) And be found in him, not having mine own righteousness, which is of the law, but that which is through the faith of Christ, the righteousness which is of God by faith:
Romans 3:21-22 (KJV) But now the righteousness of God without the law is manifested, being witnessed by the law and the prophets; Even the righteousness of God which is by faith of Jesus Christ unto all and upon all them that believe: for there is no difference:

• The breastplate protects vital organs.

4. (HAVING) YOUR FEET SHOD WITH THE PREPARATION OF THE GOSPEL OF PEACE.

•  Can’t stand up without feet.
•  Can’t move without feet.
•  Feet needed to be wrapped and protected in battle.
•  Feet thoroughly covered, wrapped, protected by the gospel of peace.
•  The Gospel of Peace

5. TAKING THE SHIELD OF FAITH.

•  Belief, Trust, Reliance
•  Believe, Trust, Rely on the word, the gospel, the promises, the revealed truth, the Lord Jesus Christ, God the Father, the Holy Ghost. 

6. TAKE THE HELMET OF SALVATION.

• You can injure many parts of your body but you can’t come home carrying your head under your arm.
•  Salvation truths must protect your brain and mind. Mind resting on the truths of salvation.

7. (TAKE) THE SWORD OF THE SPIRIT, WHICH IS THE WORD OF GOD.

•  Scripture verses
•  Scripture truths
•  Scripture promises
•  Scripture invitations
•  Scripture reproofs

8. PRAYING ALWAYS.

•  Prayer – Always in communication with God.
•  Whisper prayer while you walk, drive, work, play, run, exercise, etc.

9. Additional Weaponry.

1.  The Blood of Jesus Christ. Revelation 12:11 (KJV) And they overcame him by the blood of the Lamb, and by the word of their testimony; and they loved not their lives unto the death.
   Romans 3:25 (KJV) Whom God hath set forth to be a propitiation through faith in his blood, to declare his righteousness for the remission of sins that are past, through the forbearance of God;
   Hebrews 10:19 (KJV) Having therefore, brethren, boldness to enter into the holiest by the blood of Jesus,
2. Singing. Ephesians 5:19 (KJV) Speaking to yourselves in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing and making melody in your heart to the Lord;
   Colossians 3:16 (KJV) Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly in all wisdom; teaching and admonishing one another in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing with grace in your hearts to the Lord.
   Psalm 100:1-2 (KJV) Make a joyful noise unto the LORD, all ye lands. Serve the LORD with gladness: come before his presence with singing.
3. Meditation – Filling the mind with truth. Psalm 5:1 (KJV), Give ear to my words, O LORD, consider my meditation.
4. Faith – Believing what God says. 1 Peter 5:8-9 (KJV) Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil, as a roaring lion, walketh about, seeking whom he may devour: Whom resist stedfast in the faith, knowing that the same afflictions are accomplished in your brethren that are in the world.
5. Preaching – The Gospel. New Testament truths.
6. Teaching – The Gospel. New Testament truths.

Conclusion:

• We are involved in a very real Spiritual War.
• The Spiritual War is ultimately for souls.
• Are you engaged in the battle for souls?
• Don’t get sidetracked