Spiritual Warfare

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Have you ever had an experience where you wondered if there had been some demonic influence? What happened?

Cultivate

Summary: Whether we realize it or not, we are in a spiritual battle. We can be assured, however, that Jesus Christ is victorious over demons and has all authority and power over them. Our best defense in this war is to remain close to Jesus and constantly use what he has given us to “be strong in the Lord and in His mighty power” (Ephesians 6:10, New International Version). The battle we fight is primarily for the truth we believe.

Spiritual warfare is a complex subject with many points of view. This short introduction may raise more questions than answers. That’s okay. If needed, please go through some of the spiritual warfare resources found in Collaborative Discipleship’s In-Depth Resources section.

Read Ephesians 6:10-18 and ask the following questions:

1. What do you like about this passage?

2. What do you find uncomfortable or difficult to understand in this passage?

3. What appears to be the main idea emphasized in this passage? (Look for repeated words or ideas.)

4. List each part of the armor of God and explain what it is.

Consider how the following passages increase our understanding of this topic:

Read 2 Corinthians 11:2-4.

• How does Satan try to lead Christians astray?

Read Ephesians 4:25-28.

• What can give the devil a foothold in a believer’s life?

Read Matthew 4:1-11.

• With what did Satan tempt Jesus?
• How did Jesus counter Satan’s temptations?

5. What are the beliefs and values promoted in these passages?

6. What do they reveal about our human condition and God’s response?

7. How are these beliefs and values similar or different from those that have influenced you? (such as your family, culture, peers, church, etc.)

8. How might our faith increase and our lives change as we embrace what is true and important?

9. In light of what we’ve discussed, how can we pray for each other right now?

Care

Since we last met, what happened as a result of expressing Christ’s love to others?

How can you, or we, express Christ’s love to others this week?

Here are a few ideas:

• Pray God would meet their deepest needs.
• Help meet a felt need they have.
• Encourage them with a text, note or verbally.
• Give them a thoughtful gift or buy them coffee.
• Invite them to do something fun or meaningful.
• Listen to their story.
• Explore their thoughts on the gospel.