Posts

Showing posts from September, 2024

How to Read the Bible for Purpose and Power

Why is God's Word Important?      John 1:1-14 emphasizes that God's Word has existed since the beginning. It is not just a book but a revelation of who God is. The Word was with God and was God, and it became flesh in the form of Jesus Christ. This underscores the divine nature and eternal significance of the Scriptures.      God's Word is essential for knowing Him. His revelation to us explains His nature, will, and plans for humanity. Without the Bible, our understanding of God would be limited to what others tell us, which is insufficient for a deep, personal relationship with Him. Why Should We Read the Bible?           2 Timothy 3:16-17 states that all Scripture is God-breathed and useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting, and training in righteousness. This equips us for every good work, helping us live lives that reflect God's will.      Romans 12:2 urges us not to conform to the patterns of this world but to be transformed by the renewing of our minds. Reading

Winning the Battle

     Spiritual warfare is the battle between good and evil, fought not with physical weapons but with spiritual ones. Ephesians 6:10-18 outlines the armor of God, emphasizing that our struggle is not against flesh and blood but against spiritual forces of evil.      The objective of spiritual warfare is to avoid defeat and achieve victory. Many Christians live defensively, trying to avoid losing ground to the enemy. However, the goal is to take new ground for God's kingdom.      Ephesians 6:10-18 describes the armor of God, which includes the belt of truth, the breastplate of righteousness, the gospel of peace, the shield of faith, the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit. These elements are crucial for defense.      The sword of the Spirit (the Word of God) and prayer are unique because they serve both defensive and offensive purposes. They protect us from the enemy's attacks and enable us to take the fight to him.      Possession implies control, while oppression

Armor All or Not Armored at All

     Spiritual warfare refers to the battles we face that are invisible to the naked eye. These battles are spiritual in nature and require spiritual tools to combat them. Satan prowls around like a roaring lion, seeking to devour us (1 Peter 5:8). He hides and waits for moments when we are not paying attention to pounce on us.      Satan's daily activity is to steal, kill, and destroy (John 10:10). He prowls around, looking for someone to devour. This imagery is significant because it shows Satan is strategic and patient, waiting for the right attack.      Ephesians 6:10-18 tells us to put on the full armor of God so that we can stand against the devil's schemes. This armor is not optional; it is essential for our spiritual survival. Without it, we are vulnerable to Satan's attacks. Components of the Armor 1. Belt of Truth : Knowing what is true about God and ourselves. 2. Breastplate of Righteousness : Standing in God's righteousness and living it out. 3. Gospel of Pe