Some followers of Christ tend to overemphasize the role of the devil, blaming him for every conflict, sin and problem. At the other extreme are those who completely ignore the fact that the Bible speaks about a battle against spiritual powers. In the light of these two extremes, it becomes important to help believers understand spiritual warfare. Many Christian authors have written about this topic and their books are sold at online stores today. Fighting against the enemies of God is part of establishing His kingdom. This is not carnal or fleshly aggression. It is using discernment, authority and unwavering faith to overcome evil.
The idea of having to fight is not something that is easily accepted. Wars have caused much devastation on earth. However, the scriptures use war imagery and so it cannot be ignored. An understanding of what is meant by this type of warfare can help. The apostle Paul urges Christians to war against the sin in themselves and against the evil one. So, what does he actually mean by this?
Firstly, this is not a war against enemies of flesh and blood. Believers are not fighting against other people like themselves. They are fighting a completely different kind of fight against powers and principalities. They are fighting what is unseen.
The weapons like guns and bombs used in ordinary warfare are completely useless in such a battle. In fighting this battle, Paul urges believers to wear the belt of truth, the breastplate of integrity, the shoes of peace, the shield of faith and the helmet of salvation. Their sword is the Word of God. This armor is what enables the believer to stand up against all the strategies of the devil. When he tries to deceive, tempt or accuse, these are the weapons that are effective.
This battle is not motivated by hatred but by love. When a mother sees that her children are under threat of any kind, her deep love motivates her to fight for them. It was the deep love of God for mankind that motivated Him to send His son to His death on the cross. A victory was won on the cross and this has to be claimed by believers and become a reality in their lives.
When Christ died on the cross, this gave His believers all the authority they need to overcome the evil one. It is not enough to simply be defensive. Christians have to attack, using the sword of the Word. They need to take ground and stand firm.
Believers may become discouraged in the course of the battle. This is when faith and perseverance are essential. They need to turn to God to receive new strength instead of giving in to futility and giving up before victory is fully established.
Many Christians feel a sense of inadequacy when it comes to waging war. However, their strength lies in trusting God and not relying on their own strength. God has already won the victory. They simply have to believe this until it becomes a reality in their lives.
The idea of having to fight is not something that is easily accepted. Wars have caused much devastation on earth. However, the scriptures use war imagery and so it cannot be ignored. An understanding of what is meant by this type of warfare can help. The apostle Paul urges Christians to war against the sin in themselves and against the evil one. So, what does he actually mean by this?
Firstly, this is not a war against enemies of flesh and blood. Believers are not fighting against other people like themselves. They are fighting a completely different kind of fight against powers and principalities. They are fighting what is unseen.
The weapons like guns and bombs used in ordinary warfare are completely useless in such a battle. In fighting this battle, Paul urges believers to wear the belt of truth, the breastplate of integrity, the shoes of peace, the shield of faith and the helmet of salvation. Their sword is the Word of God. This armor is what enables the believer to stand up against all the strategies of the devil. When he tries to deceive, tempt or accuse, these are the weapons that are effective.
This battle is not motivated by hatred but by love. When a mother sees that her children are under threat of any kind, her deep love motivates her to fight for them. It was the deep love of God for mankind that motivated Him to send His son to His death on the cross. A victory was won on the cross and this has to be claimed by believers and become a reality in their lives.
When Christ died on the cross, this gave His believers all the authority they need to overcome the evil one. It is not enough to simply be defensive. Christians have to attack, using the sword of the Word. They need to take ground and stand firm.
Believers may become discouraged in the course of the battle. This is when faith and perseverance are essential. They need to turn to God to receive new strength instead of giving in to futility and giving up before victory is fully established.
Many Christians feel a sense of inadequacy when it comes to waging war. However, their strength lies in trusting God and not relying on their own strength. God has already won the victory. They simply have to believe this until it becomes a reality in their lives.
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