What is Spiritual Warfare?

One of my favorite movies from the 90s is The Usual Suspects. While I’m not a film critic, I would say it’s one of the best. This movie depicts a con artist who ruthlessly escapes capture through deception and lies. The final scene closes with this incredible line: “The greatest trick the devil ever pulled was convincing the world he didn’t exist.”

I love that quote because it encapsulates the reality of the spiritual battles we face with our unseen Enemy, who also uses lies and deception against us. As Ephesians warns:

“For we do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the cosmic powers over this present darkness, against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly places.” Ephesians 6:12

The Christian life is not a playground; it is a battleground. Therefore, we must be wise to the nature of the battle we face. Ephesians describes this battle as a wrestle against “the rulers… authorities…. and powers of this present darkness.” Followers of Christ are opposed, harassed, and oppressed by the one Jesus called “the Father of lies.”  Perhaps you have questions about this battle. I know I sure did for many years.

• What is spiritual warfare, and how do we stand against it?
• Are demons just something Hollywood created to sell movies?
• Is Satan real or simply an outdated notion?
• How do we know if the battles we face are more than just our insecurities or fears?
• Does the armor of God really work?

These questions and more are answered in Season 4 of This Redeemed Life Podcast as we wrap up our verse-by-verse study of Ephesians. This season we begin with Spiritual Warfare 101. Then, in upcoming episodes, we take a hard look at scripture to expose the various schemes of the Enemy. Then, we will examine each piece of the Armor of God in detail. Finally, we will conclude our study of Ephesians by reviewing the life of the Apostle Paul and marveling at how he stood firm against the forces of darkness.

My goal in these teachings is not to evoke fear. Instead, my goal is for you to grow in discernment and to understand the nature of the battle you are facing. Second, I want to equip you with the tools you need to stand firm. And finally, I want to encourage your faith so that you know Jesus wins!

In all these things we are more than conquerors through him who loved us. Romans 8:37

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