“Victory Over The Darkness, Part 1”
Ephesians 6:10-24
Sermon Series: “Getting Acquainted With Jesus”
Introduction: In the last message in this series, we saw in John 1:5 that there is a battle going on between light and darkness. In other words, there is really a spiritual war going on in this world and in our lives. I believe that God wants us to examine this topic and learn how to live in victory over the darkness.
I would like to begin with some introductory observations:
The Christian life is not a playground but a battleground.
Therefore, we are soldiers in God’s army who are to live with a warrior mentality.
In this war, we need to be careful to fight the real enemy.
An integral component of a biblical worldview is the realization that there is an unseen, spiritual world that intersects with our physical universe. We are not just material beings living in a closed universe.
Satan and demons are real beings. Satan is not a figment of pre-scientific imaginations or simply a metaphor for evil.
We need to maintain a biblical balance in looking at this issue. We must not go overboard in speculation or take away from any of the clear teachings of Scripture.
Satan is stronger than us apart from the Lord, but we are stronger than him in Christ (Jude 9, 1 John 4:4, Philippians 4:13). He cannot make us do anything, and we cannot use him as an excuse when we sin (James 1:14).
We will be more of a target for Satan the more that we are faithful and fruitful in serving God.
Satan can only possess unbelievers, but he can entrap believers (2 Timothy 2:23-26).
We are not fighting for victory but from victory because Jesus won the victory on the cross (Colossians 2:13-15).
1. We can live in victory over the darkness by understanding our Enemy in the battle (v. 11-12).
2. We can live in victory over the darkness by using God’s Energy for the battle (v. 10-13, 18).
3. We can live in victory over the darkness by wearing God’s Equipment for the battle (v. 14-18).
4. We can live in victory over the darkness by sharing God’s Encouragement for the battle (v. 18-24).
1. Our Enemy: Satan and his demons
Satan’s Origin (Ezekiel 28:11-17, Isaiah 14:12-15):
Satan’s Characteristics: The word, “devil,” means “accuser.” The word, “Satan,” means “adversary.” He is also called the tempter (Matthew 4:3), and a murderer and liar (John 8:44).
Satan’s Abilities: He is very powerful, wicked, crafty, and dangerous. However, he is not the opposite of God in the sense of being all-knowing or all-powerful.
Satan’s Henchmen: Organized ranks of demons (fallen angels) [see verse 12]
Satan’s Strategy: Deception (“wiles of the devil”)
Satan’s Goal: To destroy us (John 10:10, 1 Peter 5:8)
2. Our Energy: The Power of God Through His Spirit
Salvation-“My brethren” means that Christians are being referred to. Only believers can withstand the devil.
The Lord’s Strength and Power [see Eph. 1:15-22]
The Holy Spirit (v. 18) [see 1 John 4:4]
Conclusion: Are you living in victory over the darkness? Are you a Christian? Are you overcoming in the power of Christ?
