"The Resistance (Pt.2)"
TEXTS: James 4:7; 1 Cor. 7; Eph. 6; Matt. 12:25
TRUTHS:
1. The Scriptures proclaim and reveal that God is Trinitarian in nature. Meaning, He exists as three equally divine persons (Father, Son, and Spirit), and all three persons are in perfect and total unity with one another. One of the clearest examples highlighting this unique and compelling aspect of God's nature can be found during the baptism of Jesus. The account of Jesus' baptism clearly displays the three distinct persons of the Godhead working independently but also in obvious relation to one another. Therefore, it can be said that God is one Being, who exists in three distinguishable Persons. The Bible similarly speaks of persons who could/should be viewed as the ‘unholy trinity’. This evil “version” and adaptation of the Trinitarian Godhead consists of the following persons: (1) Satan, (2) the beast, and (3) false prophets.
2. Throughout the Bible God uses a variety of names when referring to Himself. These individual names are used to highlight a particular aspect of His character and nature. Additionally, the Bible uses this same method of revelation concerning the powers of evil and darkness. Satan is given many names and nicknames throughout the Bible so we—as the children of God—are better prepared to resist him and the temptation to sin.
3. The Bible speaks of unclean, demonic entities that oppose the work of God in and through humanity. This demonic “world” is jarring, creepy, and driven by fear. Believers should refrain from investigating this reality and its' implications simply because they are curious and/or assume that it will provide a thrilling interaction.
4. How does spiritual and moral transformation take place amongst a group of people within a specific region? Individual persons hear the gospel, receive the gospel, and then proceed to humbly live out the gospel. Consequently, a region is transformed as individuals are transformed (think of Paul’s ministry to the Ephesians in the Book of Acts).
5. 1 Corinthians 7 emphasizes a significant truth that we should carefully consider as we endeavor to resist the devil and draw near to the Lord. In short, if you have a spouse, you are not your own. On Sunday morning we referenced this concept by using the phrase “spousal rights." Paul mentions a spouse’s obligation to fulfill their partners sexual desire, but this concept (spousal rights) stretches to virtually all other areas of life and touches each aspect of the martial relationship. As married Christians, we need to resist the temptation to ignore our spouse’s needs, wants, and, ultimately, their rights.
TALK TO EACH OTHER:
1. Throughout the Bible many names are used to refer to the devil. What are some of those names and, more importantly, what truth can we glean about the enemy of our souls and his work from the names ascribed to Him?
2. Discuss possible motivations and worldviews that would direct individuals to approach and interact with the demonic world in a foolish and haphazard manner?
3. Why is honoring the commitment of marriage (spousal rights) such an important aspect of us resisting the devil? For some people it could appear as if the two are not closely connected. In other words, how does a refusal to fulfill spousal rights "open the door" to the enemy?
4. How should Truth Four shape our view of the culture we live in? How might it inform and direct what a local church focuses on and aims for?
TALK TO GOD:
Pray as you feel led concerning the following areas:
- That we would continue to "clean our garments" and cry out for more of God's saving power to be displayed in our families, our church, and our community
- For the Spirit's help and empowerment as we aim to please our spouses, resist the devil, and advance God's Kingdom
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