Sermon Notes 4/7 – Cosmic Conflict

  The Invisible World

                                          Ephesians 6:10-20

There is an Invisible world – Ephesians 6:12/Col 1:15-17/1 Timothy 1:17

-it is not visible to the physical eye

          3 Points To Remember

      1. The Invisible World Can Become visible

      2. We can see the effects of the invisible world

      3. Our eyes need to be opened – 2 Kings 6:16-17

-we are in a spiritual struggle – Eph 6:12 – the word struggle or wrestle refers to hand to hand combat between opponents

-the devil and demons are real, exist and attack

Emphasize the Works and Person of Jesus Christ over the Woks and Influence of the Enemy – Matthew 8:16-17

                2 Errors

           1. to disbelieve in the existence of a devil and demons

           2. to have an excessive & unhealthy interest in demons

-the enemy is defeated and we are seated in Christ in heavenly places – Eph 2:6

             REMEMBER: WE DO NOT FIGHT FOR VICTORY, BUT WE FIGHT                  FROM A POSITION OF VICTORY

***THE WAR AGAINST THE ENEMY IS AN INSIDE AND OUTSIDE WAR

            An Inside War – Matthew 12:43-45 – only unbelievers can be demon possessed

            An Outside War – Colossians 1:13 – demons can only oppress believers from the outside.  The Holy Spirit lives within all believers

                WE CAN EXPECT A SPIRITUAL ATTACK WHEN WE ARE:

1. Taking Significant Steps of Faith for Spiritual Growth

-expect a ferocious assault from the enemy

2. Invading Enemy Territory – Luke 8:26-27

3. Realizing the Lord is Preparing us for Something Great for His Glory

Mark 1:23-25

-when the enemy makes the most noise, that is when the breakthrough is about to happen