Sermon Recap
Pastor Justin Kendrick explored the question, “how do we live day in, day out, the overcoming life that Christ promises?” From Ephesians chapter 6, he unpacked the reality of the spiritual world. He delved into the two primary methods of the enemy, manifested through subtle thoughts of temptation and accusation, which create cycles that keep us bound. Then he explained the key to victory is to put on our identity in Christ and that we must also apply the armor of God by taking it up in moments of difficulty and challenge. He concluded with encouragement to move from a reactive to proactive faith.
Ice Breaker Option
What's the most interesting place you've ever visited?
HEAD Read Ephesians 6:10-17
• Paul begins this past this section with an admonition. What does he urge us to do and why?
• Identify the different words used for the devil in this passage. What do we learn about the enemy from these descriptors?
• Unpack the metaphor of the armor of God. What does it mean to both put on and take up the armor of God?
• How does this picture of the armor of God portray the gospel message?
HEART
• “The primary arena of the spiritual battle is right here. It's in your head. It's in your mind.” How can we discern these spiritual attacks in our daily lives?
• How does the cycle of temptation and accusation keep people trapped in destructive patterns? How have you experienced this? How did it affect your relationship with God?
• How does “taking up” our identity in Christ bring victory over both temptation and accusation in our daily lives? How is this relevant to your life right now?
HANDS
• What specific truths about your identity in Christ are you currently learning to adopt or live in more fully?
• Where are you currently facing difficulties or challenges that require you to take up your identity in Christ? In what specific way will you respond?
• What spiritual disciplines do you need to implement or strengthen now to be better prepared for future challenges?
PRAYER
• Request a spirit of discernment to recognize the schemes of the enemy.
• Pray for the realization of spiritual victory in personal battles and seek strength in faith and readiness as you face daily challenges.
• Ask for guidance in putting on the full armor of God effectively.
• Thank God for the protection and love He provides through His word.
Going Deeper:
“The prophets continually spoke of God as a warrior Messiah who would save humanity from sin and death.” Deepen your understanding of the armor of God through these Old Testament Passages: Isaiah 59:1-2, 15-17, Isaiah 11:1-5, Isaiah 52:1-10, Psalm 5:11-12, Isaiah 49:1-2
• What do you learn about the character of God from these passages?
• How do you respond to the true that God is a “warrior Messiah”?
• How will you join him in His purpose of salvation?