Spiritual Strategies:
A Manual For Spiritual Warfare
HARVESTIME INTERNATIONAL INSTITUTE
This course is part of the Harvestime International Institute, a program designed to equip believers for effective spiritual harvest.
The basic theme of the training is to teach what Jesus taught, that which took men who were fishermen, tax collectors, etc., and changed them into reproductive Christians who reached their world with the Gospel in a demonstration of power.
This manual is a single course in one of several modules of curriculum which moves believers from visualizing through deputizing, multiplying, organizing, and mobilizing to achieve the goal of evangelizing.
© Harvestime International Institute
http://www.harvestime.org
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Suggestions for Group Study . . . . . . . 4
Introduction . . . . . . . . . . 5
Course Objectives . . . . . . . . . 9
THE CALL TO ARMS
1. The Invisible War . . . . . . . . 11
INDUCTION
2. Enlisting In God's Army . . . . . . . 22
BASIC TRAINING
3. The Commander-In- Chief: The Lord of Hosts . . . . . 33
4. The Spiritual Forces Of Good: Angels . . . . . . 52
5. The Enemy: Satan . . . . . . . . 64
6. The Spiritual Forces Of Evil: Demons . . . . . 76
7. Enemy Territory . . . . . . . . 85
8. Enemy Strategy . . . . . . . . 97
9. God's Battle Plan . . . . . . . 103
MOBILIZATION
10. Offensive And Defensive Warfare . . . . . 128
11. Defensive Weapons . . . . . . . 138
12. Offensive Weapons . . . . . . . 149
13. Natural Parallels Of Spiritual Warfare . . . . . 157
INVASION
14. Entering The Combat Zone: Battling The World And The Flesh. . . 168
15. The Battle In The Mind . . . . . . . . 184
16. The Battle With The Tongue . . . . . . . 199
17. The Battle Over The Walls . . . . . . . 217
18. Battles Over Strategic Territory . . . . . . . 227
SPIRITUAL WARFARE ADVANCED TRAINING
19. Transference Of Spirits . . . . . . . . 242
20. Spiritual Wickedness In High Places . . . . . . 254
21. Dealing With Demonic Powers . . . . . . . 268
22. Casualties Of War . . . . . . . . 293
23. How To Lose A Battle And Win The War . . . . . 310
FINAL BRIEFING
24. The Final Conflict . . . . . . . . 321
APPENDIX
Decisive Battles Of The Bible . . . . . . . 331
Answers To Inspections . . . . . . 352
SUGGESTIONS FOR GROUP STUDY
FIRST MEETING
Opening: Open with prayer and introductions. Get acquainted and register the students.
Establish Group Procedures: Determine who will lead the meetings, the time, place, and dates for the sessions.
Praise And Worship: Invite the presence of the Holy Spirit into your training session.
Distribute Manuals To Students: Introduce the manual title, format, and course objectives provided in the first few pages of the manual.
Make The First Assignment: Students will read the chapters assigned and take the Self-Tests prior to the next meeting. The number of chapters you cover per meeting will depend on chapter length, content, and the abilities of your group.
SECOND AND FOLLOWING MEETINGS
Opening: Pray. Welcome and register any new students and give them a manual. Take attendance. Have a time of praise and worship.
Review: Present a brief summary of what you studied at the last meeting.
Lesson: Discuss each section of the chapter using the HEADINGS IN CAPITAL BOLD FACED LETTERS as a teaching outline. Ask students for questions or comments on what they have studied. Apply the lesson to the lives and ministries of your students.
Inspection: Review the self-tests (Inspection page) students have completed. (Note: If you do not want the students to have access to the answers to the self-tests, you may remove the answer pages from the back of each manual.)
Tactical Maneuvers: You may do these projects on a group or individual basis.
Final Examination: If your group is enrolled in this course for credit, you received a final examination with this course. Reproduce a copy for each student and administer the exam upon conclusion of this course.
MODULE: Deputizing
COURSE: Spiritual Strategies:
A Manual Of Spiritual Warfare
INTRODUCTION
There is a great war being waged in the world today. It is not a conflict between nations, tribes, or government leaders. It is not a rebellion or coup. It is an important invisible battle taking place in the spirit world. The Bible states that God's people are destroyed because of lack of knowledge (Hosea 4:6). One of the main areas in which believers are being defeated due to lack of knowledge is in spiritual warfare.
The early Church viewed their spiritual experience in terms of warfare. Military terminology is used throughout the New Testament. Protection was seen in the armor of God. The Word of God was compared to a sword. Satan's attacks were called fiery darts. Faith was the "good fight" and believers were told to "war a good warfare." The early Church knew they were engaged in an intense spiritual struggle.
The same spiritual battle continues today but instead of fighting the enemy, believers are often building great church buildings, producing musical dramas, holding fellowship meetings, and fighting one another while this great spiritual battle wages around them. Satan has even intensified his attacks against a church that has withdrawn from the front lines of battle.
As the end of time approaches it is even more important for believers to understand spiritual warfare than in the early days of church history. The Apostle Paul warned:
This know also, that in the last days perilous times shall come. (II Timothy 3:1)
In order to be properly prepared for these perilous times, renewed emphasis must be placed on the strategies of spiritual warfare. The Christian life is war. The sooner we recognize and prepare for it, the sooner we will experience victory.
Luke 14:31 says, "What king, going to make war against another king, sitteth not down first, and consulteth whether he is able with ten thousand to meet him that cometh against him with twenty thousand?" No king ever entered into a battle without a careful examination of his resources and development of battle strategies. In essence, that is what we are doing in this course. We are making a careful evaluation of the strategy, weapons, and power available to us to win the war against our enemy, Satan.
In the military world, "strategy" is the science of forming and carrying out military operations.
It is the method or plan which leads to the goal of victory. In this course you will learn to formulate and carry out spiritual military strategy which will bring victory in the spirit world.
THE MANUAL
Each lesson is presented in military terms consisting of the following sections:
THE CALL TO ARMS:
Chapter 1 explains the invisible war and sounds the "call to arms" for all true believers.
INDUCTION:
All armies in the natural world have induction procedures. These are special things you are required to do in order to join the forces. The same is true of God's army. Chapter 2 explains how to enlist in God's Army.
BASIC TRAINING:
After induction into an army, a soldier always receives basic training. Basic training for God's army is presented in Chapters 3 through 9. The battle lines of the invisible war are defined. The forces of good and evil are discussed, including the Lord of Hosts, angels, Satan, demons, the world, and the flesh. Enemy territory and strategy are identified, and a general overview of
God's battle plan presented.
MOBILIZATION:
Training is useless unless an army is mobilized. To "mobilize" means to "put in a state of readiness for active military service." In the "Mobilization" section of this course in chapters 10 through 13, you will learn about offensive and defensive warfare, how to use the weapons of your warfare, and natural parallels of spiritual warfare.
INVASION:
During an invasion in the natural world, an army enters the actual combat zone to conquer its foes and claim territory. Basic training is useless unless what is learned is put into action. Even a mobilized army equipped with weapons is not enough if it stands inactive on the sidelines. To be effective in warfare, you must actually enter the combat zone. In the "invasion" stage, consisting of Chapters 14 through 19, you will enter the combat zone of the world, the flesh, and the Devil. You will study the battle in the mind, with the tongue, over the spiritual walls, in high places, and over strategic territory. In each of these lessons specific strategies of Satan are identified and counter strategies for overcoming the enemy are presented.
SPIRITUAL WARFARE ADVANCED TRAINING:
After gaining some experience in battle, soldiers usually receive advanced training in specific areas of warfare. This portion of the manual is entitled "Spiritual Warfare Advanced Training," the initials of which spell "SWAT." In military action, a "SWAT" team is a specialized group of soldiers used for difficult missions. In the advanced training offered in this manual, you will learn about transference of spirits, how to assist prisoners and casualties of war, and how to deal with demonic powers. You will also learn how to lose a battle and still win the war.
FINAL BRIEFING:
During "final briefing" in Chapter 26 you will study "the final conflict" which will bring this war of the ages to a triumphant conclusion.
APPENDIX:
In the Appendix of this manual, you will examine the historical record of "Decisive Battles Of
The Bible" as you continue to develop your spiritual warfare skills.
THE LESSONS
Each lesson in this warfare manual is organized as follows:
OBJECTIVES:
These are the spiritual warfare goals you should achieve by studying the lesson.
KEY VERSE FROM THE ARTICLES OF WAR:
When a nation declares war, they often issue "Articles Of War.” This document explains why they are at war, identifies the enemy, and declares the objectives of the war. The Bible is the written Word of the one true God, the Commander of our spiritual army. The Bible contains our "Articles Of War" for spiritual combat. In each lesson, the "Key Verse From The Articles Of War" emphasizes the main concept of the lesson.
INTRODUCTION:
The introduction provides an overview of the content of the chapter.
LESSON:
This presents the "military briefing" for that chapter. A "briefing" is a time of instruction prior to battle which provides information necessary to wage effective warfare.
INSPECTION:
In a natural army, "inspections" occur regularly to check on the preparation and skills of the soldiers. The "Inspection" section of each chapter is an examination to see if you have obtained the objectives of that lesson.
TACTICAL MANEUVERS:
During tactical maneuvers in a natural army, soldiers apply what they have learned to actual combat conditions. This part of each lesson provides opportunity for you to apply what you have learned and to study other materials related to the lesson.
ARE YOU READY?
The exposing of the enemy and his strategies is one of the greatest revelations of God's Word. Even greater is the revelation that as believers we have power over all the powers of the enemy. This manual is by no means an exhaustive study of the subject of spiritual warfare, but it is an in depth Scriptural analysis. As in natural warfare, skill in spiritual warfare is progressive as you enter the combat zone and begin to fight.
OBJECTIVES
Upon completion of this course you will be able to:
• Identify the two spiritual kingdoms.
• Explain what is meant by "spiritual warfare.”
• Recognize causes of this great spiritual struggle.
• Identify the spiritual forces of good.
• Identify the spiritual forces of evil.
• Recognize strategies of Satan.
• Effectively use spiritual counter strategies.
• Apply natural parallels of warfare to war in the spirit world.
• Use both offensive and defensive spiritual weapons.
• Detect demon possession.
• Understand how deliverance from demons is obtained.
• Win the war even if you lose a spiritual battle.
• Describe the final conflict which will end the invisible war.
• Identify spiritual warfare principles in decisive battles in the Bible.
THE CALL TO ARMS
A SUMMONS TO THE INVISIBLE WAR
There is a great battle being waged in the spiritual world. It is a personal battle within between the flesh and the spirit. It is a social battle with the evil forces of the world. It is a spiritual battle with evil supernatural powers.
In Old Testament times a trumpet was used to summons God's people to battle. Today, a spiritual summons is sounding throughout the nations of the world. It is a summons to the invisible war. It is a call to arms.
CHAPTER ONE
THE INVISIBLE WAR
OBJECTIVES:
Upon completion of this chapter you will be able to:
• Write the Key Verse from memory.
• Demonstrate understanding of the natural and spiritual realms.
• Define the word "king.”
• Define the word "kingdom.”
• Identify the two spiritual kingdoms.
• Determine to which kingdom you belong.
• Identify the spiritual forces of good.
• Identify the spiritual forces of evil.
• Explain what is meant by "spiritual warfare.”
• Identify the reason for the invisible war.
• Identify the basic principle of understanding spiritual warfare.
KEY VERSE FROM THE ARTICLES OF WAR:
For we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high places. (Ephesians 6:12)
INTRODUCTION
As you learned in the introduction to this course, there is a great war being waged in the world today. It is not a conflict between nations, tribes, or government leaders. It is not a rebellion or a coup. It is an invisible battle taking place in the spirit world.
This chapter introduces the invisible war in which every believer is engaged. It is a war where
no one wears a uniform, but where everyone is a target. The historical and prophetical record of this war is contained in God's Word, the Bible.
THE NATURAL AND SPIRITUAL REALMS
To understand this invisible war, you must first understand the natural and spiritual worlds. Man exists in two worlds: The natural world and the spiritual world. The natural world is that which can be seen, felt, touched, heard, or tasted. It is tangible and visible. The country, nation, city, or village in which you live is part of the natural world. You are a resident in a natural kingdom located on one of the visible continents of the world. You can see the people who are part of your environment. You can communicate with them. You can experience the sights, sounds, and smells around you.
But there is another world in which you live. That world is a spiritual world. You cannot see it with your physical eyes, but it is just as real as the natural world in which you live.
Paul speaks of this division of natural and spiritual:
There is a natural body, and there is a spiritual body. (I Corinthians 15:40)
All men have a natural body which lives in the natural world, but man is also a spiritual being with an eternal soul and spirit. Man is body, soul, and spirit. Your spiritual being (soul and spirit) is part of a spiritual world just as your natural body is part of the natural world.
SPIRITUAL DISCERNMENT
Because spiritual warfare is just that--spiritual--it must be understood with a spiritual mind. In our natural, sinful state, we cannot understand spiritual things:
But the natural man receiveth not the things of the Spirit of God: for they are foolishness unto him; neither can he know them, because they are spiritually discerned. (I Corinthians 2:14)
It is necessary to use "spiritual discernment" to understand spiritual things.
Perhaps one of the best examples of natural and spiritual discernment is recorded in II Kings chapter 6. It records the story of a natural battle in which troops of the enemy nation of Syria had surrounded a small town called Dothan where the prophet Elisha was staying. When Elisha's servant, Gehazi, saw the great host of the enemy he became fearful. Elisha prayed that God would open Gehazi's spiritual eyes so he could see the angelic hosts surrounding and protecting them. On this occasion, God actually opened the natural eyes of Gehazi and allowed him to visibly see the superior forces of God aligned for battle.
The story of this battle at Dothan is similar to present spiritual conditions in the Church. There are some, like Elisha, who see clearly into the realm of the spirit. They know there is a conflict occurring, have identified the enemy, and recognize the greater forces of God that assure victory. There are others like Gehazi, who with a little encouragement, will be able to open their spiritual eyes and no longer be fearful of and defeated by the enemy. But sadly, there are many people who, like those in the city of Dothan, are spiritually sleeping. They do not even know that the enemy has surrounded them and is poised for attack.
TWO SPIRITUAL KINGDOMS
Within the natural and spiritual realms of which we are speaking there exists separate kingdoms which are ruled by natural and spiritual leaders.
NATURAL KINGDOMS:
All men live in a natural kingdom of this world. They live in a city or village which is part of a nation. That nation is a kingdom of the world. A natural kingdom is a territory or people over
which an actual king or political leader is the sovereign ruler. The Bible speaks of these natural kingdoms as "kingdoms of the world.” The kingdoms of the world have come under the power and influence of Satan:
Again, the Devil taketh Him (Jesus) up into an exceeding high mountain, and sheweth Him all the kingdoms of the world, and the glory of them;
And saith unto Him, All these things will I give thee, if you wilt fall down and worship me. (Matthew 4:8-9)
John 5:19 sadly reminds us that "the whole world is under the control of the evil one.”
SPIRITUAL KINGDOMS:
In addition to the natural kingdoms of this world there are two spiritual kingdoms: The Kingdom of Satan and the Kingdom Of God. Every person alive is a resident of one of these two kingdoms.
The Kingdom of Satan consists of Satan, spiritual beings called demons, and all men who live in sin and rebellion to God's Word. These, plus the world and the flesh, are the spiritual forces of evil at work in the world today.
The Kingdom of God consists of God the Father, Jesus Christ, the Holy Spirit, spiritual beings called angels, and all men who live in righteous obedience to God's Word. These are the spiritual forces of good.
The Kingdom of God is not a denominational church. Denominations are man-made organizations of groups of churches. They have been established for practical purposes of organization and administration. Denominations are major church organizations like Baptist, Assembly of God, Methodist, Lutheran, etc. The Bible speaks of the true Church which is not a denomination or religious organization. The true Church is composed of all those who have become residents of the Kingdom of God.
At the present time in the natural world, the Kingdom of God exists individually within every man, woman, boy or girl who has made Jesus King of their lives. It exists communally in the true church and wherever people make this world the kind of world God wants it to be. In the future, there will be an actual visible manifestation of God's Kingdom.
THE INVISIBLE WAR
The invisible spiritual war is a battle which involves all men and women. Because the Kingdom of Satan is a spiritual kingdom...
...we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high places. (Ephesians 6:12)
Spiritual warfare is not a natural battle between flesh and blood. It is not a battle of man against man. It is not a visible battle. It is an invisible struggle in the spirit world. It is a battle within and around man. It is not a visible war is because spirits are involved and we learn in Luke 24:39 that a spirit does not have flesh and bones.
Spiritual warfare is "multidimensional,” which means it is fought in different dimensions. It is...
1. A social battle between the believer and the world: John 15:18-27
2. A personal battle between the flesh and the spirit: Galatians 5:16-26
3. A supernatural battle between believers and evil spiritual powers: Ephesians 6:10-
27
Every person alive is engaged in this battle, whether he realizes it or not. There is no neutral ground. Unbelievers are in bondage to evil and have been taken captive by enemy forces. They are victims of the war.
Believers have been freed from the enemy through Jesus Christ and are victors, but they are still engaged in the war. The key verse for this chapter indicates that we (all believers) wrestle against evil spiritual forces.
"Wrestling" involves close personal contact. No one is exempt from this battle. No one can view it from a distance. You are in the midst of conflict whether you acknowledge it or not. If you believe it will get better, you are wrong. The Christian warfare never ceases.
WHERE THE BATTLE RAGES
This invisible war is being waged on earth:
The thief (Satan) cometh (on earth) not but for to steal, and to kill, and to destroy: I am come that they might have life, and that they might have it more abundantly. (John 10:10)
Satan fights to maintain control of the kingdoms of the world. He does not want them to come under God's authority. The battle also rages within the hearts, minds, and souls of men and women. Satan blinds the minds of unbelievers and attacks believers in the areas of worship, the Word, their daily walk, and their work for God.
HOW THE BATTLE STARTED
The invisible war started in Heaven with an angel named Lucifer who was originally a beautiful angel created by God and was part of the Kingdom of God. Lucifer decided he wanted to take over God's Kingdom. You can read about his rebellion in Isaiah 14:12-17 and Ezekiel 28:12-19. You will study about it in detail later in this course. A group of angels joined Lucifer (now called Satan) in this rebellion. Lucifer and the rebellious angels were cast out of Heaven by God. They formed their own kingdom on earth:
And there was war in Heaven: Michael and his angels fought against the dragon (Satan); and the dragon fought and his angels.
(Revelation 12:7)
And the great dragon was cast out, that old serpent, called the Devil, and Satan, which deceiveth the whole world: he was cast out into the earth, and his angels were cast out with him. (Revelation 12:9)
Lucifer became known as Satan and the angels which followed him in rebellion as demons. Demon spirits can enter, torment, control, and use humans who belong to Satan's Kingdom. They motivate evil acts which are done by men and women. Satan directs his demons in their evil activities. He combines these powerful forces with the world and the flesh to war against all mankind.
REASONS BEHIND THE CONFLICT
Man was originally created in the image of God and for the glory of God (Genesis chapter 2). The invisible war against man started with the first temptation in the garden of Eden (Genesis chapter 3). Satan caused Adam and Eve to sin. This resulted in all men inheriting the basic sin nature and committing individual acts of sin due to this nature:
Wherefore, as by one man sin entered into the world, and death by sin; and so death passed upon all men, for that all have sinned.
(Romans 5:12)
It also resulted in the invisible war between man and the forces of evil:
And I will put enmity between thee (Satan) and the woman (mankind), and between thy seed (the forces of evil) and her seed (the forces of good represented by the Lord Jesus Christ)... (Genesis 3:15)
Because of sin, man was separated from God and condemned to death. But God loved man so much that He made a special plan to save him from sin:
For God so loved the world, that He gave His only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in Him should not perish, but have everlasting life.
For God sent not His Son into the world to condemn the world; but that the world through Him might be saved. (John 3:16-17)
Through belief in Jesus, confession of and repentance from sin, men and women can be released from the power of the enemy. The death and resurrection of Jesus not only resulted in salvation from sin. It also defeated the enemy, Satan:
...For this purpose the Son of God was manifested, that He might destroy the
works of the devil. (I John 3:8)
But if Satan is defeated, why does the war still rage? Following any war there are always pockets of enemy resistance, rebellious troops that will not give up until forced to do so. Although Jesus defeated Satan, we are living in territory which is still occupied by enemy
resistance forces. Understanding spiritual warfare strategies gives us the ability to deal with these evil powers.
Satan is trying to keep men captive in sin. Through deceptive methods he is enticing men and women to temporary lusts of sinful living. He aims for the affections of the soul and spirit which rightfully belong to God:
The thief (Satan) cometh not, but for to steal, and to kill, and to destroy; I am come that they might have life, and that they might have it more abundantly. (John 10:10)
Satan still wants to be the supreme ruler. He is waging an intense battle for the heart, mind, soul, and spirit of man. His strategies are directed at God, His plan, and His people. The battle will continue until the great final conflict which you will study about in the last chapter of this course.
THE MEANING OF SPIRITUAL WARFARE
Spiritual warfare is the analysis of and an active participation in the invisible spiritual war. It includes study of the opposing forces of good and evil, the strategies of Satan, and spiritual strategies for overcoming the enemy. Spiritual warfare is more than a mere analysis of spiritual principles. It includes active participation in warfare by application of these strategies in life and ministry.
One of the most effective strategies of Satan is to keep believers ignorant of his devices. Paul said it is important to know Satan's strategies...
...Lest Satan should get an advantage of us: for we are not ignorant of his devices. (II Corinthians 2:11)
We should learn all we can about Satan's strategies of attack. We must also understand the Scriptural basis of victory over Satan and the forces of evil. We are called to intelligent combat. Basic to the understanding of spiritual warfare is this key principle:
You must recognize that all battles of life, whether physical, spiritual, emotional mental, financial or with human personalities are only outward manifestations of a spiritual cause.
Although in the natural world problems may seem to occur through the circumstances of life, the basis of these natural battles is in the spirit world. Read the story of Job (Job chapters l-2) which confirms this principle.
We have tried to correct the evils of this world through education, legislation, and improved environment. It has not worked because the visible evils of the world are the results of an underlying spiritual cause. They cannot be corrected by natural means.
TO WHICH KINGDOM DO YOU BELONG?
In the natural world a king is the sovereign ruler of a kingdom. All the territory and people in the kingdom belong to him. He has the power of life and death over his subjects. The same is true in the spiritual world. You are either part of the Kingdom of God or the Kingdom of Satan. Either God or Satan has power over your life.
One of the parables told by Jesus illustrates that all men are either part of the Kingdom of Satan or the Kingdom of God. Jesus compared the world to a field. The good seed in the field were children of the Kingdom of God. The bad seed, which resulted in the growth of tares (weeds), were children of the wicked one:
The field is the world; the good seed are the children of the Kingdom;
but the tares are the children of the wicked one. (Matthew 13:38)
People enter the Kingdom of Satan through natural birth. The Bible teaches that all men are born in sin. This means that they have a basic sin nature or the "seed" of sin within. Their natural inclination is to do evil:
Behold, I was shapen in iniquity; and in sin did my mother conceive me. (Psalms 51:5)
Wherefore, as by one man (Adam) sin entered into the world, and death by sin; and so death passed upon all men, for that all have sinned.
(Romans 5:12)
For all have sinned and come short of the glory of God. (Romans 3:23)
Because we are born with the basic sin nature, we have all at one time been part of the Kingdom of Satan. All who remain sinners remain part of the Kingdom of Satan.
The whole message of God's written Word, the Holy Bible, is the appeal to man to move from this evil Kingdom of Satan to the Kingdom of God. Men are born into the Kingdom of Satan through natural birth. They must be reborn into the Kingdom of God through spiritual birth. Entrance to the Kingdom of God is by new birth experience explained in John 3.
There are only two divisions in the invisible war. Jesus said, "He that is not with me is against me" (Luke 11:23). You cannot be neutral in this spiritual war. You are on one side or the other. Some believers, because of their fear of confrontation with the enemy, try to ignore the war and form a truce with the enemy. They think if they ignore Satan, he will not bother them. This is one of Satan's main strategies. He tries to render members of God's army immobile by his terror tactics.
But there is no neutrality in this war. You are either a victim or victor. The spiritual "call to arms" is going out...Are you on the side of good or of evil? Are you part of Satan's Kingdom or the Kingdom of God? To which kingdom do you belong? Are you a victim or victor in the invisible war?
INSPECTION
1. Write the Key Verses from the article of war.
________________________________________
________________________________________
________________________________________
2. What are the two divisions made in I Corinthians 15:44-49?
________________________________________
________________________________________
3. What are the two invisible kingdoms in the world today?
________________________________________
________________________________________
4. List the spiritual forces of evil.
________________________________________
________________________________________
________________________________________
5. List the spiritual forces of good.
________________________________________
________________________________________
________________________________________
________________________________________
________________________________________
6. Define the word "king.”
________________________________________
________________________________________
7. Define the word "kingdom.”
________________________________________
________________________________________
8. What is meant by the term "spiritual warfare"?
________________________________________
________________________________________
9. What is the reason behind this great spiritual conflict?
10. What is
the basic principle for understanding spiritual warfare?
(Answers to tests are provided at the conclusion of the final chapter in this manual.)
TACTICAL MANEUVERS
1. This course, "Strategies of Spiritual Warfare,” focuses on the Kingdom of Satan and the spiritual warfare which rages between his kingdom and the Kingdom of God. The Harvestime International Institute course entitled "Kingdom Living" provides a complete study of the Kingdom of God. (If you are enrolled in Harvestime Institute and studying the courses in their suggested order, you have already studied this course.) If you are not enrolled in a Harvestime Institute, you should obtain "Kingdom Living" as a companion course to this one. It is important that you gain understanding of both spiritual kingdoms present in the world today.
2. A good spiritual foundation is necessary in order to wage successful spiritual warfare.
If you are a new believer, obtain the Harvestime International Institute course entitled "Foundations Of Faith.” (If you are taking the Harvestime courses in their suggested order, you have already studied this course.)
3. Do you feel you have been a "victim" of spiritual warfare? In what areas of your life
or ministry have you been losing the battle? Have you been losing the battle in the...
Spiritual realm? Emotional realm? Physical realm? Mental realm? Financial realm?
With human personalities? It is important to identify these areas of defeat so you can apply the knowledge you gain in this study to these practical areas of life and ministry.
4. Review the story in II Kings 6 which was discussed in this lesson. Do you know people like Gehazi or those in the city of Dothan? How might you help them?
5. Since spiritual warfare has many dimensions, we must war personally against sin, socially against evil in the world, and supernaturally through the deliverance ministry.
6. Study the Bible as a spiritual warfare manual. It is the historical record of spiritual warfare, revealing the victories and defeats of past battles. It is prophetical, showing the course of our warfare until the time of the final conflict.
INDUCTION
BECOMING PART OF THE ARMY OF GOD
All armies in the natural world have induction procedures--special things you are required to do in order to join the forces.
Are you ready to become part of God's army?
CHAPTER TWO
ENLISTING IN GOD'S ARMY
OBJECTIVES:
Upon completion of this chapter you will be able to:
• Write the Key Verse from memory.
• Define "repentance."
• Explain the importance of repentance.
• Define "conversion."
• Explain the importance of conversion.
• Define "justification."
• Explain what it means to be "saved."
• Use the parable of the prodigal son to describe repentance and conversion.
KEY VERSE FROM THE ARTICLES OF WAR:
I came not to call the righteous, but sinners to repentance. (Luke 5:32)
INTRODUCTION
In the last chapter you learned of the great invisible war in the spiritual world. In this chapter you will learn how to enlist in God's army. In the natural world, armies usually have special
induction rituals in which a prospective soldier must participate in order to join the forces. This "induction" makes him part of the army.
God also has a special plan for induction through which you become part of His spiritual army. His plan centers on two important concepts, repentance and conversion, which result in justification.
REPENTANCE
In the natural world, when a soldier joins an army, he must deny any previous allegiance he has had to another army or country. When you join the army of God, you must repent of your allegiance to sin and the Kingdom of Satan. This is done by repentance.
Repentance is "an inward decision or change of mind resulting in the outward action of turning from sin to God and righteousness." Acts 20:21 calls it "repentance toward God." By the act of repenting you turn away from your sin and leave the Kingdom of Satan.
Repentance is a personal decision to change your allegiance from the Kingdom of Satan to the Kingdom of God. This change of mind and turning from sin cannot be done in yourself. It is the power of God which actually brings the change in the mind, heart, and life of a sinner:
Then God also to the Gentiles granted repentance unto life. (Acts 11:18)
Repentance is a gift of God:
Him [Jesus] hath God exalted with His right hand to be a Prince and a
Savior, for to give repentance...(Acts 5:31)
Although emotions may be involved in repentance, true repentance is a decision, not just an emotion. Sorrow for sin and the shedding of tears is not enough in itself. This must be accompanied by an inward decision that results in an outward change.
THE IMPORTANCE OF REPENTANCE:
Repentance is important because:
God Commands It:
...but [God] now commandeth all men everywhere to repent. (Acts 17:30)
It Is Necessary To Avoid Spiritual Death:
...but, except ye repent, ye shall all likewise perish. (Luke 13:3)
It Is Necessary For Eternal Life:
Through repentance the penalty of death is removed and eternal life is granted:
When they heard these things, they held their peace, and glorified God, saying, Then hath God also to the Gentiles granted repentance unto life. (Acts 11:18)
It Is Necessary For Forgiveness:
God cannot forgive your sins unless you repent:
Then Peter said unto them, Repent, and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins, and ye shall receive the gift of the Holy Ghost. (Acts 2:38)
It Is God's Desire For All:
God does not want anyone to experience the spiritual death of eternal separation from God in
Hell:
The Lord...is long suffering to us-ward, not willing that any should perish, but that all should come to repentance. (II Peter 3:9)
It Is The Reason Jesus Came Into The World:
I came not to call the righteous, but sinners to repentance. (Luke 5:32)
It Is Necessary To Enter God's Kingdom:
From that time Jesus began to preach, and to say, Repent: for the Kingdom of Heaven is at hand. (Matthew 4:17)
When you become part of the Kingdom of God, you are enlisting in God's army.
CONVERSION
When you ask for forgiveness of sins you experience "conversion." Conversion means "to turn." When it is used in connection with Biblical repentance, it means to "turn from the wrong way to the right way." You leave the Kingdom of Satan and join the Kingdom of God.
And many of the children of Israel shall He turn to the Lord their God. (Luke 1:16)
And all that dwelt at Lydda and Saron saw Him, and turned to the Lord. (Acts 9:35)
And the hand of the Lord was with them; and a great number believed, and turned unto the Lord. (Acts 11:21)
Conversion is turning from the darkness of sin to the light of God's righteousness:
...to turn them from darkness to light. (Acts 26:18)
It is turning from the power of Satan to God:
...to turn them...from the power of Satan unto God. (Acts 26:18)
It is turning from worldly things to spiritual things:
...Ye should turn from these vanities unto the living God. (Acts 14:15)
It is turning from false gods to the true and living God:
...Ye turned to God from idols to serve the living and true God.
(I Thessalonians 1:9)
THE IMPORTANCE OF CONVERSION:
Conversion must accompany repentance. You must turn from the wrong to the right because...
It Is Necessary To Enter The Kingdom Of God:
Verily I say unto you, except ye be converted, and become as little children, ye shall not enter into the Kingdom of Heaven. (Matthew 18:3)
It Saves From Spiritual Death:
He which converteth the sinner from the error of his way shall save a soul from death and shall hide a multitude of sins. (James 5:20)
It Is Necessary For The Blotting Out Of Sin:
Your sin is written in the records of God until you repent and are converted, then your sins are blotted out:
Repent ye therefore, and be converted, that your sins may be blotted out... (Acts 3:19)
THE PRODIGAL SON
Repentance and conversion are best illustrated by a story Jesus told about the prodigal son. Read the story in Luke 15:11-24. This young man left his father and home, went to a distant land, and through sin wasted all he owned. Eventually this young man realized his condition. He was hungry, lonely, in rags, and tending pigs for a job. Then he made an important decision. He said, "I will arise and go to my father." This inward decision resulted in a change in his outward actions. He went home to his father to seek forgiveness.
REPENTANCE...THE CHANGE OF MIND:
Read Luke 15:17-19. The young man realized his sinful condition. He made a decision to go to his father and repent of his sin. This is an example of repentance, an inward decision which results in outward action.
CONVERSION...ACTING ON THE DECISION:
Luke 15:20 records how the young man arose and left the old life and went to his father to start a new life. This is conversion.
PRODIGAL MAN:
Man is like the prodigal son. In his sinful condition he turned his back on God his Father and Heaven his home. Each step he takes is a step away from God and one step nearer the spiritual death of eternal separation from God. There is a major decision he must make. He must "come to himself" and recognize his spiritual condition. He must make a decision which will result in a change of spiritual direction.
JUSTIFICATION AND SALVATION
There are two other terms used in the Bible which relate to repentance. These terms are
"justification" and "salvation." God is the judge of all mankind. When you are living in sin you are condemned before Him:
...but he that believeth not is condemned already, because he hath not believed in the name of the only begotten Son of God.
And this is the condemnation, that light is come into the world, and men loved darkness rather than light, because their deeds were evil.
(John 3:18-19)
When you repent from sin and make the decision to turn from your sinful ways, this establishes a right relationship with God. This right relationship or right standing before God is called "justification":
Know ye not, that to whom ye yield yourselves servants to obey, his servants ye are to whom ye obey; whether of sin unto death, or of obedience unto righteousness?
But God be thanked, that ye were the servants of sin but ye have obeyed from the heart that form of doctrine which was delivered you.
Being then made free from sin, ye became the servants of righteousness. (Romans 6:16-18)
When you are justified by repentance and conversion, you are "saved" from a life of sin as well as from the penalties of sin. This is what it means to be "saved" and what the Bible is speaking of when the term "salvation" is used.
SPIRITUAL WARFARE AND THE BIBLICAL WORLD VIEW
The subject of spiritual warfare must be studied within the context of God's total purpose for the redemption of sinful mankind. Study the parables of the sower and the tares among wheat in Matthew 13. Both parables concern the growth of the Kingdom of God which occurs through the planting of God's Word. Both parables picture the warfare between the two kingdoms with the battle centering on the redemptive purposes of God.
Learning spiritual warfare prepares you to enter the arena of this world and fight for the souls
of men and women, boys and girls. This is why authority over Satan was given to the disciples before they were sent out to share the Gospel (Matthew 28:18-20). Satan and his hosts of demons will war against you as you seek to win men to Christ and bring them under the rule of God. Employing Scriptural strategies of spiritual warfare helps you challenge the principalities and powers who rule over individual human lives, societies, and areas of the world.
INDUCTION INTO GOD'S ARMY
Repentance and conversion result in justification and salvation. This is God's plan for induction into His army. If you have not yet been inducted into God's army, the "Tactical Maneuvers" section of this lesson will provide opportunity for you to join. If you are already a member of God's army, the section will assist you in helping others enlist.
Welcome to the army of God!
INSPECTION
1. Write the Key Verse from the Articles Of War.
________________________________________
________________________________________
2. Define "repentance.”
________________________________________
3. Explain the importance of repentance.
________________________________________
4. Define "conversion.”
________________________________________
5. Explain the importance of conversion.
________________________________________
6. Define "justification.”
________________________________________
7. Explain what it means to be "saved.”
________________________________________
8. Use the parable of the prodigal son to describe repentance and conversion.
________________________________________
________________________________________
(Answers to tests are provided at the conclusion of the final chapter in this manual.)
TACTICAL MANEUVERS
1. Have you repented and been converted? If not, you need to stop right now in this study and do the following:
-Repent of your sins.
-Ask Jesus to forgive you.
-Accept Him as your Lord and Savior.
-Turn from your sinful ways (be converted).
2. As a believer, when you sin, you must also repent. Study the following Biblical examples:
THE CORINTHIANS:
The believers at a city called Corinth had to repent:
Now I rejoice, not that ye were made sorry, but that ye sorrowed to repentance...
(II Corinthians 7:9)
For I fear, lest, when I come...that I shall bewail many which have sinned
already and have not repented of the uncleanness and fornication and lasciviousness which they have committed. (II Corinthians 12:20-21)
THE EPHESIANS:
The believers at Ephesus were told to repent:
Remember therefore from whence thou art fallen and repent and do the first works. (Revelation 2:5)
CHRISTIANS IN PERGAMOS:
God told the Christians in Pergamos:
Repent; or else I will come unto thee quickly, and will fight against them with the sword of my mouth. (Revelation 2:16)
CHRISTIANS IN SARDIS:
Remember therefore how thou hast received and heard, and hold fast, and repent. (Revelation 3:3)
CHRISTIANS IN LAODICEA:
As many as I love, I rebuke and chasten; Be zealous therefore, and repent. (Revelation 3:19)
HOW ABOUT YOU...
Is there unconfessed sin in your life? Wherever there is sin, there must be repentance:
If we say that we have no sin, we deceive ourselves and the truth is not in us. If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness. (I John 1:8-9)
3. Because repentance is necessary for salvation, God made a special plan to enable the message of repentance to reach everyone. The call to repentance began in the New Testament with the ministry of John the Baptist:
The voice of one crying in the wilderness, Prepare ye the way the Lord, make His path straight.
John did baptize in the wilderness, and preach the baptism of repentance for
the remission of sins. (Mark 1:3-4)
Repentance was the first message Jesus preached:
Now after that John was put in prison, Jesus came into Galilee, preaching the
Gospel of the Kingdom of God,
And saying, the time is fulfilled, and the Kingdom of God is at hand: repent ye, and believe the Gospel. (Mark 1:14-15)
Repentance was preached by believers in the early Church:
And they went out and preached that men should repent. (Mark 6:12)
...Testifying both to the Jews and also to the Greeks, repentance toward God, and faith toward our Lord Jesus Christ. (Acts 20:21)
Today, believers still have the responsibility to spread the message of repentance throughout the world. Jesus gave final instructions to His followers that...
...repentance and remission of sins should be preached in His name among all nations, beginning at Jerusalem. (Luke 24:47)
When you preach the message of repentance, you are actually calling others to enlist in God's army. Will you make a commitment to start drafting others into this great spiritual army?
4. If you are responsible to share the message of repentance and call others to enlist in
God's army then you must know how men are persuaded to repent. Men repent because of:
THE GOODNESS OF GOD:
The blessings of God in the life of an ungodly person are not to be mistaken as God's approval of his life style. The goodness of God is one way the Lord appeals to men to turn to Him:
Despisest thou the riches of His goodness and forbearance and long suffering; not knowing that the goodness of God leadeth thee to repentance? (Romans 2:4)
PREACHING:
The preaching of the Word of God causes men to repent. The preaching of Jonah resulted in the whole city of Ninevah repenting:
The men of Ninevah shall rise in judgment with this generation and shall condemn it: because they repented at the preaching of Jonas. (Matthew 12:41)
CHRIST'S CALL:
As the Word of God is preached, people hear and respond to the call of Christ which leads to repentance:
I am not come to call the righteous, but sinners to repentance. (Matthew 9:13)
GOD, THE FATHER:
Jesus said no one could come to Him except the Father draw him. God draws men to repentance:
No man can come to me, except the Father which hath sent me draw him...
(John 6:44)
REBUKE:
Rebuke causes men to repent. Rebuke is correction given from the Word of God:
...If thy brother trespass against thee, rebuke him; and if he repent, forgive him. (Luke 17:3)
GODLY SORROW:
As you learned, repentance may be accompanied by emotion. Natural emotion alone is not true repentance, but Godly emotion leads to true repentance:
Godly sorrow [for sin] worketh repentance to salvation. (II Corinthians 7:10)
BASIC TRAINING
PREPARING FOR WAR
In the natural world no soldier is sent to battle without first receiving basic training. This training prepares him to enter the combat zone.
CHAPTER THREE
THE COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF: THE LORD OF HOSTS
OBJECTIVES:
Upon completion of this chapter you will be able to:
• Write the Key Verse from memory.
• Identify the spiritual forces of good.
• Identify personalities of the Trinity of God.
• Describe the nature of the Triune God.
• Explain the function of God the Father in spiritual warfare.
• Summarize the functions of Jesus Christ in spiritual warfare.
• Summarize the functions of the Holy Spirit in spiritual warfare.
KEY VERSE FROM THE ARTICLES OF WAR:
Hear, O Israel: The Lord our God is one Lord. (Deuteronomy 6:4) INTRODUCTION
In Chapter One you learned of a great spiritual battle being waged between the forces of good and evil. This lesson and the next describe the spiritual forces of good. These include God the Father, Jesus Christ the Son, the Holy Spirit, and angels. They are powerful spiritual forces which assist believers in warfare.
THE TRINITY OF GOD
There are many gods worshiped throughout the world, but there is only one true God. The Holy Bible contains the story of this true God. This one God revealed in three distinct personalities of the Father, the Son Jesus Christ, and the Holy Spirit.
God the Father, Jesus Christ, and the Holy Spirit are described in the Bible in terms of their nature. When we speak of "nature" we mean basic qualities which describe God. These qualities are also known as "attributes" which means "characteristics."
The Bible reveals that God is...
TRIUNE:
God has a triune nature. This means He has three distinct personalities, yet He is one God:
Hear, O Israel: The Lord our God is one Lord. (Deuteronomy 6:4)
The three persons of the Trinity of God are called God the Father, Jesus Christ the Son, and the Holy Spirit. There are several Scriptures which confirm this triune nature of God. When Jesus was being baptized by John the Baptist in the Jordan River, God spoke and the Holy Spirit descended:
And Jesus, when He was baptized, went up straightway out of the water: and, lo, the heavens were opened unto Him, and He saw the Spirit of God descending like a
dove, and lighting upon Him:
And lo, a voice from Heaven saying, This is my beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased. (Matthew 3:16-17)
Prior to returning to Heaven after His ministry on earth, Jesus spoke of the Holy Spirit coming from God:
But when the Comforter is come, whom I will send unto you from the Father, even the Spirit of truth, which proceedeth from the Father, He shall testify of me.
(John 15:26)
The Apostle Peter spoke of the triune nature of God:
If ye be reproached for the name of Christ, happy are ye; for the Spirit of glory and of God resteth upon you: on their part He is evil spoken of, but on your part He is glorified. (I Peter 4:14)
The Apostle Paul spoke of the Trinity in his writings:
For the law of the Spirit of life in Christ Jesus hath made me free from the law of sin and death.
For what the law could not do, in that it was weak through the flesh, God sending His own Son, in the likeness of sinful flesh, and for sin, condemned sin in the flesh (Romans 8:2-3)
The grace of the Lord Jesus Christ, and the love of God, and the communion of the
Holy Ghost, be with you all. (II Corinthians 13:14)
For through Him (the Son) we both have access by one Spirit unto the Father. (Ephesians 2:18)
The book of Acts also verifies the triune nature of God:
Therefore being by the right hand of God exalted, and having received of the Father the promise of the Holy Ghost, He (Jesus) hath shed forth this, which ye now see and hear. (Acts 2:33)
ETERNAL:
The Trinity of God is eternal with no beginning and no ending:
Lord, Thou hast been our dwelling place in all generations.
Before the mountains were brought forth, or ever Thou hadst formed the earth and the world, even from everlasting to everlasting, Thou art God. (Psalms 90:1-2)
And Abraham planted a grove in Beersheba, and called there on the name of the
Lord, the everlasting God. (Genesis 21:33)
The eternal nature of God is best illustrated by a circle. The circle has no visible starting point or ending point, yet it exists:
Ž
The Eternal Nature Of God
A SPIRIT:
God is a spirit. This means He is without flesh and blood and therefore invisible to the natural eyes of man:
God is a Spirit: and they that worship Him must worship Him in spirit and in truth. (John 4:24)
SOVEREIGN:
God is the sovereign (greatest) power in all the universe. Read Ephesians l and Romans 9.
OMNIPRESENT:
This means God is present everywhere:
For the eyes of the Lord run to and fro throughout the whole earth... (II Chronicles 16:9)
The eyes of the Lord are in every place, beholding the evil and the good. (Proverbs 15:3)
Whither shall I go from Thy Spirit? Or whither shall I flee from Thy presence?
If I ascend up into Heaven, Thou art there: if I make my bed in Hell, behold, Thou are there. (Psalms 139:7-8)
OMNISCIENT:
This means God knows all things:
...Thou knowest it altogether. (Psalms 139:4)
...God is greater than our heart, and knoweth all things. (I John 3:20)
...But all things are naked and opened unto the eyes of Him with whom we have to do. (Hebrews 4:13)
OMNIPOTENT:
This means God is all powerful:
...I am the Almighty God... (Genesis 17:1)
...With God all things are possible. (Matthew 19:26)
...For the Lord God omnipotent reigneth. (Revelation 19:6)
God hath spoken once; twice have I heard this; that power belongeth unto God. (Psalms 62:11)
UNCHANGING:
God does not change His person, nature, purpose, or plans are concerned:
For I am the Lord, I change not... (Malachi 3:6)
Jesus Christ the same yesterday, to day, and for ever. (Hebrews 13:8) HOLY:
God is sinless, absolutely pure:
...Ye shall be holy: for I the Lord your God am holy. (Leviticus 19:2) JUST:
God is fair and impartial in judgment:
...A God of truth and without iniquity, just and right is He. (Deuteronomy 32:4)
FAITHFUL:
God keeps His promises and is absolutely trustworthy.
...He abideth faithful: He cannot deny Himself. (II Timothy 2:13) BENEVOLENT:
God is good, kind, and desires your welfare:
The Lord is good to all: and His tender mercies are over all
His works. (Psalms 145:9) MERCIFUL:
God shows mercy to sinful mankind:
...The Lord God, merciful and gracious, long suffering, and abundant in goodness and truth. Keeping mercy for thousands... (Exodus 34:6-7)
GRACIOUS:
God shows undeserved kindness to sinful man:
...For I am gracious. (Exodus 22:27)
The Lord is gracious, and full of compassion; slow to anger, and of great mercy. (Psalms 145:8)
LOVING:
God is love:
He that loveth not knoweth not God; for God is love. (I John 4:8)
WISE:
God shows deep understanding and keen discernment.
The Lord by wisdom hath founded the earth; by understanding hath
He established the heavens. (Proverbs 3:19)
INFINITE:
God is not subject to natural and human limitations. He is not subject to the limitations of space:
But will God indeed dwell on the earth? behold, the heaven and
heaven of heavens cannot contain thee: how much less this house
that I have builded? (I Kings 8:27)
He is not subject to the limitations of time:
The Lord shall reign for ever and ever. (Exodus 15:18)
GOD THE FATHER
God the Father is the commander of the spiritual forces of good which oppose the spiritual forces of evil. This is His special function in the realm of spiritual warfare.
WHERE IS GOD?
You just learned God is omnipresent, which means He is everywhere in the universe. God's throne is in a place called Heaven but He is also omnipresent.
Thus saith the Lord, The heaven is my throne and the earth is my footstool...
(Isaiah 66:1)
NAMES FOR GOD:
The Bible gives other names for God which reveal His ministry to you as you are engaged in this great spiritual conflict. The names for God include:
1. Jehovah: Which means Lord. The Bible combines this word with other names for God:
|
Jehovah-Rapha: |
"The Lord that healeth" |
Exodus 15:26 |
|
Jehovah-Nissi: |
"The Lord our banner" |
Exodus 17:8-15 |
|
Jehovah-Shalom: |
"The Lord our peace" |
Judges 6:24 |
|
Jehovah-Ra'ah: |
"The Lord my shepherd" |
Psalms 23:1 |
|
Jehovah-Tsidkenu: |
"The Lord our righteousness" |
Jeremiah 23:6 |
|
Jehovah-Jireh: |
"The Lord who provides" |
Genesis 22:14 |
|
Jehovah-Shammah: |
"The Lord is there" |
Ezekiel 48:35 |
2. Elohim: Means God and is used wherever the creative power of God is implied.
3. Father: Acts 17:28; John 1:12-13
4. Adonai: Means Lord or Master: Exodus 23:17; Isaiah 10:16,33
5. El: This is often used in combination with other words for God:
|
El Shaddai: |
"The God who is sufficient for the needs of His People" |
Exodus 6:3 |
|
Elolam: |
"The everlasting God" |
Genesis 21:33 |
El Elyon: "Most high God who is exalted above other so called gods" Genesis 14:18,22
6. Yahweh: In the Hebrew language in which the Old Testament was written, the word "Yahweh" means God. This word is combined with other words to reveal more about the character of God. God is called:
|
Yahweh Jireh: |
"The Lord provides" |
Genesis 22:14 |
|
Yahweh Nissi: |
"The Lord is my banner" |
Exodus 17:15 |
|
Yahweh Shalom: |
"The Lord is peace" |
Judges 6:24 |
|
Yahweh Sabbaoth: |
"The Lord of Hosts" |
I Samuel 1:3 |
|
Yahweh Maccaddeshcem: |
"The Lord thy Sanctifier" |
Exodus 31:13 |
|
Yahweh Tsidkenu: |
"The Lord our righteousness" |
Jeremiah 23:6 |
|
Yahweh Shammah: |
"The Lord is there" |
Ezekiel 48:35 |
|
Yahweh Elohim Israel: |
"The Lord God of Israel" |
Judges 5:3 |
|
Quadosh Israel: |
"The Holy One Of Israel" |
Isaiah 1:4 |
7. The Lord Of Hosts: In the Biblical record, these different names of God were used when requesting God to move in a specific way on behalf of His people. For example, the name Jehovah-Rapham meaning "the Lord that healeth," was used when seeking healing.
The specific name of God which should be used in spiritual warfare is "Yahweh Sabbaoth" which is translated "the Lord of hosts" in the King James version of the Bible. When you call upon that name in warfare, the battle is the Lord's and all the hosts of Heaven come to your aid.
GOD THE SON, JESUS CHRIST
God the Son, Jesus Christ, combines the divine and the human natures in one union. God the
Father sent Jesus Christ to earth in human form while yet retaining His divine nature. Jesus was sent by God to earth so man could be pardoned from sin:
For God so loved the world, that He gave His only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in Him should not perish, but have everlasting life.
For God sent not His Son into the world to condemn the world; but that the world through Him might be saved.
He that believeth on Him is not condemned: but he that believeth not is condemned already, because He hath not believed in the name of the only begotten Son of God. (John 3:16-18)
The story of Jesus is recorded in the Bible in the books of Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John. These books provide a detailed record of the birth, life, death, resurrection, teachings, and ministry of Jesus Christ.
As part of the plan of God, Jesus came to earth in human form, ministered among men, died for the sins of man, was resurrected from the dead, and commissioned His followers to bear the Gospel to the nations of the world.
WHERE IS JESUS?
Following His resurrection from the dead, Jesus appeared to many people, commissioned His followers, and then returned to Heaven. But remember...even though He is in Heaven He is still omnipresent...His presence is everywhere.
SPECIAL FUNCTIONS:
The special functions of Jesus in relation to spiritual warfare include the following:
1. Redeeming man from sin: It is through the death of Jesus Christ that you are freed from the bondage of sin in which the enemy has ensnared you:
...for of whom a man is overcome, of the same is he brought in bondage... (II Peter 2:19)
Because the creature itself also shall be delivered from the bondage of corruption into the glorious liberty of the children of God. (Romans 8:21)
Stand fast therefore in the liberty wherewith Christ hath made us free, and be not entangled again with the yoke of bondage. (Galatians 5:1)
2. Authority over the forces of evil: You will study this in detail later in this course. The death of Jesus not only freed mankind from sin, but also resulted in triumph over the forces of evil. Because of this, you have authority over the enemy:
Then He called His twelve disciples together, and gave them power and authority over all devils and to cure diseases. (Luke 9:1)
3. Destroying the works of the Devil:
...For this purpose the Son of God was manifested, that He might destroy the works of the Devil. (I John 3:8)
4. Intercession for believers: In Heaven Jesus is at the right hand of God the Father interceding for believers engaged in spiritual warfare. This means He is talking to the Father on your behalf:
...It is Christ that died, yea rather, that is risen again, who is even at the right hand of God, who also maketh intercession for us. (Romans 8:34)
THE NAMES OF JESUS:
The name "Jesus" means "Savior or deliverer" (Matthew 1:21). The name "Christ" means "the anointed one" (John 4:25- 26). Additional names given Jesus Christ in the Bible include the following:
Advocate 1 John 2:1
Almighty Revelation 1:8
Alpha and Omega Revelation 21:6
Amen Revelation 3:14
Ancient of Days Daniel 7:9
Author/Finisher of our Faith Hebrews 12:2
Author of Eternal Salvation Hebrews 5:9
Begotten of God 1 John 5:18
Beloved Ephesians 1:6
Branch Zechariah 3:8
Bread of Life John 6:48
Bright and Morning Star Revelation 22:16
Captain of the Lord's Host Joshua 5:15
Carpenter's Son Matthew 13:55
Chief Cornerstone 1 Peter 2:6
Chief Among Ten Thousand Song of Solomon 5:10
Christ John 1:41
Counselor Isaiah 9:6
Deliverer Romans 11:26
Door John 10:9
Elect Isaiah 42:1
Emmanuel Matthew 1:23
Eternal Life 1 John 5:20
Faithful and True Revelation 19:11
Faithful Witness Revelation 1:5
First Begotten Hebrews 1:6
First and Last Revelation 22:13
Glorious Lord Isaiah 33:21
Great High Priest Hebrews 4:14
Head of the Body Colossians 1:18
Head over all things Ephesians 1:22
Headstone Psalms 118:22
Heir of all things Hebrews 1:2
Holy One of Israel Isaiah 41:14
Hope of Glory Colossians 1:27
I Am John 8:58
Image of the Invisible God Colossians 1:15
Jesus Christ Our Lord Romans 1:3
King of Glory Psalms 24:7
Lamb of God John 1:29
Light of the World John 8:12
Lily of the Valleys Song of Solomon 2:1
Living Bread John 6:51
Lord God Almighty Revelation 4:8
Lord of All Acts 10:36
Lord Our Righteousness Jeremiah 23:6
Love 1 John 4:8
Man of Sorrows Isaiah 53:3
Master Matthew 23:10
Messiah Daniel 9:25
Most Holy Daniel 9:24
Nazarene Matthew 2:23
Only Wise God 1 Timothy 1:17
Our Passover 1 Corinthians 5:7
Physician Luke 4:23
Prince of Peace Isaiah 9:6
Propitiation Romans 3:25
Redeemer Isaiah 59:20
Resurrection John 11:25
Righteous Servant Isaiah 53:11
Rock 1 Corinthians 10:4
Root of Jesse Isaiah 11:10
Rose of Sharon Song of Solomon 2:1
Savior of the World 1 John 4:14
Seed of David John 7:42
Seed of the Woman Genesis 3:15
Shepherd John 10:11
Son of God Romans 1:4
Son of Man Acts 7:56
Son of Mary Mark 6:3
Stone Matthew 21:42
Sun of Righteousness Malachi 4:2
Sure Foundation Isaiah 28:16
Teacher John 3:2
Truth John 14:6
Unspeakable Gift 1 Corinthians 9:15
Vine John 15:1
Way John 14:6
Wonderful Isaiah 9:6
Word John 1:14
Word of God Revelation 19:13
GOD THE HOLY SPIRIT
The Holy Spirit is part of the triune nature of God, but the Holy Spirit also has an individual personality. The subject of the Holy Spirit is so vast that an entire course entitled "The Ministry Of The Holy Spirit" is offered by Harvestime International Institute. This course is recommended for more detailed study of the Holy Spirit.
PERSONALITY OF THE HOLY SPIRIT:
The Bible reveals that the Holy Spirit:
Has a mind:
And He that searcheth the hearts knoweth what is the mind of the Spirit... (Romans 8:27)
Searches out the human mind:
But God hath revealed them unto us by His Spirit: for the Spirit searcheth all things, yea, the deep things of God. (I Corinthians 2:10)
Has a will:
But all these worketh that one and the selfsame Spirit, dividing to every man severally as He will. (I Corinthians 12:11)
The will of the Holy Spirit guides believers by denying permission for certain actions:
Now when they had gone throughout Phrygia and the region of Galatia, and were forbidden of the Holy Ghost to preach the word in Asia.
After they were come to Mysia, they assayed to go into Bithynia; but the Spirit suffered them not. (Acts 16:6-7)
The will of the Holy Spirit also guides believers by granting permission:
And after he had seen the vision, immediately we endeavored to go into Macedonia, assuredly gathering that the Lord had called us for to preach the Gospel unto them. (Acts 16:10)
Speaks:
Then the Spirit said unto Philip, Go near, and join thyself to this chariot. (Acts 8:29)
Loves:
Now I beseech you, brethren, for the Lord Jesus Christ's sake, and for the love of the Spirit, that ye strive together with me in your prayers to God for me. (Romans
15:30) Intercedes:
The Holy Spirit intercedes (prays to God) on behalf of believers:
Likewise the Spirit also helpeth our infirmities: for we know not what we should pray for as we ought: but the Spirit itself maketh intercession for us with groanings which cannot be uttered (spoken). (Romans 8:26)
From this list of personality traits you can immediately recognize the important functions of the Holy Spirit in spiritual warfare. The Holy Spirit guides your warfare. He reveals spiritual things that cannot be known naturally. The Holy Spirit speaks the will and words of God to you. He also intercedes for you as you are engaged in spiritual battles.
BAPTISM OF THE HOLY SPIRIT:
There is a spiritual experience called the baptism of the Holy Spirit which involves the sign of speaking in other tongues (Acts 2) and the evidence of power to become an effective witness of the Gospel (Acts 1:8).
To wage successful spiritual warfare, it is important for you to experience the baptism of the Spirit. This is the source of power for spiritual battles. The baptism of the Holy Spirit is discussed in the course "The Ministry Of The Holy Spirit.”
GIFTS OF THE HOLY SPIRIT:
The Holy Spirit gives special spiritual gifts to believers. These gifts are discussed in detail in the course on the Holy Spirit. The main references listing the gifts of the Holy Spirit are:
-Romans 12:1-8
-I Corinthians 12:1-31
-Ephesians 4:1-16
-I Peter 4:7-11
The gifts of the Holy Spirit are necessary to equip the believer for combat against the forces of evil. The gifts of the Holy Spirit include the following:
Special gifts to equip God's people:
Apostles, prophets, evangelists, pastors, teachers.
Speaking gifts to explain God's truth:
Prophecy, teaching, exhortation, word of wisdom, word of knowledge.
Serving gifts to enable God's work:
Serving, helps, leadership, administration, giving, showing mercy, discerning of spirits, faith, hospitality.
Sign gifts to establish God's authority:
Tongues, interpretation, miracles, healings.
FRUIT OF THE HOLY SPIRIT:
The Holy Spirit also develops spiritual fruit in the life of the believer. The "fruit of the Holy Spirit" refers to the nature of the Spirit revealed in the life of the believer, spiritual qualities which should be evident in the lives of all Christians.
The gifts of the Holy Spirit are for power. The fruit of the Holy Spirit is for character in the life of a believer. If you do not develop Christlike character traits then you will become a victim of the forces of evil. Spiritual fruit is evidence of spiritual maturity. Like fruit in the natural world, it is a product which is the result of the process of life.
There are two types of spiritual fruit. There is the spiritual fruit of reproduction:
Ye have not chosen me, but I have chosen you, and ordained you, that ye should go and bring forth fruit, and that your fruit should remain... (John 15:16)
There is also the inner fruit of Christlike qualities. These qualities are completely opposite of the fleshly nature of man:
Now the works of the flesh are manifest, which are these; Adultery, fornication, uncleanness, lasciviousness,
Idolatry, witchcraft, hatred, variance, emulations, wrath, strife, seditions, heresies,
Envyings, murders, drunkenness, revellings, and such like: of the which I tell you before, as I have also told you in time past, that they which do such
things shall not inherit the Kingdom of God.
But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, long suffering, gentleness, goodness, faith,
Meekness, temperance: against such there is no law. (Galatians 5:19-23)
Although the power of the flesh was defeated at the cross, as a believer you experience this only to the degree that you practice faith in the finished work of Jesus. Therefore, to be effective in denying the power of the sinful nature of the flesh, it is necessary that you develop or "put on" the fruit of the Holy Spirit.
WHERE IS THE HOLY SPIRIT?
Jesus promised His followers that upon His return to Heaven He would send the Holy Spirit to earth to comfort them:
And I will pray the Father, and He shall give you another Comforter, that He may abide with you for ever;
Even the Spirit of truth: whom the world cannot receive, because it seeth him not, neither knoweth Him; but ye know Him; for He dwelleth with you, and shall be in you. (John 14:16-17)
One of the main functions of the Holy Spirit is to direct attention to Jesus Christ:
But when the Comforter is come, whom I will sent unto you from the
Father, even the Spirit of truth, which proceedeth from the Father, He shall testify of me (John 15:26)
God the Holy Spirit, in spirit form and invisible to the natural eyes of man, is in the world today. He is active in convicting men of sin, drawing men to Jesus Christ, equipping believers with power for spiritual warfare, guiding them, and testifying of Jesus.
The Holy Spirit ministers in many other ways in the world. These are discussed in detail in the
Harvestime International Institute course entitled "Ministry Of The Holy Spirit."
SENSITIVITY OF THE HOLY SPIRIT:
The Holy Spirit has a sensitive nature. This means He has feelings that can be affected by the actions of man. Because of the sensitive nature of the Holy Spirit the Bible warns that we should not lie to the Holy Spirit (Acts 5:3-4), resist the Spirit (Acts 7:51), quench the Spirit (I Thessalonians 5:19), grieve the Spirit (Psalms 78:40 and Ephesians 4:30), insult the Spirit (Hebrews 6:4-6), blaspheme the Spirit (Matthew 12:31-32), or vex the Spirit (Isaiah 63:10). These actions are discussed in detail in the Harvestime International Institute course on "The Ministry Of The Holy Spirit."
It is important that you do not offend the sensitive nature of the Holy Spirit. If the Holy Spirit is offended by your actions He will withdraw His presence. You cannot wage effective spiritual warfare without the power of the Holy Spirit.
TITLES OF THE HOLY SPIRIT:
There are several titles used in the Bible to describe the Holy Spirit. A title is a descriptive phrase which explains a person's position and/or function. It is important that you know the function of the Holy Spirit as you enter spiritual warfare. Look up the following references in your Bible to study the titles given the Holy Spirit.
The Holy Spirit is called:
The Spirit of God: I Corinthians 3:16
The Spirit of Christ: Romans 8:9
The Eternal Spirit: Hebrews 9:14
The Spirit of Truth: John 16:13
The Spirit of Grace: Hebrews 10:29
The Spirit of Life: Romans 8:2
The Spirit of Glory: I Peter 4:14
The Spirit of Wisdom and Revelation: Ephesians 1:17
The Comforter: John 14:26
The Spirit of Promise: Acts 1:4-5
The Spirit of Holiness: Romans 1:4
The Spirit of Faith: II Corinthians 4:13
The Spirit of Adoption: Romans 8:15
EMBLEMS OF THE HOLY SPIRIT:
The Bible uses several emblems to represent the Holy Spirit. An emblem represents something. It is a symbol which has a special meaning. Look up the following references in your Bible. They each use emblems which represent the Holy Spirit:
The dove: John 1:32, Song Of Solomon 6:9
Oil: Luke 4:18, Acts 10:38; Hebrews 1:9
Water: John 7:37-39; Isaiah 44:3
A seal: Ephesians 1:13; 4:30; II Corinthians 1:22
Wind: John 3:8; Acts 2:1-2
Fire: Exodus 3:2; 13:21; Leviticus 9:24; Acts 2:3
The meaning of each of these emblems of the Holy Spirit is explained in the course on the
"Ministry Of The Holy Spirit."
SUMMARY
In this chapter you learned of the Triune nature of God and studied about God the Father, the Son Jesus Christ, and the Holy Spirit. With their combined functions in the realm of spiritual warfare they are a powerful force of good in the universe.
But it is not enough just to recognize that the spiritual forces of good exist. The Bible says:
Thou believest that there is one God; thou doest well: the devils also believe and tremble. (James 2:19)
The spiritual forces of evil believe in God and are fearful of Him, but they are still evil. To simply believe in God is not enough. You must acknowledge Him as Lord of your life. You must accept the sacrifice of Jesus Christ for your sin, repent, ask forgiveness, and become a new creature in Christ.
You have not yet completed your study of the spiritual forces of good. The next chapter concerns a mighty host of spirit beings known as angels and describes their function in spiritual warfare.
INSPECTION
1. Write the Key Verse from the Articles Of War.
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________________________________________
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2. List the spiritual forces of good.
________________________________________
________________________________________
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3. Name the three personalities of the Trinity of God:
God the
God the ,
God the
4. Summarize the special function of God in the realm of spiritual warfare.
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________________________________________
5. Summarize the functions of Jesus Christ in spiritual warfare.
________________________________________
________________________________________
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6. Summarize the functions of the Holy Spirit in spiritual warfare.
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7. Column One lists some of the attributes of the Triune god. Column Two lists definitions of these attributes, but they are not in correct order. Look at each attribute in Column One. Then find the correct definition in Column Two. Write the number of the correct definition in the blank provided. The first one is done as an example for you to follow.
1. __h__ Eternal a. Without flesh and blood
2. _____ Sovereign b. Present everywhere.
3. _____ Omnipresent c. Good, kind
4. _____ Holy d. Highest, supreme power
5. _____ Infinite e. All powerful
6. _____ Unchanging f. Knows all things
7. _____ Benevolent g. Sinless
8. _____ A spirit h. No beginning or end
9. _____ Omniscient i. Does not change.
10. _____ Omnipotent j. Fair and impartial in judgment
11. _____ Just k. Shows mercy to sinful mankind
12. _____ Merciful l. Not subject to natural limitations
8. What is the name of God you should use when entering into spiritual warfare?
________________________________________
(Answers to tests are provided at the conclusion of the final chapter in this manual.)
TACTICAL MANEUVERS
1. If you are studying the Harvestime Institute courses in their suggested order, you will study "The Ministry Of The Holy Spirit" after completion of this course. The first chapter of "The Ministry Of The Holy Spirit" includes an outline for further study of God the Father and the Son Jesus Christ. If you are not enrolled in the complete Institute
program, we suggest you obtain the Harvestime International Institute course entitled
"The Ministry Of The Holy Spirit" to study upon completion of this course.
2. Additional studies on the life, ministry, and teachings of Jesus Christ are provided in the
Harvestime International Institute courses "Kingdom Living" and "Teaching Tactics."
3. The Harvestime International Institute course entitled "Foundations Of Faith" provides detailed instruction on the basic doctrines of the Christian faith. This course is important in gaining understanding of the spiritual forces of good. You have already completed
this course if you are studying the subjects in suggested order. If not, we suggest you obtain this course for further study.
4. Are you presently in a spiritual battle? As you pray about your problem, begin to call upon the name of the Lord of Hosts.
5. Think about a battle you are presently facing and study again the functions of God the Father, Jesus Christ, and the Holy Spirit in warfare. How can God assist you in your personal battle? How can Jesus assist you? What is the function of the Holy Spirit in the problem you are facing?
CHAPTER FOUR
THE SPIRITUAL FORCES OF GOOD: ANGELS
OBJECTIVES:
Upon completion of this chapter you will be able to:
• Write the Key Verse from memory.
• Provide a reference which explains what angels are.
• Tell how angels originated.
• Identify two kinds of angels.
• Identify their sphere of activity.
• Summarize the ministry of angels in spiritual warfare.
• Identify attributes of angels.
• Identify various classifications of angels.
• Give a Scripture reference which explains the organization of the angelic host.
KEY VERSE FROM THE ARTICLES OF WAR:
The angel of the Lord encampeth round about them that fear Him, and delivereth them. (Psalms 34:7)
INTRODUCTION
In the last chapter you learned of the Trinity of God which includes God the Father, God the Son Jesus Christ, and God the Holy Spirit. You learned of their origin, attributes, and functions in spiritual warfare.
This chapter continues the study of the spiritual forces of good. It explains the origin, attributes, sphere of activity, classification, and organization of angels. It also explains their ministry in spiritual warfare.
WHAT ARE ANGELS?
Angels are ministering spirits sent by God to do His will:
Are they not all ministering spirits, sent forth to minister for them who shall be heirs of salvation. (Hebrews 1:14)
The title "angel" means messenger.
THE ORIGIN OF ANGELS
Angels were created by God:
Praise ye Him, all His angels: praise ye Him, all His hosts.
Let them praise the name of the Lord: For He commanded and they were created. (Psalms 148:2 and 5)
For by Him were all things created, that are in Heaven, and that are in earth, visible and invisible, whether they be thrones, or dominions, or principalities, or powers: all things were created by Him and for Him. (Colossians 1:16.)
All the angels were righteous and holy when they were first created. They worshiped and served the one true God. Later, some angels rebelled against God and lost their position as angels. They became part of a force of evil called "demons."
There are now two kinds of angels: Good angels, which are the subject of this chapter, and evil angels (demons) which will be discussed in Chapter Six of this course.
THE ORGANIZATION OF ANGELS
The good Angels have been organized by God in a special order. The Bible does not reveal the details of that order, but it does indicate such organization:
For by Him were all things created, that are in Heaven, and that are in earth, visible and invisible, whether they be thrones, or dominions, or principalities, or powers: all things were created by Him and for Him. (Colossians 1:16; See also Ephesians 3:10)
The organization of the invisible world is described here in terms of thrones, dominions, principalities, and powers. We are not given details of this structure. You will learn later how Satan has imitated this organization in his own structure of evil forces.
THE CLASSIFICATION OF ANGELS
There are literally multitudes of angels (Luke 2:13-15) who are apparently classified according to the duties they perform. These are the main classifications of angels:
MESSENGERS:
This class of angels is most likely the largest in number. These are the angels composing the innumerable group, visualized by Daniel (Daniel 7:10), who carry out the will of God in Heaven and earth. This is the group that usually relates to the believer in terms of spiritual warfare. They interpret God's will, protect, provide guidance, bring answers to prayer, announce, warn, instruct, bring judgment, encourage, sustain, deliver, and intercede on behalf of believers.
ELECT ANGELS:
Only one reference is made to elect angels in I Timothy 5:21. There is no further information given about this group.
CHERUBIM:
This classification of angels is first mentioned in Genesis 3:24. They are also mentioned as part of the ark of the covenant (Exodus 25:18-22). Ezekiel mentions these beings and describes them as having four appearances; the face of a lion, the face of an ox, the face of a man, and the face of an eagle (Ezekiel 1:3-28; 10:22). This symbolism of the cherubim suggests they are the living creatures surrounding the throne of God in Revelation 4:6. They appear to be the highest order of angels, the guardians of God.
SERAPHIM:
This group is mentioned in Isaiah 6:2,6. Their position is above the throne of God in contrast to the position of cherubims who surround His throne. The duty of these angels seems to be to lead Heaven in the worship of God.
LIVING CREATURES:
This group of angels are mentioned in Revelation 4:6,8; 5:6. This title presents these angels as manifesting the fullness of divine life, whose chief ministry appears to be worship of God.
INDIVIDUAL ANGELS
In addition to the different classifications of angels, there are some individual angels mentioned by name in the Bible:
MICHAEL:
Michael the archangel is mentioned by name in Daniel 10:13,21; 12:1; Jude 9; and Revelation
12:7. He is the only angel who is called an archangel. He is represented as having charge over an army of angels in Revelation 12:7 and is said to be the prince of the people of Israel in Daniel 10:13,21; 12:1.
GABRIEL:
The meaning of his name is "mighty one." He is mentioned in Daniel 8:16; 9:21; and in Luke
1:19,26. He is always used to deliver an important message from God. It is Gabriel who interpreted the vision for Daniel in 8:16; 9:21 and who announced the birth of John and Jesus Luke 1:19,26.
SPECIAL GROUPS OF ANGELS:
The Bible also mentions special groups of angels which include:
Angels of the seven churches: Revelation 1:20
Four angels who control the winds: Revelation 1:7
Seven angels who stand before God: Revelation 8:2
Seven angels who administrate the seven last plagues: Revelation 15:1,7
Twenty-four elders (these may be angelic beings): Revelation 4 and 5
THE ATTRIBUTES OF ANGELS
You will remember from the last chapter that attributes are personality traits or characteristics of an individual. Angels...
-Are spirits: Hebrews 1:14
-Are sexless: Luke 20:34-36
-Are immortal: Matthew 22:28-30
-Have both visible and invisible forms: Numbers 22:22-35
-Appear with the likeness of human form: Genesis 19:1-22; 18:2,4,8
-Have emotions: Luke 15:1-10 (angels rejoicing).
-Have appetites: Genesis 18:8
-Are glorified beings: Luke 9:26
-Are intelligent: II Samuel 14:20
-Are meek: Jude 9
-Are powerful: Psalms 103:20; II Peter 2:11
-Have no need to rest: Revelation 4:8
-Travel at an unrecorded speed: Revelation 8:13; 9:1
-Speak languages: I Corinthians 13:1
-Are innumerable: Luke 2:13; Hebrews 12:22; Psalms 68:17; Mark 1:13; Revelation 5:19
-Are immortal: Luke 20:34-36
-Do not marry or have children: Luke 20:34-36
-Are obedient: Psalms 103:20
-Are holy: Revelation 14:10; Mark 8:38
-Are reverent: Their highest activity is the worship of God. Nehemiah 9:6; Philippians
2:9-11; Hebrews 1:6
THEIR SPHERE OF ACTIVITY
Angels are active in both Heaven and earth. The source of their power is both granted and governed by God. They have access to the presence of God in Heaven:
...In Heaven their angels do always behold the face of my Father which is in
Heaven. (Matthew 18:10)
They are also active on earth. This is documented by the varied ministries and many appearances of angels to people recorded in the Bible.
THE MINISTRY OF ANGELS
Angels minister in many ways in both Heaven and earth. Look up each of the following references in your Bible. As you study these verses you will understand the importance of angels in spiritual warfare.
The ministry of angels in Heaven includes:
-Worship: Revelation 4:8; 5:11-12; Isaiah 6:3; Psalms 103:20; 148:1-2
-Standing ready to do God's will: Psalms 103:20-21
-Ministering to the godly who have died in Christ Jesus: Jude 9; Luke 16:22
-Representing children in a special way: Matthew 18:10
-Rejoicing over those who accept the Gospel: Luke 15:10
The ministry of angels on earth includes:
-Ruling nations: Daniel 10
-Ministering to believers in times of testing: Matthew 4:11
-Strengthening believers: Luke 22:43
-Interpreting God's will for men: Zechariah 1:9; Daniel 7:16
-Guiding believers: Acts 8:26.
-Bringing judgment on individuals and nations: Acts 12:23; Genesis 19:3; II Samuel
24:16; Revelation 16:1
-Bringing answers to prayer: Daniel 9:21-22
-Announcing: Luke 1:11-20; Matthew 1:20, 21
-Warning: Matthew 2:13;
-Instructing: Matthew 28:2-6; Acts 10:3-6; Daniel 4:13-17
-Encouraging: Acts 27:23; Genesis 28:12
-Revealing: Acts 7:53; Galatians 3:19; Hebrews 2:2; Daniel 9:21-27; Revelation 1:1
-Sustaining: Matthew 4:11; Luke 22:43
-Preserving: Genesis 16:7; 24:7; Exodus 23:20; Revelation 7:1
-Protecting: Psalms 91:11
-Delivering: Numbers 20:16; Psalms 34:7; Isaiah 63:9; Daniel 3:28; 6:22; Genesis 48:16; Matthew 26:53; Acts 12:1-19
-Destroying: Acts 12:20-23
-Interceding: Zechariah 1:12; Revelation 8:3,4
The future activities of angels will include:
-Participating in the return of Jesus: I Thessalonians 4:16
-Gathering the elect: Matthew 24:31
-Warning and preaching during the tribulation: Revelation 14:6-9
-Separating the wicked from the righteous: Matthew 13:39 and 49
-Binding Satan: Revelation 20
ANGELS AND SPIRITUAL WARFARE
The Messenger angels are the group that usually relates to the believer in terms of spiritual warfare. They interpret God's will, protect, provide guidance, bring answers to prayer,
announce, warn, instruct, bring judgment, encourage, sustain, deliver, and intercede on behalf of believers in battle.
Many believers have not availed themselves of the aid available from angels because they have not been taught regarding their function in spiritual warfare. They are "ministering spirits" and can minister for you as well as to you. You can ask God to dispatch angels to assist you in battle. King David did this. He prayed...
Let the angel of the Lord persecute them...Let the angel of the Lord chase them... (Psalms 35:5-6)
Read the following Biblical accounts of angels participating in warring against the enemy: II Kings 19:35; II Chronicles 32:21; Isaiah 37:36; Revelation 12:7.