Coming Home: The Evil Influencer

Coming Home: The Evil Influencer

Luke 15:10-16; Ezekiel 28:12-15;                I Peter 5:8; Ephesians 6:10-18

It’s a battle over the “influence” that believers have in our homes, community, work place and people we encounter in life. Satan and his minions rejoice when Christians “leave home” and wander, Let’s begin with Satan’s mission, Struggle Believers face with evil influences and suiting up for the challenge and battle.

Satan’s Mission Ezekiel 28:12-15;              I Peter 5:8-11

Satan’s origin: Ezekiel 28:12-15 Satan’s Mission: I Peter 5:8-11 Seeks to devour. Spiritual enemy. Suffering that is time limited, but difficult. Help in Strength of self-control, alertness and awareness, a willingness to resisting, attempting to stand firm, finding restoration and strength from God. Satan’s Reality: Old and New Testament references Satan 30 times. Jesus mentions Satan 14 times.

Struggle Christians face. Ephesians 6:12

Our struggle is not with people though we spend a lot of time debating each other. It’s between Rulers who are the beginning source of conflict. Authorities: those who do as they please by excising powers. Powers of this dark world: not earthly, but spiritual powers. Spiritual forces of evil in heavenly realms invisible angelic hosts. Wickedness in high places teaching and leading in depravity.

Coming Home: The Evil Influencer

Appeal to believers: (Ephesians 6:10-11) Be strong, be dressed up for the battle that awaits. Armor of God: (Ephesians 6:14) Belt of truth pulling the reality of God around you that supports everything. Breastplate of righteousness any righteousness we have is given to us by Jesus. It’s His righteousness we put on. Bind your feet in readiness grounded in peace that comes from the Gospel the Good news. Boldly hold up the shield of faith which will stop the arrows of attack from Satan. Bring the helmet of salvation which protects our mind and thinking processes. Bear the sword of the Spirit which is the Word of God which will defeat one day Satan. Actions of the believer: (Ephesians 6:13-14a, 18) Stand your ground don’t back up. Stand firm without retreating under the pressure of evil and temptations. Stay alert by placing in your hearts God’s word undergirded by prayer. Expect challenges to your faith. Strength is found in prayers for other.  

Our nature to sin causes us to fail if we are not careful and the author of evil and rebellion Satan uses that to challenges the lost and believers. God resources us to be an “influencer” of God’s grace. Christians live outside the walls helping those who have left home to come home. There is a loving Heavenly Father waiting and an understanding fellowshipof believers who will welcome them!

Yea