A Biblical Mindset for Spiritual Warfare
This was discussed at the Saltshakers‘ Saffron Planet on 3rd January in response to a word from Chris Hill a few weeks earlier, encouraging us to be equipped to stand fast in days of ever-increasing conflict. We are to learn how to take ground from satan so that God’s Kingdom will advance at satan’s expense. But to be prepared for harsh criticism and to not yield to pressures to back off.
The following are some of key points which emerged in the discussion.
Jesus is building His church and the authorities of Hell cannot prevail against it! (Matt. 16:18-19) We are all called to this – if we are part of Christ’s church (Eph. 6:12) – see “Born for Battle” Arthur Matthews; “Built for Battle” Chris Hill.
Battle commenced in Gen 3:15; ran through the whole OT as Satan tried to destroy the Seed; intensified dramatically at the Incarnation Rev. 12:1-5; was won at the Cross Col 2:15 but won’t be finished until Jesus returns in glory Rev.19:19 – 20:3 with final consummation at the end of the Millennium. Rev. 20:10. “Thy Will be done” is a declaration of war!! “Thy Kingdom come” declares war on satan’s domain as the Kingdom of God claims men and women for God from the power of satan. Col 1:13; Heb.2:14-15
The main characteristics of the mindset were summarised as follows:
- Humility – Let this mind be in you which was in Christ Jesus Phil 2:5 (comes in under Hell’s radar)
- Under authority – Matt. 8:8-9; John 19:11; 1 Cor. 11:3
- Courage required – Eph. 6:10
- Magnify Jesus – Col. 3:17
This all resonated with me and some thoughts (inspired, I hope!) which had been in my mind for some months previously, that Spiritual Warfare characterises, or should characterise(!), all aspects of our life as disciples of Jesus.