- Man was created in the image of God to rule by God’s authority. (Genesis 1:26)
- What Adam lost – Jesus regained.
Romans 5:17
For if, by the trespass of the one man, death reigned through that one man, how much more will those who receive God’s abundant provision of grace and of the gift of righteousness reign in life through the one man, Jesus Christ!
- As believers we have to exercise our authority – it doesn’t happen automatically.
Spirit World
2 Kings 6
John 4:24 (NKJV)
God is spirit and those who worship him must worship him in spirit and in truth.
Ephesians 6:12
For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms.
- God has seated us with Him in heavenly places.
Ephesians 2:6
Submission Matters
James 4:7
Submit yourselves, then, to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you.
Acts 19
- When we’re not submitted, the enemy can take advantage of us.
Ephesians 4:27 (NKJV)
nor give place to the devil.
Stay Alert
1 Peter 5:8
Be alert and of sober mind. Your enemy the devil prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour.
- He has to look for those he can devour – he can’t devour everybody!
1 Peter 4:7
The end of all things near. Therefore be alert and of sober mind so that you can pray.
1 Peter 4:7
The end of all things is near. Therefore . . .
- Sober Prayer
1 Peter 4:7
. . . Therefore be alert and of sober mind so that you may pray.
- Deep Love
1 Peter 4:8
Above all, love each other deeply, because love covers over a multitude of sins.
- Gracious Hospitality
1 Peter 4:9
Offer hospitality to one another without grumbling.
- Gracious Service
1 Peter 4:10-11
10 Each of you should use whatever gift you have received to serve others, as faithful stewards of God’s grace in its various forms. 11 If anyone speaks, they should do so as one who speaks the very words of God. If anyone serves, they should do so with the strength God provides, so that in all things God may be praised through Jesus Christ. To him be the glory and the power for ever and ever. Amen.
Questions:
- What did you hear from the Holy Spirit?
- What will you do because of it?
- How can we pray for you