In this session we will attempt to

¨ learn more about the opposition to God’s kingdom;

¨ understand the nature of the enemy and his limitations;

¨ develop a correct attitude to the enemy;

¨ develop awareness of the enemy’s tactics;

¨ learn how to overcome the enemy.

I. THE NATURE OF THE ENEMY

“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.” (Ephesians 6:12)

II. ACTIVITIES IN THE WORLD

“The whole world is under the control of the evil one.” (1 John 5:19)

Satan	Jesus
blinds minds (2 Corinthians 4:4)	opens eyes (Acts 26:17,18)
brings fear (Hebrews 2:14,15)	drives out fear (1 John 4:18)
enslaves (Acts 10:38)	sets free (Luke 4:18)
deceives (Revelation 20:8)	reveals truth (John 8:32)
takes away God’s word (Mark 4:15)	brings God’s word (John 12:49,50)
inspires evil deeds (John 13:2)	takes away sin (John 1:29)
encourages idolatry (1 Corinthians 10:19-20)	brings glory to God (John 17:4)
brings death (Hebrews 2:14)	brings life (John 10:10)

III. ACTIVITIES IN THE CHURCH

“In order that Satan might not outwit us; for we are not unaware of his schemes” (2 Corinthians 2:11)

Satan	Jesus
sows doubt (Genesis 3:1)	bestows faith (John 14:1)
tempts to sin (Matthew 4:1)	forgives (1 John 1:9)
accuses (Revelation 12:10)	defends (1 John 2:1)
hinders (1 Thessalonians 2:18)	opens doors (Luke 11:9)
persecutes (Revelation 2:10)	glorifies (2 Corinthians 4:16,17)
deceives (1 Timothy 4:1)	guides into all truth (John 16:13)
ensnares (1 Timothy 3:6,7; 6:9)	saves (Hebrews 7:25)

IV THE CHRISTIAN’S RESPONSIBILITY

“The God of peace will soon crush Satan under your feet” (Romans 16:20)

¨ Know your secure position in Christ (Luke 10:18-20)

¨ Pray for deliverance from temptation and evil (Matthew 6:13)

¨ Use the two things that overcome the Adversary, the Accuser (Revelation 12:11)

1. The blood of the Lamb

2. The word of your testimony (defensive and offensive)

¨ Be self-controlled and spiritually alert (1 Peter 5:8,9)

¨ Resist the Devil and he will flee (James 4:7; Ephesians 4:27)

¨ Take the fight to the enemy (Ephesians 6:10-19)

¨ Advance the Kingdom by faith (Matthew 17:14-21)