Standing Firm
Audio Recording
Sermon Outline
Speaker: Rev. Scott Strickman
Sermon Series: Joined Together, Growing Together
Ephesians 6:10-13 (ESV)
10 Finally, be strong in the Lord and in the strength of his might. 11 Put on the whole armor of God, that you may be able to stand against the schemes of the devil. 12 For we do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the cosmic powers over this present darkness, against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly places. 13 Therefore take up the whole armor of God, that you may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand firm.
Sermon Outline
Life is fraught with challenges and to stand firm we need:
1. Awareness
v11 “the schemes of the devil”
vv12-13 “we do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against…”
2. Armor
v11 “Put on the whole armor of God… able to stand…” (v13)
3. Strength
v10 “Finally, be strong in the Lord and in the strength of his might”
Prayer of Confession
Our mighty God: we are vulnerable, weak, and guilty of sin. We have not walked in the ways of Christ. We have not stood firm against temptation. We have failed to face the dark forces with courage and faith. We have fought with those we have been called to love. We have not trusted you. Forgive our many sins. Work your Spirit in us so we know the hope to which you have called us and have the strength to stand firm. We ask this in the name of Jesus, who secured salvation by defeating the powers of darkness. Amen.
Questions for Reflection
How do you experience “wrestling” in life? What feels like a battle for you?
What are some attributes of the “schemes of the devil”? How can you tell when something more deeply problematic is at work? What forms of temptation are difficult for you?
How can you keep from becoming obsessed with evil? Why is it important to remain focused on what is good, and not solely on addressing what is bad?
How are the ways of Christ protective? Which teachings of Jesus strike you as particularly helpful for navigating life?
Why is it important to put on the “whole” armor of God? What makes it “God’s” armor?
Where is strength evident in the life of Jesus? What did Jesus uniquely face and accomplish?
How is being strong in the Lord different from being a strong person? How does God’s strength work in the lives of His people?