What is Spiritual Warfare?
Spiritual warfare refers to the ongoing battle between the forces of good and evil, particularly in relation to the hearts of humans. In this battle, evil seeks to turn us away from God, but through Jesus, we already have victory.
Doctrines and Practices
Mainstream Christian Demonology:
- Acknowledges the existence of demons, fallen angels, and the Devil.
Evangelical Christian Demonology:
- Focuses on the influence of Satan and his agents over the world.
Prayer and Exorcism:
- Common practices in spiritual warfare, based on the belief that Jesus used these methods to combat evil.
Practices in Christianity
Catholicism:
- Uses prayers like the Prayer to Saint Michael the Archangel and exorcisms performed by priests.
Lutheranism, Anglicanism, and Reformed Christianity:
- Historically practiced exorcism and believed in the reality of demonic possession.
Eastern Orthodoxy and Oriental Orthodoxy:
- Emphasize spiritual warfare through prayers, sacraments, and the use of holy objects.
Evangelicalism:
- Prominent feature, with writers like C. Peter Wagner promoting specific techniques and strategies.
Pentecostalism:
- Beliefs similar to Evangelicalism, emphasizing the importance of the blood of Christ in deliverance ministry.
Spiritual Mapping:
- A practice in some Evangelical and Charismatic circles that involves identifying and combating perceived demonic influences in specific locations.
Criticism and Controversy
- Some Christian denominations reject the concept of spiritual warfare as unbiblical.
- Evangelicals have been criticized for promoting aggressive forms of prayer that resemble militaristic discourse.
- Concerns have been raised about the use of spiritual warfare techniques in the context of satanic ritual abuse allegations.
Cultural Influence
Spiritual warfare has been portrayed in popular fiction, such as novels by Frank E. Peretti and Darrin J Mason.
20 Essential Points on Spiritual Warfare
- Spiritual warfare involves a battle for souls, with Satan as the enemy.
- God created us to know Him, but Satan seeks to prevent this.
- The world, flesh, and devil battle for our hearts.
- The world promotes values that conflict with God.
- The flesh tempts us away from God's commandments.
- The devil deceives and tempts us to rebel against God.
- Jesus faced and overcame spiritual battles.
- Prayer is a powerful weapon in spiritual warfare.
- Jesus withdrew alone with God for prayer and reflection.
- Fasting can enhance our ability to hear from God.
- The Holy Spirit empowers us for spiritual victory.
- Jesus left the Holy Spirit with us to strengthen us.
- Praying with other believers is crucial for support and healing.
- Victory is about trusting God and His promises.
- God fights for us and has already defeated death through Jesus.
- Spiritual warfare may involve external challenges or internal struggles.
- Perseverance demonstrates victory.
- The Bible encourages boldness in prayer and belief in God's response.
- Use specific Bible verses as prayers in spiritual warfare.
- Prayer is a means for experiencing victory in the battles we face.
How to Fight Spiritual Warfare
1. Prayer:
- Engage in prayer and fasting to strengthen your relationship with God.
- Study the Bible to understand God's truth and promises.
- Recognize your authority in prayer through Jesus.
2. Wearing the Armor of God:
- Belt of Truth: Jesus is the truth. Seek Him constantly.
- Breastplate of Righteousness: Pursue God's righteousness.
- Shield of Faith: Put your trust in God in all circumstances.
- Helmet of Salvation: Renew your mind through the Holy Spirit to protect from enemy lies.
- Sword of the Spirit: The Word of God is powerful against deception.
3. Christian Fellowship:
- Surround yourself with a supportive community.
- Find a church and small group for encouragement and accountability.
4. Spiritual Discernment:
- Cultivate your ability to recognize and resist the enemy's tactics through prayer and familiarity with Scripture.
- Be aware of your weaknesses and where Satan can attack.
Remember:
- Jesus has already granted us victory.
- God provides armor and protection through prayer, the Bible, and Christian fellowship.
- Be strong in the battle and trust in God's ultimate triumph.
What is spiritual warfare?
Spiritual warfare is the ongoing battle between the forces of good and evil, particularly in relation to the hearts of humans. Evil seeks to turn us away from God, but through Jesus, we already have victory.
What are the signs of spiritual warfare?
Signs of spiritual warfare include intense temptations, persistent doubts and fears, obstacles in spiritual growth, unexplained conflicts, physical exhaustion, and decreased discernment.
How can I fight spiritual warfare?
You can fight spiritual warfare through prayer, wearing the armor of God, seeking Christian fellowship, and cultivating spiritual discernment.
