Spiritual Warfare (3)

The devil is already defeated.

“You, dear children, are from God and have overcome them, because the one who is in you is greater than the one who is in the world.” 1 John 4:4 (NIV)

Jesus lives in you. You are greater than the devil. He has nothing on you. You are a child of the King. Jesus has made your victory over sin, over Satan, and over death, a reality! The devil is already beaten!

“Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ! In his great mercy he has given us new birth into a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead, and into an inheritance that can never perish, spoil or fade–kept in heaven for you, who through faith are shielded by God’s power until the coming of the salvation that is ready to be revealed in the last time.” 1 Peter 1:3-5 (NIV)

The devil’s time is limited. He knows that his end is near. Therefore, the devil mobilizes his demonic entourage to distract and discourage believers. Remember, the penalty for your sin has been paid in full by the atoning work of Jesus on the cross. Remember, the same power that raised Jesus from the dead is living in you in the Person of the Holy Spirit who lives in you.

“Do you not know that your body is a temple of the Holy Spirit, who is in you, whom you have received from God? You are not your own; you were bought at a price. Therefore honor God with your body.” 1 Cor 6:19-20 (NIV)

Pursuing God,

Stephen Trammell
Pastor of Leadership and Pastoral Care