Enemies on SermonAudio

Motivation for Unity v 1 A. Encouragement in Christ B. Comfort from Love C. Together in the Spirit D. Affection and Sympathy 2. Characteristics of Unity v 2 A. Likeminded B. Same Love C. One Accord and Mind 3. The Enemy of Unity v 3 A. Selfish Ambition B. Conceit 4. Road to Unity v 4 A. Humility B. Value Others C. Differ to Others

This sermon explores the spiritual warfare described in Ephesians 6, emphasizing that believers are engaged in a battle against principalities and powers rather than flesh and blood. The central message is that Christians must rely on God's strength and put on the full armor of God to stand firm against the devil's wiles. The preacher highlights that prayer is not merely a secret weapon but the battlefield itself, urging the congregation to view public prayer meetings as the front line of this conflict. The tone is both convicting and encouraging, calling believers to recognize the severity of the enemy while trusting in the superior protection provided by God's armor. The sermon concludes with a call to persevere in prayer and holiness, ensuring that when the dust settles, the believer remains standing.

The sermon explores the assurance of God's presence and provision for His people, drawing primarily from Psalm 46. It contrasts the turmoil of the world with the peace found in the 'city of God,' identifying believers as citizens of heaven who are sustained by the spiritual streams of God's grace. The message emphasizes that true gladness arises not from circumstances but from a deep reliance on Christ, the dwelling of the Holy Spirit within the believer, and the unshakeable security of the church. In the face of societal opposition and personal trials, the preacher encourages believers to walk in courage and to engage in evangelism, trusting that the Lord of Hosts is with them and will ultimately silence the raging of the wicked.

1. The church grows amid the outworking of God's providence. 2. The church grows through the proclamation of God's Christ. 3. The church grows despite the opposition of God's enemies. 4. The church grows with the assurance of God's word.

A Christian who is engaged in spiritual warfare without God's armour, is a defeated Christian. We must be strong in the Lord and in the power of His might. We must put on ALL of the armour of God. If we do so, we can withstand and STAND. May God help us, the army of Christ, to fulfil the mission of our GREAT Commander and Chief. For the sake of those without Christ, may we fight to set them free. For the sake of God's church, may we engage the enemy and see the church victorious once again. By God's might, let us stand and having done all to STAND. (Ephesian 6:10-18)

Psalm 3:1-8 (KJV) A Psalm of David, when he fled from Absalom his son. LORD, how are they increased that trouble me! many are they that rise up against me. 2 Many there be which say of my soul, There is no help for him in God. Selah. 3 But thou, O LORD, art a shield for me; my glory, and the lifter up of mine head. 4 I cried unto the LORD with my voice, and he heard me out of his holy hill. Selah. 5 I laid me down and slept; I awaked; for the LORD sustained me. 6 I will not be afraid of ten thousands of people, that have set themselves against me round about. 7 Arise, O LORD; save me, O my God: for thou hast smitten all mine enemies upon the cheek bone; thou hast broken the teeth of the ungodly. 8 Salvation belongeth unto the LORD: thy blessing is upon thy people. Selah.

The sermon explores the theological concept of leaving one's past behind, focusing on the transition from a state of spiritual separation to intimate access to God through Christ. It examines Ephesians 2, contrasting the believer's former identity as a Gentile, alien from the commonwealth of Israel, and without hope, with their current status as a new creation made nigh by the blood of Jesus. The message emphasizes that while acknowledging history is important for context, dwelling on past sins or failures leads to depression and hinders spiritual growth. Instead, believers are encouraged to recognize the magnitude of God's grace in bridging the divide between humanity and the divine, transforming former enemies into fellow citizens of the saints. This perspective fosters a life of gratitude and praise, rooted in the assurance that salvation is entirely the work of God rather than human effort.

The sermon examines the command in Luke 9 for the apostles to proclaim the kingdom of God, distinguishing this spiritual reality from the physical nation of Israel under the Old Covenant. It argues that the New Covenant era is characterized by a spiritual kingdom where believers submit to Christ's lordship rather than seeking to overthrow physical governments or establish a national state. The teaching clarifies that embracing Jesus as Savior inherently requires accepting Him as King, a concept supported by the lack of instructions for demon casting in the New Testament and the focus on internal transformation. By contrasting the imprecatory Psalms of David with the New Testament call to love enemies, the message emphasizes that God's current plan is for individual spiritual submission and ethical living within existing societies. The sermon concludes that the Gospels are best understood through the lens of full New Testament revelation, which highlights the necessity of submitting to Christ's authority as the central requirement for entering the kingdom.