Introduction:  Today, we are going to look at the third piece of spiritual armor God has given us as our divine defense to help us defeat our unseen enemy.

Introduction:  Over the last two weeks, we have identified the “belt of truth” and the “breastplate of righteousness” as obedience to God.  Today we will discover specific ways that obedience develops righteousness that leads to genuine joy in this life and unending happiness in the next life. 

Introduction:  Last week, we discovered the second strategy for victory in spiritual warfare. Today, we will discover how obedience helps to defeat Satan’s plan to destroy us.

How to Turn the World Upside Down (Acts 15-18)

Introduction:  Last time we looked at the first strategy for winning the spirit wars by replacing destructive thoughts with God’s thoughts.  Or, as Paul says, “Putting on the belt of truth.”  Today, we are going to look at Paul’s second strategy for victory in spiritual warfare by, “Putting on the breastplate of righteousness.”

Introduction:  The first piece of spiritual armor Paul encourages us to put on in combating the spirit war is the “belt of truth.”  This means learning how to recognize and replace harmful thoughts which Satan plants in our mind.  Today we are going to discover four practical ways to handle wrong thoughts.

Introduction:  “Satan is a liar and the father of lies,” Jesus once said.  The primary way Satan and his demons try to influence our lives is through our thoughts.  Today we are going to expose four of Satan’s favorite lies that he plants in our minds through other people, other mediums, or through direct communication.

Introduction:  Over the past several weeks we have discovered the reality of the intense and invisible war Satan and his demons are waging against each of us.  Today we are going to explore the primary battlefield on which Satan wages his war against us.

Introduction:  Last time we learned that demons are real spirit beings who assist Satan in his plan to destroy our lives and overthrow God’s kingdom.  Demons work to blind unbelievers to the truth of the gospel so that they remain slaves to Satan.  Demons also assist Satan in his three-fold plan to destroy the lives of believers.

Introduction: Throughout Scripture, we find incredible instances of God meeting with His chosen servants and sending them out as His messengers with the assurance of His continual presence. As a believer, you have received the same type of solemn commission from our King and Lord, Jesus Christ. Are you fulfilling your life’s purpose?