Saint John Community Church

Dear brothers and sisters in Christ, today we gather to discuss a topic of utmost importance: the power of spiritual warfare. As followers of Christ, we are constantly engaged in a battle against the forces of darkness. Our Scripture reading from Luke 11:17-23 reminds us of the ongoing spiritual warfare we face and the ultimate triumph we have in Christ.

Scripture Reference: Ephesians 6:12 (NRSV)

"For our struggle is not against enemies of blood and flesh, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the cosmic powers of this present darkness, against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly places."

- Subpoint 1: Understanding the Battlefront: Explores the spiritual realm and the influence of evil forces.

- Subpoint 2: The Deceptiveness of Our Enemy: Discusses how Satan deceives and tempts us.

- Subpoint 3: The Impact on Our Daily Lives: Explores how spiritual warfare affects our thoughts, emotions, relationships, and decisions.

RC Sproul quote: "We don't wrestle against flesh and blood, but against principalities and powers. There are spiritual powers of darkness who wage war against God and seek to destroy His people."

Scripture Reference: Luke 11:20 (NRSV)

"But if it is by the finger of God that I cast out the demons, then the kingdom of God has come to you."

- Subpoint 1: Jesus' Authority over the Demonic Forces: Explores Jesus' power to cast out demons and His victory over them.

- Subpoint 2: The Kingdom of God in Our Lives: Discusses how through Jesus' authority, we can experience the victorious reign of God in our lives.

- Subpoint 3: The Role of Faith: Emphasizes the importance of faith in accessing the power of Jesus.

RC Sproul quote: "Our confidence in spiritual warfare rests not upon our own abilities but upon the perfect victory of Jesus Christ."

Scripture Reference: Luke 11:23 (NRSV)

"Whoever is not with me is against me, and whoever does not gather with me scatters."

- Subpoint 1: Active Participation: Encourages believers to actively engage in spiritual warfare rather than being passive spectators.

- Subpoint 2: Equipped for Battle: Discusses the spiritual armor described in Ephesians 6 and the importance of prayer and Scripture in preparation for warfare.

- Subpoint 3: Unity in Christ: Emphasizes the need for unity and cooperation among believers in fighting the spiritual battle together.

RC Sproul quote: "The book of Ephesians tells us that we are engaged in a cosmic war. We must fight daily to mortify our flesh, tear down strongholds, and proclaim the powerful gospel of Jesus Christ."

Considering our discussion, let us apply these truths to our lives. Firstly, let us acknowledge the reality of spiritual warfare and seek to discern the enemy's tactics. Secondly, let us turn to Jesus, acknowledging His authority and seeking His power to overcome the enemy. Lastly, let us actively engage in the battle, equipping ourselves with the spiritual armor and standing united in Christ.

Walking in the victory of our Lord Jesus Christ

I challenge each one of us to examine our lives and ask ourselves: Are we actively participating in the spiritual warfare? Are we wearing the full armor of God? Are we standing united with our fellow believers? Let us not be passive spectators but active warriors, ready to unleash the power of Christ against the forces of evil.

A. Recognize the battle

1. Opening our eyes to the spiritual battle around us

2. Seeking God's guidance daily

B. Equip ourselves

1. Being rooted in God's Word

2. Wearing the armor of God

C. Pray fervently

1. The power of our prayers

2. Committing to daily prayer for spiritual warfare

A. Understanding the necessity of spiritual warfare prayer

B. Tapping into the true power of God through prayer

C. Closing prayer

Dear friends, the power of spiritual warfare is real, but we have hope and victory in Jesus. Through His authority, we can triumph over the forces of darkness. Let us go forth, strengthened by His power, equipped with His armor, and united in His love. As we engage in spiritual warfare, may we never forget the words of Jesus: "In me, you may have peace. In this world, you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world" (John 16:33, NRSV).

Heavenly Father, we come before You today humbled by the revelation of the power of spiritual warfare. We acknowledge that we are not wrestling against flesh and blood but against spiritual forces of evil. Grant us wisdom and discernment to recognize the enemy's tactics and to resist his deceptions. We thank You for the authority and power You have given us in Jesus Christ. Strengthen our faith, fill us with Your Holy Spirit, and equip us with Your armor to stand firm in the battle. Help us to unite as a body of believers, fighting together against the forces of darkness. May Your victory be our confidence, and may Your glory be manifested through our lives. In Jesus' mighty name, we pray. Amen.

Rev. Dr. Iosmar Alvarez continues our series "Unlocking the Power of Prayer"

Prayer is a conversation with God that has the potential to bring about amazing breakthroughs and victories in our lives. In Luke 11:14-16, Jesus teaches us about the battle that takes place in the realm of prayer. Let us dive into this passage and see what valuable lessons we can learn.

a) Prayer Opens Doors: In verse 14, Jesus casts out a demon, and the people are amazed. It is a reminder to us that prayer has the power to break strongholds and bring freedom. Through prayer, we can experience deliverance, healing, and restoration.

b) Persistent Prayer: Jesus highlights the importance of persistence in prayer. The challenge is not just to pray but to continue praying until we receive an answer. Our prayers should be marked by endurance and perseverance.

a) Spiritual Opposition: In verse 15, some accused Jesus of casting out demons by the power of Beelzebub, the prince of demons. This accusation indicates the spiritual warfare that often takes place in the unseen realm. As we engage in prayer, we should be aware that there may be spiritual opposition seeking to hinder our prayers and discourage us.

b) The Kingdom of God: Jesus responds to the accusation by explaining the nature of the battle. He asserts that if He casts out demons by the finger of God, then the kingdom of God has come upon them. Our prayers tap into the power of God's kingdom, bringing His authority and dominion into our situations.

3. The Significance of Unity:

a) Kingdom Divided: Jesus uses the analogy of a divided house to illustrate the importance of unity. When families or communities are divided, they become weakened and vulnerable. In the context of prayer, unity among believers is essential for an effective spiritual battle.

b) The Unstoppable Kingdom: Jesus declares that if one strong man guards his palace, his possessions are safe, but when someone stronger comes, they overpower him and take away his armor. In prayer, we tap into the strength of our God who is greater than any opposition. The unstoppable kingdom of God is at work through our persistent prayers.

God bless,

Rev. Dr. Iosmar Alvarez

Rev. Dr Iosmar Alvarez continues our series "Unlocking the Power of Prayer"

Dear brothers and sisters in Christ, this Sunday we will explore the transformative power of prayer as described in James 5:13-18. Prayer is a privilege and a means of grace given to us by our heavenly Father. Through prayer, we can draw near to God, experience His guidance and intervention, and witness His sovereign work in our lives. Let us delve into this passage and uncover the keys to unlocking the power of prayer.

God bless,

Rev. Dr Iosmar Alvarez

Rev. Dr Iosmar Alvarez continues with our series "Unlocking the Power of Prayer"

In Luke 11:9, Jesus encourages us to ask in prayer, saying, "Ask and it will be given to you." This sermon will focus on the power of asking in prayer. When asking for provision, God is the ultimate provider, and we can bring our needs before Him in prayer. Whether it's physical provision, emotional healing, or spiritual strength, we can ask God for what we need. God desires to meet our needs and cares about the details of our lives.

The Lord's Prayer teaches us to ask for forgiveness: "Forgive us our sins, for we also forgive everyone who sins against us." Prayer is a way to confess our sins and seek God's forgiveness. When we ask for forgiveness, we experience the cleansing and restoration that comes from God's grace. Prayer is not limited to the natural realm; it can tap into the supernatural power of God. We can ask God for miracles, healing, deliverance, and breakthroughs. Faith plays a crucial role in asking for miracles, and we must trust in God's sovereignty and timing.

In conclusion, Prayer is a powerful tool given to us by God. Through prayer, we can seek His presence, His will, and ask for His provision and miracles. Let us commit to a life of prayer, unlocking the power and blessings that come from our relationship with Him.

God bless,

Rev. Dr Iosmar Alvarez

Continuing our series "Unlocking the Power of Prayer" Rev. Dr. Iosmar Alvarez's sermon will explore the importance of seeking God in prayer #prayer

We are thrilled to invite you to this sermon that has the potential to transform the way you approach prayer. In this sermon, titled "The Call to Prayer," we will explore the teachings of Jesus in Luke 11 and delve deep into the significance of prayer in our lives as believers.

Prayer is not merely a religious duty; it is our direct line of communication with the Creator of the universe. It is through prayer that we develop an intimate relationship with God, find guidance, and experience His presence in our lives. Yet, many of us struggle with questions about prayer, its relevance, and how to make it a vibrant part of our spiritual journey.

During this sermon, we will unravel the importance of prayer and its role in deepening our connection with God. We will discuss a model for prayer, illuminating the Lord's Prayer as a framework to guide our own conversations with God. Additionally, we will explore the persistence of prayer and the rewards of seeking, asking, and knocking in faith.

We wholeheartedly believe that this sermon has the potential to ignite a passion for prayer within each one of us. Whether you're new to the faith or have been walking with Christ for years, this sermon will provide fresh insights, practical tools, and an opportunity to take your prayer life to the next level.

One of my favorite songs is, Wayfaring Stranger.” The first lines begin, “I am a poor wayfaring stranger; While traveling through this world of woe.” It’s true. We are strangers in this world, set apart from the brokenness, but once in it.

We are now set apart because we have been adopted into God’s family by declaring our faith in him. His inheritance is our inheritance. That means, even though stated in this favorite song of mine, we aren’t poor. On the contrary, we are mighty rich. Rich in the characteristics of God.

So why is it we struggle to experience those things fully in our lives? What do we need to do? Surely, God’s given us an answer.

I can’t wait to talk about this with you on Sunday as we take a look at living wholly in a broken world.

Grace and peace, Ashlee

Rev. Dr Iosmar Alvarez finishes our series "Grace"

We have come to the last sermon in our series on Grace. We have explored the nature of grace, its forgiving nature, and its transformative power. Today, we conclude with the way of love.

God bless,

Rev. Dr Iosmar Alvarez

Rev. Dr Iosmar Alvarez continues our series "Grace"

 

Last week, we explored how grace empowers us to forgive others. This week, we look at how grace transforms us and calls us to live a life of holiness.

Do you want to live a life of meaning and purpose? Find out how God's grace transforms us and calls us to a life of holiness.

Discover the call to holiness through the transformative power of grace.

God bless,

Rev. Dr Iosmar Alvarez

Last week we learned about the nature and role of Grace in The Calling of God. Today, we gather to revisit an important aspect of our faith: the grace of forgiveness. We will draw on important passages from Matthew 6:14-15, Ephesians 1:7, and Colossians 3:13, to garner a more comprehensive understanding of how grace empowers us to forgive. Forgiveness is not merely an act we perform. It's a transformative lifestyle, shaping our spiritual growth and fostering reconciliation. Through forgiveness, we liberate ourselves from bitterness, anger, and resentment moving towards inner peace and joy.