Theological Sketchbook Ephesians 6:12 For we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers… I. THE ENEMIES WITH WHOM, AS CHRISTIAN SOLDIERS, WE ARE CALLED TO CONTEND. 1. Spirits. 2. Wicked spirits. 3. Formidable spirits. (1) On account of their strength. (2) On account of their weapons. (3) On account of their extensive influence. (4) On account of their wiles. II. IN WHAT MANNER WE ARE INSTRUCTED TO CONTEND WITH THEM. 1. In the armour of God. (1) This must be all put on. (2) We must retain it till our warfare be past. (3) We must take and use it whenever assaulted. 2. In the spirit of prayer and watchfulness. 3. In the exercise of firm resistance. Let your resistance be - (1) Early. At the first approach of the enemy. (2) Courageous. (3) Unwearied. Till you conquer. III. THE REASONS BY WHICH WE SHOULD BE INDUCED THUS TO CONTEND. 1. Because the most important objects depend on this contention. (1) Your steadfastness; (2) your liberty; (3) your glory; (4) your eternal life. 2. Because victory is certain to the faithful soldiers of Christ. (1) Victory over the world; (2) victory over sin; (3) victory over Satan; (4) victory over tribulation; (5) victory over death. 3. Because victory will be attended with certain glory. (1) A glorious rest from all painful toil and contention; (2) glorious exemption from all penal evil; (3) glorious honours; (4) a glorious throne, crown, kingdom. (Theological Sketchbook.) Parallel Verses KJV: For we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high places. |
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