Spiritual Strategies:

A Manual For

Spiritual Warfare

HARVESTIME INTERNATIONAL INSTITUTE

This course is part of the Harvestime International Institute, a program designed to equip believers for effective spiritual harvest.

The basic theme of the training is to teach what Jesus taught, that which took men who were fishermen, tax collectors, etc., and changed them into reproductive Christians who reached their world with the Gospel in a demonstration of power.

This manual is a single course in one of several modules of curriculum which moves believers from visualizing through deputizing, multiplying, organizing, and mobilizing to achieve the goal of evangelizing.

For further information on additional courses write:

Harvestime International Institute

3092 Sultana Dr.

Madera, California 93637

U.S.A.

© Harvestime International Institute

TABLE OF CONTENTS

Suggestions For Group Study.           .           .           .           .           .           .           . I

Introduction    .           .           .           .           .           .           .           .           .           .           . 1

Course Objectives      .           .           .           .           .           .           .           .           .           . 5

THE CALL TO ARMS

1. The Invisible War             .           .           .           .           .           .           .           .           . 7

INDUCTION

2. Enlisting In God's Army               .           .           .           .           .           .           . 19

BASIC TRAINING

3. The Commander-In-Chief: The Lord Of Hosts    .           .           .           .           .          . 31

4. The Spiritual Forces Of Good: Angels     .           .           .           .           .           .           . 52

5. The Enemy: Satan           .           .           .           .           .           .           .           .           . 65

6. The Spiritual Forces Of Evil: Demons    .           .           .           .           .           .          . 78

7. Enemy Territory   .           .           .           .           .           .           .           .           .           . 88

8. Enemy Strategy    .           .           .           .           .           .           .           .           .           . 101

9. God's Battle Plan              .           .           .           .           .           .           .           .           . 107

MOBILIZATION

10. Offensive And Defensive Warfare.         .           .           .           .           .           . 133

11. Defensive Weapons         .           .           .           .           .           .           .           .           . 144

12. Offensive Weapons         .           .           .           .           .           .           .           .           . 157

13. Natural Parallels Of Spiritual Warfare    .           .           .           .           .           .           . 165

INVASION

14. Entering The Combat Zone: Battling The World And The Flesh.         .           .           . 177

15. The Battle In The Mind   .           .           .           .           .           .           .           .           . 194

16. The Battle With The Tongue       .           .           .           .           .           .           .           . 210

17. The Battle Over The Walls          .           .           .           .           .           .           .           . 230

18. Battles Over Strategic Territory  .           .           .           .           .           .           . 240

SPIRITUAL WARFARE ADVANCED TRAINING

19. Transference Of Spirits   .           .           .           .           .           .           .           .           . 256

20. Spiritual Wickedness In High Places      .           .           .           .           .           .           . 268

21. Dealing With Demonic Powers   .           .           .           .           .           .           .           . 283

22. Casualties Of War           .           .           .           .           .           .           .           .           . 311

23. How To Lose A Battle And Win The War.         .           .           .           .           . 329

FINAL BRIEFING

24. The Final Conflict           .           .           .           .           .           .           .           .           . 341

APPENDIX

Decisive Battles Of The Bible.           .           .           .           .           .           .           . 352

Answers To Inspections         .           .           .           .           .           .           .           .           . 380

SUGGESTIONS FOR GROUP STUDY

FIRST MEETING

Opening: Open with prayer and introductions. Get acquainted and register the students.

Establish Group Procedures: Determine who will lead the meetings, the time, place, and dates for the sessions.

Praise And Worship: Invite the presence of the Holy Spirit into your training session.

Distribute Manuals To Students: Introduce the manual title, format, and course objectives provided in the first few pages of the manual.

Make The First Assignment: Students will read the chapters assigned and take the Self-Tests prior to the next meeting. The number of chapters you cover per meeting will depend on chapter length, content, and the abilities of your group.

SECOND AND FOLLOWING MEETINGS

Opening: Pray. Welcome and register any new students and give them a manual. Take attendance. Have a time of praise and worship.

Review: Present a brief summary of what you studied at the last meeting.

Lesson: Discuss each section of the chapter using the HEADINGS IN CAPITAL BOLD FACED LETTERS as a teaching outline. Ask students for questions or comments on what they have studied. Apply the lesson to the lives and ministries of your students.

Inspection: Review the self-tests (Inspection page) students have completed. (Note: If you do not want the students to have access to the answers to the self-tests, you may remove the answer pages from the back of each manual.)

Tactical Maneuvers: You may do these projects on a group or individual basis.

Final Examination: If your group is enrolled in this course for credit, you received a final examination with this course. Reproduce a copy for each student and administer the exam upon conclusion of this course.

I

MODULE:    Deputizing

COURSE:      Spiritual Strategies:

                        A Manual Of Spiritual Warfare

INTRODUCTION

There is a great war being waged in the world today. It is not a conflict between nations, tribes, or government leaders. It is not a rebellion or coup. It is an important invisible battle taking place in the spirit world. The Bible states that God's people are destroyed because of lack of knowledge (Hosea 4:6). One of the main areas in which believers are being defeated due to lack of knowledge is in spiritual warfare.

The early Church viewed their spiritual experience in terms of warfare. Military terminology is used throughout the New Testament. Protection was seen in the armor of God. The Word of God was compared to a sword. Satan's attacks were called fiery darts. Faith was the "good fight" and believers were told to "war a good warfare." The early Church knew they were engaged in an intense spiritual struggle.

The same spiritual battle continues today but instead of fighting the enemy, believers are often building great church buildings, producing musical dramas, holding fellowship meetings, and fighting one another while this great spiritual battle wages around them. Satan has even intensified his attacks against a church that has withdrawn from the front lines of battle.

As the end of time approaches it is even more important for believers to understand spiritual warfare than in the early days of church history. The Apostle Paul warned:

This know also, that in the last days perilous times shall come.

            (II Timothy 3:1)

In order to be properly prepared for these perilous times, renewed emphasis must be placed on the strategies of spiritual warfare. The Christian life is war. The sooner we recognize and prepare for it, the sooner we will experience victory.

Luke 14:31 says, "What king, going to make war against another king, sitteth not down first, and consulteth whether he is able with ten thousand to meet him that cometh against him with twenty thousand?" No king ever entered into a battle without a careful examination of his resources and development of battle strategies. In essence, that is what we are doing in this course. We are making a careful evaluation of the strategy, weapons, and power available to us to win the war against our enemy, Satan.

In the military world, "strategies" are the science of forming and carrying out military operations. It is the method or plan which leads to the goal of victory. In this course you will learn to formulate and carry out spiritual military strategy which will bring victory in the spirit world.

THE MANUAL

Each lesson is presented in military terms consisting of the following sections:

THE CALL TO ARMS:

Chapter 1 explains the invisible war and sounds the "call to arms" for all true believers.

INDUCTION:

All armies in the natural world have induction procedures. These are special things you are required to do in order to join the forces. The same is true of God's army. Chapter 2 explains how to enlist in God's Army.

BASIC TRAINING:

After induction into an army, a soldier always receives basic training. Basic training for God's army is presented in Chapters 3 through 9. The battle lines of the invisible war are defined. The forces of good and evil are discussed, including the Lord of Hosts, angels, Satan, demons, the world, and the flesh. Enemy territory and strategy are identified, and a general overview of God's battle plan presented.

MOBILIZATION:

Training is useless unless an army is mobilized. To "mobilize" means to "put in a state of readiness for active military service." In the "Mobilization" section of this course, consisting of Chapters 10 through 13, you will learn about offensive and defensive warfare, how to use the weapons of your warfare, and natural parallels of spiritual warfare.

INVASION:

During an invasion in the natural world, an army enters the actual combat zone to conquer its foes and claim territory. Basic training is useless unless what is learned is put into action. Even a mobilized army equipped with weapons is not enough if it stands inactive on the sidelines. To be effective in warfare, you must actually enter the combat zone. In the "invasion" stage, consisting of Chapters 14 through 19, you will enter the combat zone of the world, the flesh, and the Devil. You will study the battle in the mind, with the tongue, over the spiritual walls, in high places, and over strategic territory. In each of these lessons specific strategies of Satan are identified and counter strategies for overcoming the enemy are presented.

SPIRITUAL WARFARE ADVANCED TRAINING:

After gaining some experience in battle, soldiers usually receive advanced training in specific areas of warfare. This portion of the manual is entitled "Spiritual Warfare Advanced Training," the initials of which spell "SWAT." In military action, a "SWAT" team is a specialized group of soldiers used for difficult missions. In the advanced training offered in this manual, you will learn about transference of spirits, how to assist prisoners and casualties of war, and how to deal with demonic powers. You will also learn how to lose a battle and still win the war.

FINAL BRIEFING:

During "final briefing" in Chapter 26 you will study "the final conflict" which will bring this war of the ages to a triumphant conclusion.

APPENDIX:

In the Appendix of this manual, you will examine the historical record of "Decisive Battles Of The Bible" as you continue to develop your spiritual warfare skills.

THE LESSONS

Each lesson in this warfare manual is organized as follows:

OBJECTIVES:

These are the spiritual warfare goals you should achieve by studying the lesson.

KEY VERSE FROM THE ARTICLES OF WAR:

When a nation declares war, they often issue "Articles Of War". This document explains why they are at war, identifies the enemy, and declares the objectives of the war. The Bible is the written Word of the one true God, the Commander of our spiritual army. The Bible contains our "Articles Of War" for spiritual combat. In each lesson, the "Key Verse From The Articles Of War" emphasizes the main concept of the lesson.

INTRODUCTION:

The introduction provides an overview of the content of the chapter.

LESSON:

This presents the "military briefing" for that chapter. A "briefing" is a time of instruction prior to battle which provides information necessary to wage effective warfare.

INSPECTION:

In a natural army, "inspections" occur regularly to check on the preparation and skills of the soldiers. The "Inspection" section of each chapter is an examination to see if you have obtained the objectives of that lesson.

TACTICAL MANEUVERS:

During tactical maneuvers in a natural army, soldiers apply what they have learned to actual combat conditions. This part of each lesson provides opportunity for you to apply what you have learned and to study other materials related to the lesson.

ARE YOU READY?

The exposing of the enemy and his strategies is one of the greatest revelations of God's Word. Even greater is the revelation that as believers we have power over all the powers of the enemy. This manual is by no means an exhaustive study of the subject of spiritual warfare, but it is an in depth Scriptural analysis. As in natural warfare, skill in spiritual warfare is progressive as you enter the combat zone and begin to fight.

OBJECTIVES

Upon completion of this course you will be able to:

-Identify the two spiritual kingdoms.

-Explain what is meant by "spiritual warfare".

-Recognize causes of this great spiritual struggle.

-Identify the spiritual forces of good.

-Identify the spiritual forces of evil.

-Recognize strategies of Satan.

-Effectively use spiritual counter strategies.

-Apply natural parallels of warfare to war in the spirit world.

-Use both offensive and defensive spiritual weapons.

-Detect demon possession.

-Understand how deliverance from demons is obtained.

-Win the war even if you lose a spiritual battle.

-Describe the final conflict which will end the invisible war.

-Identify spiritual warfare principles in decisive battles in the Bible.

THE CALL TO ARMS

A SUMMONS TO THE INVISIBLE WAR

There is a great battle being waged in the spiritual world. It is a personal battle within between the flesh and the spirit. It is a social battle with the evil forces of the world. It is a spiritual battle with evil supernatural powers.

In Old Testament times a trumpet was used to summons God's people to battle. Today, a spiritual summons is sounding throughout the nations of the world. It is a summons to the invisible war. It is a call to arms.

CHAPTER ONE

THE INVISIBLE WAR

OBJECTIVES:

Upon completion of this chapter you will be able to:

-Write the Key Verse from memory.

-Demonstrate understanding of the natural and spiritual realms.

-Define the word "king".

-Define the word "kingdom".

-Identify the two spiritual kingdoms.

-Determine to which kingdom you belong.

-Identify the spiritual forces of good.

-Identify the spiritual forces of evil.

-Explain what is meant by "spiritual warfare".

-Identify the reason for the invisible war.

-Identify the basic principle of understanding spiritual warfare.

KEY VERSE FROM THE ARTICLES OF WAR:

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. (Ephesians 6:12)

INTRODUCTION

As you learned in the introduction to this course, there is a great war being waged in the world today. It is not a conflict between nations, tribes, or government leaders. It is not a rebellion or a coup. It is an invisible battle taking place in the spirit world.

This chapter introduces the invisible war in which every believer is engaged. It is a war where no one wears a uniform, but where everyone is a target. The historical and prophetical record of this war is contained in God's Word, the Bible.

THE NATURAL AND SPIRITUAL REALMS

To understand this invisible war, you must first understand the natural and spiritual worlds. Man exists in two worlds: The natural world and the spiritual world.

The natural world is that which can be seen, felt, touched, heard, or tasted. It is tangible and visible. The country, nation, city or village in which you live is part of the natural world. You are a resident in a natural kingdom located on one of the visible continents of the world. You can see the people who are part of your environment. You can communicate with them. You can experience the sights, sounds, and smells around you.

But there is another world in which you live. That world is a spiritual world. You cannot see it with your physical eyes, but it is just as real as the natural world in which you live.

Paul speaks of this division of natural and spiritual:

There is a natural body, and there is a spiritual body. (I Corinthians 15:40)

All men have a natural body which lives in the natural world. But man is also a spiritual being with an eternal soul and spirit. Man is body, soul, and spirit. Your spiritual being (soul and spirit) is part of a spiritual world just as your natural body is part of the natural world.

SPIRITUAL DISCERNMENT

Because spiritual warfare is just that...spiritual...it must be understood with a spiritual mind. In our natural, sinful state, we can not understand spiritual things:

But the natural man receiveth not the things of the Spirit of God: for they are foolishness unto him; neither can he know them, because they are spiritually discerned. (I Corinthians 2:14)

It is necessary to use "spiritual discernment" to understand spiritual things.

Perhaps one of the best examples of natural and spiritual discernment is recorded in II Kings chapter 6. It records the story of a natural battle in which troops of the enemy nation of Syria had surrounded a small town called Dothan where the prophet Elisha was staying. When Elisha's servant, Gehazi, saw the great host of the enemy he became fearful. Elisha prayed that God would open Gehazi's spiritual eyes so he could see the angelic hosts surrounding and protecting them. On this occasion, God actually opened the natural eyes of Gehazi and allowed him to visibly see the superior forces of God aligned for battle.

The story of this battle at Dothan is similar to present spiritual conditions in the Church. There are some, like Elisha, who see clearly into the realm of the spirit. They know there is a conflict occurring, have identified the enemy, and recognize the greater forces of God that assure victory. There are others like Gehazi, who with a little encouragement, will be able to open their spiritual eyes and no longer be fearful of and defeated by the enemy. But sadly, there are many people who, like those in the city of Dothan, are spiritually sleeping. They do not even know that the enemy has surrounded them and is poised for attack.

TWO SPIRITUAL KINGDOMS

Within the natural and spiritual realms of which we are speaking there exists separate kingdoms which are ruled by natural and spiritual leaders.

NATURAL KINGDOMS:

All men live in a natural kingdom of this world. They live in a city or village which is part of a nation. That nation is a kingdom of the world. A natural kingdom is a territory or people over which an actual king or political leader is the sovereign ruler. The Bible speaks of these natural kingdoms as "kingdoms of the world". The kingdoms of the world have come under the power and influence of Satan:

Again, the Devil taketh Him (Jesus) up into an exceeding high mountain, and sheweth Him all the kingdoms of the world, and the glory of them;

And saith unto Him, All these things will I give thee, if you wilt fall down and worship me. (Matthew 4:8-9)

John 5:19 sadly reminds us that "the whole world is under the control of the evil one".

SPIRITUAL KINGDOMS:

In addition to the natural kingdoms of this world there are two spiritual kingdoms: The Kingdom of Satan and the Kingdom Of God. Every person alive is a resident of one of these two kingdoms.

The Kingdom of Satan consists of Satan, spiritual beings called demons, and all men who live in sin and rebellion to God's Word. These, plus the world and the flesh, are the spiritual forces of evil at work in the world today.

The Kingdom of God consists of God the Father, Jesus Christ, the Holy Spirit, spiritual beings called angels, and all men who live in righteous obedience to God's Word. These are the spiritual forces of good.

The Kingdom of God is not a denominational church. Denominations are man-made organizations of groups of churches. They have been established for practical purposes of organization and administration. Denominations are major church organizations like Baptist, Assembly of God, Methodist, Lutheran, etc. The Bible speaks of the true Church which is not a denomination or religious organization. The true Church is composed of all those who have become residents of the Kingdom of God.

At the present time in the natural world, the Kingdom of God exists individually within every man, woman, boy or girl who has made Jesus King of their lives. It exists communally in the true church and wherever people make this world the kind of world God wants it to be. In the future, there will be an actual visible manifestation of God's Kingdom.

THE INVISIBLE WAR

The invisible spiritual war is a battle which involves all men and women. Because the Kingdom of Satan is a spiritual kingdom...

...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. (Ephesians 6:12)

Spiritual warfare is not a natural battle between flesh and blood. It is not a battle of man against man. It is not a visible battle. It is an invisible struggle in the spirit world. It is a battle within and around man. It is not a visible war is because spirits are involved and we learn in Luke 24:39 that a spirit does not have flesh and bones.

Spiritual warfare is "multidimensional", which means it is fought in different dimensions. It is...

1. A social battle between the believer and the world: John 15:18-27

2. A personal battle between the flesh and the spirit: Galatians 5:16-26

3. A supernatural battle between the believer and evil supernatural powers: Ephesians 6:10-27

Every person alive is engaged in this battle, whether he realizes it or not. There is no neutral ground. Unbelievers are in bondage to evil and have been taken captive by the enemy forces. They are victims of the war.

Believers have been freed from the enemy through Jesus Christ and are victors, but they are still engaged in the war. The key verse for this chapter indicates that we (all believers) wrestle against evil spiritual forces.

"Wrestling" involves close personal contact. No one is exempt from this battle. No one can view it from a distance. You are in the midst of conflict whether you acknowledge it or not. If you believe it will get better, you are wrong. The Christian warfare never ceases.

WHERE THE BATTLE RAGES

This invisible war is being waged on earth:

The thief (Satan) cometh (on earth) not but for to steal, and to kill, and to destroy: I am come that they might have life, and that they might have it more abundantly. (John 10:10)

Satan fights to maintain control of the kingdoms of the world. He does not want them to come under God's authority. The battle also rages within the hearts, minds, and souls of men and women. Satan blinds the minds of unbelievers and attacks believers in the areas of worship, the Word, their daily walk, and their work for God.

HOW THE BATTLE STARTED

The invisible war started in Heaven with an angel named Lucifer who was originally a beautiful angel created by God and was part of the Kingdom of God. Lucifer decided he wanted to take over God's Kingdom. You can read about his rebellion in Isaiah 14:12-17 and Ezekiel 28:12-19. You will study about it in detail later in this course. A group of angels joined Lucifer (now called Satan) in this rebellion. Lucifer and the rebellious angels were cast out of Heaven by God. They formed their own kingdom on earth:

And there was war in Heaven: Michael and his angels fought against the dragon (Satan); and the dragon fought and his angels. (Revelation 12:7)

And the great dragon was cast out, that old serpent, called the Devil, and Satan, which deceiveth the whole world: he was cast out into the earth, and his angels were cast out with him. (Revelation 12:9)

Lucifer became known as Satan and the angels which followed him in rebellion as demons. Demon spirits can enter, torment, control, and use humans who belong to Satan's Kingdom. They motivate evil acts which are done by men and women. Satan directs his demons in their evil activities. He combines these powerful forces with the world and the flesh to war against all mankind.

REASONS BEHIND THE CONFLICT

Man was originally created in the image of God and for the glory of God (Genesis chapter 2). The invisible war against man started with the first temptation in the garden of Eden (Genesis chapter 3). Satan caused Adam and Eve to sin. This resulted in all men inheriting the basic sin nature and committing individual acts of sin due to this nature:

Wherefore, as by one man sin entered into the world, and death by sin; and so death passed upon all men, for that all have sinned. (Romans 5:12)

It also resulted in the invisible war between man and the forces of evil:

And I will put enmity between thee (Satan) and the woman (mankind), and between thy seed (the forces of evil) and her seed (the forces of good represented by the Lord Jesus Christ)... (Genesis 3:15)

Because of sin, man was separated from God and condemned to death. But God loved man so much that He made a special plan to save him from sin:

For God so loved the world, that He gave His only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in Him should not perish, but have everlasting life.

For God sent not His Son into the world to condemn the world; but that the world through Him might be saved. (John 3:16-17)

Through belief in Jesus, confession of and repentance from sin, men and women can be released from the power of the enemy. The death and resurrection of Jesus not only resulted in salvation from sin. It also defeated the enemy, Satan:

...For this purpose the Son of God was manifested, that He might destroy the works of the devil. (I John 3:8)

But if Satan is defeated, why does the war still rage? Following any war there are always pockets of enemy resistance, rebellious troops that will not give up until forced to do so. Although Jesus defeated Satan, we are living in territory which is still occupied by enemy resistance forces. Understanding spiritual warfare strategies gives us the ability to deal with these evil powers.

Satan is trying to keep men captive in sin. Through deceptive methods he is enticing men and women to temporary lusts of sinful living. He aims for the affections of the soul and spirit which rightfully belong to God:

The thief (Satan) cometh not, but for to steal, and to kill, and to destroy; I am come that they might have life, and that they might have it more abundantly. (John 10:10)

Satan still wants to be the supreme ruler. He is waging an intense battle for the heart, mind, soul, and spirit of man. His strategies are directed at God, His plan, and His people. The battle will continue until the great final conflict which you will study about in the last chapter of this course.

THE MEANING OF SPIRITUAL WARFARE

Spiritual warfare is the analysis of and active participation in the invisible spiritual war. It includes study of the opposing forces of good and evil, the strategies of Satan, and spiritual strategies for overcoming the enemy. Spiritual warfare is more than a mere analysis of spiritual principles. It includes active participation in warfare by application of these strategies in life and ministry.

One of the most effective strategies of Satan is to keep believers ignorant of his devices. Paul said it is important to know Satan's strategies...

...Lest Satan should get an advantage of us: for we are not ignorant of his devices. (II Corinthians 2:11)

We should learn all we can about Satan's strategies of attack. We must also understand the Scriptural basis of victory over Satan and the forces of evil. We are called to intelligent combat. Basic to the understanding of spiritual warfare is this key principle:

You must recognize that all battles of life, whether physical, spiritual, emotional mental, financial or with human personalities are only outward manifestations of a spiritual cause.

Although in the natural world problems may seem to occur through the circumstances of life, the basis of these natural battles is in the spirit world. Read the story of Job (Job chapters l-2) which confirms this principle.

We have tried to correct the evils of this world through education, legislation, and improved environment. It has not worked because the visible evils of the world are the results of an underlying spiritual cause. They cannot be corrected by natural means.

TO WHICH KINGDOM DO YOU BELONG?

In the natural world a king is the sovereign ruler of a kingdom. All the territory and people in the kingdom belong to him. He has the power of life and death over his subjects. The same is true in the spiritual world. You are either part of the Kingdom of God or the Kingdom of Satan. Either God or Satan has power over your life.

One of the parables told by Jesus illustrates that all men are either part of the Kingdom of Satan or the Kingdom of God. Jesus compared the world to a field. The good seed in the field were children of the Kingdom of God. The bad seed, which resulted in the growth of tares (weeds), were children of the wicked one:

The field is the world; the good seed are the children of the Kingdom; but the tares are the children of the wicked one. (Matthew 13:38)

People enter the Kingdom of Satan through natural birth. The Bible teaches that all men are born in sin. This means that they have a basic sin nature or the "seed" of sin within. Their natural inclination is to do evil:

Behold, I was shapen in iniquity; and in sin did my mother conceive me. (Psalms 51:5)

Wherefore, as by one man (Adam) sin entered into the world, and death by sin; and so death passed upon all men, for that all have sinned. (Romans 5:12)

For all have sinned and come short of the glory of God. (Romans 3:23)

Because we are born with the basic sin nature, we have all at one time been part of the Kingdom of Satan. All who remain sinners remain part of the Kingdom of Satan.

The whole message of God's written Word, the Holy Bible, is the appeal to man to move from this evil Kingdom of Satan to the Kingdom of God. Men are born into the Kingdom of Satan through natural birth. They must be reborn into the Kingdom of God through spiritual birth. Entrance to the Kingdom of God is by new birth experience explained in John chapter 3.

There are only two divisions in the invisible war. Jesus said, "He that is not with me is against me" (Luke 11:23). You cannot be neutral in this war. You are on one side or the other in this spiritual war. Even some believers, because of their fear of confrontation with the enemy, try to ignore the war and form a truce with the enemy. They think if they ignore Satan, he will not bother them. This is one of Satan's main strategies. He tries to render members of God's army immobile by his terror tactics.

But there is no neutrality in this war. You are either a victim or victor. The spiritual "call to arms" is going out...Are you on the side of good or of evil? Are you part of Satan's Kingdom or the Kingdom of God? To which kingdom do you belong? Are you a victim or a victor in the invisible war?

INSPECTION

1. Write the Key Verse from the Articles Of War.

________________________________________

________________________________________

________________________________________

2. What are the two divisions made in I Corinthians 15:44-49?

________________________________________

________________________________________

3. What are the two invisible kingdoms in the world today?

________________________________________

________________________________________

4. List the spiritual forces of evil.

________________________________________

________________________________________

________________________________________

5. List the spiritual forces of good.

________________________________________

________________________________________

________________________________________

________________________________________

6. Define the word "king".

________________________________________

________________________________________

7. Define the word "kingdom".

________________________________________

________________________________________

8. What is meant by the term "spiritual warfare"?

________________________________________

________________________________________

________________________________________

9. What is the reason behind this great spiritual conflict?

________________________________________

________________________________________

________________________________________

10. What is the basic principle for understanding spiritual warfare?

________________________________________

________________________________________

________________________________________

(Answers to tests are provided at the conclusion of the final chapter in this manual.)

TACTICAL MANEUVERS

1. This course, "Strategies of Spiritual Warfare", focuses on the Kingdom of Satan and the spiritual warfare which rages between his kingdom and the Kingdom of God. The Harvestime International Institute course entitled "Kingdom Living" provides a complete study of the Kingdom of God. (If you are enrolled in Harvestime Institute and studying the courses in their suggested order, you have already studied this course.) If you are not enrolled in a Harvestime Institute, you should obtain "Kingdom Living" as a companion course to this one. It is important that you gain understanding of both spiritual kingdoms present in the world today.

2. A good spiritual foundation is necessary in order to wage successful spiritual warfare. If you are a new believer, obtain the Harvestime International Institute course entitled "Foundations Of Faith". (If you are taking the Harvestime courses in their suggested order, you have already studied this course.)

3. Do you feel you have been a "victim" of spiritual warfare? In what areas of your life or ministry have you been losing the battle? Have you been losing the battle in the...

            -Spiritual realm?

            -Emotional realm?

            -Physical realm?

            -Mental realm?

            -Financial realm?

            -With human personalities?

It is important to identify these areas of defeat so you can apply the knowledge you gain in this study to these practical areas of life and ministry.

4. Review the story in II Kings 6 which was discussed in this lesson. Do you know people like Gehazi or those in the city of Dothan? How might you help them?

5. Since spiritual warfare has many dimensions, we must war personally against sin, socially against evil in the world, and supernatural through the deliverance ministry.

6. Study the Bible as a spiritual warfare manual. It is the historical record of spiritual warfare, revealing the victories and defeats of past battles. It is prophetical, showing the course of the warfare until the time of the final conflict.

INDUCTION

BECOMING PART OF THE ARMY OF GOD

All armies in the natural world have induction procedures. These are special things you are required to do in order to join the forces.

Are you ready to become part of God's army?

CHAPTER TWO

ENLISTING IN GOD'S ARMY

OBJECTIVES:

Upon completion of this chapter you will be able to:

-Write the Key Verse from memory.

-Define "repentance."

-Explain the importance of repentance.

-Define "conversion."

-Explain the importance of conversion.

-Define "justification."

-Explain what it means to be "saved."

-Use the parable of the prodigal son to describe repentance and conversion.

KEY VERSE FROM THE ARTICLES OF WAR:

I came not to call the righteous, but sinners to repentance. (Luke 5:32)

INTRODUCTION

In the last chapter you learned of the great invisible war in the spiritual world. In this chapter you will learn how to enlist in God's army. In the natural world, armies usually have special induction rituals in which a prospective soldier must participate in order to join the forces. This "induction" makes him part of the army.

God also has a special plan for induction through which you become part of His spiritual army. His plan centers on two important concepts, repentance and conversion, which result in justification.

REPENTANCE

In the natural world, when a soldier joins an army, he must deny any previous allegiance he has had to another army or country. When you join the army of God, you must repent of your allegiance to sin and the Kingdom of Satan. This is done by repentance.

Repentance is "an inward decision or change of mind resulting in the outward action of turning from sin to God and righteousness." Acts 20:21 calls it "repentance toward God." By the act of repenting you turn away from your sin and leave the Kingdom of Satan.

Repentance is a personal decision to change your allegiance from the Kingdom of Satan to the Kingdom of God. This change of mind and turning from sin cannot be done in yourself. It is the power of God which actually brings the change in the mind, heart, and life of a sinner:

Then God also to the Gentiles granted repentance unto life. (Acts 11:18)

Repentance is a gift of God:

Him [Jesus] hath God exalted with His right hand to be a Prince and a Savior, for to give repentance...(Acts 5:31)

Although emotions may be involved in repentance, true repentance is a decision, not just an emotion. Sorrow for sin and the shedding of tears is not enough in itself. This must be accompanied by an inward decision that results in an outward change.

THE IMPORTANCE OF REPENTANCE:

Repentance is important because:

God Commands It:

...but [God] now commandeth all men everywhere to repent. (Acts 17:30)

It Is Necessary To Avoid Spiritual Death:

...but, except ye repent, ye shall all likewise perish. (Luke 13:3)

It Is Necessary For Eternal Life:

Through repentance the penalty of death is removed and eternal life is granted:

When they heard these things, they held their peace, and glorified God, saying, Then hath God also to the Gentiles granted repentance unto life. (Acts 11:18)

It Is Necessary For Forgiveness:

God cannot forgive your sins unless you repent:

Then Peter said unto them, Repent, and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins, and ye shall receive the gift of the Holy Ghost. (Acts 2:38)

It Is God's Desire For All:

God does not want anyone to experience the spiritual death of eternal separation from God in Hell:

The Lord...is long suffering to us-ward, not willing that any should perish, but that all should come to repentance. (II Peter 3:9)

It Is The Reason Jesus Came Into The World:

    I came not to call the righteous, but sinners to repentance. (Luke 5:32)

It Is Necessary To Enter God's Kingdom:

From that time Jesus began to preach, and to say, Repent: for the Kingdom of Heaven is at hand. (Matthew 4:17)

When you become part of the Kingdom of God, you are enlisting in God's army.

CONVERSION

When you ask for forgiveness of sins you experience "conversion." Conversion means "to turn." When it is used in connection with Biblical repentance, it means to "turn from the wrong way to the right way." You leave the Kingdom of Satan and join the Kingdom of God.

And many of the children of Israel shall He turn to the Lord their God.

            (Luke 1:16)

And all that dwelt at Lydda and Saron saw Him, and turned to the Lord. (Acts 9:35)

And the hand of the Lord was with them; and a great number believed, and turned unto the Lord. (Acts 11:21)

Conversion is turning from the darkness of sin to the light of God's righteousness:

...to turn them from darkness to light. (Acts 26:18)

It is turning from the power of Satan to God:

...to turn them...from the power of Satan unto God. (Acts 26:18)

It is turning from worldly things to spiritual things:

...Ye should turn from these vanities unto the living God. (Acts 14:15)

It is turning from false gods to the true and living God:

...Ye turned to God from idols to serve the living and true God.

            (I Thessalonians 1:9)

THE IMPORTANCE OF CONVERSION:

Conversion must accompany repentance. You must turn from the wrong to the right because...

It Is Necessary To Enter The Kingdom Of God:

Verily I say unto you, except ye be converted, and become as little children, ye shall not enter into the Kingdom of Heaven. (Matthew 18:3)

It Saves From Spiritual Death:

He which converteth the sinner from the error of his way shall save a soul from death and shall hide a multitude of sins. (James 5:20)

It Is Necessary For The Blotting Out Of Sin:

Your sin is written in the records of God until you repent and are converted, then our sins are blotted out:

Repent ye therefore, and be converted, that your sins may be blotted out... (Acts 3:19)

THE PRODIGAL SON

Repentance and conversion are best illustrated by a story Jesus told about the prodigal son. Read the story in Luke 15:11-24. This young man left his father and home, went to a distant land, and through sin wasted all he owned. Eventually this young man realized his condition. He was hungry, lonely, in rags, and tending pigs for a job. Then he made an important decision. He said, "I will arise and go to my father." This inward decision resulted in a change in his outward actions. He went home to his father to seek forgiveness.

REPENTANCE...THE CHANGE OF MIND:

Read Luke 15:17-19. The young man realized his sinful condition. He made a decision to go to his father and repent of his sin. This is an example of repentance, an inward decision which results in outward action.

CONVERSION...ACTING ON THE DECISION:

Luke 15:20 records how the young man arose and left the old life and went to his father to start a new life. This is conversion.

PRODIGAL MAN:

Man is like the prodigal son. In his sinful condition he turned his back on God his Father and Heaven his home. Each step he takes is a step away from God and one step nearer the spiritual death of eternal separation from God. There is a major decision he must make. He must "come to himself" and recognize his spiritual condition. He must make a decision which will result in a change of spiritual direction.

JUSTIFICATION AND SALVATION

There are two other terms used in the Bible which relate to repentance. These terms are "justification" and "salvation." God is the judge of all mankind. When you are living in sin you are condemned before Him:

...but he that believeth not is condemned already, because he hath not believed in the name of the only begotten Son of God.

And this is the condemnation, that light is come into the world, and men loved darkness rather than light, because their deeds were evil.

            (John 3:18-19)

When you repent from sin and make the decision to turn from your sinful ways this establishes a right relationship with God. This right relationship or right standing before God is called "justification":

Know ye not, that to whom ye yield yourselves servants to obey, his servants ye are to whom ye obey; whether of sin unto death, or of obedience unto righteousness?

But God be thanked, that ye were the servants of sin but ye have obeyed from the heart that form of doctrine which was delivered you.

Being then made free from sin, ye became the servants of righteousness. (Romans 6:16-18)

When you are justified by repentance and conversion, you are "saved" from a life of sin as well as from the penalties of sin. This is what it means to be "saved" and what the Bible is speaking of when the term "salvation" is used.

SPIRITUAL WARFARE AND THE BIBLICAL WORLD VIEW

The subject of spiritual warfare must be studied within the context of God's total purpose for the redemption of sinful mankind. Study the parables of the sower and the tares among wheat in Matthew 13. Both parables concern the growth of the Kingdom of God which occurs through the planting of God's Word. Both parables picture the warfare between the two kingdoms with the battle centering on the redemptive purposes of God.

Learning spiritual warfare prepares you to enter the arena of this world and fight for the souls of men and women, boys and girls. This is why authority over Satan was given to the disciples before they were sent out to share the Gospel (see Matthew 28:18-20). Satan and his hosts of demons will war against you as you seek to win men to Christ and bring them under the rule of God. Employing Scriptural strategies of spiritual warfare helps you challenge the principalities and powers who rule over individual human lives, societies, and areas of the world.

INDUCTION INTO GOD'S ARMY

Repentance and conversion result in justification and salvation. This is God's plan for induction into His army. If you have not yet been inducted into God's army, the "Tactical Maneuvers" section of this lesson will provide opportunity for you to join. If you are already a member of God's army, the section will assist you in helping others enlist.

Welcome to the army of God!

INSPECTION

1. Write the Key Verse from the Articles Of War.

________________________________________

________________________________________

2. Define "repentance".

________________________________________

3. Explain the importance of repentance.

________________________________________

4. Define "conversion".

________________________________________

5. Explain the importance of conversion.

________________________________________

6. Define "justification".

________________________________________

7. Explain what it means to be "saved".

________________________________________

8. Use the parable of the prodigal son to describe repentance and conversion.

________________________________________

________________________________________

(Answers to tests are provided at the conclusion of the final chapter in this manual.)

TACTICAL MANEUVERS

1. Have you repented and been converted? If not, you need to stop right now in this study and do the following:

            -Repent of your sins.

            -Ask Jesus to forgive you.

            -Accept Him as your Lord and Savior.

            -Turn from your sinful ways (be converted).

2. As a believer, when you sin, you must also repent. Study the following Biblical examples:

THE CORINTHIANS:

The believers at a city called Corinth had to repent:

Now I rejoice, not that ye were made sorry, but that ye sorrowed to repentance... (II Corinthians 7:9)

For I fear, lest, when I come...that I shall bewail many which have sinned already and have not repented of the uncleanness and fornication and lasciviousness which they have committed. (II Corinthians 12:20-21)

THE EPHESIANS:

The believers at Ephesus were told to repent:

Remember therefore from whence thou art fallen and repent and do the first works. (Revelation 2:5)

CHRISTIANS IN PERGAMOS:

God told the Christians in Pergamos:

Repent; or else I will come unto thee quickly, and will fight against them with the sword of my mouth. (Revelation 2:16)

CHRISTIANS IN SARDIS:

Remember therefore how thou hast received and heard, and hold fast, and repent. (Revelation 3:3)

CHRISTIANS IN LAODICEA:

As many as I love, I rebuke and chasten; Be zealous therefore, and repent. (Revelation 3:19)

HOW ABOUT YOU...

Is there unconfessed sin in your life? Wherever there is sin, there must be repentance:

If we say that we have no sin, we deceive ourselves and the truth is not in us.

If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness. (I John 1:8-9)

3. Because repentance is necessary for salvation, God made a special plan to enable the message of repentance to reach everyone. The call to repentance began in the New Testament with the ministry of John the Baptist:

The voice of one crying in the wilderness, Prepare ye the way the Lord, make His path straight.

John did baptize in the wilderness, and preach the baptism of repentance for the remission of sins. (Mark 1:3-4)

Repentance was the first message Jesus preached:

Now after that John was put in prison, Jesus came into Galilee, preaching the Gospel of the Kingdom of God,

And saying, the time is fulfilled, and the Kingdom of God is at hand: repent ye, and believe the Gospel. (Mark 1:14-15)

Repentance was preached by believers in the early Church:

And they went out and preached that men should repent. (Mark 6:12)

...Testifying both to the Jews and also to the Greeks, repentance toward God, and faith toward our Lord Jesus Christ. (Acts 20:21)

Today, believers still have the responsibility to spread the message of repentance throughout the world. Jesus gave final instructions to His followers that...

...repentance and remission of sins should be preached in His name among all nations, beginning at Jerusalem. (Luke 24:47)

When you preach the message of repentance, you are actually calling others to enlist in God's army. Will you make a commitment to start drafting others into this great spiritual army?

4. If you are responsible to share the message of repentance and call others to enlist in God's army then you must know how men are persuaded to repent. Men repent because of:

THE GOODNESS OF GOD:

The blessings of God in the life of an ungodly person are not to be mistaken as God's approval of his life style. The goodness of God is one way the Lord appeals to men to turn to Him:

Despisest thou the riches of His goodness and forbearance and long suffering; not knowing that the goodness of God leadeth thee to repentance?

            (Romans 2:4)

PREACHING:

The preaching of the Word of God causes men to repent. The preaching of Jonah resulted in the whole city of Ninevah repenting:

The men of Ninevah shall rise in judgment with this generation and shall condemn it: because they repented at the preaching of Jonas.

            (Matthew 12:41)

CHRIST'S CALL:

As the Word of God is preached, people hear and respond to the call of Christ which leads to repentance:

I am not come to call the righteous, but sinners to repentance.

            (Matthew 9:13)

GOD, THE FATHER:

Jesus said no one could come to Him except the Father draw him. God draws men to repentance:

No man can come to me, except the Father which hath sent me draw him... (John 6:44)

REBUKE:

Rebuke causes men to repent. Rebuke is correction given from the Word of God:

...If thy brother trespass against thee, rebuke him; and if he repent, forgive him. (Luke 17:3)

GODLY SORROW:

As you learned, repentance may be accompanied by emotion. Natural emotion alone is not true repentance, but Godly emotion leads to true repentance:

Godly sorrow [for sin] worketh repentance to salvation. (II Corinthians 7:10)

BASIC TRAINING

PREPARING FOR WAR

In the natural world no soldier is sent to battle without first receiving basic training. This training prepares him to enter the combat zone.

CHAPTER THREE

THE COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF: THE LORD OF HOSTS

OBJECTIVES:

Upon completion of this chapter you will be able to:

-Write the Key Verse from memory.

-Identify the spiritual forces of good.

-Identify personalities of the Trinity of God.

-Describe the nature of the Triune God.

-Explain the function of God the Father in spiritual warfare.

-Summarize the functions of Jesus Christ in spiritual warfare.

-Summarize the functions of the Holy Spirit in spiritual warfare.

KEY VERSE FROM THE ARTICLES OF WAR:

Hear, O Israel: The Lord our God is one Lord. (Deuteronomy 6:4)

INTRODUCTION

In Chapter One you learned of a great spiritual battle being waged between the forces of good and evil. This lesson and the next describe the spiritual forces of good. These include God the Father, Jesus Christ the Son, the Holy Spirit, and angels. They are powerful spiritual forces which assist believers in warfare.

THE TRINITY OF GOD

There are many gods worshiped throughout the world, but there is only one true God. The Holy Bible contains the story of this true God. This one God revealed in three distinct personalities of the Father, the Son Jesus Christ, and the Holy Spirit.

God the Father, Jesus Christ, and the Holy Spirit are described in the Bible in terms of their nature. When we speak of "nature" we mean basic qualities which describe God. These qualities are also known as "attributes" which means "characteristics."

The Bible reveals that God is...

TRIUNE:

God has a triune nature. This means He has three distinct personalities, yet He is one God:

Hear, O Israel: The Lord our God is one Lord. (Deuteronomy 6:4)

The three persons of the Trinity of God are called God the Father, Jesus Christ the Son, and the Holy Spirit. There are several Scriptures which confirm this triune nature of God. When Jesus was being baptized by John the Baptist in the Jordan River, God spoke and the Holy Spirit descended:

And Jesus, when He was baptized, went up straightway out of the water: and, lo, the heavens were opened unto Him, and He saw the Spirit of God descending like a dove, and lighting upon Him:

And lo, a voice from Heaven saying, This is my beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased. (Matthew 3:16-17)

Prior to returning to Heaven after His ministry on earth, Jesus spoke of the Holy Spirit coming from God:

But when the Comforter is come, whom I will send unto you from the Father, even the Spirit of truth, which proceedeth from the Father, He shall testify of me. (John 15:26)

The Apostle Peter spoke of the triune nature of God:

If ye be reproached for the name of Christ, happy are ye; for the Spirit of glory and of God resteth upon you: on their part He is evil spoken of, but on your part He is glorified. (I Peter 4:14)

The Apostle Paul spoke of the Trinity in his writings:

For the law of the Spirit of life in Christ Jesus hath made me free from the law of sin and death.

For what the law could not do, in that it was weak through the flesh, God sending His own Son, in the likeness of sinful flesh, and for sin, condemned sin in the flesh (Romans 8:2-3)

The grace of the Lord Jesus Christ, and the love of God, and the communion of the Holy Ghost, be with you all. (II Corinthians 13:14)

For through Him (the Son) we both have access by one Spirit unto the Father. (Ephesians 2:18)

The book of Acts also verifies the triune nature of God:

Therefore being by the right hand of God exalted, and having received of the Father the promise of the Holy Ghost, He (Jesus) hath shed forth this, which ye now see and hear. (Acts 2:33)

Here is a diagram that illustrates this three-faceted, triune nature:

                                                                         Son ▲ Holy Spirit

                                                           Father

ETERNAL:

The Trinity of God is eternal with no beginning and no ending:

Lord, Thou hast been our dwelling place in all generations.

Before the mountains were brought forth, or ever Thou hadst formed the earth and the world, even from everlasting to everlasting, Thou art God. (Psalms 90:1-2)

And Abraham planted a grove in Beersheba, and called there on the name of the Lord, the everlasting God. (Genesis 21:33)

The eternal nature of God is best illustrated by a circle. The circle has no visible starting point or ending point, yet it exists:

●

The Eternal Nature Of God

A SPIRIT:

God is a spirit. This means He is without flesh and blood and therefore invisible to the natural eyes of man:

God is a Spirit: and they that worship Him must worship Him in spirit and in truth. (John 4:24)

SOVEREIGN:

God is the sovereign (greatest) power in all the universe. Read Ephesians l and Romans 9.

OMNIPRESENT:

This means God is present everywhere:

For the eyes of the Lord run to and fro throughout the whole earth...

            (II Chronicles 16:9)

The eyes of the Lord are in every place, beholding the evil and the good. (Proverbs 15:3)

Whither shall I go from Thy Spirit? Or whither shall I flee from Thy presence?

If I ascend up into Heaven, Thou art there: if I make my bed in Hell, behold, Thou are there. (Psalms 139:7-8)

OMNISCIENT:

This means God knows all things:

            ...Thou knowest it altogether. (Psalms 139:4)

...God is greater than our heart, and knoweth all things. (I John 3:20)

...But all things are naked and opened unto the eyes of Him with whom we have to do. (Hebrews 4:13)

OMNIPOTENT:

This means God is all powerful:

...I am the Almighty God... (Genesis 17:1)

...With God all things are possible. (Matthew 19:26)

...For the Lord God omnipotent reigneth. (Revelation 19:6)

God hath spoken once; twice have I heard this; that power belongeth unto God. (Psalms 62:11)

UNCHANGING:

God does not change His person, nature, purpose, or plans are concerned: For I am the Lord, I change not... (Malachi 3:6)

Jesus Christ the same yesterday, to day, and for ever. (Hebrews 13:8)

HOLY:

God is sinless, absolutely pure:

...Ye shall be holy: for I the Lord your God am holy. (Leviticus 19:2)

JUST:

God is fair and impartial in judgment:

...A God of truth and without iniquity, just and right is He.

            (Deuteronomy 32:4)

FAITHFUL:

God keeps His promises and is absolutely trustworthy.

...He abideth faithful: He cannot deny Himself. (II Timothy 2:13)

BENEVOLENT:

God is good, kind, and desires your welfare:

The Lord is good to all: and His tender mercies are over all His works. (Psalms 145:9)

MERCIFUL:

God shows mercy to sinful mankind:

...The Lord God, merciful and gracious, long suffering, and abundant in goodness and truth. Keeping mercy for thousands... (Exodus 34:6-7)

GRACIOUS:

God shows undeserved kindness to sinful man:

...For I am gracious. (Exodus 22:27)

The Lord is gracious, and full of compassion; slow to anger, and of great mercy. (Psalms 145:8)

LOVING:

God is love:

He that loveth not knoweth not God; for God is love. (I John 4:8)

WISE:

God shows deep understanding and keen discernment.

The Lord by wisdom hath founded the earth; by understanding hath He established the heavens. (Proverbs 3:19)

INFINITE:

God is not subject to natural and human limitations. He is not subject to the limitations of space:

But will God indeed dwell on the earth? behold, the heaven and heaven of heavens cannot contain thee: how much less this house that I have builded?

            (I Kings 8:27)

He is not subject to the limitations of time:

The Lord shall reign for ever and ever. (Exodus 15:18)

GOD THE FATHER

God the Father is the commander of the spiritual forces of good which oppose the spiritual forces of evil. This is His special function in the realm of spiritual warfare.

WHERE IS GOD?

You just learned God is omnipresent, which means He is everywhere in the universe. God's throne is in a place called Heaven but He is also omnipresent.

Thus saith the Lord, The heaven is my throne and the earth is my footstool... (Isaiah 66:1)

NAMES FOR GOD:

The Bible gives other names for God which reveal His ministry to you as you are engaged in this great spiritual conflict. The names for God include:

1. Jehovah: Which means Lord. The Bible combines this word with other names for God:

Jehovah-Rapha:          "The Lord that healeth"                                  Exodus 15:26

Jehovah-Nissi:"The Lord our banner"                                   Exodus 17:8-15

Jehovah-Shalom:        "The Lord our peace"                         Judges 6:24

Jehovah-Ra'ah:           "The Lord my shepherd"                                Psalms 23:1

Jehovah-Tsidkenu:     "The Lord our righteousness"             Jeremiah 23:6

Jehovah-Jireh:            "The Lord who provides"                               Genesis 22:14

Jehovah-Shammah:    "The Lord is there"                                         Ezekiel 48:35

2. Elohim: Means God and is used wherever the creative power of God is implied.

3. Father: Acts 17:28; John 1:12-13

4. Adonai: Means Lord or Master: Exodus 23:17; Isaiah 10:16,33

5. El: This is often used in combination with other words for God:

El Shaddai:     "The God who is sufficient for the needs of His People"                  Exodus 6:3

Elolam:           "The everlasting God"                                                            Genesis 21:33

El Elyon:        "Most high God who is exalted above other so called gods" Genesis 14:18,22

6. Yahweh: In the Hebrew language in which the Old Testament was written, the word "Yahweh" means God. This word is combined with other words to reveal more about the character of God. God is called:

Yahweh Jireh:            "The Lord provides"                                       Genesis 22:14

Yahweh Nissi:            "The Lord is my banner"                                Exodus 17:15

Yahweh Shalom:                    "The Lord is peace"                                        Judges 6:24

Yahweh Sabbaoth:                 "The Lord of Hosts"                                       I Samuel 1:3

Yahweh Maccaddeshcem:      "The Lord thy Sanctifier"                               Exodus 31:13

Yahweh Tsidkenu:                 "The Lord our righteousness"             Jeremiah 23:6

Yahweh Shammah:                "The Lord is there"                                         Ezekiel 48:35

Yahweh Elohim Israel:"The Lord God of Israel"                               Judges 5:3

Quadosh Israel:                       "The Holy One Of Israel"                               Isaiah 1:4

7. The Lord Of Hosts: In the Biblical record, these different names of God were used when requesting God to move in a specific way on behalf of His people. For example, the name Jehovah-Rapham meaning "The Lord that healeth," was used when seeking healing.

The specific name of God which should be used in spiritual warfare is "Yahweh Sabbaoth" which is translated "the Lord of hosts" in the King James version of the Bible. When you call upon that name in warfare, the battle is the Lord's and all the hosts of Heaven come to your aid.

GOD THE SON, JESUS CHRIST

God the Son, Jesus Christ, combines the divine and the human natures in one union. God the Father sent Jesus Christ to earth in human form while yet retaining His divine nature.

Jesus was sent by God to earth so man could be pardoned from sin:

For God so loved the world, that He gave His only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in Him should not perish, but have everlasting life.

For God sent not His Son into the world to condemn the world; but that the world through Him might be saved.

He that believeth on Him is not condemned: but he that believeth not is condemned already, because He hath not believed in the name of the only begotten Son of God. (John 3:16-18)

The story of Jesus is recorded in the Bible in the books of Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John. These books provide a detailed record of the birth, life, death, resurrection, teachings, and ministry of Jesus Christ.

As part of the plan of God, Jesus came to earth in human form, ministered among men, died for the sins of man, was resurrected from the dead, and commissioned His followers to bear the Gospel to the nations of the world.

WHERE IS JESUS?

Following His resurrection from the dead, Jesus appeared to many people, commissioned His followers, and then returned to Heaven. But remember...even though He is in Heaven He is still omnipresent...His presence is everywhere.

SPECIAL FUNCTIONS:

The special functions of Jesus in relation to spiritual warfare include the following:

1. Redeeming man from sin: It is through the death of Jesus Christ that you are freed from the bondage of sin in which the enemy has ensnared you:

...for of whom a man is overcome, of the same is he brought in bondage...

            (II Peter 2:19)

Because the creature itself also shall be delivered from the bondage of corruption into the glorious liberty of the children of God. (Romans 8:21)

Stand fast therefore in the liberty wherewith Christ hath made us free, and be not entangled again with the yoke of bondage. (Galatians 5:1)

2. Authority over the forces of evil: You will study this in detail later in this course. The death of Jesus not only freed mankind from sin, but also resulted in triumph over the forces of evil. Because of this, you have authority over the enemy:

Then He called His twelve disciples together, and gave them power and authority over all devils and to cure diseases. (Luke 9:1)

3. Destroying the works of the Devil:

...For this purpose the Son of God was manifested, that He might destroy the works of the Devil. (I John 3:8)

4. Intercession for believers: In Heaven Jesus is at the right hand of God the Father interceding for believers engaged in spiritual warfare. This means He is talking to the Father on your behalf:

...It is Christ that died, yea rather, that is risen again, who is even at the right hand of God, who also maketh intercession for us. (Romans 8:34)

THE NAMES OF JESUS:

The name "Jesus" means "Savior or deliverer" (Matthew 1:21). The name "Christ" means "the anointed one" (John 4:25- 26). Additional names given Jesus Christ in the Bible include the following:

Adam (the second)                                         I Corinthians 15:45-47

Advocate                                                        I John 2:1

Almighty                                                        Revelation 1:8

Alpha and Omega                                           Revelation 21:6

Amen                                                              Revelation 3:14

Ancient of Days                                              Daniel 7:9

Angel of His Presence                        Isaiah 63:9

Anointed Above His Fellows             Psalms 45:7

Anointed (His)                                    Psalms 2:2

Apostle of our profession                               Hebrews 3:1

Arm of the Lord                                             Isaiah 51:9-10

Author and Finisher of Faith              Hebrews 12:2

Author of Eternal Salvation                            Hebrews 5:9

Begotten of God                                             I John 5:18

Beloved                                                          Ephesians 1:6

Bishop of Souls                                              I Peter 2:25

Blessed and Only Potentate                            I Timothy 6:15

Branch (The)                                                  Zechariah 3:8

Branch (Righteous)                                        Jeremiah 33:15

Branch of Root Of Jesse                                 Isaiah 1:1

Bread of Life                                                  John 6:48

Bright and Morning Star                                Revelation 22:16

Captain of the Lord's Host                              Joshua 5:15

Carpenter's Son                                              Matthew 13:55

Chief Cornerstone                                          I Peter 2:6

Chiefest Among 10,000                                  Song of Solomon 5:10

Christ (The)                                                    John 1:41

Christ the Lord                                               Luke 2:11

Christ Jesus Our Lord                         Romans 8:39

Christ the Power of God                                 I Corinthians 1:24

Counselor                                                       Isaiah 9:6

Covenant of the People                                  Isaiah 42:6

Dayspring                                                       Luke 1:78

Daystar                                                           II Peter 1:19

Deliverer                                                         Romans 11:26

Door (The)                                                      John 10:9

Elect                                                               Isaiah 42:1

Emmanuel                                                      Matthew 1:23

Eternal Life                                                    I John 5:20

Everlasting Father                                          Isaiah 9:6

Faithful and True                                            Revelation 19:11

Faithful Witness                                             Revelation 1:5

First Begotten                                     Hebrews 1:6

First Born                                                       Psalms 89:27

First Born Among Many                                Romans 8:29

First Fruits                                                      I Corinthians 15:23

First and Last                                                  Revelation 22:13

Foundation Laid in Zion                                 Isaiah 28:16

Glorious Lord                                     Isaiah 33:21

God of Israel                                                   Isaiah 45:15

God with Us                                                   Matthew 1:23

Great God                                                       Titus 2:13

Great High Priest                                            Hebrews 4:14

Head of the Body                                           Colossians 1:18

Head over all Things                                      Ephesians 1:22

Headstone of the Corner                                 Psalms 118:22

Heir of all Things                                           Hebrews 1:2

Holy One of Israel                                          Isaiah 41:14

Hope of Glory                                    Colossians 1:27

I Am                                                               John 8:58

Image of the Invisible God                             Colossians 1:15

Immanuel                                                       Isaiah 7:14

Jesus Christ Our Lord                         Romans 1:3

Judge of Israel                                                Micah 5:1

King of Glory                                     Psalms 24:7

King                                                                Zechariah 9:9

King Over all the Earth                                  Zechariah 14:9

Lamb of God                                                  John 1:29

Light of the World                                          John 8:12

Lily of the Valley                                           Song of Solomon 2:1

Living Bread                                                  John 6:51

Lord God Almighty                                        Revelation 4:8

Lord and Savior                                              II Peter 2:20

Lord of All                                                     Acts 10:36

Lord our Righteousness                                  Jeremiah 23:6

Lord (Your Redeemer)                                   Isaiah 43:14

Love                                                               I John 4:8

Man of Sorrows                                              Isaiah 53:3

Master                                                Matthew 23:10

Messiah                                                          Daniel 9:25

Mighty God                                                    Isaiah 9:6

Mighty One of Jacob                                      Isaiah 60:16

Most Holy                                                      Daniel 9:24

Most Mighty                                                   Psalms 45:3

Nazarene                                                         Matthew 2:23

Only Wise God                                   I Timothy 1:17

Our Passover                                                  I Corinthians 5:7

Physician                                                        Luke 4:23

Prince of Peace                                               Isaiah 9:6

Prince of Kings of the Earth                           Revelation 1:5

Prophet                                                           Deuteronomy 18:15-18

Propitiation                                                     Romans 3:25

Rabbi                                                              John 1:49

Redeemer                                                       Isaiah 59:20

Resurrection                                                   John 11:25

Righteous Servant                                          Isaiah 53:11

Rock                                                               I Corinthians 10:4

Root of Jesse                                                  Isaiah 11:10

Rose of Sharon                                               Song of Solomon 2:1

Savior of the World                                        I John 4:14

Seed of David                                     John 7:42

Seed of the Woman                                        Genesis 3:15

Shepherd (good)                                             John 10:11

Son of God                                                     Romans 1:4

Son of Man                                                     Acts 7:56

Son of Mary                                                   Mark 6:3

Son of the Highest                                          Luke 1:32

Star out of Jacob                                             Numbers 24:17

Stone                                                              Matthew 21:42

Sun of Righteousness                                     Malachi 4:2

Sure Foundation                                             Isaiah 28:16

Teacher                                                           John 3:2

Truth                                                               John 14:6

Unspeakable Gift                                            II Corinthians 9:15

Vine                                                                John 15:1

Way                                                                John 14:6

Wonderful                                                      Isaiah 9:6

Word                                                              John 1:14

Word of God                                                  Revelation 19:13

GOD THE HOLY SPIRIT

The Holy Spirit is part of the triune nature of God, but the Holy Spirit also has an individual personality. The subject of the Holy Spirit is so vast that an entire course entitled "The Ministry Of The Holy Spirit" is offered by Harvestime International Institute. This course is recommended for more detailed study of the Holy Spirit.

PERSONALITY OF THE HOLY SPIRIT:

The Bible reveals that the Holy Spirit:

Has a mind:

And He that searcheth the hearts knoweth what is the mind of the Spirit... (Romans 8:27)

Searches out the human mind:

But God hath revealed them unto us by His Spirit: for the Spirit searcheth all things, yea, the deep things of God. (I Corinthians 2:10)

Has a will:

But all these worketh that one and the selfsame Spirit, dividing to every man severally as He will. (I Corinthians 12:11)

The will of the Holy Spirit guides believers by denying permission for certain actions:

Now when they had gone throughout Phrygia and the region of Galatia, and were forbidden of the Holy Ghost to preach the word in Asia.

After they were come to Mysia, they assayed to go into Bithynia; but the Spirit suffered them not. (Acts 16:6-7)

The will of the Holy Spirit also guides believers by granting permission:

And after he had seen the vision, immediately we endeavored to go into Macedonia, assuredly gathering that the Lord had called us for to preach the Gospel unto them. (Acts 16:10)

Speaks:

Then the Spirit said unto Philip, Go near, and join thyself to this chariot. (Acts 8:29)

Loves:

Now I beseech you, brethren, for the Lord Jesus Christ's sake, and for the love of the Spirit, that ye strive together with me in your prayers to God for me. (Romans 15:30)

Intercedes:

The Holy Spirit intercedes (prays to God) on behalf of believers:

Likewise the Spirit also helpeth our infirmities: for we know not what we should pray for as we ought: but the Spirit itself maketh intercession for us with groanings which cannot be uttered (spoken). (Romans 8:26)

From this list of personality traits you can immediately recognize the important functions of the Holy Spirit in spiritual warfare. The Holy Spirit guides your warfare. He reveals spiritual things that cannot be known naturally. The Holy Spirit speaks the will and words of God to you. He also intercedes for you as you are engaged in spiritual battles.

BAPTISM OF THE HOLY SPIRIT:

There is a spiritual experience called the baptism of the Holy Spirit which involves the sign of speaking in other tongues (Acts 2) and the evidence of power to become an effective witness of the Gospel (Acts 1:8).

To wage successful spiritual warfare, it is important for you to experience the baptism of the Spirit. This is the source of power for spiritual battles. The baptism of the Holy Spirit is discussed in the course "The Ministry Of The Holy Spirit".

GIFTS OF THE HOLY SPIRIT:

The Holy Spirit gives special spiritual gifts to believers. These spiritual gifts are discussed in detail in the course on the Holy Spirit. The main references listing the gifts of the Holy Spirit are:

            -Romans 12:1-8

            -I Corinthians 12:1-31

            -Ephesians 4:1-16

            -I Peter 4:7-11

The gifts of the Holy Spirit are necessary to equip the believer for combat against the forces of evil. The gifts of the Holy Spirit include the following:

Special gifts to equip God's people:

Apostles, prophets, evangelists, pastors, teachers.

Speaking gifts to explain God's truth:

Prophecy, teaching, exhortation, word of wisdom, word of knowledge.

Serving gifts to enable God's work:

Serving, helps, leadership, administration, giving, showing mercy, discerning of spirits, faith, hospitality.

Sign gifts to establish God's authority:

Tongues, interpretation, miracles, healings.

FRUIT OF THE HOLY SPIRIT:

The Holy Spirit also develops spiritual fruit in the life of the believer. The "fruit of the Holy Spirit" refers to the nature of the Spirit revealed in the life of the believer. It is spiritual qualities which should be evident in the lives of all Christians.

The gifts of the Holy Spirit are for power. The fruit of the Holy Spirit is for character in the life of a believer. If you do not develop Christlike character traits then you will become a victim of the forces of evil. Spiritual fruit is evidence of spiritual maturity. Like fruit in the natural world, it is a product which is the result of the process of life.

There are two types of spiritual fruit. There is the spiritual fruit of reproduction:

Ye have not chosen me, but I have chosen you, and ordained you, that ye should go and bring forth fruit, and that your fruit should remain...

            (John 15:16)

There is also the inner fruit of Christlike qualities. These qualities are completely opposite of the fleshly nature of man:

Now the works of the flesh are manifest, which are these; Adultery, fornication, uncleanness, lasciviousness,

Idolatry, witchcraft, hatred, variance, emulations, wrath, strife, seditions, heresies,

Envyings, murders, drunkenness, revellings, and such like: of the which I tell you before, as I have also told you in time past, that they which do such things shall not inherit the Kingdom of God.

But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, long suffering, gentleness, goodness, faith,

Meekness, temperance: against such there is no law. (Galatians 5:19-23)

Although the power of the flesh was defeated at the cross, as a believer you experience this only to the degree that you practice faith in the finished work of Jesus. Therefore, to be effective in denying the power of the sinful nature of the flesh, it is necessary that you develop or "put on" the fruit of the Holy Spirit.

WHERE IS THE HOLY SPIRIT?

Jesus promised His followers that upon His return to Heaven He would send the Holy Spirit to earth to comfort them:

And I will pray the Father, and He shall give you another Comforter, that He may abide with you for ever;

Even the Spirit of truth: whom the world cannot receive, because it seeth him not, neither knoweth Him; but ye know Him; for He dwelleth with you, and shall be in you. (John 14:16-17)

One of the main functions of the Holy Spirit is to direct attention to Jesus Christ:

But when the Comforter is come, whom I will sent unto you from the Father, even the Spirit of truth, which proceedeth from the Father, He shall testify of me (John 15:26)

God the Holy Spirit, in spirit form and invisible to the natural eyes of man, is in the world today. He is active in convicting men of sin, drawing men to Jesus Christ, equipping believers with power for spiritual warfare, guiding them, and testifying of Jesus.

The Holy Spirit ministers in many other ways in the world. These are discussed in detail in the Harvestime International Institute course entitled "Ministry Of The Holy Spirit."

SENSITIVITY OF THE HOLY SPIRIT:

The Holy Spirit has a sensitive nature. This means He has feelings that can be affected by the actions of man. Because of the sensitive nature of the Holy Spirit the Bible warns that we should not lie to the Holy Spirit (Acts 5:3-4), resist the Spirit (Acts 7:51), quench the Spirit (I Thessalonians 5:19), grieve the Spirit (Psalms 78:40 and Ephesians 4:30), insult the Spirit (Hebrews 6:4-6), blaspheme the Spirit (Matthew 12:31-32 or vex the Spirit (Isaiah 63:10). These actions are discussed in detail in the Harvestime International Institute course on "The Ministry Of The Holy Spirit."

It is important that you do not offend the sensitive nature of the Holy Spirit. If the Holy Spirit is offended by your actions He will withdraw His presence. You cannot wage effective spiritual warfare without the power of the Holy Spirit.

TITLES OF THE HOLY SPIRIT:

There are several titles used in the Bible to describe the Holy Spirit. A title is a descriptive phrase which explains a person's position and/or function. It is important that you know the function of the Holy Spirit as you enter spiritual warfare. Look up the following references in your Bible to study the titles given the Holy Spirit.

The Holy Spirit is called:

The Spirit of God:                                                      I Corinthians 3:16

The Spirit of Christ:                                                   Romans 8:9

The Eternal Spirit:                                                      Hebrews 9:14

The Spirit of Truth:                                                    John 16:13

The Spirit of Grace:                                                    Hebrews 10:29

The Spirit of Life:                                                       Romans 8:2

The Spirit of Glory:                                                    I Peter 4:14

The Spirit of Wisdom and Revelation:           Ephesians 1:17

The Comforter:                                                           John 14:26

The Spirit of Promise:                                                Acts 1:4-5

The Spirit of Holiness:                                               Romans 1:4

The Spirit of Faith:                                                     II Corinthians 4:13

The Spirit of Adoption:                                              Romans 8:15

EMBLEMS OF THE HOLY SPIRIT:

The Bible uses several emblems to represent the Holy Spirit. An emblem represents or stands for something. It is a symbol which has a special meaning. Look up the following references in your Bible. They each use emblems which represent the Holy Spirit:

            The dove:                                John 1:32, Song Of Solomon 6:9

            Oil:                                         Luke 4:18, Acts 10:38; Hebrews 1:9

            Water:                         John 7:37-39; Isaiah 44:3

            A seal:                        Ephesians 1:13; 4:30; II Corinthians 1:22

            Wind:                                      John 3:8; Acts 2:1-2

            Fire:                                        Exodus 3:2; 13:21; Leviticus 9:24; Acts 2:3

The meaning of each of these emblems of the Holy Spirit is explained in the course on the "Ministry Of The Holy Spirit."

SUMMARY

In this chapter you learned of the Triune nature of God and studied about God the Father, the Son Jesus Christ, and the Holy Spirit. With their combined functions in the realm of spiritual warfare they are a powerful force of good in the universe.

But it is not enough just to recognize that the spiritual forces of good exist. The Bible says:

Thou believest that there is one God; thou doest well: the devils also believe and tremble. (James 2:19)

The spiritual forces of evil believe in God and are fearful of Him, but they are still evil. To simply believe in God is not enough. You must acknowledge Him as Lord of your life. You must accept the sacrifice of Jesus Christ for your sin, repent, ask forgiveness, and become a new creature in Christ.

You have not yet completed your study of the spiritual forces of good. The next chapter concerns a mighty host of spirit beings known as angels and describes their function in spiritual warfare.

INSPECTION

1. Write the Key Verse from the Articles Of War.

________________________________________

________________________________________

________________________________________

2. List the spiritual forces of good.

________________________________________

________________________________________

3. Name the three personalities of the Trinity of God:

            God the___________________

            God the __________, ___________ ____________

            God the ___________ ___________

4. Summarize the special function of God in the realm of spiritual warfare.

________________________________________

________________________________________

5. Summarize the functions of Jesus Christ in spiritual warfare.

________________________________________

________________________________________

6. Summarize the functions of the Holy Spirit in spiritual warfare.

________________________________________

________________________________________

7. Column One lists some of the attributes of the Triune God. Column Two lists definitions of these attributes, but they are not in correct order. Look at each attribute in Column One. Then find the correct definition in Column Two. Write the number of the correct definition on the blank provided. The first one is done as an example for you to follow.

      Column One Column Two

1. _h__ Eternal                                 a. Without flesh and blood

2. ___ Sovereign                               b. Present everywhere

3. ___ Omnipresent                                      c. Good, kind

4. ___ Holy                                                   d. Highest, supreme power

5. ___ Infinite                                   e. All powerful

6. ___ Unchanging                           f. Knows all things

7. ___ Benevolent                             g. Sinless

8. ___ A spirit                                   h. No beginning or end

9. ___ Omniscient                            i. Does not change

10. ___ Omnipotent                           j. Fair and impartial in judgment

11. ___ Just                                        k. Shows mercy to sinful mankind.

12. ___ Merciful                                l. Not subject to natural limitations

8. What is the name of God to use when entering into spiritual warfare?

________________________________________

(Answers to tests are provided at the conclusion of the final chapter in this manual.)

TACTICAL MANEUVERS

1. If you are studying the Harvestime Institute courses in their suggested order, you will study " The Ministry Of The Holy Spirit" after completion of this course. The first chapter of " The Ministry Of The Holy Spirit" includes an outline for further study of God the Father and the Son Jesus Christ. If you are not enrolled in the complete Institute program, we suggest you obtain the Harvestime International Institute course entitled "The Ministry Of The Holy Spirit" to study upon completion of this course.

2. Additional studies on the life, ministry, and teachings of Jesus Christ are provided in the Harvestime International Institute courses "Kingdom Living" and "Teaching Tactics."

3. The Harvestime International Institute course entitled "Foundations Of Faith" provides detailed instruction on the basic doctrines of the Christian faith. This course is important in gaining understanding of the spiritual forces of good. You have already completed this course if you are enrolled in a Harvestime International Institute and are studying the subjects in suggested order. If not, we suggest you obtain this course for further study.

4. Are you presently in a spiritual battle? As you pray about your problem, being to call upon the name of the Lord of Hosts.

5. Think about a battle you are presently facing and study again the functions of God the Father, Jesus Christ, and the Holy Spirit in warfare. How can God assist you in your personal battle? How can Jesus assist you? What is the function of the Holy Spirit in the problem you are facing?

CHAPTER FOUR

THE SPIRITUAL FORCES OF GOOD: ANGELS

OBJECTIVES:

Upon completion of this chapter you will be able to:

-Write the Key Verse from memory.

-Provide a reference which explains what angels are.

-Tell how angels originated.

-Identify the two kinds of angels.

-Identify their sphere of activity.

-Summarize the ministry of angels in spiritual warfare.

-Identify attributes of angels.

-Identify various classifications of angels.

-Give a Scripture reference which explains the organization of the angelic host.

KEY VERSE FROM THE ARTICLES OF WAR:

The angel of the Lord encampeth round about them that fear Him, and delivereth them. (Psalms 34:7)

INTRODUCTION

In the last chapter you learned of the Trinity of God which includes God the Father, God the Son Jesus Christ, and God the Holy Spirit. You learned of their origin, attributes, and functions in spiritual warfare.

This chapter continues the study of the spiritual forces of good. It explains the origin, attributes, sphere of activity, classification, and organization of angels. It also explains their ministry in spiritual warfare.

WHAT ARE ANGELS?

Angels are ministering spirits sent by God to do His will:

Are they not all ministering spirits, sent forth to minister for them who shall be heirs of salvation. (Hebrews 1:14)

The title "angel" means messenger.

THE ORIGIN OF ANGELS

Angels were created by God:

Praise ye Him, all His angels: praise ye Him, all His hosts.

Let them praise the name of the Lord: For He commanded and they were created. (Psalms 148:2 and 5)

For by Him were all things created, that are in Heaven, and that are in earth, visible and invisible, whether they be thrones, or dominions, or principalities, or powers: all things were created by Him and for Him. (Colossians 1:16.)

All the angels were righteous and holy when they were first created. They worshiped and served the one true God. Later, some angels rebelled against God and lost their position as angels. They became part of a force of evil called "demons."

There are now two kinds of angels: Good angels, which are the subject of this chapter, and evil angels (demons) which will be discussed in Chapter Six of this course.

THE ORGANIZATION OF ANGELS

The good Angels have been organized by God in a special order. The Bible does not reveal the details of that order, but it does indicate such organization:

For by Him were all things created, that are in Heaven, and that are in earth, visible and invisible, whether they be thrones, or dominions, or principalities, or powers: all things were created by Him and for Him. (Colossians 1:16; See also Ephesians 3:10)

The organization of the invisible world is described here in terms of thrones, dominions, principalities, and powers. We are not given details of this structure. You will learn later how Satan has imitated this organization in his own structure of evil forces.

THE CLASSIFICATION OF ANGELS

There are literally multitudes of angels (Luke 2:13-15) who are apparently classified according to the duties they perform. These are the main classifications of angels:

MESSENGERS:

This class of angels is most likely the largest in number. These are the angels composing the innumerable group, visualized by Daniel (Daniel 7:10), who carry out the will of God in Heaven and earth. This is the group that usually relates to the believer in terms of spiritual warfare. They interpret God's will, protect, provide guidance, bring answers to prayer, announce, warn, instruct, bring judgment, encourage, sustain, deliver, and intercede on behalf of believers.

ELECT ANGELS:

Only one reference is made to elect angels in I Timothy 5:21. There is no further information given about this group.

CHERUBIM:

This classification of angels is first mentioned in Genesis 3:24. They are also mentioned as part of the ark of the covenant (Exodus 25:18-22). Ezekiel mentions these beings and describes them as having four appearances; the face of a lion, the face of an ox, the face of a man, and the face of an eagle (Ezekiel 1:3-28; 10:22). This symbolism of the cherubim suggests they are the living creatures surrounding the throne of God in Revelation 4:6. They appear to be the highest order of angels, the guardians of God.

SERAPHIM:

This group is mentioned in Isaiah 6:2,6. Their position is above the throne of God in contrast to the position of cherubims who surround His throne. The duty of these angels seems to be to lead Heaven in the worship of God.

LIVING CREATURES:

This group of angels are mentioned in Revelation 4:6,8; 5:6. This title presents these angels as manifesting the fullness of divine life, whose chief ministry appears to be worship of God.

INDIVIDUAL ANGELS

In addition to the different classifications of angels, there are some individual angels mentioned by name in the Bible:

MICHAEL:

Michael the archangel is mentioned by name in Daniel 10:13,21; 12:1; Jude 9; and Revelation 12:7. He is the only angel who is called an archangel. He is represented as having charge over an army of angels in Revelation 12:7 and is said to be the prince of the people of Israel in Daniel 10:13,21; 12:1.

GABRIEL:

The meaning of his name is "mighty one." He is mentioned in Daniel 8:16; 9:21; and in Luke 1:19,26. He is always used to deliver an important message from God. It is Gabriel who interpreted the vision for Daniel in 8:16; 9:21 and who announced the birth of John and Jesus Luke 1:19,26.

SPECIAL GROUPS OF ANGELS:

The Bible also mentions special groups of angels which include:

Angels of the seven churches:                                                                        Revelation 1:20

Four angels who control the winds:                                                                Revelation 1:7

Seven angels who stand before God:                                                  Revelation 8:2

Seven angels who administrate the seven last plagues:                                  Revelation 15:1,7

Twenty-four elders (these may be angelic beings):                                        Revelation 4 and 5

THE ATTRIBUTES OF ANGELS

You will remember from the last chapter that attributes are personality traits or characteristics of an individual. Angels...

Are spirits: Hebrews 1:14

Are sexless: Luke 20:34-36

Are immortal: Matthew 22:28-30

Have both visible and invisible forms: Numbers 22:22-35

Appear with the likeness of human form: Genesis 19:1-22; 18:2,4,8

Have emotions: Luke 15:1-10 (angels rejoicing).

Have appetites: Genesis 18:8

Are glorified beings: Luke 9:26

Are intelligent: II Samuel 14:20

Are meek: Jude 9

Are powerful: Psalms 103:20; II Peter 2:11

Have no need to rest: Revelation 4:8

Travel at an unrecorded speed: Revelation 8:13; 9:1

Speak languages: I Corinthians 13:1

Are Innumerable: Luke 2:13; Hebrews 12:22; Psalms 68:17; Mark 1:13; Revelation 5:19

Are immortal: Luke 20:34-36

Do not marry or have children: Luke 20:34-36

Are obedient: Psalms 103:20

Are holy: Revelation 14:10; Mark 8:38

Are reverent: Their highest activity is the worship of God. Nehemiah 9:6; Philippians 2:9-11; Hebrews 1:6

THEIR SPHERE OF ACTIVITY

Angels are active in both Heaven and earth. The source of their power is both granted and governed by God. They have access to the presence of God in Heaven:

...In Heaven their angels do always behold the face of my Father which is in Heaven. (Matthew 18:10)

They are also active on earth. This is documented by the varied ministries and many appearances of angels to people recorded in the Bible.

THE MINISTRY OF ANGELS

Angels minister in many ways in both Heaven and earth. Look up each of the following references in your Bible. As you study these verses you will understand the importance of angels in spiritual warfare.

The ministry of angels in Heaven includes:

Worship: Revelation 4:8; 5:11-12; Isaiah 6:3; Psalms 103:20; 148:1-2

Standing ready to do God's will: Psalms 103:20-21

Ministering to the godly who have died in Christ Jesus: Jude 9; Luke 16:22

Representing children in a special way: Matthew 18:10

Rejoicing over those who accept the Gospel: Luke 15:10

The ministry of angels on earth includes:

Ruling nations: Daniel 10

Ministering to believers in times of testing: Matthew 4:11

Strengthening Believers: Luke 22:43

Interpreting God's will for men: Zechariah 1:9; Daniel 7:16

Guiding believers: Acts 8:26.

Bringing judgment on individuals and nations: Acts 12:23; Genesis 19:3; II Samuel 24:16; Revelation 16:1

Bringing answers to prayer: Daniel 9:21-22

Announcing: Luke 1:11-20; Matthew 1:20, 21

Warning: Matthew 2:13;

Instructing: Matthew 28:2-6; Acts 10:3-6; Daniel 4:13-17

Encouraging: Acts 27:23; Genesis 28:12

Revealing: Acts 7:53; Galatians 3:19; Hebrews 2:2; Daniel 9:21-27; Revelation 1:1

Sustaining: Matthew 4:11; Luke 22:43

Preserving: Genesis 16:7; 24:7; Exodus 23:20; Revelation 7:1

Protecting: Psalms 91:11

Delivering: Numbers 20:16; Psalms 34:7; Isaiah 63:9; Daniel 3:28; 6:22; Genesis 48:16; Matthew 26:53; Acts 12:1-19

Destroying: Acts 12:20-23

Interceding: Zechariah 1:12; Revelation 8:3,4

The future activities of angels will include:

Participating in the return of Jesus: I Thessalonians 4:16

Gathering the elect: Matthew 24:31

Warning and preaching during the tribulation: Revelation 14:6-9

Separating the wicked from the righteous: Matthew 13:39 and 49

Binding Satan: Revelation 20

ANGELS AND SPIRITUAL WARFARE

The Messenger angels are the group that usually relates to the believer in terms of spiritual warfare. They interpret God's will, protect, provide guidance, bring answers to prayer, announce, warn, instruct, bring judgment, encourage, sustain, deliver, and intercede on behalf of believers in battle.

Many believers have not availed themselves of the aid available from angels because they have not been taught regarding their function in spiritual warfare. They are "ministering spirits" and can minister for you as well as to you. You can ask God to dispatch angels to assist you in battle. King David did this. He prayed...

Let the angel of the Lord persecute them...Let the angel of the Lord chase them... (Psalms 35:5-6)

Read the following Biblical accounts of angels participating in warring against the enemy: II Kings 19:35; II Chronicles 32:21; Isaiah 37:36; Revelation 12:7.

IMPORTANT WARNINGS

Angels are holy beings with important ministries on behalf of believers. They are part of the spiritual forces of good as is the Trinity of God. But the Bible gives some warnings concerning angels:

DO NOT WORSHIP THEM:

You are not to worship angels:

Let no man beguile you of your reward in a voluntary humility and worshiping of angels, intruding into those things which he hath not seen, vainly puffed up by his fleshly mind. (Colossians 2:18)

And I John saw these things, and heard them. And when I had heard and seen, I fell down to worship before the feet of the angel which shewed me these things.

Then saith he unto me, See thou do it not: for I am thy fellow servant and of thy brethren the prophets, and of them which keep the sayings of this book: Worship God. (Revelation 22:8-9)

REJECT ANGELS PREACHING "ANOTHER GOSPEL":

Some people have claimed to see angels who gave them a "new revelation" contrary to God's written Word. Entire religious movements have been founded on such false revelations. The Bible warns:

But though we, or an angel from Heaven, preach any other gospel unto you than that which we have preached unto you, let him be accursed.

            (Galatians 1:8)

You are not to listen to a man, an angel, or any other being that would guide you contrary to God's Word. As you will learn later in this course, one of the main strategies of Satan is deception. The Bible warns:

And no marvel; for Satan himself is transformed into an angel of light.

            (II Corinthians 11:14)

DO NOT PROVOKE THE ANGELS:

Read the story of Balaam in Numbers 22, a prophet who was acting in disobedience to God. You will note that he was opposed by an angel of the Lord. When you are disobedient to God, the angels may actually hinder you. You will be fighting a battle, but it will not be warfare against the enemy. Be careful that you do not provoke the angels of God (Ecclesiastes 5:1-6).

INSPECTION

1. Write the Key Verse from the Articles Of War.

________________________________________

________________________________________

2. Angels minister in both_______________and__________________.

3. How did angels originate?

________________________________________

________________________________________

4. Summarize the ministry of angels as related to spiritual warfare.

________________________________________

________________________________________

5. List as many of the attributes of angels as you can recall from this chapter.

________________________________________

________________________________________

________________________________________

6. Give a Bible reference which explains what angels are.

________________________________________

7. Is this statement True or False? You are not to worship angels.

The statement is______________.

8. Is this statement True or False? If an angel appears and reveals something that does not agree with God's written Word, you should listen to him because he is a direct messenger from the Lord.

The statement is______________.

9. Use the words below to complete the paragraphs. Use each word only once.

            Messengers

            Elect angels

            Cherubim

            Seraphim

            Living Creatures

____________Only one reference is made to this group of angels (I Timothy 5:21). No further information is given in the Bible about this group.

____________This group of angels is most active in terms of spiritual warfare and probably includes the largest number of angels.

____________This group of angels appear to be the highest order of angels; guardians of God. They surround the throne of God.

_____________Their chief ministry is to worship God.

_____________Their position is above the throne of God. They lead Heaven in worship of God.

10. There are two kinds of angels: These are___________angels and__________angels which are called demons.

11. What verse reveals that God has an organization of the various classes of angels?

________________________________________

(Answers to tests are provided at the conclusion of the final chapter in this manual.)

TACTICAL MANEUVERS

1. Use the following outline to study further about angels:

ANGELS IN THE OLD TESTAMENT:

Rescued Hagar: Genesis 16:7-12

Announced the birth of Isaac: Genesis 18:1-15

Announced the destruction of Sodom: Genesis 18:16-33

Destroyed Sodom and rescued Lot: Genesis 19:1-29

Prevented the slaying of Isaac: Genesis 22:11-2

Guarded Jacob: Genesis 28:12; 31:11; 32:1; 48:16

Commissioned Moses: Exodus 3:2

Led Israel: Exodus 14:19; 23:20-23; 32:34

Arranged the marriage of Isaac and Rebecca: Genesis 24:7

Gave the law: Acts 7:38; Galatians 3:19; Hebrews 2:2

Rebuked Balaam: Numbers 22:31-35

Appeared to Joshua: Joshua 5:13-15

Rebuked Israel for idolatry: Judges 2:1-5

Commissioned Gideon: Judges 6:11-40

Announced the birth of Samson: Judges 13

Punished Israel: II Samuel 24:16-17

Rescued Elijah: I Kings 19:5-8

Surrounded Elisha: II Kings 6:14-17

Saved Daniel from lions: Daniel 6:22

Conquered the Assyrian army: II Kings 19:35 and Isaiah 37:36

Camp round about God's people: Psalms 34:7; 91:11

Mentioned frequently as messengers to the prophets from God.

ANGELS IN THE LIFE OF JESUS:

Announced the birth of John: Luke 1:11-17

Named him: Luke 1:13

Announced the birth of Jesus to Mary: Luke 1:26-37

Announced the birth of Jesus to Joseph: Matthew 1:20-21

Named Jesus: Matthew 1:21

Announced the birth of Jesus to the shepherds: Luke 2:8-15

Sang: Luke 2:13-14

Directed the flight to Egypt: Matthew 2:13,20

Ministered to Jesus at His temptation: Matthew 4:11

Came to Jesus in Gethsemane: Luke 22:43

Rolled away the stone at His tomb: Matthew 28:2

Announced His resurrection: Matthew 28:5-7

Presented Him to Mary Magdalene: John 20:11-14

Angels ascended on Him: John 1:51

He could have twelve legions of angels: Matthew 26:53

Angels will come with Him when He returns to earth: Matthew 25:31; 16:27; Mark 8:38; Luke 9:26

Angels will be the reapers: Matthew 13:39

They will gather the elect: Matthew 24:31

They will divide the wicked from the righteous: Matthew 13:41,49

They carried the beggar to Abraham: Luke 16:22

They rejoice over sinners who repent: Luke 15:10

They represent little children: Matthew 18:10

He will confess His people before angels: Luke 12:8

They have no sex and cannot die: Luke 20:35-36

The Devil has evil angels: Matthew 25:41

ANGELS IN THE BOOK OF ACTS:

Opened prison doors: 5:19

Directed Philip to the Ethiopian: 8:26

Directed Cornelius to send for Peter: Chapter 10

Delivered Peter from prison: 12:7-19

Struck Herod dead: 12:23

Stood by Paul during the storm: 27:23

Also mentioned in: 6:15; 7:30,35,38,53; 11:13; 23:8-9

ANGELS IN THE EPISTLES:

Elect angels: I Timothy 5:21

Angels are innumerable: Hebrews 12:22

Angels minister to heirs of salvation: Hebrews 1:13-14

Angels will return with Jesus: II Thessalonians 1:7

We are not to worship angels: Colossians 2:18

ANGELS IN THE BOOK OF REVELATION:

Dictated the book to John: 1:1-2; 22:16

Presided over the seven churches: Chapters l-2

Were interested in the sealed book: 5:2

Sang praise to the Lamb: 5:11-12

Were given special power on earth: 7:1-4

Sealed the elect: 7:1-4

Fell down before God: 7:11

Were used to answer prayers of the saints: 8:3-5

Sounded the seven trumpets: 8:6

Ruled the locust army: 9:11

Loosed 200,000,000 horsemen: 9:15-16

Announced the end of time: 10:1,2,6

Fought with the dragon and his angels: 12:7

Proclaimed the Gospel to the nations: 14:6

Proclaimed the fall of Babylon: 14:8; 18:2

Pronounced doom of the beast's followers: 14:9-10

Announced the harvest of the earth: 14:15-18

Had the last seven plagues: 15:1

Announced judgment on Babylon: 17:1,5

Participated in destruction of Babylon: 18:21

Showed John the New Jerusalem: 21:9

Forbid John to worship them: 22:8-9

2. Study the appearance of the angel in Judges 13. Note that the angel returns to Heaven through worship which apparently opens the way through the "Satanic atmosphere" around us to permit angels to operate on our behalf. Review the story of Daniel and note that the hindrance by the prince of Persia (a Satanic power) was broken by prayer and fasting.

3. There is no Biblical support that a believer can command his angel to do whatever he desires, but you can ask God to dispatch them in your behalf. Think about a battle you are facing and then ask God to send His "ministering spirits" to work in that situation.

4. Read Psalms 78:36,40 and Ecclesiastes 5:6. Israel had a special angel caring for them until they provoked him in the wilderness. If God sends an angel to your aid and you provoke him by sin and unbelief, he may depart from you. It is well to take heed to the warning in Exodus 23:20-22. You may also entertain an angel and not be aware of it...See Hebrews 13:2.

CHAPTER FIVE

THE ENEMY: SATAN

OBJECTIVES:

Upon completion of this chapter you will be able to:

-Write the Key Verse from memory.

-Identify Satan as your spiritual enemy.

-Explain how Satan originated.

-Describe his former position.

-Explain how Satan fell from his original position.

-Identify the results of Satan's sin.

-List attributes of his nature.

-Identify his sphere of activity.

-Summarize the activities of Satan.

KEY VERSE FROM THE ARTICLES OF WAR:

Be sober, be vigilant, because your adversary the devil, as a roaring lion, walketh about, seeking whom he may devour. (I Peter 5:8)

INTRODUCTION

In previous chapters you learned of a great invisible war that is in progress in the spirit world. You studied the spiritual forces of good engaged in this warfare. These include God the Father, the Son, the Holy Spirit, and the angels.

This chapter introduces your spiritual enemy, a powerful force of evil known as Satan. You will learn of his origin, his former position, how he fell from his former position, and of those he took with him when he fell. You will learn the attributes of his nature, his sphere of activity, and receive an introduction to his strategies. In the following two chapters you will continue this study of the spiritual forces of evil as you learn about demons, the world, and the flesh.

In warfare in the natural world, a soldier must first identify the enemy before entering the battlefield. He must study all available information on the enemy, his nature, and strategies. This is why military forces spend much time gathering intelligence information on the enemy.

The same is true in the spirit world. You can only war effectively if you identify your enemy, understand his nature, and recognize his strategies. As you have learned, the evil forces you face are not clothed in flesh. They are spiritual hosts of wickedness.

THE ORIGIN OF SATAN

Satan was originally created by God:

All things were made by Him; and without Him was not any thing made that was made. (John 1:3)

For by Him were all things created, that are in Heaven, and that are in earth, visible and invisible, whether they be thrones, or dominions, or principalities, or powers; all things were created by Him and for Him. (Colossians 1:16)

God does not create evil. Satan was perfect when he was originally created by God, but was given a free will to choose good or evil:

Thou was perfect in thy ways from the day that thou wast created till iniquity was found in thee. (Ezekiel 28:15)

THE FORMER POSITION OF SATAN

The Bible describes the original position of Satan in Ezekiel 28:12-17. Read this passage in your Bible before proceeding with this lesson. When Satan was originally created, he was an angel of God. He was one of the Cherubim class of angels, holy, wise, and beautiful, and perfect. He was the leader among the cherubs and is called a "guardian" or "covering" cherub. His name was originally Lucifer which means "light bearer" (Isaiah 14:12). He was decked with precious stones set in gold (Ezekiel 28:13; Exodus 28:15-11). He was given a position on God's holy mountain and apparently led in worship (Ezekiel 28:13).

What a brilliant, beautiful picture of Satan in his original position is given in the Word of God. He is described as a gem of precious stones. But a gem has no light of its own. It is not beautiful in a dark room. Its beauty is in its ability to reflect light from without.

When God created Lucifer, He made him with a capacity to reflect the glory of God to a greater degree than any other created being. God was the light that made Lucifer radiate beauty.

THE FALL OF SATAN

But Satan did not retain this glorious position. The Bible describes his rebellion and fall:

How art thou fallen from Heaven, O Lucifer, son of the morning. How art thou cut down to the ground which didst waken the nations.

For thou hast said in thine heart, I will ascend into Heaven, I will exalt my throne above the stars of God: I will sit also upon the mount of the congregation in the sides of the north;

I will ascend above the heights of the clouds; I will be like the Most High.

Yet thou shalt be brought down to Hell, to the sides of the pit.

            (Isaiah 14:12-15)

Thine heart was lifted up because of thy beauty, thou hadst corrupted thy wisdom by reason of thy brightness. (Ezekiel 28:17)

Satan's fall from his angelic position occurred because of pride and rebellion demonstrated in five wrong attitudes. Satan said:

I WILL ascend unto Heaven: He desired to occupy the abode of God, Heaven, desiring equal recognition.

I WILL exalt my throne above the angels (stars) of God: He not only desired to occupy God's abode, but he also coveted His rule over the angelic hosts.

I WILL sit also upon the mountain of the congregation: According to Isaiah 2:2 and Psalms 48:2, this is the center of God's earthly rule. Satan desired to rule the earth as well as the angels.

I WILL ascend above the heights of the clouds: The clouds speak of the glory of God. Satan wanted God's glory for himself. (The following verses document clouds in relation to the glory of God: Exodus 13:21; 40-28-34; Job 37-15-16; Matthew 26:64; Revelation 14:14- 16).

I WILL be like the Most High: As we learned in Chapter Three of this course, God has many names by which He is called. Why did Satan choose this particular name? He selected this title because it reflects God as "possessor of Heaven and earth."

RESULTS OF SATAN'S SIN

Here are the terrible results of Satan's sin:

1. BANISHMENT FROM HEAVEN:

Because of his rebellion, Satan was cast out of Heaven by God:

...I will cast thee as profane out of the mountain of God...I will cast thee to the ground... (Ezekiel 28:16-17)

2. CORRUPTION OF CHARACTER:

Lucifer, once created for God's glory, became Satan with a character that opposed all God is and does.

3. PERVERSION OF POWER:

Satan's power was once used for God's glory. Now it is turned to disruptive and destructive purposes. According to Isaiah 14 he weakens the nations (verse 12), causes the earth and governments to tremble (verse 16), and those taken as his prisoner have no relief (verse 17).

4. DESTINED TO THE LAKE OF FIRE:

Satan was destined to the lake of fire (Isaiah 14:15).

5. AFFECTED OTHER ANGELS OF GOD:

When Satan fell from Heaven he did not fall alone. He took with him a portion of the angelic host of Heaven who participated in his rebellion against God. This group of angels are now part of an evil force of demons which you will study about in the next chapter.

6. ENTRANCE OF SIN IN THE UNIVERSE:

When Satan rebelled, sin entered the universe. As a result, there were two actions God could have taken:

1. He could have struck down Satan and killed him. But if God had brought down the first enemy in this way, there would always have been the possibility of another rebellion. The history of Heaven would have been clouded with similar disasters.

2. The other action open to God was the one which the Bible indicates He took. The claims of Satan to superior power should have their complete trial on earth in the span of eternity we call time.

When God created the first man and woman, the trial on earth began. You can read the story of the temptation of Adam and Eve by Satan and their fall into sin in Genesis chapter 3. You will study more about this when you analyze the strategies of Satan later in this course.

The battle is still in progress on earth. That is what spiritual warfare is all about. Satan is still seeking power, position, and worship. But as you will learn later in this course, he is already a defeated foe. Jesus overcame the power of Satan through His death and resurrection. The final destiny of Satan is already revealed in the Bible.

WHERE IS SATAN?

Satan, in spirit form, is present in the world:

And the Lord said unto Satan, Whence comest thou? Then Satan answered the Lord, and said, From going to and fro in the earth, and from walking up and down in it. (Job 1:7)

Be sober, be vigilant, because your adversary the devil, as a roaring lion, walketh about, seeking whom he may devour. (I Peter 5:8)

Although Satan is present in the world, he is not omnipresent, which means he cannot be every place in the world at one time as God can. This is why he employs a host of demons to accomplish his plans.

SATAN'S ACTIVITIES

Satan has access to the presence of God and operates on the earth, including the "air" or region above the earth:

Now there was a day when the sons of God came to present themselves before the Lord, and Satan came also among them.

And the Lord said unto Satan, Whence comest thou? Then Satan answered the Lord, and said, From going to and fro in the earth, and from walking up and down in it. (Job 1:6-7)

Wherein in time past ye walked according to the course of this world, according to the prince of the power of the air, the spirit that now worketh in the children of disobedience. (Ephesians 2:2)

We may summarize the activities of Satan by noting that they are always directed against God, His plan, and His people. He will attack you in the areas of worship of God, the Word of God, your Christian walk, and your work for God. More specific activities of Satan will be dealt with in detail in later lessons.

THE ATTRIBUTES OF SATAN

As you have already learned, Satan is a spirit, but he also has attributes of a real personality. The Bible teaches that he is:

INTELLIGENT AND SUBTLE:

But I fear, lest by any means, as the serpent beguiled Eve through his subtility, so your minds should be corrupted from the simplicity that is in Christ.

            (II Corinthians 11:3)

EMOTIONAL:

And the dragon was wroth with the woman... (Revelation 12:17)

SELF-WILLED:

And that they may recover themselves out of the snare of the devil, who are taken captive by him at his will. (II Timothy 2:26)

POWERFUL:

...Prince of the power of the air... (Ephesians 2:2)

DECEITFUL:

Put on the whole armour of God, that ye may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil. (Ephesians 6:11)

FIERCE AND CRUEL:

Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil, as a roaring lion, walketh about, seeking whom he may devour. (I Peter 5:8)

DECEPTIVE:

And no marvel: For Satan himself is transformed into an angel of light.

            (II Corinthians 11:14)

THE NAMES OF SATAN

The Bible gives many names for Satan which reveal more about his nature and activities. As you previously learned, Satan was originally called the "anointed cherub" and "Lucifer" before his rebellion. Other names for Satan are:

Abaddon: (Hebrew word for a destroying angel)                   Revelation 9:11

Accuser of the Brethren:                                                        Revelation 12:10

Adversary:                                                                              I Peter 5:8

Angel of bottomless pit:                                                         Revelation 9:11

Angel of light:                                                            II Corinthians 11:4

Apollyon (Greek word for destroyer):                        Revelation 9;11

Beelzebub:                                                                              Matthew 12:24; Luke 11:15; Mark 3:22

Belial:                                                                                     II Corinthians 6:15

Deceiver:                                                                                Revelation 12:9; 20:3

Destroyer:                                                                               Revelation 9:11; I Corinthians 10:10

Devil: (Means slanderer)                                                        I Peter 5:8; Matthew 4:1

Dragon:                                                                                   Revelation 12:3

Enemy:                                                                                   Matthew 13:39

Evil One:                                                                                I John 5:19

God of this world:                                                                  II Corinthians 4:4

King of Tyrus:                                                            Ezekiel 28:12-15

Liar, father of lies:                                                                  John 8:44

Murderer:                                                                               John 8:44

Prince of the devils:                                                                Matthew 12:24

Prince of this world:                                                               John 12:31; 14:30; 16:11

Prince of the power of the air:                                                Ephesians 2:2

Satan: (means adversary, opposer)                                         John 13:27

Serpent:                                                                                  Revelation 12:9; II Corinthians 1:3;

Tempter:                                                                                 Matthew 4:3; I Thessalonians 3:5

Roaring Lion:                                                             I Peter 5:8

Ruler of darkness:                                                                  Ephesians 6:12

Spirit that worketh in the children of disobedience:   Ephesians 2:2

You can recognize the power of Satan from his attributes and names. Because he is a deceptive, powerful enemy the Bible warns:

Be sober, be vigilant, because your adversary the devil, as a roaring lion, walketh about, seeking whom he may devour. (I Peter 5:8)

Neither give place to the devil. (Ephesians 4:27)

SATAN IS NOT...

Unlike God, Satan is not omniscient (knowing all things). If Satan could foresee the future he never would have allowed Jesus to die on the cross. He would have known that the death of Jesus would overthrow his power and provide a way of escape from the bondage of sin for all mankind.

Satan is not omnipotent (all powerful). Jesus said the power of God within you is greater than the power of Satan. For those who believe in Jesus Satan is already a defeated foe (John 12:31). He is strong only to those who yield to him. His power is limited by the power of God (Job 1:10-12) and he is only able to overcome a believer as they yield control to him.

Because Satan is not omnipresent (present everywhere) he dispatches a host of demons throughout the earth to do his will and accomplish his purposes. You will learn more about them in the following chapter.

INSPECTION

1. Write the Key Verse from the Articles Of War.

________________________________________

________________________________________

2. How did Satan originate?

________________________________________

3. What was his former position?

________________________________________

4. What caused the fall of Satan?

________________________________________

5. What were the results of Satan's sin?

________________________________________

6. Where is Satan's sphere of activity?

________________________________________

7. What are the general activities of Satan?

________________________________________

8. List as many attributes of Satan as you can recall from this chapter.

________________________________________

________________________________________

(Answers to tests are provided at the conclusion of the final chapter in this manual.)

TACTICAL MANEUVERS

1. Study the Biblical record of the words of Satan. His words serve as a further introduction to his strategies: Genesis 3:1,4,5; Job 1:7-12; Job 2:1-6; Matthew 4:1-11; Luke 4:1-13.

2. Satan is an exact opposite of the Holy Spirit. The Spirit was sent by God to draw men to Himself. Satan is committed to draw men away from God.

            Holy Spirit                                         Satan                                                  References

Spirit of truth                                      Spirit of Error                                     I John 4:6

True                                        A liar                                                  John 14:17; 8:44

Life giving                              A murderer                                         I Corinthians 15:45; John 8:44

Holy                                        Evil                                                     Romans 1:4; Matthew 6:13

Like a dove                             Like a serpent                                     Matthew 3:16; Revelation 12:9

Our helper                              Our adversary                         Romans 8:26; I Peter 5:8

Gives utterance                       Makes men dumb                               Acts 2:4; Mark 9:17

Advocate                                Slanderer                                            John 14:16; Job 1:9-11

Stronger than Satan                Strong armed man                              Luke 11:21-22

3. Jesus said Satan...

Is an enemy:                                                                           Matthew 13:39

Is the wicked one:                                                                   Matthew 13:38

Is the prince of this world:                                                      John 12:31; 14:30

Is a liar and the father of lies:                                                 John 8:44

Is a murderer:                                                                         John 8:44

Fell from Heaven:                                                                  Luke 10:18

Has a kingdom:                                                                      Matthew 12:26

Sows tares among the wheat:                                                 Matthew 13:38-39

Snatches the Word of God from hearers:                               Matthew 13:19; Mark 4:15; Luke 8:12

Bound a woman for eighteen years:                                       Luke 13:16

Desired to have Peter:                                                            Luke 22:31

Has angels:                                                                             Matthew 25:41

Is prepared for eternal fire:                                                     Matthew 25:41

4. In studying this lesson on Satan, have you identified areas in which the enemy is active in your life? Has he deceived you and lied to you? Has he subtly crept into your life to destroy and rob you of joy, peace, or your Christian testimony? It is important to determine this, because areas in which Satan is operative in your life are battlefields in which you will apply the strategies you will learn in this course.

5. Satan is compared to a snake or serpent in the natural world. Consider the spiritual application of the following natural principles:

The venom of poisonous snakes falls into three categories:

            -Neurotorins: Which affect the nerves.

            -Hemotorins: Which affect the blood.

            -Cardiotorins: Which affect the heart.

Satan also affects your nerve (courage), your heart (to attack your worship and service of God), and tries to prevent the work of the blood of Jesus (salvation, healing, deliverance) in your life.

Snakes protect themselves by:

-Disguise: Some snakes are very hard to see because they look like the dirt or trees in which they are found.

-Imitation: Some snakes protect themselves by imitation. One example is the African tree viper which "freezes" itself and sticks its neck out like a twig on a tree.

-Increased size: The puff adder protects itself by blowing itself up as big as possible.

Frightening sounds: Some snakes hiss or rattle, making frightening sounds to scare you away. Your spiritual enemy comes disguised as an "angel of light" and imitates the things of God. He also tries to frighten you by appearing large and threatening.

Snakes capture their food in four different ways:

            -Strike: A swift attack.

-Constriction: Where the snake wraps itself around the target and slowly squeezes out its life.

-Throwing weight around over the prey to overcome it.

-Biting and holding the target in its fangs while slow poison paralyzes the target. Sometimes the snake's teeth are broken off in the struggle, but snakes are constantly developing new teeth. The most dangerous part of a snake is its mouth. It shoots enough venom to paralyze, then devours its prey.

Do you see how these methods parallel those used in attacks of Satan? Sometimes he attacks with swift and deadly strikes. Other times he constricts your spiritual life with the cares of the world and sinful weights and entanglements. He is always trying to "throw his weight around" to terrorize you, and he loves to hold you in bondage while paralyzing you with his deadly venom.

Snakes locate their prey by picking up dust on their tongue which relays information to their brain. If you stand still, a snake cannot locate you. Satan spots you best when the dust is stirred up and you are running in confusion and fear. When the dust is settled and you stand against him fearlessly, just like snake, he cannot strike you. This is why the Bible says "Stand still"...and "keep on standing."

In a panic situation, a snake will shoot all of its venom at once and is then rendered defenseless for awhile until it can produce more venom. It is possible that this is what occurred in the wilderness temptation when Jesus used the Word of God against Satan's attacks and caused Satan to "depart from him for a season."

Here are some ways to avoid snake bite in the natural world. Note that they are also applicable in the spiritual realm:

1. Recognize poisonous snakes (know your enemy).

2. Wear protective clothing (your spiritual armor).

3. Avoid known snake territory (do not go into areas of known temptation or Satanic activity).

4. Have a friend with you (this illustrates the importance of being part of the Body of Christ).

5. Avoid walking after dark or in darkened areas. Snakes avoid direct sunlight. (as believers, we no longer walk as children of the dark but as children of light!)

6. Do not put your hands or feet into places you cannot look (guard your fleshly senses).

7. Do not sit down without looking around carefully (stationary targets are easier to hit than moving targets).

8. Do not go out of your way to kill a snake. Thousands of people are bitten each year because they try to kill them without knowing anything of their habits or habitats. (We are to resist the Devil when we encounter him, not go looking for him).

9. Know what to do in case of snakebite (defensive warfare).

In case of snakebite, the first thing that is done in the natural world is to make a cut in the shape of a cross (+) over each fang mark and then suck the poison out. What an illustration of the work of the cross of Jesus Christ in freeing us from the "poison" of sin.

We have authority over serpents. In Genesis 3, God pronounced a curse upon the serpent (Satan). He said that his head would be bruised by the seed of the woman (Jesus) and that the heel of the seed (Jesus) would be bruised by the serpent.

The "bruise" on the "heel" of Jesus speaks of the pressure resulting from bruising Satan's head on the cross of Calvary. When Jesus bruised the head of Satan, it was much like severing the head of a poisonous snake in the natural world. A snake's head can be severed from its body, but it still can bite for hours afterwards. The heart has been known to keep beating for two days and the snake's body can continue to move.

Jesus severed the head of the "serpent" at Calvary, but the serpent still has life. He is still active in the world today and he still has power. But Satan has no authority. The only authority he has in your life is what you give him and the power and authority within you (Jesus) is greater than his power.

CHAPTER SIX

THE SPIRITUAL FORCES OF EVIL: DEMONS

OBJECTIVES:

Upon completion of this chapter you will be able to:

-Write the Key Verse from memory.

-Recall the origin of demons.

-Explain their original position.

-Identify their sphere of activity.

-Identify the attributes of demons.

-Explain how demon forces are organized.

-Summarize the activities of demons.

KEY VERSE FROM THE ARTICLES OF WAR:

Now the Spirit speaketh expressly, that in the latter times some shall depart from the faith, giving heed to seducing spirits and doctrines of devils.

            (I Timothy 4:1)

INTRODUCTION

In the previous chapter you learned about Satan. In this chapter you will study about the "troops", known as demons, which are under Satan's command. Some people ignore the subject of demons completely. Others have a compulsive interest in them. You should not minimize the power of demon spirits in the world today, yet you must not become so preoccupied with them that you see a demon in everything that happens and in everyone around you. You should take a simple, literal, Biblical approach to the subject of demons. Do not study secular books about such powers of evil. Your only sources of study in these areas should be the Word of God or good Christian literature.

THE ORIGIN OF DEMONS

God originally created all of the angels, some of which later became demons:

All things were made by Him; and without Him was not any thing made that was made. (John 1:3)

For by Him were all things created, that are in Heaven, and that are in earth, visible and invisible, whether they be thrones, or dominions, or principalities, or powers; all things were created by Him and for Him. (Colossians 1:16)

THEIR ORIGINAL POSITION AND FALL

Demons were originally like the other angels of God with the same attributes and positions as the good angels described in Chapter Four of this course. When Satan rebelled against God, a portion of the angels participated in his rebellion. God cast them out of Heaven, along with Satan. They were no longer good spiritual beings (angels). They became evil spiritual beings (demons):

And there was war in Heaven: Michael and his angels fought against the dragon (Satan); and the dragon fought and his angels.

And prevailed not; neither was their place found any more in Heaven.

And the great dragon was cast out, that old serpent, called the Devil, and Satan, which deceiveth the whole world: he was cast out into the earth, and his angels were cast out with him. (Revelation 12:7-9)

If demons are not "fallen" angels, then we have no other Biblical explanation for their existence. Satan cannot create his own forces, because all things were created by God. There are two groups of these fallen angels. One group is actively opposing God and His people on earth. Another is confined in chains:

For if God spared not the angels that sinned, but cast them down to Hell, and delivered them into chains of darkness to be reserved unto judgment...

            (II Peter 2:4)

And the angels which kept not their first estate, but left their own habitation, he hath reserved in everlasting chains under darkness unto the judgment of the great day. (Jude 6)

There are confined demons and active demons. The leader of both groups is Satan, who is called the "prince" of devils (Matthew 12:24). Hell is prepared for the Devil and his angels. It will be their final destiny:

Then shall He (Jesus) say also unto them on the left hand, Depart from me, ye cursed, into everlasting fire, prepared for the devil and his angels.

            (Matthew 25:41)

When Jesus confronted two men possessed by demons, their response was:

...What have we to do with thee, Jesus, thou Son of God? art thou come hither to torment us before the time? (Matthew 8:29)

The demons in the possessed men knew their final destiny was a place of eternal torment. Since Hell is a place of torment and was prepared for Satan and his angels, then demons must be the fallen angels.

THEIR SPHERE OF ACTIVITY

Throughout the Bible, demons are shown as active on earth. Since Satan is not omnipresent (present everywhere), he uses demons to do his will and accomplish his purposes throughout the world. They constitute the "powers of the air" (Ephesians 2:2) and the "powers of darkness" (Colossians 1:13) and are all under the control of Satan.

THE ATTRIBUTES OF DEMONS

In their original sinless condition, demons, demons had the same attributes as the good angels previously studied. In their present evil state these demons:

Are spirits:                                          Matthew 8:16; Luke 10:17, 20

Can appear visibly:                             Genesis 3:1; Zechariah 3:1; Matthew 4:9-10)

Can speak:                                          Mark 5:9, 12; Luke 8:28; Matthew 8:31

Believe:                                              James 2:19

Exercise their wills:                            Luke 11:24; 8:32

Demonstrate intelligence:                   Mark 1:24

Have emotions:                                   Luke 8:28; James 2:19

Recognize:                                          Acts 19:15

Have supernatural strength:                Acts 19:16; Mark 5:3

Have supernatural presence:               Daniel 9:21-23

Are eternal:                                         Matthew 25:41

Have their own doctrine:                    I Timothy 4:1-3

Are evil:                                              Matthew 10:1; Mark 1:27; 3:11

THE NAMES OF DEMONS

Demons are called evil spirits six times and unclean spirits 23 times in the New Testament. They are also called devils (Mark 1:32) and the devil's angels (Matthew 25:41)

THE ORGANIZATION OF DEMON FORCES

Let us review how God organized His angelic host...

For by Him were all things created, that are in Heaven, and that are in earth, visible and invisible, whether they be thrones, or dominions, or principalities, or powers: All things were created by Him, and for Him. (Colossians 1:16)

Satan is an imitator, not an originator. He has organized his demons in a structure similar to that of God's forces:

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. (Ephesians 6:12)

Satan has organized his forces into:

Principalities: Satan has apparently divided the world into principalities. A principality is the territory or jurisdiction of a prince. Satan has placed a prince over each principality. The prince of the power of Persia is mentioned in Daniel 10. This is how Satan works on a national level influencing governments and nations.

Powers and rulers of darkness of this world: These two categories of demons are at work in the social, political, and cultural systems of the world. You will learn about how to deal with these and the spirits over principalities as you study spiritual strategies for overcoming the world in Chapter Fourteen.

Spiritual wickedness in high places: High places in the Old Testament were where worship was carried on. This is how Satan works in the religious structures of the world. You will learn more about this in Chapter Twenty as you study about spiritual wickedness in high places.

These organized groups vary in size. For example, Mary Magdalene had seven demons in her prior to her deliverance. Luke 8:30 mentions a "legion" of demons. A legion in the Roman army which ruled at the time of Jesus referred to 6,100 foot soldiers and 726 horsemen!

These organized forces of demons...

Are United:

In the case of the demon possessed man recorded in Luke 8:30 the demons were united in their purpose, which in this example was possession of the man. The same is true in Matthew 12:45 and in the case of Mary Magdalene who had seven demons (Luke 16:9). Jesus spoke of the unity of demon powers when He said:

And if Satan cast out Satan, he is divided against himself; how shall then his kingdom stand? (Matthew 12:26)

Have Different Degrees Of Wickedness:

This is illustrated by the demon who said he would return with other evil spirits:

When the unclean spirit is gone out of a man, he walketh through dry places, seeking rest, and findeth none.

Then he saith, I will return into my house from whence I came out; and when he is come, he findeth it empty, swept, and garnished.

Then goeth he and taketh with himself seven other spirits MORE WICKED THAN HIMSELF and they enter in and dwell there: And the last state of that man is worse than the first... (Matthew 12:43-45)

Can Change Their Functions:

The demon in I Kings 22:21-23 declared he would be a lying spirit. This indicates he was not one previously for he said "I will be...".

Are Of Different Kinds:

The Bible teaches that man has a body, soul, and spirit. There are three major kinds of demons that attack the body, soul, and spirit of man:

l. Evil or unclean spirits: They are responsible for immoral acts, unclean thoughts, oppression, possession, depression, and other strategies of Satan which we will study later. They afflict the mind and the soulish nature of man. (Examples in Matthew 10:1; 12:43; Mark 1:23-26)

2. Spirits of infirmity: These spirits afflict the physical body. (Example in Luke 13:11)

3. Seducing spirits: Seducing spirits afflict the mind, soul, and spirit of man, influencing him to believe false doctrines as indicated in I Timothy 4:1. These spirits seduce people to believe a lie and be damned to eternal punishment. They are spirits of false doctrine, cults, false Christs, and false teachers.

THE ACTIVITIES OF DEMONS

Demons follow the orders given by their prince, Satan. We can summarize the activities of demons by noting that they are always directed against God, His plan, and His people. Demons are used by Satan to attack the Word of God, your worship of God, your walk with God, and your work for God.

In Chapter Eight you will learn details of the enemy's strategy in spiritual warfare. Satan uses his demons to accomplish this strategy throughout the world. Demons extend Satan's power by promoting deception and wickedness. They affect individuals, governments, nations, and the world system. They promote rebellion and slander both God and men. They promote idolatry, false doctrines, and blind men and women to the truth of the Gospel.

These demons attack unbelievers driving them to commit terrible evil acts, to murder, injure, commit suicide, etc. They affect the mind with emotional problems and the body with physical infirmities. Demons attack believers by temptation, deception, depression, and oppression. They try to keep you in bondage to habits and fear. They accuse and slander you and create division among the people of God. They target your spiritual walk with God and fight against the Word of God, the worship of God, and your work for God. They also attack your physical body.

Unbelievers are defenseless against the attacks of demonic powers, but believers have powerful spiritual weapons and strategies for dealing with this mighty spiritual force of evil. You will learn about these weapons and strategies as you continue this study of spiritual warfare.

INSPECTION

1. Write the Key Verse from the Articles Of War.

________________________________________

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2. How did demons originate?

________________________________________

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3. What is their sphere of activity?

________________________________________

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4. Summarize their activities.

________________________________________

________________________________________

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5. List as many attributes of demons as you can recall from the discussion in this chapter.

________________________________________

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6. How are demon forces organized?

________________________________________

________________________________________

7. What was the original position of demons?

________________________________________

8. Why did they become demons?

________________________________________

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9. Give a brief definition of each of the following ranking of demons:

Principalities:

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Powers And Rulers Of Darkness:

________________________________________

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Spiritual Wickedness In High Places:

________________________________________

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(Answers to tests are provided at the conclusion of the final chapter in this manual.)

TACTICAL MANEUVERS

1. To learn more about the spiritual forces of evil, study the following Biblical references on the subject of demons:

Genesis: 3:1-15; 6:1-4; 41:8; 44:5

Exodus: 7:8-13; 20-24; 8:6-7, 18-19; 9:11; 22:18

Leviticus: 17:7; 19:26,31; 20:6,27

Numbers: 22:7; 23:23

Deuteronomy: 18:9-14, 20-22; 32:17

Judges: 8:21,26

I Samuel: 15:23; 16:14; 18:10; 28:1-15

I Kings: 5:4; 18:28; 22:19-38

II Kings: 9:22; 17:17; 21:1-9; 23:5,24

I Chronicles: 21:1

II Chronicles: 33:1-10

Job: 1:1-12; 2:1

Psalms: 78:49; 91:6; 106:36-38

Isaiah: 3:18-19; 8:19; 14:12-17; 47:11-15

Jeremiah: 27:9

Ezekiel: 21:21; 28:11-19

Daniel: 1:20; 2:2,27; 4:6-9; 5:7, 11, 15

Hosea: 4:12

Micah: 5:12

Zechariah: 3:1,2; 10:2

Malachi: 3:5

Matthew: 4:1-11, 24; 8:16, 28-34; 9:32-34; 10:1, 25: 11:18; 12:22-30, 11:43-45; 13:19, 39: 15:21-28; 17:14-21; 24:24; 25:41

Mark: 1:12-13, 21-28, 32, 34, 39; 3:11-12, 15, 22-30; 5:1-20; 6:7, 13; 7:24-30; 8:33; 9:17-29, 38-40; 13:22; 16:9, 17

Luke: 4:1-13, 33-37; 6:18; 7:21,33; 8:2, 26-39; 9:1, 37-42, 49-50; 10:17-20; 11:14-26; 13:10-17, 32; 22:3, 31; 24:39

John: 6:70; 7:20; 8:44, 48-49; 10:20-21; 12:31; 13:27; 14:30; 16:11; 17:15

Acts: 5:3, 16; 8:7, 9-11, 18:24; 10:38; 13:6-12; 16:16-19; 19:12-20; 26:18

Romans: 8:38-39; 16:20

I Corinthians: 5:5; 7:5; 10:20-21

II Corinthians: 2:11; 4:4, 6:14, 15, 17; 11:13-14; 12:7

Galatians: 1:4; 3:1; 4:8-9; 5:19-21

Ephesians: 1:21; 2:2; 4:26-27; 6:11, 12, 16

Colossians: 1:13; 2:15

I Thessalonians: 2:18; 3:5

II Thessalonians: 2:1-10; 3:3

I Timothy: 1:20; 3:6; 4:1-3

II Timothy: 1:7; 2:26; 4:18

Hebrews: 2:14

James: 2:19; 3:15; 4:7

I Peter: 5:8

II Peter: 2:4, 19

I John: 2:13, 18; 3:8, 12; 4:1-4, 6; 5:18

Jude: 1:6, 9

Revelation: 2:9, 13, 24; 3:9; 9:1-11, 20-21; 12:1-13; 13:1-18; 16:13-16; 18:2; 19:20; 20:1-14: 21:8

2. Study the Old Testament record of demonic powers:

-Satan in the form of a serpent is mentioned seven times in Genesis 3:1-24 and Isaiah 27:1.

-Satan is also mentioned in I Chronicles 21:1; II Samuel 24:1; Psalm 109:6; Zechariah 3:1-2; and 14 times in the book of Job.

-Evil spirits are mentioned eight times in the record of King Saul: I Samuel 16:14-23; 18:10; 19:9.

-Lying spirits are mentioned six times in I Kings 22:21-23.

-Familiar spirits are mentioned six times in Leviticus 20:27 and I Samuel 28.

-Religious spirits and spirits of physical harlotry are identified in the book of Hosea.

-Demons are identified with the gods of pagan nations four times: Leviticus 17:7; Deuteronomy 32:17; II Chronicles 11:15; Psalms 106:19-39.

-Evil princes who rule nations are identified in the Psalms, the prophets, and specifically in Daniel 10:10-21.

-Unclean perverse spirits are mentioned twice: Isaiah 19:14

3. Think about this: While demonic forces are God's enemies, at the same time they are subject to His will and used by Him to defeat themselves: See I Samuel 16:14; 18:10; 19:9; I Kings 22:20-22; and Isaiah 19:14.

CHAPTER SEVEN

ENEMY TERRITORY

OBJECTIVES:

Upon completion of this chapter you will be able to:

-Write the Key Verses from memory.

-Define what is meant by the word "world" as it is used in this lesson.

-Identify the prince of the world.

-Explain the reason for the current world system.

-Describe the attitude of the world toward believers.

-Define what is meant by the word "flesh" as it is used in this lesson.

-Explain what is meant by the "lust of the flesh."

-Explain how lust develops.

-Explain the results of unconquered lust.

-Identify a Scripture reference which lists the works of the flesh.

KEY VERSES FROM THE ARTICLES OF WAR:

Love not the world, neither the things that are in the world. If any man love the world, the love of the Father is not in him.

For all that is in the world, the lust of the flesh, and the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life, is not of the Father, but is of the world.

            (I John 2:15-16)

INTRODUCTION

There is only one enemy, but as you have learned in previous lessons he works through a mighty force of demons. As the Key Verse of this chapter reveals, Satan not only uses demons but he also works through the evil forces of the flesh and the world:

Love not the world, neither the things that are in the world. If any man love the world, the love of the Father is not in him.

For all that is in the world, the lust of the flesh, and the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life, is not of the Father, but is of the world. (I John 2:15-16)

The purpose of this chapter is to identify and discuss the enemy forces of evil known as the world and the flesh. Beware! You are entering a hostile grounds. The world and the flesh are enemy territory.

PART ONE: THE WORLD

The word "world" has different meanings in Scripture. It can mean the earth or universe in its physical order. It is used to refer to Gentiles which are all nations other than the Jewish nation.

But the word "world" also is used to refer to the present condition of human affairs in opposition to God. It is the system that runs the inhabited earth, a system that is opposed to God and the Lord Jesus Christ. It is this meaning that is used in this lesson. The "world" is the corporate group of flesh-centered individuals who make up the human race. Flesh, in this context, is not referring to the actual flesh of your body. It is a term which describes the basic evil human nature of man which is in willful rebellion against God.

As your enemy, the world is the whole organized system of social, economic, materialistic, and religious philosophies which have their expression through organizations, personalities, and governments. It is not a specific government, organization, or person, but the worldly system upon which these are based. The world system is an extension of man's fleshiness. It provides an atmosphere, environment, and system which promotes fleshly sins. It surrounds man with that which appeals to his fleshly desires.

THE PRINCE OF THE WORLD:

Satan is the "prince" or ruler of the world system:

Now is the judgment of this world: now shall the prince of this world be cast out. (John 12:31)

Hereafter I will not talk much with you: for the prince of this world cometh, and hath nothing in me. (John 14:30)

Satan is also called the god of this world:

In whom the god of this world hath blinded the minds of them which believed not... (II Corinthians 4:4)

The kingdoms of the world are presently influenced by Satan. They are guided by Satanic philosophy and principles. They are flesh-centered and flesh-governed:

Again, the Devil taketh him up into an exceeding high mountain, and sheweth Him all the kingdoms of the world, and the glory of them;

And saith unto Him, All these things will I give thee, if thou wilt fall down and worship me. (Matthew 4:8-9)

Some day they will become the kingdoms of our Lord:

And the seventh angel sounded: and there were great voices in heaven saying, The kingdoms of this world are become the kingdoms of our Lord and of His Christ; and He shall reign for ever and ever. (Revelation 11:15)

THE REASON FOR THE CONDITION OF THE WORLD:

Sin is the reason for the present condition of the world. When Adam and Eve were originally created by God, they were given dominion over the world. This meant they had control over the world, to guide its systems and inhabitants according to the plan of God. When they sinned against God, they lost that dominion. (Genesis l-3)

When Jesus was crucified for the sins of all mankind and resurrected from the dead, He reclaimed the world. He pronounced judgment on the spiritual forces of evil:

And having spoiled principalities and powers, He made a shew of them openly, triumphing over them in it. (Colossians 2:15)

Although Jesus reclaimed the world from the power of the enemy, Satan does not yet acknowledge that claim. Satan still is at work in the world with his evil powers. Satan will not acknowledge the claims of Jesus over the kingdoms of the world until the final conflict which you will study about in the last chapter of this course.

The present situation is similar to military conditions that often occur in the natural world. A political or military power will take control of a nation but their claims will not be acknowledged by rebel troops within that nation. The rebel troops continue to war throughout the country. They try to take possession of territory not rightfully theirs and overpower the citizens. They often use tactics of terror to accomplish these purposes.

The situation in the spirit world is similar. Jesus reclaimed dominion over the world, the enemy, and his evil forces. But the rebel troops of Satan still war throughout the world. They try to take possession of territory not rightfully theirs and influence men and women for evil. This battle, which is our "spiritual warfare," will continue until the final conflict.

THE STRUCTURE OF THE WORLD:

The world structure is in direct opposition to God, His plan, purposes, and people:

The Evil World System:

The present world system is evil:

Who gave Himself for our sins, that He might deliver us from this present evil world, according to the will of God and our Father. (Galatians 1:4)

The world system is without God:

...having no hope, and without God in the world. (Ephesians 2:12)

There is much deception in the world to ensnare believers to become part of the world system:

For many deceivers are entered into the world...(II John 7)

The world is already judged and under condemnation by God:

But when we are judged, we are chastened of the Lord, that we should not be condemned with the world. (I Corinthians 11:32)

The Elements Of The World:

The "elements of the world" refer to the elementary principles that govern the world. They lead to spiritual bondage:

Even so we, when we were children, were in bondage under the elements of the world. (Galatians 4:3)

The Rudiments Of The World:

These are the regulations on which the world structure rests. They are different from the principles upon which God structures His Kingdom:

Wherefore if ye be dead with Christ from the rudiments of the world, why, as though living in the world, are ye subject to ordinances. (Colossians 2:8,20)

The Spirit Of The World:

The spirit of the world is in direct opposition to the Holy Spirit:

Now we have received, not the spirit of the world, but the spirit which is of God; that we might know the things that are freely given to us of God.

            (I Corinthians 2:12)

The Philosophy Of The World:

Philosophies are principles of knowledge. Worldly philosophies are not based on Christ:

Beware lest any man spoil you through philosophy and vain deceit, after the tradition of men, after the rudiments of the world, and not after Christ. (Colossians 2:8)

The Wisdom Of The World

Worldly wisdom is not God's wisdom:

For the wisdom of this world is foolishness with God. (I Corinthians 3:19)

The Course Of The World:

The "course" of the world is the cycle of the present world, its routine, the way in which it operates:

Wherefore in times past ye walked according to the course of this world,

according to the prince of the power of the air, the spirit that now worketh in the children of disobedience. (Ephesians 2:2)

The Voices Of The World:

The many "voices" in the world are contrary to the voice of God:

There are, it may be, so many kinds of voices in the world, and none of them is without signification. (I Corinthians 14:10)

The Peace Of The World:

The peace of the world is temporary, fragile, and sometimes deceptive:

Peace I leave with you, my peace I give unto you: not as the world giveth give I unto you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid.

            (John 14:27)

The Sorrow Of The World:

Godly sorrow differs from that of the world:

For godly sorrow worketh repentance to salvation not to be repented of: but the sorrow of the world worketh death. (II Corinthians 7:10)

The Attitude Of The World:

The world hates God:

...Know ye not that the friendship of the world is enmity with God? Whosoever therefore will be a friend of the world is the enemy of God.

            (James 4:4)

The world hates believers:

If the world hate you, ye know that it hated me before it hated you. If ye were of the world, the world would love his own; but because ye are not of the world, but I have chosen you out of the world, therefore the world hateth you. (John 15:18-19)

Since the world is made up of flesh centered individuals who hate believers, we need to learn more about this powerful force called "the flesh."

PART TWO: THE FLESH

The world is an evil social force of Satan that works from the outside to attack believers. It is the corporate organization of fleshly individuals. The flesh is an evil force working from within the believer. The same "fleshly spirit" that operates in the world will operate in your life if you allow it to do so. The word "flesh" as used in Scripture can refer to the actual body of man and beast. But this is not what we are talking about when we use the word "flesh" in this lesson.

The Bible also uses the word "flesh" to describe the basic sin nature of man. The flesh is the center of willful defiance and rebellion against God:

For I know that in me (that is, in my flesh) dwelleth no good thing; for to will (to do good) is present with me; but how to perform that which is good I find not.

For the good that I would I do not; but the evil which I would not, that I do.

Now if I do that I would not, it is no more I that do it, but sin that dwelleth in me. (Romans 8:18-20)

The flesh is a compulsive inner force which expresses itself in rebellion through sin. It is this meaning of flesh which is used in this lesson. The words "carnal" and "old man" are also used to describe the fleshly nature of man. All men have this basic, sinful, fleshly nature:

Wherefore, as by one man sin entered into the world, and death by sin, and so death passed upon all men, for that all have sinned. (Romans 5:12)

For all have sinned and come short of the glory of God. (Romans 3:23)

THE LUST OF THE FLESH:

This I say then, Walk in the Spirit, and ye shall not fulfill the lust of the flesh. (Galatians 5:16)

What is the lust of the flesh? First let us define the word "lust." Lust is "strong desire, soulish emotions, the natural tendency of man towards evil." The Bible warns that we should not lust after evil things:

Now these things were our examples, to the intent we should not lust after evil things, as they also lusted. (I Corinthians 10:6)

Lusting after evil things which will please your fleshly nature is "lust of the flesh". It is how Satan attacks from within. It is like a civil war within a nation, with your spirit and flesh warring against each other.

HOW LUST DEVELOPS:

Lust, or sinful desire, first enters through the natural senses. The eye sees something evil or the ear hears something wicked. A touch, a taste, or even a smell can even foster lust. This is how Satan uses the environment of the world to tempt the flesh. These natural senses trigger an evil thought or desire in the mind. This is lust. The lustful thought is what tempts you to do evil:

Let no man say when he is tempted, I am tempted of God; for God cannot be tempted with evil, neither tempteth He any man.

But every man is tempted, when he is drawn away of his own lust, and enticed. (James 1:13-14)

Remember, God never tempts you. You are tempted when you are drawn by your own sinful, fleshly lusts. But you do not have to yield to this temptation. God always provides a way of escape:

There hath no temptation taken you but such as is common to man: But God is faithful, who will not suffer you to be tempted above that ye are able; but will with the temptation also make a way of escape that ye may be able to bear it. (I Corinthians 10:13)

Since the mind is used to tempt the flesh, Paul warns:

For to be carnally (fleshly) minded is death; but to be spiritually minded is life and peace.

Because the carnal mind is enmity against God: for it is not subject to the law of God, neither indeed can be. (Romans 8:7-8)

You will learn later how the mind is one of the main battlefields of spiritual warfare.

THE RESULTS OF LUST:

If you yield to lust, temptation results, and if you yield to temptation, it results in sin which leads to death:

Then when lust hath conceived, it bringeth forth sin, and sin, when it is finished, bringeth forth death. (James 1:15)

The world is corrupt because of lust:

...having escaped the corruption that is in the world through lust.

            (II Peter 1:4)

Your flesh is corrupt because of lust:

That ye put off concerning the former conversation the old man, which is corrupt according to the deceitful lusts... (Ephesians 4:22)

THE RELATIONSHIP OF THE SPIRIT TO THE FLESH:

For the flesh lusteth against the Spirit, and the Spirit against the flesh; and these are contrary the one to the other; so that ye cannot do the things that ye would. (Galatians 5:17)

When you are saved and filled with the Holy Spirit, that Spirit indwells your spirit. The Holy Spirit in your spirit opposes the lusts of the flesh. Your flesh wars against your spirit and the Spirit of God within you. The flesh entices you to sinful lusts. This is why you often cannot live the way you desire to live.

Paul described this battle between the spirit and the flesh in Romans chapter 7. Read the entire chapter in your Bible. He summarized the battle:

I find then a law, that when I would do good, evil is present with me.

For I delight in the law of God after the inward man (the spirit);

But I see another law in my members (the flesh), warring against the law of my mind and bringing me into captivity to the law of sin which is in my members. (Romans 7:21-23)

THE WORKS OF THE FLESH:

The lusts of the flesh, if not conquered, lead to sinful works of the flesh which result in spiritual death:

Now the works of the flesh are manifest, which are these: Adultery, fornication, uncleanness, lasciviousness,

Idolatry, witchcraft, hatred, variance, emulations, wrath, strife, seditions, heresies

Envyings, murders, drunkenness, revellings, and such like; of the which I tell you before, as I have also told you in time past, that they which do such thing shall not inherit the Kingdom of God. (Galatians 5:19-21)

This list can be divided into four categories of sins:

Worship Sins: Idolatry and witchcraft.

Sexual Sins:                Adultery, fornication, uncleanness, and lasciviousness.

Personal Sins: Drunkenness and revellings.

Relationship Sins:       Hatred, variance, emulations, wrath, strife, seditions, envyings, and                                     murders.

Each of these sinful works are defined in detail in the Harvestime International Institute course "Ministry Of The Holy Spirit." They are contrasted to the fruit of the Holy Spirit which should be developed in the lives of believers.

POWERFUL EVIL FORCES

The world and the flesh combine with Satan and his demons to war against believers. These are the spiritual forces of evil. In the following lessons you will learn strategies of spiritual warfare to combat these powerful spiritual forces of evil.

INSPECTION

l. Write the Key Verses from the Articles Of War.

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2. What is meant by the word "flesh" as it is used in this lesson?

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3. What is meant by the word "world" as it is used in this lesson?

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4. Who is the prince of this world?

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5. Summarize characteristics of the present world system.

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6. What is the reason for the sinful condition of the current world system?

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7. What is the attitude of the world toward believers?

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8. What is meant by the "lust of the flesh"?

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9. How does lust develop?

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10. What happens if you do not control lust?

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11. Give a Scripture reference which identifies the works of the flesh.

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(Answers to tests are provided at the conclusion of the final chapter in this manual.)

TACTICAL MANEUVERS

1. Study further on the works of the flesh in Galatians 5:19-21.

2. Contrast to these evil works the fruit of the Spirit in Galatians 6:22-23.

3. Read John 1:1-15 and chapter 3. Observe God's great love for the world despite its sinful, fleshly condition. What did God do to show His love? What was the response of the world?

4. Study further about temptation.

-Satan is called the tempter:                                                               Matthew 4:3; I Thessalonians 3:15

-God does not tempt men to do evil:                                      James 1:13-14

-You are tempted by:

            -Men:              Matthew 16:1; 19:3; 22:35; Mark 8:11; 10:2; Luke 11:16; John 8:6

            -Satan:            Matthew 4:1; Mark 1:13; Luke 4:2; I Corinthians 7:5

            -Your lusts:     James 1:13-14

            -Riches:          I Timothy 6:9

-You are to pray you will not be led into temptation:             Matthew 26:41; Luke 11:4;

                                                                                                Mark 14:38; 22:46

-Jesus was tempted, but did not sin:                                                   Hebrews 2:18; 4:15

-You are blessed if you endure temptation:                            James 1:12

-God can deliver you from temptation:                                  Hebrews 4:15; II Peter 2:9;

                                                                                                I Corinthians 10:13

-Temptation brings heaviness (James 1:2) but you should count every temptation a joy

(I Peter 1:6).

5. Are you experiencing lust which has led to temptation and then to sin? Follow the strategy in I John 1:8-9.

6. It is within the context of describing the warfare between the Holy Spirit and the flesh that Paul identifies the works of the flesh which war within believers. See Galatians 5:16-26.

CHAPTER EIGHT

ENEMY STRATEGY

OBJECTIVES:

Upon completion of this chapter you will be able to:

-Write the Key Verses from memory.

-Summarize the strategy of the enemy in relation to God.

-Summarize the strategy of the enemy in relation to the nations.

-Summarize the strategy of the enemy in relation to unbelievers.

-Summarize the strategy of the enemy in relation to believers.

KEY VERSES FROM THE ARTICLES OF WAR:

Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the Devil, as a roaring lion, walketh about, seeking whom he may devour;

Whom resist steadfast in the faith, knowing that the same afflictions are accomplished in your brethren that are in the world. (I Peter 5:8-9)

INTRODUCTION

This lesson presents an overview of the general strategies of our enemy, Satan. In the next lesson, you will be given an overview of "The Battle Plan" of God. In later lessons, after you have been armed with your spiritual weapons, you will be given more specific counterstrategies to overcome all the evil plans of the enemy. But first, you need to understand the general strategy of the enemy in relation to God, the nations, unbelievers, and believers.

THE ENEMY AND GOD

Satan's original sin was that he wanted to be like God, so his present power and activities are directed primarily against God. All of his other activities and his very nature are viewed as stemming from his original rebellious ambition.

For example, Satan's attack on the first man and woman, Adam and Eve, was really an attack on the character and control of God (see Genesis 3:1-5). Satan also induced Cain to murder Abel in opposition to God (see I John 3:10-12). You can study every attack of Satan recorded in Scripture and you will discover that it is actually an attack on God and His activities and nature.

Satan is in direct opposition to God in every activity and quality of nature. For example, God is love whereas Satan is hateful and promotes hatred (I John 3:7-15). God is life and creates life while Satan promotes death and destruction (Hebrews 2:14).

Satan not only opposes God and His nature, but he also opposes God's program. He denies the existence of God (Psalms 14:1-3), promotes lies (Ephesians 2:2; II Thessalonians 2:8-ll); and is behind false religions, the occult, and cults with their false doctrines and practices. Satan's religious system results in false teachers, prophets, and "christs." You will study more about this later as you study "Spiritual Wickedness In High Places."

Satan will reach the climax of his rebellion against God and His plans during the time of "The Final Battle" discussed in the last chapter of this course. In the end, Satan and his hosts of demonic powers will be brought under the control of the one true and living God.

THE ENEMY AND THE NATIONS

Satan is called the "god of this world" which includes men who are not believers and demonic angels. (II Corinthians 4:4) He offered the nations to Jesus during the temptation of Christ, and our Lord did not dispute the legitimacy of the offer. He simply refused to rebel against God in submitting to Satan's way of obtaining the rule (Matthew 4:8-10).

Satan uses his demons to influence and deceive the nations, leading the leaders and people astray from God. This is why there are cruel dictators and ungodly political systems in many nations. It also accounts for the wars and divisions between the nations.

Satan especially influences leaders against the Church and God's chosen people, Israel. He also works through governments to hinder the spread of the Gospel.

During the tribulation period Satan will actually direct the affairs of a group of ten nations through the Antichrist. After the second coming of Christ, Satan will be bound for a thousand years "that he should deceive the nations no more" (Revelation 20:3). Upon his release, he will deceive the nations one last time to assemble them against Jerusalem and God (Revelation 20:7-10). But in the end, every kingdom of earth and the Kingdom of Satan will become the Kingdoms of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.

THE ENEMY AND UNBELIEVERS

The enemy has a very powerful strategy operating against unbelievers. He blinds their minds to the Gospel (II Corinthians 4:3-4) and snatches away the truth of the Gospel when they do hear it so that no response will occur (Luke 8:12). As a result, the Gospel sounds foolish and irrelevant to those who are lost in sin (I Corinthians 1:18).

Satan also snares many unbelievers in false religions (I Timothy 4:1-3) and leads them to walk according to the "course of the world" which is the philosophy of the age. That philosophy may vary from generation to generation and culture to culture, but it is always creature-centered and creature-promoting rather than God-centered. Satan is constantly sowing the seeds of rebellion (sin) in the hearts and minds of unbelievers.

One of the purposes of the Holy Spirit is to war against Satan for the souls of unbelievers. The Holy Spirit works to convict men and women of their sinful rebellion against God (John 16:7-11).

THE ENEMY AND BELIEVERS

When you accept Jesus Christ as Savior, it certainly does not mean the battle is over! You have won one major confrontation when you are saved, but in reality, your intense struggle has only begun.

You will learn many specific strategies of Satan as you continue to studying this course and are armed with your spiritual weapons and mobilized to enter enemy territory. But all of these attacks can be summarized in four major areas. In the life of a believer Satan attacks:

THE WORD OF GOD:

Satan will cause you to question the Word of God and will add to, take from, or distort the Scriptures. Remember that this was involved in the very first temptation of Eve. This is why it is important for you to study and understand God's Word so you will not be deceived by these attacks.

YOUR WORSHIP:

Satan's original rebellion involved his desire to be worshiped, so he especially targets the worship of believers. He will try to prevent you from worshiping or lead you into false or fleshly worship.

YOUR WALK WITH GOD:

Satan attacks your personal walk with God. He accuses and slanders you, tempts you to engage in the works of the flesh, to be occupied with the world, and to rely upon your own human wisdom and strength. If Satan can win territory in your personal walk with God, it will make it easier for him to defeat you in the next area which is...

YOUR WORK FOR GOD:

Satan also attacks your work for God. He will try to deter you from accomplishing God's will by persecution, disaster, discouragement, prayerlessness, and busy involvement with the cares of the world. Satan also tries to affect your work for God by infiltrating the Church with false teachers and disciples (II Corinthians 11:13-15; II Peter 2:1-19; Matthew 13:38-39).

While God sows good seed through your ministry, the enemy sows tares which are the "sons of the wicked one". He promotes division within the Body of Christ trying to affect the work of God and His purposes in your life and ministry.

SO---WHAT CAN YOU DO?

Satan's strategies are certainly varied and powerful as he works against God, the nations, unbelievers, and believers.

Having spent the last four lessons studying the enemy, the spiritual forces of evil, enemy territory, and strategy, you may be a bit overwhelmed at this point. But as you will learn in the next chapter, God has a "battle plan" far greater and more powerful than any scheme of the enemy.

You are now ready to study that plan and then be armed with your spiritual weapons and mobilized for battle.

INSPECTION

1. Write the Key Verses from the Articles Of War.

________________________________________

________________________________________

________________________________________

2. Summarize the strategy of the enemy in relation to God.

________________________________________

________________________________________

3. Summarize the strategy of the enemy in relation to the nations.

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4. Summarize the strategy of the enemy in relation to the unbelievers.

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5. Summarize the strategy of the enemy in relation to believers.

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(Answers to tests are provided at the conclusion of the final chapter in this manual.)

TACTICAL MANEUVERS

1. Analyze the nation in which you live. What strategies of the enemy do you see operative in your nation?

2. Analyze unbelievers around you for whom you are praying. Has the enemy blinded their eyes to the Gospel? Is he snatching away the Gospel message being presented to them? Are they being indoctrinated in false religion? Are they living in the "course of the world" and its lifestyle? Make these items a matter of prayer.

3. Note the fourfold accusations of Satan:

-He accuses God before the believer: Genesis 3:1-5

-He accuses the believer before God: Job l-2; Revelation 12:9-10

-He accuses the believer before his own conscience: Jeremiah 31:34; Romans 8:33-39

-He accuses the believer through other believers: Matthew 16:13-23; Romans 8:33-39.

4. Think about your own life. In the space provided below, analyze how Satan has attacked you in regards to the Word of God, your worship, walk with God, or work for God:

The Word of God:

________________________________________

Worship of God:

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Walk with God:

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Work for God:

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In following lessons you will learn specific counter strategies for winning battles in each of these areas.

CHAPTER NINE

GOD'S BATTLE PLAN

OBJECTIVES:

Upon completion of this chapter you will be able to:

-Write the Key Verse from memory.

-Identify the purpose of God.

-Identify the purpose for which Jesus came into the world.

-Explain the six point battle plan for spiritual warfare.

KEY VERSE FROM THE ARTICLES OF WAR:

He that committeth sin is of the Devil; for the Devil sinneth from the beginning. For this purpose the Son of God was manifested, that He might destroy the works of the Devil. (I John 3:8)

INTRODUCTION

This chapter introduces the basic battle for spiritual warfare. It is a strategy resting upon understanding the purposes of our warfare and based upon communication with our Commander-in-Chief by prayer, fasting, and the written Word of God.

When you do not understand God's purpose and plan, you may be tempted to become discouraged in the conflicts of life. This is why many Christian soldiers fail in warfare: They do not understand the divine purpose behind the battle.

...For if their purpose or activity is of human origin, it will fail. But if it is from God, you will not be able to stop these men. You will only find yourselves fighting against God. (Acts 5:38-39 New International Version)

THE PURPOSE OF WARFARE

From the beginning of time, every natural battle that has been fought always had a purpose for which it was waged. Before we examine God's battle plan, it is important to understand the purpose of spiritual warfare. This involves understanding the purposes of God the Father and Jesus Christ the Son.

THE PURPOSE OF GOD:

It is God's purpose that...

...in the dispensation of the fullness of times He might gather together in one all things in Christ, both which are in Heaven, and which are on earth... (Ephesians 1:10)

From the beginning of time, Satan has battled against the fulfillment of this purpose. Your own warfare in the spirit world is related to this purpose of God. Satan battles to bring your heart, mind, spirit, and soul into allegiance to him instead of the Lord Jesus Christ.

God works in you to accomplish His purpose:

For it is God which worketh in you both to will and to do His good pleasure. (Philippians 2:13)

God also works through your life to accomplish His purposes:

Neither yield ye your members as instruments of unrighteousness unto sin: but yield yourselves unto God, as those that are alive from the dead, and your members as instruments of righteousness unto God. (Romans 6:13)

When you yield yourself to become "instruments of righteousness unto God," it means you bring your life and ministry in harmony with His purpose and plans. By doing this, you become a target for God's enemy, Satan.

THE PURPOSE OF JESUS:

Jesus said:

He that committeth sin is of the Devil; for the Devil sinneth from the beginning. For this purpose the Son of God was manifested, that He might destroy the works of the Devil. (I John 3:8)

The reason Jesus came into the world was to destroy the works of Satan. This immediately set Him in opposition to the enemy:

The thief cometh not, but for to steal, and to kill, and to destroy: I am come that they might have life and that they might have it more abundantly.

            (John 10:10)

From the beginning of His earthly ministry, Jesus set about destroying the works of Satan:

-He revealed the bondage of sin (John 8:34).

-He forgave sins (Matthew 9:1-8; Mark 2:1-12,17; Luke 4:17-32).

-He stressed the heart condition rather than the deception of outward appearance (Matthew

 15:16-20; Mark 7:20-23; Luke 6:45; 11:39).

-He healed the sick (Matthew 11:5).

-He raised people from the dead (Mark 5:35-43; Luke 8:49- 56; John 11).

-He released people from demonic powers (Matthew 8:16).

In summary, He destroyed the works of Satan in the hearts, souls, minds, and bodies of men and women:

The blind receive their sight, and the lame walk, the lepers are cleansed, and the deaf hear, the dead are raised up, and the poor have the Gospel preached to them. (Matthew 11:5)

Jesus not only destroyed the works of Satan, He also exposed the devious strategies of the enemy:

-He taught on the deception of Satan which would increase during the last days on earth (Matthew 24-25; Mark 13; Luke 17:22-37; 21:8-36; Matthew 24-25).

-He warned of Satan who was able to destroy the soul (Matthew 10:28).

-He spoke of the necessity of binding the strong man (Satan) before spoiling his goods (Matthew 12:26-30; Mark 3:23-27; Luke 11:17-24).

-He revealed how Satan tries to prevent the Word of God from being effective in the hearts of men and women (Matthew 13:38; Mark 4:15; Luke 8:12).

-He exposed those who were not right with God as being of their "father, the devil" (John 8:44-47).

-He revealed Satan as the "prince of the world" (John 14:30).

THE GREAT DIVISION

Although Jesus came to bring the peace of God (John 14:27; Philippians 4:7), and peace with God (Romans 5:1), His coming also brought division:

Think not that I am come to send peace on earth: I came not to send peace, but a sword.

For I am come to set a man at variance against his father, and the daughter against her mother, and the daughter in law against her mother in law.

And a man's foes shall be they of his own household.

            (Matthew 10:34-36)

Jesus divided all men into two battle camps. It is not possible to be neutral:

No man can serve two masters: for either he will hate the one, and love the other; or else he will hold to the one, and despise the other. Ye cannot serve God and mammon. (Matthew 6:24)

He that is not with me is against me... (Luke 11:23)

Jesus spoke of this great division in a story about two paths, one which was straight and narrow and one which was broad. He warned of the deception of Satan's broad path which many took (Matthew 7:13-14). Through the account of the rich man and Lazarus (Luke 16:19-31), Jesus removed the veil between life and death. He let men see the end result of choosing the wrong way.

Because He destroyed and exposed the works of Satan, Jesus was under assault throughout His earthly life. The enemy constantly tried to destroy Him or prevent Him from fulfilling the mission for which He had come. The moment He was born, an attempt was made on His life. During His public ministry there were several plots on His life and at least one attempt which was aborted. He met the opposition of demonic powers, religious leaders, His own followers, and Satan.

When you align yourself with the plan and purposes of Jesus by accepting Him as your Savior, you become part of the army that wars against Satan. The purposes of Jesus become your purposes and this sets you in a tactical position of direct opposition to the enemy.

THE BATTLE PLAN

There are many different Scriptural strategies that can be used in spiritual warfare, but the basic battle plan for believers is revealed by observing how Jesus dealt with the enemy. The basic battle plan for spiritual warfare is based on six major points. These are:

            -The Word Of God

            -Delegated Power And Authority

            -Prayer

            -Fasting

            -Keys Of The Kingdom

            -The Name Of Jesus

THE WORD OF GOD

One direct confrontation between Jesus and Satan came during a special period of temptation by the enemy. In this encounter, one of the major portions of our spiritual battle plan was revealed. Before proceeding with this lesson, read the accounts of this temptation recorded in Matthew 4:1-ll, Mark 1:12-13, and Luke 4:1-13.

First Satan tried to get Jesus to turn stones into bread. The power of Jesus which soon was to turn water into wine surely could have turned stones into bread. But to do so in this situation would have been acting independently of God and using His power for personal benefit.

Next Satan tried to get Jesus to cast Himself down from the top of the temple. Note that Satan said "Cast thyself down." Satan could not cast Him down, because the power of Satan is a limited power.

Satan can persuade you to sin, but he cannot cast you down. As you have learned, every man is tempted when he is drawn away by his own lust. He is not forced, but enticed. In this temptation, Satan used God's Word to back up his appeal, but he misapplied it (Matthew 4:6). Misapplication of God's Word is a major strategy of Satan.

In both of the first two temptations Satan said "IF you are the Son of God," do these things. For Jesus to have complied would have been admission that the verification of His sonship by God was inadequate. God had already spoken from Heaven confirming this relationship (Matthew 3:17). Satan always centers his attacks on your relationship with God. The final temptation was an appeal by Satan for worship. In return, Satan would deliver to Jesus all the kingdoms of the world.

In these three situations of temptation you can see the evil forces of the world, the flesh, and the Devil warring against Jesus. Jesus met the temptations of Satan with the Word of God. The Bible is a very important spiritual weapon and part of the armor of God which you will study about later. It is called "the sword of the Spirit." The Word of God is the only divinely inspired manual of spiritual warfare. Other books are useful only as they are in harmony with God's Word.

In meeting the temptations of Satan, Jesus used the Word of God. Jesus quoted specific Scriptures applicable to the immediate battle. He did not quote passages of chronology or history from the Old Testament. Jesus said, "It is written AGAIN..." When you use specific Scriptures, be sure they are in balance with the remainder of the Word of God. They must be viewed in their context and applied in harmony with the total revealed Word of God.

In order to use the Word of God effectively in spiritual warfare, you must know the Word of God. You must study, meditate on, and memorize it. Many defeats in life come because we do not know God's Word:

Jesus answered and said unto them, Ye do err, not knowing the scriptures, nor the power of God. (Matthew 22:29)

The Word of God is our manual for warfare and reveals God's spiritual battle plan.

DELEGATED POWER AND AUTHORITY

The second part of the battle plan is based upon the power and authority over Satan which Jesus delegated to His followers:

Then He called His twelve disciples together and gave them power and authority over all devils, and to cure diseases. (Luke 9:1)

Authority and power are two different things. Consider the example of a policeman. He has

a badge and a uniform which are symbols of his authority. His authority comes because of the position he holds with the government. But because all people do not respect that authority, the policeman also carries a weapon. The weapon is his power.

Your authority over the enemy comes through Jesus Christ and your position in Him as believers. Your power over the enemy comes through the Holy Spirit:

And behold, I send the promise of My Father upon you; but tarry ye in the city of Jerusalem, until ye be endued with power from on high. (Luke 24:49)

Like the policeman, you must have both authority and power to be effective. Some believers receive authority through the new birth experience and their position in Christ but they never go on to receive the power of the Holy Spirit, which is to be combined with the authority for effective warfare.

The power Jesus gave is directed power for specific purposes. These include:

POWER OVER THE ENEMY:

Then He called His twelve disciples together and gave them power and authority over all devils, and to cure diseases. (Luke 9:1)

POWER OVER SIN:

And when He had said this, He breathed on them, and saith unto them, Receive ye the Holy Ghost:

Whosesoever sins ye remit, they are remitted unto them; and whosesoever sins ye retain, they are retained. (John 20:22-23)

POWER TO EXTEND THE GOSPEL:

But ye shall receive power, after that the Holy Ghost is come upon you: and ye shall be witnesses unto me both in Jerusalem, and in all Judaea, and in Samaria, and unto the uttermost part of the earth. (Acts 1:8)

PRAYER

Prayer is the third part of the basic battle plan. Here is a detailed outline to assist you in studying about prayer:

THE DEFINITION OF PRAYER:

Prayer is communion with God. It takes different forms, but basically it occurs when man talks with God and God talks with man. Prayer is described as:

Calling upon the name of the Lord:                                        Genesis 12:8

Crying unto God:                                                                    Psalms 27:7; 34:6

Drawing near to God:                                                 Psalms 73:28; Hebrews 10:22

Looking up:                                                                            Psalms 5:3

Lifting up the soul:                                                                 Psalms 25:1

Lifting up the heart:                                                                Lamentations 3:41

Pouring out the heart:                                                             Psalms 62:8

Pouring out the soul:                                                              I Samuel 1:15

Crying to Heaven:                                                                  II Chronicles 32:20

Beseeching the Lord:                                                              Exodus 32:11

Seeking God:                                                                          Job 8:5

Seeking the face of the Lord:                                                 Psalms 27:8

Making supplication:                                                              Job 8:5; Jeremiah 36:7

THE PRAYER LIFE OF JESUS:

Prayer was an important strategy of the Lord Jesus:

Jesus made prayer a priority:

-He prayed any time of the day or night: Luke 6:12-13

-Prayer took priority over eating: John 4:31-32

-Prayer took priority over business: John 4:31-32

Prayer accompanied any event of importance:

-At His baptism: Luke 3:21-22

-During the first ministry tour: Mark 1:35; Luke 5:16

-Before the choice of the disciples: Luke 6:12-13

-Before and after the feeding of the 5,000: Matthew 14:19,23; Mark 6:41,46; John 6:11,14-15

-At the feeding of the 4,000: Matthew 15:36; Mark 8:6,7

-Before the confession of Peter: Luke 9:18

-Before the transfiguration: Luke 9:28,29

-At the return of the seventy: Matthew 11:25; Luke 10:21

-At the grave of Lazarus: John 11:41-42

-At the blessing of the children: Matthew 19:13

-At the coming of certain Greeks: John 12:27-28

-Before the hour of His greatest anguish: Matthew 26:26-27; Mark 14:22-23; Luke 22:17-19

-For Peter: Luke 22:32

-For the giving of the Holy Spirit: John 14:1-6

-On the road to Emmaus: Luke 24:30-31

-Prior to His ascension: Luke 24:50-53

-For His followers: John 17

-The prayer Jesus taught is recorded in Matthew 6:9-13.

KINDS OF PRAYER:

Paul calls for believers to pray always with "all prayer" (Ephesians 6:18). Another translation of the Bible reads "praying with every kind of prayer" (Goodpseed Translation). This refers to the various levels and types of prayer.

LEVELS OF PRAYER:

There are three levels of intensity in prayer: Asking, seeking, and knocking:

Ask, and it shall be given you; seek, and ye shall find; knock, and it shall be opened unto you:

For every one that asketh receiveth; and he that seeketh findeth, and to him that knocketh it shall be opened. (Matthew 7:7-8)

Asking is the first level of prayer. It is simply presenting a request to God and receiving an immediate answer. In order to receive, the condition is to ask:

...ye have not, because ye ask not. (James 4:2)

We have the powerful spiritual weapon of prayer, and yet many do not use it. They do not ask, and because of this, they do not receive.

Seeking is a deeper level of prayer. This is the level of prayer where answers are not as immediate as at the asking level. The 120 gathered in the upper room where they "continued" in prayer is an example of seeking. These men and women sought fulfillment of the promise of the Holy Spirit and continued "seeking" until the answer came. (Acts l-2)

Knocking is a deeper level yet. It is prayer that is persistent when answers are longer in coming. It is illustrated by the parable Jesus told in Luke 11:5-10. The knocking level is the most intense level of spiritual warfare in prayer. It is illustrated by the persistence of Daniel who continued to knock despite the fact he saw no visible results as Satan hindered the answer from God. (Daniel 10)

TYPES OF PRAYER:

There are various types of prayer illustrated in the model prayer given by the Lord (Matthew 6:9-13). Types of prayer include:

1. Worship and praise:

You enter into God's presence with worship and praise:

Enter into His gates with thanksgiving, and into His courts with praise; be thankful unto Him, and bless His Name. (Psalms 100:4)

Worship is the giving of honor and devotion. Praise is thanksgiving and an expression of gratitude not only for what God has done but for what He is. You are to worship God in spirit and in truth:

But the hour cometh, and now is, when the true worshippers shall worship the Father in Spirit and in truth: for the Father seeketh such to worship Him.

God is a Spirit, and they that worship Him must worship Him in spirit and in truth. (John 4:23-24)

Praise and worship can be with:

Singing:                                                                      Psalms 9:2,11; 40:3; Mark 14:26

Audible praise:                                                           Psalms 103:1

Shouting:                                                                    Psalms 47:1

Lifting up of the hands:                                              Psalms 63:4; 134:2; I Timothy 2:8

Clapping:                                                                    Psalms 47:1

Musical instruments:                                                  Psalms 150:3-5

Standing:                                                                    II Chronicles 20:19

Bowing:                                                                      Psalms 95:6

Dancing:                                                                     Psalms 149:3

Kneeling:                                                                    Psalms 95:6

Lying down:                                                               Psalms 149:5

The warrior of God in the spirit world is shown with...

...the high praises of God...in their mouth, and a two edged sword in their hand. (Psalms 149:6)

2. Commitment:

This is prayer committing your life and will to God. It includes prayers of consecration and dedication.

3. Petition:

Prayers of petition are requests. Requests must be made according to the will of God as revealed in His written Word. Petitions may be at the levels of asking, seeking, or knocking. Supplication is another word for this type of prayer. The word supplication means "beseeching God or strongly appealing to Him in behalf of a need."

4. Confession and repentance:

A prayer of confession is repenting and asking forgiveness for sin:

If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness. (I John 1:9)

5. Intercession:

Intercession is prayer for others. An intercessor is one who takes the place of another or pleads another's case. The Bible records that at one time God looked on the earth and saw there was no intercessor:

And He saw that there was no man, and wondered that there was no intercessor: therefore His arm brought salvation unto Him, and His righteousness, it sustained Him. (Isaiah 59:16)

When God saw there was no intercessor He supplied the need. He sent Jesus:

For there is one God, and one mediator between God and men, the man Christ Jesus. (I Timothy 2:5)

...It is Christ that died, yea rather, that is risen again, who is even at the right hand of God, who also maketh intercession for us. (Romans 8:34)

Wherefore He is able also to save them to the uttermost that come unto God by Him, seeing He ever liveth to make intercession for them. (Hebrews 7:25)

My little children, these things write I unto you, that ye sin not. And if any man sin, we have an advocate with the Father, Jesus Christ, the righteous.

            (I John 2:1)

An advocate in a court of justice is a legal assistant or counselor who pleads another's cause. Intercession in spiritual warfare is prayer to God on behalf of another person. Sometimes this intercession is made with understanding. You intercede in your own native language:

I exhort therefore, that first of all, supplications, prayers, intercessions, and giving of thanks, be made for all men. For kings, and for all that are in authority... (I Timothy 2:1-2)

At other times, intercession is made by the Holy Spirit. It may be with groanings resulting from a heavy spiritual burden. It may be in an unknown tongue. It may be intercession for another or the Holy Spirit making intercession for you. When this happens, the Holy Spirit speaks through you praying directly to God and according to the will of God. You do not understand this type of intercession:

Likewise the Spirit also helpeth our infirmities; for we know not what we should pray for as we ought; but the Spirit itself maketh intercession for us with groanings which cannot be uttered. (Romans 8:26)

This is the deepest level of intercessory prayer and the most effective in spiritual warfare.

THE MODEL PRAYER:

During the earthly ministry of Jesus His disciples once came to Him with an interesting request:

... one of His disciples said unto Him, Lord, teach us to pray... (Luke 11:1)

The disciples did not ask how to preach or perform miracles. They did not seek lessons on how to build lasting relationships. They did not inquire regarding the wonders of physical healing. They asked to be taught how to pray.

What created this desire? It was the visible effects of prayer in the life and ministry of Jesus. The disciples had witnessed the powerful results of this spiritual strategy in action.

Read the model prayer and observe the various types of prayer we have discussed:

Our Father, which art in Heaven,                                           Praise and worship

Hallowed be thy name.

Thy kingdom come.

Thy will be done in earth, as it is in Heaven.                         Commitment

Give us this day our daily bread.                                            Petition

And forgive us our debts, as we forgive our debtors.             Confession and Intercession

And lead us not into temptation,                                            Petition

but deliver us from evil;

For thine is the Kingdom, and the power                               Praise and worship

and the glory, forever. Amen.

(Matthew 6:9-13)

HOW TO PRAY:

Look up each of the following references in your Bible to learn how you should pray:

-Prayer is to be made to God: Psalms 5:2

-Empty repetition is forbidden, but earnest repetition is not: Matthew 6:7; Daniel 6:10; Luke 11:5-13; 18:1-8

-You sin by neglecting to pray for others: I Samuel 12:23

-Pray with understanding (in a known tongue): Ephesians 6:18

-Pray in the Spirit: Romans 8:26; Jude 20

-Pray according to the will of God: I John 5:14-15

-Pray in secret: Matthew 6:6

-Quality rather than quantity is stressed. Prayer is not successful because of "much

 speaking": Matthew 6:7

-Pray always: Luke 21:36; Ephesians 6:18

-Pray continually: Romans 12:12

-Pray without ceasing: I Thessalonians 5:17

-Pray to the Father in the name of Jesus: John 15:16

-With a watchful attitude: I Peter 4:7

-According to the example of the model prayer: Matthew 6:9-13

-Pray with a forgiving spirit: Mark 11:25

-Pray with humility: Matthew 6:7

-Sometimes accompany prayer with fasting: Matthew 17:21

-Pray fervently: James 5:16; Colossians 4:12

-Pray with submission to God: Luke 22:42

-Use the strategies of binding and loosing in prayer: Matthew 16:19

WHAT YOU SHOULD PRAY FOR: