Spiritual Warfare Our Struggle Is Not Against Flesh

Spiritual Warfare Our Struggle Is Not Against Flesh & Blood. . . But Against The World Forces Of This Darkness. . . The Spiritual Forces Of Wickedness In The Heavenly Places (Ephesians 6: 12)

Spiritual Warfare – Origin of Angels n In waging spiritual warfare, it is of benefit to have a basic understanding of the origin of angelic beings. § All things, including angels, were created by and for Jesus (Colossians 1: 16). § The “sons of God” (i. e. , angels) were present at the creation and, therefore, came into existence before time began (Job 38: 4 -7; 1: 6). § Angels are of a higher “order” than man but minister (or serve) those in fellowship with God (Hebrews 2: 6 -8; 1: 14).

Spiritual Warfare – Activity of Angels n The Bible presents a clear and convincing message concerning the fact that angels minister to Christians. § Angels are “fellow-servants” who engage in spiritual warfare with Satan and demons on our behalf (Revelation 22: 9; 12: 7 -9; James 4: 7). § This spiritual warfare includes their activity in the rise and fall of nations (Acts 17: 26; Daniel 10: 1 -13, 20, 21; 12: 1; 4: 13, 17; 1 Timothy 2: 1 -4). § Angels have a keen interest in the progress of the church (Matthew 18: 10; Ephesians 3: 10; 1 Peter 1: 12; 1 Timothy 5: 21; Luke 15: 7; 16: 22).

Spiritual Warfare – Activity of Angels n Angels are active participants in the growth and development of the church. § During the infancy of the church, angels were active in the conversion of sinners (Acts 8: 26; 10: 1 -4; cf. 2 Chronicles 16: 9; Colossians 4: 3). § As agents of providence, angels most certainly work for the betterment of God’s children (Acts 12: 5 ff. ; Mark 1: 13; Luke 22: 43; 1 Peter 5: 8 -10). § We accept by faith that angels play a role in our eternal destiny (Psalms 91: 1 -4, 11, 12; Matthew 4: 5 -7; Romans 8: 28, 35 -39).

Spiritual Warfare – Activity of Angels n Angels will be present and involved in events surrounding the return of Christ. § Angels play a significant role in the execution of God’s judgment (Genesis 19: 1, 12 -14; 2 Samuel 24: 15, 16; Revelation 8: 1, 2, 6; 9: 20, 21; 11: 15; 14: 17 -20; Matthew 13: 41, 42). § Angels will accompany Christ at His return (Matthew 13: 36 -43; 16: 27; 25: 31, 32). § The angels will not only work in the execution of judgment, but they will (with Christ) bring “relief” to the saved (1 Thessalonians 1: 6 -10).