Ripe for Harvest

S ESSION 3: L AUNCH AND A SSEMBLE • 225

I. Strap on the Full Armor of God, Eph. 6.13-17.

The equipment God provides allows for us to sustain victory in the heart of difficult ministry situations.

A. Take up the whole armor of God that you may be able to withstand the schemes of the devil, v. 13.

B. Stand, fastening to your side the belt of truth, v. 14a.

C. Put on the breastplate of righteousness, v. 14b.

D. Lace up for shoes the readiness to announce the Gospel of peace, v. 15.

E. In all circumstances take up the shield of faith, v. 16.

F. Take up the helmet of salvation, v. 17.

G. Wield with skill the sword of the Spirit (the Word of God), v. 17b.

Our Need for the Right Weaponry: The enemy we fight requires special equipment to defeat – only the full armor of God skillfully used can help us stand in the day of battle.

II. Spiritual Warfare Demands Spiritual Resources.

The wicked trinity of the world, the flesh, and the devil can be overcome with the resources God provides.

A. The world is relentless : 24/7 meddlin’ and hasslin’, 1 John 2.15-17.

B. The flesh is unyielding : the sin nature resists the Spirit’s leading, Gal. 5.16-24.

C. The devil is vicious : he seeks someone to devour, 1 Pet. 5.8-9.

Context Values/Vision

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