THREE THINGS TO KNOW
DON’T MISS THIS. Understanding the gospel is a pivotal weapon in the spiritual battle we all face. We can move offensively in the war by sharing the gospel of Jesus with people in our lives. Join us on March 26 at the Knapp Street Campus for SHARING YOUR FAITH. Every believer should be able to articulate the gospel clearly and succinctly. This event will equip you with a simple way of sharing your faith that is clear and concise. To register, click HERE.
GROUP VALUES. This week we wrap up our focus on FOLLOWING JESUS, a commitment to lifelong trust and surrender to him. Following Jesus involves a commitment to prayer. Throughout the gospels, Jesus teaches his disciples to pray. In the book of Ephesians, Paul earnestly asks believers to pray on his behalf. He understands that prayer is a weapon in the spiritual battle. Who in your life needs your weapon of prayer? This week, consider starting a small group prayer list with a focus on those in your life who don’t know Jesus. It might be a family member, coworker or friend. Following Jesus in community means praying together for our loved ones to know God. Commit to praying for them as a group.
GROW AS A LEADER. This week’s sermon reminds us of the importance of allowing God to speak into our circumstances. When we bring God’s Word to bear on our situations, we utilize the sword of the Spirit. We participate in the spiritual battle as the Holy Spirit reminds us of truth. In order to do this, we need to know God’s Word. As leaders, we need to know it both for ourselves and those we serve. Check out a digital copy of the bookmark handed out last week, containing important verses for spiritual battle. Note which verses are important for those in your group. You can find it HERE.
SERMON DISCUSSION GUIDE
Welcome to the final week our sermon series, ARMOR OF GOD. This week, Pastor Aaron moves us into the offensive position by exploring the sword of the Spirit and how the gospel and prayer can help us wage war against the devil.
ICEBREAKER
When you think of the term “warrior,” who or what comes to mind (i.e., a famous soldier, team, movie, etc.)?
THIS WEEK’S TEXT
Have someone read Ephesians 6:17-20 aloud.
What stands out to you about the passage?
How does Paul describe the weapon utilized in this passage?
Why do you think Paul places such a high emphasis on prayer?
THIS WEEK’S SERMON
Pastor Aaron Buer concluded our series ARMOR OF GOD by exploring the sword of the Spirit and how we can utilize prayer and the gospel to fight in the spiritual battle. As a group, recall some of the sermon’s big ideas and main points.
What does our culture tend to protect and fight for? How does it differ from the kind of battle Paul invites us to participate in?
Believers use the sword of the Spirit by bringing the Word of God to bear on their lives. What are some examples of situations where it’s important to use God’s Word?
The Word of God is described as sharper than a double-edged sword. It pierces, dividing soul and spirit. Where in your life have you experienced the Holy Spirit using God’s Word to pierce like a sword?
As believers, we have access to the same weapons Jesus used in spiritual battle. How does this change or challenge your perspective about participating in the battle?
Prayer is one of the most impactful ways we can shield and protect each other from the attacks of Satan. Who do you need to be fighting for through prayer?
Paul understands that every believer is a representative of Jesus and his gospel. Do your actions tend to confirm or contradict your role as an ambassador?
Before we can fight spiritual battles with the gospel of Jesus, we need to believe it. What is one step you can take to remember Jesus’s gift of salvation this week?
WRAP UP
As we conclude our series on the armor of God, read Ephesians 6:10-20. Which piece of God’s armor most resonates with you? What is one thing you need to take with you as we wrap up?