What is spiritual warfare?

Quick Answer: What is spiritual warfare? While some claim Satan is only a symbol, the Bible is clear that he, along with a host of fallen angels, are real enemies waging war on God’s creation. This is the meaning of “spiritual warfare.”

Diving Deeper: While some deny the existence of Satan, the Bible teaches that Satan is a reality and that he seeks to destroy the human race through lies, and at times, demonic possession (1 Peter 5:8; John 8:44; Acts 16:16-18).

However, while Satan is still active on earth (1 Peter 5:8), Scripture is clear that he has been defeated by the finished work of Christ (1 John 5:18; John 12:31; John 16:11; Hebrews 2:14-15). While he can lie to believers and accuse us (John 8:44; Revelation 12:10), he cannot actually touch us (1 John 5:18). Christians have been delivered from the evil one (Matthew 6:13; John 17:5).

So how do we fight Satan? In short, we don’t. There is no New Testament epistle that encourages believers to fight Satan or even to address him. Instead, Scripture teaches that we are to put on the full armor of God, which is Jesus Himself. Jesus is our righteousness (Ephesians 6:14); Jesus is our peace (Ephesians 6:15); and Jesus is our salvation (Ephesians 6:17). Our place is to trust in these truths (Ephesians 6:16) and stand firm in them (Ephesians 6:13). This is how we ignore the lies and accusations and set our minds on things above (Colossians 3:2).

But what about demonic possession? Scripture makes it clear that faith in the Gospel is the way to escape the dominion of darkness and be transferred to the kingdom of Jesus Christ (Colossians 1:13). In short, whether you’re a believer or unbeliever, the Gospel is the answer to spiritual warfare. Believers cannot be possessed by a demon, as we are people of God’s possession (1 Peter 2:9) and the evil one cannot touch us (1 John 5:18). As for unbelievers, the ultimate answer is to call upon the name of the Lord to be saved. The Holy Spirit will not share anyone with a demon. At salvation, God cleans house and moves in!

Let’s Make It a Conversation!
1. How have you understood spiritual warfare until now?
2. What does salvation do for a person to protect them?
3. React to this statement: The armor of God is Jesus.
4. React to this statement: God won’t share anyone with a demon.