Ephesians 6:10-17

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Sermon Follow Up

Summary

In Ephesians 6:10–17 Paul teaches us that spiritual warfare is usually not sensational, but conventional—the daily battle to maintain a heavenly perspective in the midst of earthly troubles, trials, and annoyances. God does not leave His people defenseless in this battle, but strengthens us through worship with His gathered people, and by clothing us in His own armor as He forms His character and life into us through Christ.

Discussion/Reflection Material

1. Paul moves directly from households and relationships into armor and spiritual warfare. Why do you think Paul sees ordinary relationships as one of the primary places where spiritual battles are fought?

2. The sermon argued that “sin and Satan make simple situations feel complicated and complicated situations feel simple.” Where have you seen that dynamic at work in your own life or relationships?

3. The “belt of truth” was described as the ability to hold together the whole truth rather than fixating on one selective piece of it. Have you ever used a true thing in a misleading or self-serving way?

4. The sermon warned against “Bible bullets flying around the house.” Why is it possible to quote Scripture while still resisting the purpose of Scripture?

Family-Friendly Short

Big Idea: Christians are in a battle, but God gives us His own strength and character so that we can stand firm against sin and Satan’s schemes.

-Why do you think some of the biggest spiritual battles happen at home with our family instead of in dramatic or scary situations?

-The sermon said Satan likes to make small problems feel really big. Can you think of a time when you made a small problem bigger by getting angry, upset, or stubborn?

-Why is it important to tell the whole truth instead of only the part that helps you win an argument?

-How does gathering with God’s people on Sunday help strengthen us for the battles we face during the week?