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Study 32 of 49

Growth and the Christian Warfare

Why the conflict intensifies in a life that is truly advancing

Hands-free narration of this study — good for the car.

Synopsis

The Christian life is both a growth and a fight. Two natures, two masters, and an active adversary make conflict normal; the mistake is to interpret conflict as failure. Scripture arms the believer and defines where the battle is actually won.

Key points

  • Conflict is evidence of life, not of lost salvation.
  • The armour of God is all defensive except the word and prayer.
  • The battle is won at the point of surrender, not of striving.

Key texts

  • Galatians 5:16-17
  • Ephesians 6:10-18
  • 1 Peter 5:8-9
  • 2 Peter 3:18
  1. Comprehension

    1. Why does conflict increase rather than vanish after conversion?

  2. Scripture

    2. Read Galatians 5:16-17. What is the remedy for the flesh's opposition?

  3. Scripture

    3. Read Ephesians 6:10. Where does strength come from?

  4. Doctrinal Clarity

    4. Why is most of the armour defensive?

  5. Contrast

    5. Contrast striving in one's own strength with resting in Christ's victory.

  6. Doctrinal Clarity

    6. Read 1 Peter 5:9. How is the adversary resisted?

  7. Application

    7. Which piece of the armour is missing in your daily preparation?

  8. Application

    8. How can a small group help members in the conflict without prying?