Before you start: Open with prayer. Pray specifically for discernment and understanding for each person and the group as you approach this discussion.
For this study guide there is a list of Scripture passages. Divide them up amongst your group (each person should read at least one passage, but some passages may be read by more than one person). Give the group time for each person to read the Scripture they have to themselves. Then start working through the questions starting from the perspective offered in each passage.
Read (1) John 8:31-47, (2) Colossians 1:15-23, 3:5-10, (3) Ephesians 6:10-18, (4) Philippians 3:17-4:9, (5) 1 John 1:1-10, 5:1-5 & 18-21
- What is the purpose of spiritual warfare? What is it fought over?
- War always requires at least two sides. Are the sides clearly defined? If so, what are the sides?
- Is there a third side or middle ground? Why or why not?
- What side are we on as Christians?
- Have we always been on that side?
- What tactics are used by Satan’s side?
- What tactics are used by God’s side?
- What imagery is used to represent Satan’s tactics? Why?
- What imagery is used to represent God’s tactics? Why?
- Do the tools we are using tell us who we are fighting? Why or why not?
- What are some consequences of forgetting who our true adversary is? And how do those consequences play into Satan’s schemes?
- Can a spiritual attack come through a fellow Christian?
- Is every “bad” thing that happens a spiritual attack? Why or why not?
Read Hebrews 12:4-13
- How can we know the difference between a spiritual attack from the other side and spiritual discipline from God?
- Why is it important to know the difference?
- What about our response should be similar in each case? What should be different?
- How can we pray for you?
Need a prayer cue? Try Psalm 91:1-16