Together We Fight. Together We Stand.
Introduction
We’ve reached the final message in our Ephesians series, Thrive Together: All in on Faith, Unity, and Growth. In this final passage, Paul has saved the most urgent truth for last... You’re in a battle. And it’s time to suit up.
We’ve spent weeks learning how to thrive in unity, purpose, and identity as God’s people. But Paul ends by lifting the veil and showing us the reality behind it all. There’s a war going on. Not one of flesh and blood, but a spiritual battle against the enemy of our souls. And that means we can’t afford to coast, to isolate, or to fight alone.
Are you ready to fight all in together?
Discussion Questions
Outline
I. Know Your Enemy. Eph 6:10-13
· We need to acknowledge that the real battle in this world is not with people but with Satan.
II. Suit Up. Eph 6:14-17
· To be a thriving church we have to suit up together, otherwise we risk failure.
III. Pray Like a Warrior. Eph 6:18-24
· Prayer isn’t supposed to be the last resort. It is our first and best attack against the enemy in any battle.
· We are better protected and better engaged in the battle when we are lifting each other up in prayer and not focusing on ourselves.
Study Questions
1. “The real battle is won on our knees.” When has prayer changed the outcome of a battle in your life or someone else’s?
2. Look at Ephesians 6:10-13. Why does Paul urge us to recognize that our real enemy is not people or circumstances, but spiritual forces? How does that perspective change how we respond to conflict?
3. Read 1 Peter 5:8-9. How does Peter’s warning about the devil “prowling around like a roaring lion” reinforce Paul’s message to be alert and stand firm?
4. Look at Ephesians 6:14-17. Of all the pieces of spiritual armor Paul lists, which one do you find yourself neglecting most often, and how can you “suit up” better this week?
5. Last Sunday, Pastor Keven said, “To be a thriving church we have to suit up together, otherwise we risk failure.” How can we encourage each other to be spiritually prepared and support one another in battle?
6. Look at Ephesians 6:18-20. Why do you think Paul puts so much emphasis on prayer as the church’s offensive strategy? What role does praying for each other play in spiritual victory?
7. CALL TO ACTION: Memorize Ephesians 6:13. Share with someone the armor part that you struggle with the most and discuss ways to strengthen that. Reach out to someone who is battling right now. Pray for them in person and give them encouragement.