Living in the Tension: A Study on the "Now and Not Yet" Kingdom of GodSample

The Struggle of the Kingdom: Spiritual Warfare

Questions to think through:

1. Ephesians 6:10-18 describes a spiritual battle. Who is our enemy, and what are our weapons?

2. How does the "now and not yet" nature of the Kingdom help us understand why we still face spiritual opposition?

3. According to 1 Peter 5:8-9, what should our posture be in the face of our adversary? What encouragement are we given?

4. James 4:7 provides a simple yet profound strategy for spiritual warfare. What are the two key actions we are to take? How can you apply this in a specific area of struggle?

The inauguration of God's Kingdom did not mean the immediate eradication of all opposition. In fact, the advancement of the Kingdom often provokes a reaction from the forces of darkness. As citizens of the Kingdom, we find ourselves in a spiritual battle. But we are not left defenseless. God has provided us with spiritual armor to protect us and spiritual weapons to stand firm. Our strength is not in ourselves, but in the Lord. By resisting the devil and submitting to God, we can walk in the victory that Christ has already won. Do not be surprised by the struggle, but do not be afraid either. The King is with you, and He is greater than he who is in the world.