MESSAGE NOTES

Ephesians 6:10-17

We’re in a SPIRITUAL BATTLE against a FORMIDABLE ENEMY and the STAKES ARE AWFULLY HIGH.

Ephesians 6:14 : “Stand, therefore, having fastened on the belt of truth…”

The belt of truth is a ___________________________________________ __________________________________________________with Jesus.

The belt of truth is important because ______________________________.
Genesis 3:1-6
2 Corinthians 11:3 “I am afraid that as the serpent deceived Eve by his cunning, your thoughts will be led astray from a sincere and pure devotion to Christ.”

We need to seek a true understanding of ____________________________.
Colossians 1:15-19
2 Corinthians 10:4-5

We think that what we think about Christ doesn’t really affect some of the details of our life. We don’t think it connects, but it does. What we believe about Christ and who Christ is and our knowledge of Christ has everything to do with how we will live at work, at home, at play, at school… everything. It’s driven by a true understanding of who Christ is.
~David Platt from Secret Church teaching on spiritual warfare.

How can we be sure our relationship with Jesus is a truthful and honest one?
__________________________________________________________.
Psalm 139:23 Search me, O God, and know my heart! Try me and know my thoughts!

Next Step:

 

QUESTIONS FOR CONNECTION GROUPS

CONNECTING QUESTIONS
Have you ever bought or ordered something that turned out to not be the real deal?
How did you feel about being deceived? What did you do about it?

SCRIPTURE QUESTIONS
Ephesians 6:10-17 The belt was the first piece of equipment that a soldier would put on. It represents a genuine and honest relationship with God. Why do you think this is the first thing Paul mentioned? Why is it so important?
2 Corinthians 11:3 What are ways Satan leads people astray from sincere and pure devotion to Jesus? What has been effective in leading you astray personally in the past?
2 Corinthians 10:4-5 What are some of the arguments and opinions that come against the truth of Jesus that you have encountered recently? Hint: think about this in a very broad sense. Think about comments in news broadcasts, the internet, TV shows, in the movies, in politics, etc, as well as in your direct conversations with others.

APPLICATION QUESTIONS
How does a true understanding of who Jesus is help you to STAND FIRM in your faith?
How does a true understanding of who Jesus is help you PRESS AHEAD with the gospel?
In the message we heard a statement mentioning two things will help us make sure that we have an honest relationship with Christ. Can you recall that statement? How would each aspect help you personally have a more authentic relationship with Jesus?
When was the last time you discovered something new about Jesus as you were searching the scriptures? Can you recall what was it? When was the last time God corrected you about something you thought or believed?