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Sermon-Based Discussion

Week of 5/25/25

Ephesians 6:10-13 “The Struggle”

Pastor Jim Gallagher

Introduction

In Ephesians 6 we are told of a behind the scenes battle that every Christian is involved in. We learned that it could be called "The Struggle". As we struggle to do the right thing according to the Word of God, there is an invisible battle going on that is opposing our best efforts, and our visible circumstances and difficulties are not the main thing. There is so much more going on behind the scene than what we can see with our eyes.

- How long were you a Christian before you realized that there was a real struggle when trying to live the Christian life?
- How have you personally experienced this struggle to live a Jesus-centered life?
- What are some of the outer, visible difficulties that you are facing right now that make following God hard to do?

We don't have eyes that see clearly into the spiritual realm. Jim shared a few Old Testament stories that showed this reality. Unless we are given special insight from God, we can't know the details of that invisible heavenly struggle, because our eyes and experience are here on earth.

- Have you ever had times when you had a sense that there was extra difficulty, or opposition, or friction in your efforts to follow Jesus and do things His way?
- In times like those do you push in closer in your relationship with God, or do you get caught up in the circumstances?
- Have you ever spent extra time in prayer, or fasting, or seeking God, or getting godly counsel from Christian friends in these times? How did those things help?

In order to succeed, we are told to be strong in Lord and in the power of His might. This brings up the question, "How is a person strengthened in the Lord?" Jim suggested a few things:
1. In Community, Not in Isolation.
2. Waiting on God's strength, Not rushing ahead in our own strength.
3. Taking in the Word of God.
4. Walking out what God has called us to do.

- Take some time to talk about how any of these things have strengthened you.

Lastly we are strengthened so that we can Stand and withstand. We stand on the Word of God, both knowing its truths and doing them. And not only do we stand immovable, but we also withstand, which even suggests moving forward and taking ground.

- In your life right now, what are some ways or areas that God is calling you to stand your ground and not be moved for the sake of  His kingdom?
- In your life right now, what are some ways or areas that God is calling you to withstand, and take ground for the sake of His kingdom?

”For we walk by faith, not by sight” 2 Corinthians 5:7