August 19, 2007

A Cosmic Conflict

Ephesians 6:10-18

The Helmet of Salvation

-made of bronze and leather

-Paul was chained to a Roman guard wearing a helmet

-the helmet of salvation represents 2 things:

(1) SALVATION                       (2) THE PROTECTION OF OUR MINDS

(1)   SALVATION

a.)   the helmet was given to the soldiers by the Roman government

-it was free

–Ephesians 2:8-9

b.)   an attendant would bring the soldiers their helmets to wear

-God chose us.  We did not choose Him

c.)   the helmet was fastened to the head securely

-everyone can know that they are saved – 1 John 5:13

-3 tenses of salvation:

                               Been saved – justification (God looks at us just as if we have never sinned)

                               Are being saved – sanctification (means to set apart)

                               Will be saved – glorification (when we go to heaven)

(2)   THE PROTECTION OF OUR MINDS

-Roman soldiers helmet protected them from the broadsword of the enemy.  It was 3-4’ long and could crush anyone’s head

-thr enemy hits us on the head with a broadsword  concerning our thought life

STATEMENTS:

(1)   The enemy cannot read our minds

–he can only use the information that you give him

(2)   the enemy can only place thoughts in your mind

-God thoughts/our own thoughts/the enemies’ thoughts

-the enemy speaks – Matthew 4:1-5 & 8:28-29

-he never stops trying to get us – 1 Peter 5:8-9

***one of the enemys’ attributes is patience

(3)   Thinking something wrong is not a sin

-do not dwell on any wrong thought

How can we obtain victory in our thought lives.  Follow the following two principles:

1.)   Stop all ungodly thoughts from entering your heart – 2 Corinthians 10:4-5

a.)   resist and replace

b.)   it is not a little thing

2.)   Think on God’s word – Joshua 1:8; Psalm 145:5, 63:6, 119:15,23,48,78,148

-Philippians 4:8-9