Know Your Enemy
After the Exile • Sermon • Submitted
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Recognize his Tactics
Recognize his Tactics
Deception - vs 2, 12
Deception - vs 2, 12
Today, deception comes at us from all angles
From deceptive advertising to deceptive news to deceptive politicians to deceptive friends and neighbors
At the root of all of this is an enemy who wants to tear down what God is building up
Don’t be deceived, even by the desires of our own wicked hearts, into falling prey to our enemy.
Division - vs. 6-8
Division - vs. 6-8
If you have ever had a question of how dangerous division is in our lifetime, you are seeing it now.
People are divided over everything and if you disagree with them, you don’t just hold a different view, you are treated as though you are an outcast and enemy
The Bible has many teachings regarding unity in the body of Christ.
Just as the enemy sought to divide the Jewish people, so he wants to divide us.
Destruction - vs. 10 - for they are coming to kill you
Destruction - vs. 10 - for they are coming to kill you
The old saying is “divide and conquer”.
It is not enough for our enemy that we are deceived, discouraged or divided, he wants to see us destroyed.
While our eternity is secured by Christ’s death and resurrection, our witness is secured by our faithfulness and obedience.
Ready Yourself for his Tenacity
Ready Yourself for his Tenacity
vs. 4 - four times
When the Jews who lived near them came and told us ten times, “They will come up against us from every place where you may turn,”
vs. 5 - fifth time
vs. 10 - they are coming to kill you
Like a rabid dog he keeps coming back for more.
Unlike you and I, satan is not bound by our physical limitations. There is no indication that he tires or becomes weary in the battle.
If we are not prepared for the continual onslaught, we will find ourselves succumbing in our fatigue.
Spiritual Stamina is built in spiritual discipline. Like the athlete who trains his body for the competition so must we continually be preparing for the battles.
Respond with Truth
Respond with Truth
vs. 3, 8, 11
When Jesus was tempted, he responded with scriptural truth.
Nehemiah stood upon the truth in the face of his enemies’ lies.
Where do we find the strength to stand in truth?
The Word of God
The Word of God
“Sanctify them in the truth; Your word is truth.
Other Believers
Other Believers
Where there is no guidance the people fall,
But in abundance of counselors there is victory.
And if one can overpower him who is alone, two can resist him. A cord of three strands is not quickly torn apart.
Leave the results to God - vs. 14