Recognizing Spiritual Influence, Not Just Human Behavior
Key Verse: Ephesians 6:12 – “For we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high places.”
Main Points & Scripture Commentary
1. A Different Kind of War
- The battle we face is spiritual—not physical.
- People may hurt us, but often the real influence is unseen.
- Ephesians 6:12 reminds us that we’re in a war with invisible forces, not people.
Reflection Question:
Have you been treating someone like the enemy when the real battle is spiritual?
2. Misunderstanding Demonic Influence
- Hollywood has dramatized spiritual warfare, but the enemy is far more deceptive than theatrical.
- Satan’s main tactic is subtle, persuasive influence—just like in the garden.
- 2 Corinthians 11:14 – Satan disguises himself as an angel of light.
Reflection Question:
Where have you seen the enemy working quietly rather than loudly in your life?
3. Biblical Examples of People Used Without Knowing
- Peter (Matthew 16:23): Loved Jesus, but unknowingly spoke against God’s plan.
- Judas (Luke 22:3): Betrayed Jesus under influence—without drama.
- Eve (Genesis 3): Deceived into disobedience through subtle persuasion.
- The common thread: influence without awareness.
Reflection Question:
Have you ever looked back and realized you were influenced—or influencing someone—in a way that didn’t align with God?
4. How the Enemy Still Operates Today
- Through Relationships: Toxic people, manipulative advice, even well-meaning voices can mislead.
- Through Culture & Media: Normalizing rebellion, desensitizing hearts.
- Through Emotions: Anger, fear, pride, and offense are powerful tools when unguarded.
- Ephesians 4:27 – Do not give the devil a foothold.
Reflection Question:
What has the enemy been using to influence your mindset—through people, media, or emotion?
5. How to Change Your Strategy
- Stop Fighting People – Start Fighting in Prayer
- 2 Corinthians 10:4 – Our weapons are not carnal but spiritual.
- Recognize the Source Behind the Scene
- Ask, “What’s really behind this?”
- Respond with the Spirit, Not the Flesh
- Galatians 5:22–23 – The fruit of the Spirit…
- Stay Anchored in Truth
- John 8:44 – The devil is the father of lies.
- John 17:17 – “Your word is truth.”
Reflection Question:
What spiritual weapon do you need to start using more consistently—prayer, truth, discernment, or patience?
6. It’s Not Them… It’s the War Behind Them
- Many who’ve hurt us weren’t acting on their own—they were under influence.
- When you stop blaming people, you start fighting the real enemy.
- Real victory comes when you fight the spiritual battle with spiritual weapons.
Final Reflection:
Who do you need to forgive, not because they were right—but because you’ve realized they weren’t the real enemy?
Key Takeaway:
You can’t win a spiritual war with human weapons.
Discern the source.
Respond in the Spirit.
And fight the right enemy.
Full message: