In Week 5 of Rooted, we’re reminded that following Jesus means recognizing the reality of spiritual warfare—but also resting in His victory. Evil is real, but it’s not ultimate. In this message, Daniel unpacks: – The reality of Satan and his counterfeit kingdom – The enemy’s tactics: temptation, lies, and persecution – What it means to take every thought captive and reject false agreements – How to stand firm in the armor of God – Why Christ’s triumph at the cross guarantees our victory This isn’t about fear—it’s about freedom. You have authority in Christ. You are protected, covered, and equipped to stand firm.
Series: Rooted
Week 5 Title: There Is an Enemy!
Scripture: Ephesians 6:10–20
Big Idea: There is a real enemy who opposes God and His people—but Christ has already won the victory. We don’t fight for victory; we fight from it.
Evil isn’t just human—it’s spiritual. There is an unseen realm of darkness opposing God’s Kingdom.
Satan is not a myth or symbol—he is a fallen angel who rebelled against God and now seeks to steal, kill, and destroy (John 10:10).
The devil’s greatest trick is convincing the world he doesn’t exist.
Everything God creates, Satan counterfeits.
1. Temptation to Sin
Satan entices believers to gratify the flesh outside of God’s will.
Sin becomes a stronghold when it moves from struggle to pattern.
2 Corinthians 10:3–5 — take every thought captive.
We defeat temptation by walking in the Spirit (Galatians 5:16–17).
2. Accusation and Lies
The enemy is “the father of lies” (John 8:44).
He twists God’s Word and distorts truth to produce shame and confusion.
Agreements with lies (“I am unworthy,” “God doesn’t care”) must be broken by declaring God’s truth.
Romans 8:1 — no condemnation for those in Christ.
3. Persecution and Suffering
The spirit of darkness opposes the Spirit in you.
Believers worldwide face hatred and persecution (Matthew 10:22–23).
Trials refine faith and earn eternal reward (James 1:12).
Victory begins with salvation: transferred from the kingdom of darkness into the Kingdom of God’s Son (Colossians 1:13).
Put on the full armor of God (Ephesians 6:13–17):
Belt of truth – stand against lies.
Breastplate of righteousness – guard your heart.
Shoes of peace – stay grounded in the gospel.
Shield of faith – extinguish doubt and fear.
Helmet of salvation – protect your mind with assurance.
Sword of the Spirit – strike back with the Word of God.
We are protected and empowered to stand firm.
The fight is not ours—it’s God’s.
Colossians 2:15 — Jesus disarmed the rulers and authorities, making a public spectacle of them by the cross.
The cross was not His defeat—it was His victory parade.
Satan and shame are already conquered.
We march in triumph behind our King.