Relevant Life

I have been a believer in Christ for over 25 years now. Actually next year, 2015, would be 30 years since I surrendered my heart to Christ. It is hard to believe that it has been that long. I am thankful for my life and what God has chosen to do with it.

Through my many years in the faith, I have seen the subtle and flamboyant influence of the demonic. I have seen it within the church and within the world. For the past 30 years, it is obvious that the enemy is increasing his tactics against mankind and the children of God. Today, we see a slow merging of the church into the world\’s way of life. There is almost nothing to distinguish the two apart. The demonic influence has becoming increasingly strong and many christians are oblivious to it.

Scripture is clear that the believer is not fighting the world\’s system but the masters behind it.

Ephesians 6:11-13  Put on all the armor that God supplies. In this way you can take a stand against the devil\’s strategies.  (12)  This is not a wrestling match against a human opponent. We are wrestling with rulers, authorities, the powers who govern this world of darkness, and spiritual forces that control evil in the heavenly world.  (13)  For this reason, take up all the armor that God supplies. Then you will be able to take a stand during these evil days. Once you have overcome all obstacles, you will be able to stand your ground.

There are three main issues in the church today, and each issue is influenced by demons.

1. Religion: Read Matthew 23

Religion is deeply influenced by the enemy.  Religion strips away the fear of God. It is critical of others. It allows the believer to be stuck in the past or in yesterday\’s anointing.  It is filled with man made legalism instead of following the truth of God\’s word. It keeps the believer bound to doubt and lack of hope in the things of God. Religion keeps the church divided and the enemy loves division within the ranks of God\’s people. It makes us vulnerable and less effective. Religion is a living organism which is growing each year. The true church is slowly evolving from the religious. We need to be washed with the blood of Christ again and repent from our religiousness.

2. Complacency Read Revelation 3: 14-22

Complacency is another word for Lukewarm. If the enemy can get believers to become stagnant and dead to the things of God, then there is no power to contend with. The church is powerless due to complacency and self-righteousness. Complacency comes through having too much. The American church is wealthy and have succomb to the pressures and temptations of that wealth. We build our teachings and ministries around wealth. Teachings on tithing and offerings are all based from the eyes of wealth and not from the truth of God\’s word. The church of Laodicea was bound to their wealth and technological advancements as well. Their life style put them on the opposite end of what God desired. Complacency kills the life within the Church and makes her of no use.

3. Arrogance Read Revelation 2:20  But I have something against you: You tolerate that woman Jezebel, who calls herself a prophet. She teaches and misleads my servants to sin sexually and to eat food sacrificed to idols.