Further Resources

Small Group Guide: The Church as an Army
Key verses: Ephesians 6 (Armour of God), John 8:31-32, 2 Tim 3:16-17
Key Takeaways:
1. Christianity involves spiritual warfare; we are in a fight whether we realize it or not.
2. Satan's agenda is to stop people from becoming Christians or to make Christians ineffective.
3. We need to be equipped with spiritual armor to stand firm against the enemy's schemes.
4. Truth, righteousness, the gospel of peace, faith, salvation, and the Word of God are our spiritual weapons.
Discussion Questions:
1. The sermon mentions that many Christians are surprised by the battle they face after salvation. Have you experienced this? How has your understanding of the Christian life changed since you first believed?
2. How do you typically respond to spiritual warfare in your life? Do you tend to recognize it, or do you find yourself "sleepwalking" into compromise?
3. The sermon emphasizes the importance of truth. In what areas of your life do you find it challenging to discern or hold onto truth?
4. Discuss the concept of "putting on righteousness." What does this look like in practical terms in your daily life?
5. How can we be better prepared to share the "gospel of peace" in our everyday interactions?
6. What are some "flaming arrows" you've experienced in your life? How have you used the "shield of faith" to combat them?
7. The sermon mentions that Roman soldiers' shields were designed to link together. How can we support each other in our spiritual battles as a community?
Practical Applications:
1. Truth: Commit to spending time in God's Word daily this week. Share with the group one truth you've learned and how you'll apply it.
2. Righteousness: Identify one area in your life where you need to "put on righteousness." What specific steps will you take to walk in obedience in this area?
3. Gospel of Peace: Practice sharing your testimony or a brief explanation of the gospel with a partner in the group.
4. Faith: Write down 3-5 promises from Scripture that you can use as "shields" against specific doubts or fears you face.
5. Community: Pair up with an accountability partner from the group to check in regularly about your spiritual battles and victories.
Closing Prayer: Thank God for equipping us with spiritual armor. Pray for strength and discernment to recognize and stand firm against the enemy's schemes. Ask for courage to live out the truths discussed in the group.