Do Not Wrestle Against Flesh — David Bertsch — January 7, 2024
http://rlcf.church River of Life Christian Fellowship 1306 N Lincoln Avenue Loveland, Colorado - 80537, USA
Summary
The speaker emphasizes the critical importance of continually paying attention to the Word of God to avoid drifting away, drawing parallels between the Israelites' need for divine vision and the church's need for the Lord's voice. He focuses heavily on 2 Corinthians 10, teaching that while believers walk in the flesh, they must not wage war after the flesh. He concludes by suggesting that the primary battle against the flesh and temptation occurs within the private sphere of the home, rather than in public settings like church.
Outline
The message in plain words, in the order it unfolds. Select a time to jump the video to that moment.
Where there is no vision, the people perishQuoting Proverbs, the speaker emphasizes that people will perish and lose their way if they do not receive a direct vision and direction from the Lord.Proverbs 29:18
The scarcity of the word of the Lord in Samuel's dayLooking at 1 Samuel, Bertsch points out that during the time of the judges there was no open vision and the word of the Lord was precious because it was rare.
Hearing from the Lord individually as a churchIt is vital that all believers hear from God personally rather than just participating in church activities without spiritual direction.
We walk in the flesh but do not war after the fleshPaul instructs believers that their battle is not fought with carnal weapons, but through weapons mighty through God to pull down strongholds and capture thoughts.
Where does the temptation to war in the flesh happen?Bertsch reflects on daily life settings and suggests that the greatest temptation to fight in the flesh often happens right at home among family members.
Put on the whole armor of God to stand against the devilBelievers are instructed to stand against the wiles of the devil because their struggle is against spiritual wickedness in high places rather than flesh and blood.Ephesians 6:10–13
Put on the Lord Jesus Christ and make no provision for the fleshIn Romans 13, Paul calls believers to cast off works of darkness, put on the armor of light, and make no provision to fulfill the lusts of the flesh.Romans 13:12–14
Children of the light called to watch and be soberFirst Thessalonians reminds the church that they are children of the day, called to stay alert, put on the breastplate of faith and love, and encourage one another.1 Thessalonians 5:5–11
