Give No Room To The Devil — Zac Poonen — September 6, 2023
http://rlcf.church River of Life Christian Fellowship 1306 N Lincoln Avenue Loveland, Colorado - 80537, USA
Summary
The sermon emphasizes that believers must actively prevent the devil from gaining any foothold in their lives, citing Ephesians 4:27. Key areas where people give room to the devil include unresolved anger, covetousness (especially regarding money and material desires), and unconfessed bitterness in the heart. The speaker urges listeners to live lives that reflect Christ's example, trusting God completely rather than relying on worldly habits or material expectations.
Outline
The message in plain words, in the order it unfolds. Select a time to jump the video to that moment.
Giving no place to the devilIn Ephesians 4:27, we are commanded not to give any place to the devil, particularly in the context of unresolved anger left over before sunset.
Specific ways Satan gains a footholdSatan gains room in our lives through anger, covetousness, dishonesty in finances, and careless words spoken between family members.Ephesians 4:26–29
Bitterness and slander in the heartHolding onto hidden bitterness against a relative or coworker, along with spreading slander, grieves the Holy Spirit and invites Satan into our homes.
How Lucifer became SatanEzekiel 28 describes the anointed cherub in Eden whose heart was lifted up in pride because of his beauty and wisdom, corrupting his position.
The desire to ascend above GodIsaiah 14 shows that Satan's fall began when he was dissatisfied with his position and sought to ascend above the stars of God, bringing rebellion and evil into existence.Isaiah 14:12–15
The opposite paths of pride and humilityWhile the angel tried to go up and became the devil, Jesus came all the way down in humility to provide salvation, setting a pattern for His followers.
The deceiver and the father of liesRevelation 12 and John 8 describe Satan as the deceiver of the whole world and a liar with no truth in him, making hypocrisy and lying dangerous entry points for his influence.Revelation 12:9
Worshiping God in spirit and in truthJesus explains in John 4 that God seeks worshipers who mean what they say rather than merely going through external rituals or singing thoughtlessly.John 4:24
Standing for truth at personal costBelievers must refuse to compromise or tell lies, even when facing professional pressure or the risk of losing a job, choosing instead to honor God above all.
Satan accuses believers day and nightRevelation 12 reveals Satan as the accuser of the brethren who works around the clock pointing out believers' failures before God.Revelation 12:10
Jesus ever lives to make intercessionHebrews 7 shows the contrast to the devil's accusations: Jesus continually lives to pray and intercede for those who draw near to God.Hebrews 7:24–25
The vision of Joshua and the high priestZechariah 3 pictures Satan accusing a believer clothed in filthy garments, while the Lord cleanses him and Zechariah asks for a clean turban to make him glorious.Zechariah 3:1–5
Building a church the gates of hell cannot overpowerMatthew 16 records Jesus' promise to build His church, which cannot be overcome by the devil when believers reject pride, lying, and accusation in favor of love and prayer.Matthew 16:18
