3. We are in a spiritual battle We see it in the world around us. We know in it ourselves. The cosmic struggle of good against evil.

4. There are two teams on the field!

5. Bible tells us that evil is very real. …take your stand against the devil’s schemes. For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms. Eph 6:12

6. C S Lewis There are two equal and opposite errors into which we can fall about the devil. One is to disbelieve his existence. The other is to believe and feel an excessive and unhealthy interest in him. He is equally pleased by both errors.

7. For he has rescued us from the dominion of darkness and brought us into the kingdom of the Son he loves, in whom we have redemption, the forgiveness of sins. Col 1: 13 -4 We have been transferred!

8. The enemy is a conquered foe

9. Mark 8: 31 - 38

12. Timing… v32 Same temptation Jesus had before. Get behind me, Satan! v33 Jesus’ NO is public to make it very clear.

13. Watching for our weakness Jesus was tempted in every way. We will be tempted. Having insight and a plan is vital.

14. 1. Focus on Jesus Who will we follow? Peter was thinking of human concerns. (v33) Satan is a liar. He is a liar and the father of lies. Jn 8:44 He comes to steal and kill and destroy. Jn 10:10

15. 1. Focus on Jesus Jesus: I have come that you may have life, and have it to the full. Jn 10:10 What feeds our life with Jesus?

16. 2. Keep our relationships right Right relationships with God. Keep a short slate. Minimise the gap between stuffing up and saying sorry. Know the power of repentance and forgiveness.

17. 2. Keep our relationships right Right relationships with each other. Our brother and sister in Christ is never our enemy. For what good is it for man to gain the whole world but forfeit his soul? v36

18. 3. Win the battle of the mind Temptation always starts in the mind. …you do not have in mind… v33 Temptation isn’t a sin. Battles are won and lost in our choices. Will we accept or reject. Jesus always rejected.

19. 3. Win the battle of the mind The enemy’s tactics: Doubt - If you were a real Christian… Focus on those few prohibited things Deny the penalty – What harm can it do… Accuse – shame, guilt

20. 4. Give up on reputation! If anyone is ashamed of me… v38 We live in a culture obsessed by what others think of us. What does Jesus say?

21. 5. Get involved in serving others If anyone would come after me, he must deny himself… v34 As we serve others our focus alters. This is the opposite of self centred living.

23. Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good. Rom 12:21