The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy; I have come that they may have life and have it to the full. - John 10:10 -

We have an enemy. We were born into a world at war, and you will live all your days in the midst of a great battle, involving all the forces of heaven and hell played out here on earth. Where did you think all this opposition and grief is coming from? Where is the joy and peace? Why all the unexplainable losses and inhumane atrocities? Why the undeserving and untimely loss of family members?

To answer these nagging questions, you have to dig in and seek out the truth. And the truth may not be an easy one to grasp at first, but once you do you will be blessed. You see, war is not just one of many themes throughout the Bible, It is the backdrop of the whole story. It begins in the early chapters of Genesis and comes full circle in Revelation.  These studies help us to seek out Gods word on this very controversial subject.

Editors Note: The first part of this lesson covers the dark past of our enemy. I believe that too much time spent discussing the enemy can be unhealthy in our spiritual growth. I also believe God wants us to be aware of the Spiritual War we have been born into and part of that awareness includes knowing who our enemy is. This study is put together to help emphasize the need to be aware of our situation and the sense of urgency God has placed on this awareness, through his word in scripture.

...Put on the full armor of God so that you can take your stand against the devil's schemes. For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms. Therefore put on the full armor of God so that when the day of evil comes you may be able to stand your ground. Stand firm then with the belt of truth buckled around your waist, with the breastplate of Righteousness in place, and with your feet fitted with the readiness that comes from the gospel of peace. In addition to all this take up the shield of faith with which you can extinguish all the flaming arrows of the evil one. Take the helmet of salvation and the sword of the spirit which is the word of God. And pray in the spirit on all occasions with all kinds of prayers and requests...-Ephesians. 6:10-18

2 Chronicles 1:1-12