Opposition - Living in the midst of a cosmic spiritual conflict

Text: Acts 14

The cause of Christ is always opposed

Paul was opposed in Iconium and in Lycaonia

The Jews who disbelieved stirred up the Gentiles to be embittered against the brethren. (v.2)

Both Jews and Greeks sought to stone them. (v.5)

Jews came from Antioch and Iconium and stoned Paul and left him for dead.

“For our struggle is not against flesh and blood,

but against the rulers, against the authorities,

against the powers of this dark world.”

Opposition Strategies

Dissension (14:2a)

Division (14:2b)

Destruction (14:5)

Distraction (14:11-18)

Danger/Death (14:19)

Responding to the Opposition

Dissention Endurance (14:3a Division Bold Witness (14:3b)

Destruction Wisdom (14:6)

Distraction Humility (14:15)

Danger Perseverance (14:21-22)

WITHOUT BATTLE

THERE IS NO BATTLE

THE GREATEST BATTLE IS WITHIN OURSELVES

IT IS THERE THAT JESUS

OFFERS US VICTORY

THE VICTORY IS WON INTERNALLY

WILL YOU KNOW HOW TO RESPOND?