Introduction: Scripture Reading- John 12:31-34
A. Text: John 12:27-36
B. Setting the Stage: The ongoing spiritual battle between the Son of Man, Jesus Christ and the Prince of this World, Satan.
C. Purpose: To understand the contrasting nature, authority, and ultimate victory of Jesus over the forces of darkness.
Discussion:
I. The Son of Man
A. Definition: Jesus Christ, referred to as the Son of Man throughout the New Testament.
B. Characteristics:
1. Incarnation: Born of a virgin, fully God and fully man.
2. Perfect Example: Lived a sinless life, demonstrating humility, love, and obedience to God.
3. Authority: Given all authority in heaven and on earth (Matthew 28:18). To forgive sins (Matt. 9:1-8, Mar. 2:1-12, Lk 5:17-26 [Read]; Lk 23:39-43)
C. Mission/Purpose:
1. Redemption: To seek and save the lost (Luke 19:10; Matt. 15:24, 18:10-14 [one sheep gone astray]).
2. Sacrifice: Offered Himself as a ransom for many [Mark 10:35-45].
3. Victory: Conquered sin and death through His resurrection [1 Corinthians 15:50-57].
II. The Prince of this World
A. Identification: Satan, the fallen angel who rebelled against God.
B. Characteristics:
1. Deceiver: Known as the father of lies [John 8:39-47].
2. Tempter: Seeks to lead humanity astray from God's truth [Matthew 4:1-11].
3. Accuser: Accuses the brethren before God; day and night [Revelation 12:7-11]. Job 1:6-12
C. Agenda:
1. Destruction: Seeks to steal, kill, and destroy (John 10:10).
2. Domination: Exercised temporary power over the world (Matt. 10:1, I Cor. 13:8-10, spiritual gifts and powers would cease).
3. Defiance: Opposes the will of God and His kingdom.
_III. The Spiritual Battle
A. Nature: A cosmic struggle between good and evil, light and darkness. [Gen. 3:14-19]; Rev. 12:7-11; Job 1:6-12; Lk 10:17-20 “as lightning”
B. Tactics:
1. Deception: Satan deceives and blinds the minds of unbelievers [2 Corinthians 4:1-6].
2. Temptation: Satan tempts believers to sin and compromise their faith (1 Peter 5:8-9).
3. Opposition: Satan opposes the work of God and His people (Ephesians 6:12). [Acts 26:15-18 Paul’s mission from Christ.]
C. Endurance: Believers are called to stand firm in the faith, resisting the devil (James 4:7).
IV. The Victory of Christ
A. Crucifixion: Jesus defeated Satan's power through His death on the cross [Colossians 2:8-15].
B. Resurrection: Jesus triumphed over sin and death, securing eternal life for believers (1 Corinthians 15:55-57).
C. Exaltation: Jesus is seated at the right hand of God, far above all powers and authorities (Ephesians 1:20-21). Mk 12:36, Heb 1:13, Heb 10:13, I Cor. 15:25-26
V. Application
A. Awareness: Recognize the reality of spiritual warfare and the tactics of the enemy.
B. Authority: Claim the victory of Christ through faith and obedience.
C. Action: Resist the devil, stand firm in the truth, and advance the kingdom of God.
Conclusion:
A. 1 John 4:4- "Ye are of God, little children, and have overcome them: because greater is he that is in you, than he that is in the world."
B. We all can overcome and share in that victory if we obey the gospel and continue to be obedient till death.
C. Invitation