A Summary of How We Fight: A Devotional Message by Sinclair Ferguson
Sinclair Ferguson’s How We Fight grounds spiritual warfare in the Apostle Paul’s charge to Timothy to “fight the good fight of faith” (1 Timothy 6:12). The Christian life is not passive. It is an active, daily battle waged with spiritual weapons and sustained by Christ-centered faith.
We Fight in the Lord’s Way
Ferguson emphasizes that God’s battles must be fought with God’s weapons. Scripture is clear that spiritual conflict is not won by human strength.
- “We do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against rulers, against the authorities, against the cosmic powers over this present darkness” (Ephesians 6:12).
- “The weapons of our warfare are not of the world but have divine power to destroy strongholds” (2 Corinthians 10:3–5).
- “The sword of the Spirit, which is the Word of God” is central to every battle (Ephesians 6:17).
- Prayer saturates and activates the Word in battle (Ephesians 6:18, James 5:16).
- The gospel of Jesus Christ remains the believer’s primary offensive and defensive weapon (Romans 1:16).
Character Is a Core Weapon
Ferguson states that Christlike character is not secondary to spiritual warfare. It is essential to it.
- “Put on then… compassion, kindness, humility, meekness, and patience” (Colossians 3:12).
- “The fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control” (Galatians 5:22–23).
- “God’s firm foundation stands, bearing this seal: ‘The Lord knows those who are His’” (2 Timothy 2:19).
- “Be holy, for I am holy” (1 Peter 1:15–16).
- The integrity of the messenger protects the credibility of the message (Matthew 5:16).
The Enemy’s Tactics Exposed
1. Intimidation and Persecution
Ferguson notes that persecution often multiplies the church rather than destroys it.
- “All who desire to live a godly life in Christ Jesus will be persecuted” (2 Timothy 3:12).
- “Blessed are those who are persecuted for righteousness’ sake” (Matthew 5:10–12).
- “The word of God increased and multiplied” even under persecution (Acts 12:24).
- “I consider that the sufferings of this present time are not worth comparing with the glory to be revealed” (Romans 8:18).
Persecution refines faith and advances the gospel (Philippians 1:12–14).
2. Internal Division
When intimidation fails, the enemy attacks unity from within.
- “Be sober-minded. Be watchful. Your adversary the devil prowls around like a roaring lion” (1 Peter 5:8).
- “Where jealousy and selfish ambition exist, there will be disorder” (James 3:16).
- “Do nothing from selfish ambition or conceit” (Philippians 2:3).
- “A house divided against itself cannot stand” (Mark 3:25).
- Unity protects spiritual strength (Ephesians 4:1–3).
Christ Must Remain Central
Ferguson insists that keeping Jesus Christ at the center of all thinking and mission is the church’s greatest protection.
- “We preach Christ crucified” (1 Corinthians 1:23).
- “I decided to know nothing among you except Jesus Christ and Him crucified” (1 Corinthians 2:2).
- “If Christ is not raised, your faith is futile” (1 Corinthians 15:17).
- “He is before all things, and in Him all things hold together” (Colossians 1:17).
- Christ-centered proclamation remains God’s chosen method for transforming lives (Romans 10:17).
A Call to Discernment and Courage
Believers are called to courageous, alert, faith-filled resistance.
- “Be strong in the Lord and in the strength of His might” (Ephesians 6:10).
- “Resist the devil, and he will flee from you” (James 4:7).
- “Fight the good fight… finish the race… keep the faith” (2 Timothy 4:7).
- “Be steadfast, immovable, always abounding in the work of the Lord” (1 Corinthians 15:58).
- The victory of the Christian is secured not by human effort, but by union with Christ (Romans 8:37).
Closing Reflection
Ferguson’s message reminds the church that spiritual warfare is won not through force, but through faith, Scripture, prayer, unity, Christlike character, and unwavering focus on Jesus. The battle is real. The victory is certain. The calling is clear.
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