A Declaration of War!

To plant a church is to declare war, in the name and by the power of Jesus Christ, on the dominion of Satan. “For we do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the cosmic powers over this present darkness, against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly places” (Eph. 6:12). To plant a church is to make a frontal assault on the gates of hell, and as such we ought to expect resistance, battles, wounds, setbacks—and ultimately victory, for our Lord has promised that the gates of hell will not prevail against us! (Matt 16:18)

Indeed, in Christ our victory is assured! Now, this doesn’t mean that we won’t face intense battles, but it does mean that in Christ the war is already won. This doesn’t mean that the vision we have for this church will come to pass exactly as we imagine it or that everything will go the way we think it should, but it does mean that in Christ, no matter what the outcome of this endeavor, the victory of the Kingdom of God over the dominion of Satan is guaranteed! And as sons and daughters of King Jesus, we live in the power of his famous words from the cross, “It is finished” (John 19:30).

Brothers and sisters, we are about to enter a war but we will be fighting as victors!

I close with three important thoughts: First, be alert and know that you’re in a battle with Satan, the world, and your flesh—expect it and don’t be surprised by it. Second, understand that your enemies are not kind and that they want to steal, kill, and destroy you (John 10:10)—this is a serious battle. Third, therefore, arm yourselves for battle by putting on the full armor of God (Eph. 6:10-20) and being found daily in the presence of Christ. To live in Christ is to live in victory. “Submit yourselves therefore to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you. Draw near to God, and he will draw near to you” (James 4:7-8).

With hope in Christ, Pastor Charlie