Masquerade: A Final Word

2018-11-04 
Pastor Jonathan Falwell 

Key Verse: Ephesians 6:10
Finally, my brethren, be strong in the Lord and in the power of His might.

Today, we conclude our series entitled Masquerade. During this series, we have taken a deep dive into the things we do, either intentionally or subconsciously, to hide reality and to be what we are not. We’ve dealt with issues like forgiveness, past pains, pride, social media, addictions, religion over relationship and many others. In this sermon, we will see that victory is assured in Christ alone.

Ephesians 6:10-20 (NLT) A final word: Be strong in the Lord and in his mighty power. 11 Put on all of God’s armor so that you will be able to stand firm against all strategies of the devil. 12 For we are not fighting against flesh-and-blood enemies, but against evil rulers and authorities of the unseen world, against mighty powers in this dark world, and against evil spirits in the heavenly places. 13 Therefore, put on every piece of God’s armor so you will be able to resist the enemy in the time of evil. Then after the battle you will still be standing firm. 14 Stand your ground, putting on the belt of truth and the body armor of God’s righteousness. 15 For shoes, put on the peace that comes from the Good News so that you will be fully prepared. 16 In addition to all of these, hold up the shield of faith to stop the fiery arrows of the devil. 17 Put on salvation as your helmet, and take the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God. 18 Pray in the Spirit at all times and on every occasion. Stay alert and be persistent in your prayers for all believers everywhere. 19 And pray for me, too. Ask God to give me the right words so I can boldly explain God’s mysterious plan that the Good News is for Jews and Gentiles alike. 20 I am in chains now, still preaching this message as God’s ambassador. So pray that I will keep on speaking boldly for him, as I should.

1. A Final Word (vs 10)

• Greek word – “loipos” – the rest of the whole

2. Be Strong – (vs 10b)

• 6:10b…Be strong in the Lord and in his mighty power.
• It is not possible to be strong on your own, it takes HIM!
• Taking off the masks we are so likely wearing can only be done with the help and presence of Christ
  • Our masks exist because of our feelings of inadequacy, jealousy, pride, past pain
  • They exist because we are valuing our lives based not on God’s view of our lives but on man’s

3. We Have What We Need

• 6:11-13a Put on all of God’s armor so that you will be able to stand firm against all strategies of the devil. 12 For we are not fighting against flesh-and-blood enemies, but against evil rulers and authorities of the unseen world, against mighty powers in this dark world, and against evil spirits in the heavenly places. 13 Therefore, put on every piece of God’s armor so you will be able to resist the enemy in the time of evil…
• God has equipped us with everything needed to win the battle
• Only thing keeping us from winning is us

4. Stand Your Ground

• 6:13b-14a Then after the battle you will still be standing firm. 14 Stand your ground…

5. Truth Matters (vs 14b)

• 6:14b …putting on the belt of truth…
• Greek word – “perizonnymi”– to gird yourself
• Greek word – “aletheia”– something that actually happened
• A false view of our lives or a low self esteem that leads us to wear the mask is what keeps us from the full protection of the armor of God

6. The Truth of the Truth

• Truth never changes
  • Proverbs 12:19 Truthful words stand the test of time, but lies are soon exposed.
• Truth frees us
  • John 8:32 And you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free.
• Truth is found only in Him
  • John 14:6 Jesus told him, “I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one can come to the Father except through me

7. The End Game – (vss 19-20)

• 6:19-20 And pray for me, too. Ask God to give me the right words so I can boldly explain God’s mysterious plan that the Good News is for Jews and Gentiles alike. 20 I am in chains now, still preaching this message as God’s ambassador. So pray that I will keep on speaking boldly for him, as I should.