Lesson 2: The Enemy Works In The Mind

Study Guide / Outline

Section 1: Introduction

• Description: The text begins by introducing the topic of spiritual warfare and the story of Jesus and the possessed man.
• Main Points:
  • Jesus encounters a possessed man with many evil spirits.
  • The significance of the story lies in understanding how demonic spirits can affect individuals.

Section 2: Naming the Spirits

• Description: This section discusses why Jesus asked the possessed man for his name and the importance of recognizing that individuals can be tormented by multiple evil spirits.
• Main Points:
  • Jesus asked for the name of the spirits to reveal that multiple spirits can torment a person simultaneously.
  • Demonic spirits can affect the soul (mind, will, emotions) rather than the spirit.
  • The devil’s influence is through deception and control of the soul.
• Scripture Reference: Mark 5:9, where the evil spirits respond, “My name is Legion, for we are many.”

Section 3: The Devil’s Influence

• Description: This part delves into how the devil influences individuals by controlling their minds and affecting their thoughts and emotions.
• Main Points:
  • The devil doesn’t control the spirit but influences the soul (mind, will, emotions).
  • Demonic influence works through deception and manipulation.
  • Jesus was tempted with the offer of “exousia” (influence), not “dunamis” (supernatural power).
• Scripture Reference: None mentioned.

Section 4: Roaring Lion Analogy

• Description: This section interprets the analogy of the devil being a roaring lion and explains how the devil uses his voice to deceive.
• Main Points:
  • The devil is not a lion but acts like one, roaring to intimidate.
  • The devil tries to mimic God’s voice to deceive.
  • Christians have the authority to resist the devil’s influence.
• Scripture Reference: 1 Peter 5:8, which mentions the devil as a roaring lion seeking whom he may devour.

Section 5: Laughing at the Devil

• Description: This part emphasizes the need to resist the devil’s lies by laughing at his attempts to deceive.
• Main Points:
  • Recognize that the devil is a liar and the author of lies.
  • Rejoice when the devil speaks lies because the opposite is true.
  • Refuse to accept the devil’s negative thoughts and declarations.
• Scripture Reference: None mentioned.

Section 6: Using Your Authority

• Description: This section encourages believers to use their authority to rebuke the devil and take control of their thoughts and circumstances.
• Main Points:
  • Believers can use their authority to command the devil to leave.
  • Speaking out against the devil is a powerful way to exercise authority.
  • Reject lies and negative thoughts, replacing them with God’s truth.
• Scripture Reference: None mentioned.

Section 7: Testimonies of Victory

• Description: The text concludes with testimonies of individuals who exercised their authority and saw breakthroughs in their lives.
• Main Points:
  • Personal testimonies highlight the power of rebuking the devil and rejecting his lies.
  • Believers can experience freedom from torment and deception.
• Scripture Reference: None mentioned.