State of Warfare

The Enemy Desensitzes

March 3, 2025 • Nate Hilgenkamp • Ephesians 4:17–32

Sin gradually desensitizes us, making what once felt wrong seem normal, which is exactly how Satan works to separate us from God. Ephesians 4 warns that when we give ourselves over to sin, we become aimless, hardened, and blind to its destruction, ultimately giving the enemy a foothold in our lives. Nate reminds us that as Christians, we are called to reject sin, pursue sanctification, and immerse ourselves in God's truth to fully embrace the life He desires for us. Sin Makes you senseless Christians part with sin to pursue sanctification Sin gives Satan a space in Christ's place Life Group Discussion: What are some warning signs that you might be drifting toward spiritual numbness? How can accountability within a community help us in the process of sanctification? What steps can you take this week to remove sin’s foothold and invite Christ into every area of your life?

Deconstruction

February 23, 2025 • Jonathan Pokluda • 1 Timothy 4:1–10

As we continue our series, “State of Warfare”, JP looks to 1 Timothy 4:1-10, explaining the enemy’s mission to “abandon the faith” by causing believers to doubt and turn away from God. He highlights the enemy’s method of replacing a genuine relationship with God with rigid rules, leading to spiritual emptiness. JP encourages believers to stay motivated by building a faith that lasts, rooted in gratitude, prayer, and steadfast trust in Jesus. The enemy’s mission: Get you to “abandon the faith” The enemy’s method: Get you to replace relationship with rules Our motivation: To build a faith that lasts Life Group Discussion: Can you share a time when you felt tempted to give up on your faith? How did you respond? How can legalism affect your personal connection with God and others? How does gratitude play a role in strengthening your faith journey?

Don’t be Deceived

February 16, 2025 • Nate Hilgenkamp • John 8:31–46

Pastor Nate emphasizes that true freedom is found in abiding in Jesus' teachings, as God's truth breaks the chains of sin. He warns that Satan, the father of lies, seeks to deceive and destroy, leading people toward spiritual death. Ultimately, Nate reminds us that who we listen to determines who we belong to—either we follow God’s truth and find life, or we believe Satan’s lies and remain in bondage. God’s truth leads to freedom Satan’s lies lead to death Who you listen to is who you belong to Life Group Discussion: How can we ensure we are actively listening to and applying God's truth daily? In what ways have you seen deception negatively impact relationships, faith, or personal growth? What influences in your life are shaping the way you think and believe?

Suffering by Satan is Shaping by God

February 10, 2025 • John Elmore • 2 Corinthians 12:7–10

Pastor John talks about spiritual battles, explaining that struggles—whether from life, our own choices, or Satan—challenge our faith. Using 2 Corinthians 12, he shows how Paul’s hardships made him rely on God even more. In the end, trusting God through tough times makes us stronger and brings Him glory. Satan seeks to destroy you through suffering God shapes you in suffering We glorify God by trusting in the suffering Life Group Discussion: How have you seen suffering challenge your faith or the faith of others? Why do you think God allows suffering if He loves us? How can our response to suffering be a testimony to others?

Real Weapons for a Real War

February 2, 2025 • Jonathan Pokluda • Ephesians 6:10–20

In our series State of Warfare, Pastor JP emphasizes the reality of spiritual warfare and the need to wear the full armor of God. He calls believers to walk in truth, act righteously, share the Gospel, stand firm in faith, know their salvation, use God’s Word, and pray continually. Through this, Christians can resist deception and stand strong in Christ. Walking truth Acting in righteousness Ready with The Gospel Firm in Faith Aware of your salvation Responding with The Word Engaged in prayer Life Group Discussion: Have you ever struggled with believing lies about yourself or God? How did you overcome it? In what areas of your life do you feel the strongest temptation to compromise righteousness? Who in your life needs to hear the Gospel, and what steps can you take to reach them? What experiences or struggles have tested your faith the most? How would you explain salvation to someone who has misconceptions about it? What are the biggest obstacles to maintaining a consistent prayer life?

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