Prepared by William Earnhardt, for Sabbath School class, September 23, 2023.

Main Theme: Peace comes from knowing Christ is fighting our battles with us and for us.

Read in Class:  Ephesians 6:14, I Peter 4:1, 5:8. Define the main idea of this passage.
Study: How does Paul’s imagine believers preparing for the battle against evil?
Apply: In what ways have you experienced the idea that goodness, holiness, and truth can be a protection?
Share: Your friend says working for peace if futile in a world where we know there will aways be wars and rumors of wars. What do you tell your friend?

Read in Class:  Ephesians 1:2, 2:14,15,17. Define the main idea of this passage.
Study: Why does Paul use detailed military imagery when he is so interested in peace?
Apply: How does the following text help us understand what Paul’s military imagery should mean in our lives as believers? “God calls upon us to put on the armor. We do not want Saul’s armor, but the whole armor of God. Then we can go forth to the work with hearts full of Christ-like tenderness, compassion, and love.” — Ellen G. White, [Australasian] Union Conference Record, July 28, 1899.
Share: Your friend asks, what is the difference between the peace God gives and the peace the world gives? What do you tell your friend?

Read in Class:  Ephesians 6:16,17. Define the main idea of this passage.
Study: When and how should believers as combatants use the shield, the helmet, and the sword?
Apply: Does the military images teach us just how literal the great controversy really is and how seriously we should take it?
Share: Your friend asks, “How does the shield of faith protect you from the fiery darts hurled in your direction by others?” What do you tell your friend?

Read in Class:  Philippians 4:6, Colossians 4:2, I Thessalonians 5:16-18..
Study: Review the calls to prayer. Which one inspires you the most? Why?
Apply: How can we conduct prayer ministry based on these messages?

Share: Is there something in this week’s lesson that a friend needs to hear? How can you plan to share it with them this week?