Ephesians Chapter 6 Discussion Page 4

some people say that praying in the Spirit means praying in tongues, is this true?

Finally, Apostle Paul warned Christians against their enemies of whom he described as "spiritual wickedness in high places" ( Eph. 6:12). This expression describes, and includes, generally all the myriads of demonic personalities without the distinction of hierarchic ranks.

This "wickedness" occurs in "high places". Since the word "places" is not in the Greek manuscripts, the King James Translators appropriately added it in italics for translative clarity.

The word "high" is an adjective translated from the Greek compound adjective root "" (transliterated "epouranios"; pronounced "ep-oo-RAN-ee-os") which combines two words:

1st, the Greek preposition "" (transliterated "epi"; pronounced "ep-EE"), meaning "over" or "upon";

2nd, the Greek noun "" (transliterated "ouranos"; pronounced "oo-ran-OS") translated "heaven" in the New Testament.

The Bible speaks of multiple heavens generally (e.g. Eph. 4:10; "all heavens"), and three heavens specifically (e.g. 2Cor. 12:2):

1st, The earth's atmosphere;

2nd, Outer space occupied by the sun, moon, planets, and stars;

3rd, The abode of JEHOVAH GOD.

Here, this "high places" wherein this "spiritual wickedness" exists identifies first, the earth's atmosphere, and second, the earth's celestial heavens, both described by Paul as "the whole creation [which] groaneth and travaileth in pain together until now" ( Rom. 8:22).

The same Greek adjective, here translated "high places", also translates into the very positive expression, "heavenly places", four other times, and only in Ephesians (1:3 & 20; 2:6; 3:10).

Additionally besides the "principalities" and "powers", Apostle Paul warned Christians concerning the enemies which he described as "rulers of the darkness of this world" ( Eph. 6:12). The word "rulers" (note the plurality) translates from the Greek compound noun "" (transliterated "kosmokrator"; pronounced "kos-mo-KRAT-ore"), which literally means "world rulers". These rulers fall directly in the hierarchic chain of command under the authority of demonic principalities and powers.

"Kosmokrator" combines two Greek words:

1st, The Greek noun "" (transliterated "kosmos"; pronounced "KOS-mos") derives the English noun "cosmos," meaning the created universe in its entirety. "Cosmos" refers to the natural fallen world that presently exists under the curse. Here, "cosmos" describes:

+ The actual planet we call "earth" (Ac. 17:24);

+ The arrangement, order, and nature of the physical world ( 1Jn. 5:4);

+ The planet's human race ( Mt. 5:14, 16);

+ The world's affairs and the process of conducting them ( Jn. 8:23).

2nd, The Greek verb "" (transliterated "krateo"; pronounced "krat-EH-o") means these demonic personalities rule over their delegated dominions around the world much like dictators rule by decree over their nations.

Note that these "rulers" are especially sinister in nature for they rule "of the darkness" ( Eph. 6:12). Contextually, this darkness is spiritual in nature subjected to the rule of demonic personalities and describes:

+ spiritual ignorance and unbelief (e.g. Isa. 9:2; Mt. 6:23; 1Jn. 1:5-9; 2:8-11);

+ spiritual deception in false doctrines (e.g. Ac. 26:18; 1Cor. 4:5-6; 1Thes. 5:4-5; 1Pet. 2:9);

+ evil lifestyles (e.g. Jn. 3:19; 12:46; Rom. 13:12; Eph. 5:11);

+ the evil realm of Satan and demons (e.g. Lu. 22:53; Eph. 6:12; 2Pet. 2:4; Jude v.6).

Note, these "rulers" are Satanic in nature and either influence or possess their target humans "taken captive by him at hi ( 2Tim. 2:26).

The "principalities" of which Apostle Paul identified in Ephesians 6:2 translates from the Greek noun root "" (transliterated "arche"; pronounced "ar-KHAY"), and derives the English element "arch - " meaning "chief", or the first, principal, and highest position.

The term "principalities" (plural) surely describe demonic archangels counterpart to "Michael the archangel" (Jude v.9). These demonic principalities hold the highest positions of power and authority immediately under Satan.

Satan, identified as "the devil" (v.11), is the chief principality of this world, for CHRIST titled him "the prince {Greek noun "archon"} of this world" ( Jn. 12:31; 14:30; 16:11).

Next Paul identified supernatural "powers" ( Eph. 6:12) as the enemies of GOD's people, and of whom we must resist. Here, the term "powers" translates from the Greek noun root "" (transliterated "exousia"; pronounced "ex-oo-SEE-ah"), meaning the demonic personalities described as "powers" wield delegated, unrestricted authoritative power. These powers fall directly in the hierarchic chain of command under the authority of demonic principalities.

In Ephesians 6:12, the word "wrestle" describes a contest of physical strength whereby the winner throws his opponent off his feet and pins him to the mat.

Contextually, this wrestling is spiritual rather than physical as verse twelve explains. It is a spiritual fight to the death! Paul often described the Christians' warfare exemplified by games of contest such as:

+ footraces-

( 1Cor. 9:24 & 26) "they which run in a race run all, I therefore so run"

( Gal. 2:2) "lest by any means I should run, or had run, in vain"

( Gal. 5:7) "Ye did run well"

( Php. 2:16) "I have not run in vain"

+ gymnastic strength and endurance-

( Php. 3:14) "I press toward the mark for the prize of the high calling of GOD"

+ boxing-

( 1Cor. 9:26) "so fight I, not as one that beateth the air"

+ physical grappling-

( 2Tim. 2:5) "if a man also strive for masteries"

( 2Tim. 4:7) "I have fought a good fight"

(Jude v.3) "earnestly contend for the faith which was once delivered unto the saints"

Thank you Chris for explaining this to me. We are in a very dark period. I will stay in the light of our Lord and pray for my enemies!

didnt really answer my question...just gave me more of what i already know

read 2 thessalonians 2:10-11.

Jesus says we should not judge things before the time! With that said, it is a great concern that the church has for the last60 yrs changed the gospel to read without conviction. The law and gospel are a natural phenomenon, that work very well while convicting man of sin, with the saving grace found in the blood of Christ. Man has denied it and still does. The blindness occurs, when we deny Christ. These things have not changed since the time of Adam and Eve. Man will live together as the wheat and the tares. The time it takes for the servants to bind the tares, is questionable. After their finished , you might be looking for the hand of God! If you are fortunate you will hear Him coming! Repent and be baptized! GOD IS IN CONTROL!

Amazingly with all of the sci-fy and superhero movies and games we view; people are not ready to take what The Church is teaching and preaching about the Rapture. Although Netflix does have a few movies (not exactly scriptural).

The Parable of the 10 virgins in the Gospels, Jesus is showing us to be ready every day, to go with Him. The "Oil" is the joy of the Holy Spirit who readies us for the Rapture.

We must be born again from above to be in tune to the signs. JOHN 3. It's just like with car insurance: there is basic liability that will NOT get your car replaced in a crash. Christians must have the full package. We're ready for everything the moment it happens. RIGHT NOW, get those you love ready to go with Jesus.

I believe with this pandemic, the powers above our government, are finding out how to keep people corralled. Shut up in homes; afraid to go to church; teach kids at home; etc.

If Biden is elected...I can only say expect our tax pain threshold to increase by leaps.

Our future is in New Jerusalem. It is not of this world! God is going to scrap this and restore earth to its 1st day condition.

2nd Peter Chapter 3 is not a fairytale. Like a star named Wormwood is on course for earth now. Revelation 8:11

NASA is tracking it but of course Network news fails to report it.

"They're already taking cash and coins and are lying about a shortage. RFID CHIPS will take the place of money; legal tender. They will make it so aggravating that people will take a Mark on the FACE or HAND. Flu shots are not RFID. See YouTube; people getting RFID's implanted in their HANDS.

I'm not on Facebook, so put it out there if you want to.

First there is to be a FALLING AWAY. With all the Churches closed by Congress, it's not a hard leap to realize the wandering away of millions of lukewarm Christians. Revelation 3:16, 20.

Get into the New Testament and KNOW what is coming at us next. Help at least 2 people to trust Jesus, be born again spiritually.

God is soverign. He rules all. Satan is the little g good of this world. God is Good. All powerful. All knowing. All present... Holy, righteous.. he allows stuff to happen but it doesn't happen unless he allows it!

Yes l agree and the comment l want too is that also walk in the spirit so that we will not fulfill the list of the flesh there of. If you keep your mind on Christ He will keep us in perfect peace who's mind is stayed on Thee.

Sister Shelia,

I would like to add something to your initial question: Is it not flesh and blood (people) that runs these principalities?

The answer is yes. Satan the devil has a 'seed', in both the spiritual and physical realms. Remember the conversation Christ had with Satan in the wilderness. Satan displayed for Christ all the kingdoms of this world and offered them to Christ in exchange for one act of worship. He also stated that he has the authority to give it to whomever he chose.

Thus, we should be aware that this world we live in today is ruled by Satan and he puts in positions of power whomever he chooses. Also he is called 'the god of this world'. ( 2 Cor 4:4) Therefore, the need for the 'spiritual armor' The Most High encourages us to wear for protection in this world - Satan's world.

Now, your second question: So is it useless to pray for this world?

The answer is yes and no. Yes, we constantly pray that those we have occasion to speak with might 'hear' our words and withdraw from this wicked world. As Christ said: We are no part of the world, as he was no part of the world. So yes we should pray that some might join us in turning our backs on this dying wicked world we live in today. It is doomed and will be replaced by the Kingdom of God. ( Dan 2:44)

On the other hand, NO, we do not pray for Satan's continued dominion over the earth. He and his 'seed', visible and invisible must be removed to make room for the Kingdom we were taught by Christ to pray for. Amen.

That was very interesting what you mentioned, Tameka.

Many years ago, I heard a preacher share how, at the start of each day, he would take each piece of his spiritual armour & animatedly put it on himself. This made the act of preparedness to face each day, with the Enemy of our souls at the door, a graphical reminder of how every part of his body was prepared for the day's battle. This at first sounded a little childish & simplistic, but it meant to him, being alert in mind & spirit as he stepped outside his front door. I say, that if it takes a few minutes each day to do this & we are better prepared to tackle the enemy, then go for it. But watchfulness is the key & not spiritual slumber. May you grow closer to your Lord & win many battles with your holy Armour.

This is so powerful.We have to remember to put on the Full Armor of God everyday. The day is so much better when i start with this chapter.

Thank you.

It is clear that we are fighting a spiritual war against enemies who are far greater in numbers, intelligence, subtlety, and power than Israel had to wage war against in terms of the Amalekites, the Moabites, and so forth. In addition, our enemy is invisible."Finally, my brethren, be strong in the Lord, and in the power of his might."

You're right that Satan is the god of this World, but Almighty God our Father is also the Creator of this World & mankind. Ultimately, we have to answer to God not to Satan for the condition of our hearts & quality of our lives. If Satan created us, then I agree, God is out of the picture & praying to Him would be useless. So, if we're so burdened to pray for the world, & specific sinners particularly, then this must be a good thing which is in harmony with the Purposes of God who created us.

"And we know Satan is the God of this world". ? So is it useless to pray for this world?

Sheila, when we look at this chapter in Ephesians from verse 10, we see the apostle Paul speaking about the Devil (v11). So when he speaks about "flesh & blood" you have understood this correctly, that it refers to people. So the contrast to this fight is found in the spiritual realm, the part of the invisible world of spirits that our human eyes cannot see.

The mention of "principalities, powers, rulers of darkness & spiritual wickedness" are all terms referring to this spirit world of evil. And we know that the god of this world is the devil ( 2 Cor 4:4, Jn 12:31, 16:11) for he rules for now, capturing the hearts of many, seducing & causing them to believe in his lies. He's have a wild time with mankind & knows that his days are numbered when he, his wicked demons, & all who reject the Lord & His Christ, will one day be locked away forever - all sin will have gone & we will return to the beauty & perfection which was in Eden.

You mentioned specifically 'principalities'. A principality is an area, whether small or large, that is ruled by a prince. My earlier Bible references speak of this 'prince'. He has ruined God's creation with sin & suffering & has a host of angels (demons) that do his bidding. He wreaks havoc over the world, yet so many are blissfully unaware of his presence & power & believe this is a normal life we live. But those who have put their trust in God & attend to His Word are Satan's prime targets & we need to remain vigilant, putting on the whole armour of God (vv 13-18) & defeat him daily in the Lord's Power. We can't get away from it - we are in a fight - the battle will be long - but the end is victory through Jesus Christ ( 1 Cor 15:57).

it says in verse 12 that we wrestle not against flesh and blood but against principalities and so on. Is it not flesh and blood (people) that runs these principalities?

Also take a look at Matthew 13:57 - Jesus had the same problem with his family not respecting him.

I don't think they're very toxic... Not saying they aren't but.. Maybe they're troubled inside. I pray that you find the answers to this. And I sure do pray that you find resolution to such an issue. In times like any.. Be sure to remain thankful to God as Job did. He will surely reward you.

I sometimes pick up the Bible and just open it and read where it lands, tonight I was feeling very hopeless and scared, and it landed on 2 Corinthians 1 - 12. I felt it was God leading me to read those verses. They are speaking of this pandemic (metaphorically). It was such a spiritual feeling that came over me and took away my anxiety and fear.

What does he mean, "Stand therefore, having your loins girt about with truth"?

Felisha, if you mean as in a house that is haunted, then I have not encountered any & the Bible doesn't speak of such occurrences. The Bible rather speaks of spirits & particularly in the Old Testament in the Bible, warnings for God's people to not deal with familiar spirits & wizards. There were people in those early days, & of course these days as well, who consulted the dead & who deal with satanic spirits. These satanic spirits are very real as seen in Scripture (see Mathew 10:1, 12:45, Mark 3:11 for a few examples). But as far as haunted houses or even in seances, it could well be evil spirits mimicking departed people. But these are just my thoughts as I've never been involved in this. And these of course, are very dangerous practices & you should stay well clear of them & from anyone who tries to seduce you to join them.

Is there a sunch thing as being haunted and so how do u know

Dear BSP..."We Are Victorious"..thru the blood of Jesus The Christ! if of course, our hearts were True to God as we prayed and proclaimed Jesus..Our Lord God and Savior! Chapt 6:12 stands out most to me in drawing attention that...if it's "not flesh and blood "...then it's Spiritual!.. Thus Spiritual Warfare...which by the way, I don't hear it being talked about much amongst "believers'.... Sad..Sad.. Thus "The Battlefield of the Mind"; as Born Again Believer's, we must 'ask the The Holy Spirit in us, to guide us in thought and decisions according to God's Will ! Thoughts and decisions ultimately reached by the "choice/choice's" made and eventually, if not sooner, consequences follow!

Lewis's comment was expressed with wisdom of God's Word..

6.12 Warns us of the grave danger we are in today.Many of our "masters" are evil, malevolent creatures under Lucifer's control. Our churches, nation's, families and friends are in mortal and spiritual peril. We must be faithful to God the only true master of all creation and clothe ourselves in the armour of His Church and Word.