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"For we do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this age, against spiritual hosts of wickedness in the heavenly places."

Text: Ephesians 6:12

“WE DO NOT WRESTLE AGAINST FLESH AND BLOOD”

Paul’s choice of the word “wrestle” must be noted. He seeks to warn his readers that this struggle against the devil is a most deadly thing. No soldier should act presumptuously. He must never underestimate the cunning wiles of the devil. Should he make this mistake, he will lose the battle.

1. The lexical idea behind the word “wrestle” (“pale”)

a) Wrestling was a game in the ancient days.

b) Wrestlers are pitted against each other.

c) Strict rules apply in wrestling matches.

d) In order to be good at wrestling the following are needed:-

i) Skill

ii) Strength

iii) Strategy

2. The applied theological meaning of the word “pale”

a) This is no game.

b) Paul used the word “wrestle” to convey a strong thought.

i) It will involve close combat.

ii) The solider will need everything he can muster to win the battle.

3. “Flesh and blood” (“haima kai sarka”)

a) It would be easier if the battle is against mere human foes.

b) But there is a solemn reminder that the devil is no “flesh and blood enemy”.

c) The word “devil” (“diabolos”).

i) Essentially this word means “slanderer”.

ii) He is called an accuser of the brethren (Cf. Revelation 12:10).

iii) He recognizes no rules in the waging of his wars; he will use any and every means available to win his battles.