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Dr. Robert Jeffress | Robert Jeffress - Exercising Power Without Exorcising Demons | April 25, 2026
- Alaska is unlike any other place on earth,
- 00:00:00.156 --> 00:00:03.193
- And this is your chance to witness god's masterpiece
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- And america's priceless treasure
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- June 13th through 20, 2026.
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- You know i can hardly wait to show you alaska.
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- I've been there before,
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- And every time i witnessed those massive glaciers
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- And towering mountains,
- 00:00:18.741 --> 00:00:20.343
- I'm reminded of how incredibly creative our god is.
- 00:00:20.343 --> 00:00:24.314
- Picture this, waking up to snow-capped peaks
- 00:00:24.314 --> 00:00:27.217
- Outside your window.
- 00:00:27.217 --> 00:00:28.685
- Then heading to your refreshing breakfast,
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- Knowing that all your meals are prepared for you.
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- The world-class service means that you can truly relax.
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- We'll explore charming villages together.
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- We'll stroll alongside the still waters
- 00:00:39.295 --> 00:00:41.664
- Of the mountain stream.
- 00:00:41.664 --> 00:00:43.299
- And yes, we'll see god's artistry at every turn.
- 00:00:43.299 --> 00:00:47.570
- Reserve your spot on the 2026 "pathway to victory"
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- Cruise to alaska by calling 888-2806-747,
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- Or visit ptv.org.
- 00:00:56.446 --> 00:00:58.882
- ♪ music ♪
- 00:00:59.215 --> 00:01:04.754
- From the pulpit of the first baptist church
- 00:01:05.655 --> 00:01:07.790
- Of dallas, texas,
- 00:01:07.790 --> 00:01:09.292
- This is "pathway to victory with dr. robert jeffress."
- 00:01:09.292 --> 00:01:13.796
- Hi, i'm robert jeffress,
- 00:01:13.796 --> 00:01:15.098
- And welcome again to "pathway to victory."
- 00:01:15.098 --> 00:01:17.467
- For decades, movies and television specials
- 00:01:17.467 --> 00:01:20.403
- Have fueled our fascination
- 00:01:20.403 --> 00:01:22.338
- With exorcisms and demonic rituals,
- 00:01:22.338 --> 00:01:25.642
- But what does the bible actually teach
- 00:01:25.642 --> 00:01:28.077
- About casting out demons?
- 00:01:28.077 --> 00:01:30.113
- Is exorcism a tool
- 00:01:30.113 --> 00:01:31.514
- That every christian should use in spiritual warfare
- 00:01:31.514 --> 00:01:34.717
- Or was it a gift reserved for a special group of people?
- 00:01:34.717 --> 00:01:37.787
- Today, we're going to examine what scripture says
- 00:01:37.787 --> 00:01:40.089
- About exercising true spiritual power.
- 00:01:40.089 --> 00:01:43.493
- The title of my message is exercising power
- 00:01:43.493 --> 00:01:46.729
- Without exercising demons
- 00:01:46.729 --> 00:01:49.299
- On today's edition of "pathway to victory."
- 00:01:49.299 --> 00:01:52.936
- ♪ music ♪
- 00:01:52.936 --> 00:02:01.811
- ♪ the sun was darkened and the heavens thundered ♪
- 00:02:02.845 --> 00:02:08.184
- ♪ and for a moment death had thought it conquered ♪
- 00:02:09.252 --> 00:02:14.557
- ♪ but it wasn't over 'til you said, "it's over" ♪
- 00:02:15.558 --> 00:02:21.197
- ♪ your word is greater still ♪
- 00:02:21.864 --> 00:02:27.403
- ♪ the perfect sacrifice, your body broken ♪
- 00:02:28.338 --> 00:02:33.710
- ♪ as you restored to us what sin had stolen ♪
- 00:02:34.644 --> 00:02:40.016
- ♪ once and for all you tore the veil wide open ♪
- 00:02:41.017 --> 00:02:46.789
- ♪ your power is stronger still ♪
- 00:02:47.457 --> 00:02:51.794
- -♪ all praise, all praise ♪ -♪ all praise, all praise ♪
- 00:02:52.996 --> 00:02:58.034
- -♪ to the name above all names ♪ -♪ to the name above all names ♪
- 00:02:59.369 --> 00:03:04.407
- -♪ jesus, you reign ♪ -♪ jesus, you reign ♪
- 00:03:05.408 --> 00:03:10.747
- -♪ 'cause you're the name ♪ -♪ 'cause you're the name ♪
- 00:03:11.948 --> 00:03:13.616
- -♪ above all names ♪ -♪ above all names ♪
- 00:03:13.616 --> 00:03:18.488
- -♪ all praise, all praise ♪ -♪ all praise, all praise ♪
- 00:03:18.488 --> 00:03:23.760
- -♪ to the name above all names ♪ -♪ to the name above all names ♪
- 00:03:25.094 --> 00:03:30.233
- -♪ jesus, you reign ♪ -♪ jesus ♪
- 00:03:31.067 --> 00:03:34.237
- ♪ you reign ♪
- 00:03:34.237 --> 00:03:36.906
- -♪ 'cause you're the name ♪ -♪ 'cause you're the name ♪
- 00:03:38.107 --> 00:03:39.509
- -♪ above all names ♪ -♪ above all names ♪
- 00:03:39.509 --> 00:03:44.547
- ♪ hallelujah ♪
- 00:03:44.947 --> 00:03:50.586
- -♪ every voice will proclaim ♪ -♪ every voice will proclaim ♪
- 00:03:51.921 --> 00:03:54.757
- -♪ there is no higher name ♪ -♪ there is no higher name ♪
- 00:03:54.757 --> 00:03:57.994
- -♪ hallelujah ♪ -♪ hallelujah ♪
- 00:03:57.994 --> 00:04:03.299
- -♪ age to age we will sing ♪ -♪ age to age we will sing ♪
- 00:04:04.567 --> 00:04:07.403
- -♪ there is no higher name ♪ -♪ there is no higher name ♪
- 00:04:07.403 --> 00:04:10.973
- -♪ all praise, all praise ♪ -♪ all praise, all praise ♪
- 00:04:10.973 --> 00:04:16.245
- -♪ to the name above all names ♪ -♪ to the name above all names ♪
- 00:04:17.580 --> 00:04:23.119
- -♪ jesus ♪ -♪ jesus ♪
- 00:04:23.786 --> 00:04:25.755
- ♪ oh, jesus ♪
- 00:04:25.755 --> 00:04:27.090
- -♪ you reign ♪ -♪ you reign ♪
- 00:04:27.090 --> 00:04:30.293
- -♪ 'cause you're the name ♪ -♪ 'cause you're the name ♪
- 00:04:30.293 --> 00:04:32.061
- -♪ above all names ♪ -♪ above all names ♪
- 00:04:32.061 --> 00:04:36.699
- -♪ you're the name ♪ -♪ you're the name ♪
- 00:04:36.699 --> 00:04:38.267
- -♪ above all names ♪ -♪ above all names ♪
- 00:04:38.267 --> 00:04:42.972
- -♪ you're the name ♪ -♪ you're the name ♪
- 00:04:42.972 --> 00:04:44.774
- -♪ above all names ♪ -♪ above all names ♪
- 00:04:44.774 --> 00:04:50.046
- ♪ jesus ♪
- 00:04:50.380 --> 00:04:58.521
- (congregation applauds)
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- Whether you know it or not, you're in a battle.
- 00:05:02.225 --> 00:05:04.260
- Satan has a strategy to attack your faith,
- 00:05:04.260 --> 00:05:06.662
- Disrupt your family, and derail your future,
- 00:05:06.662 --> 00:05:09.332
- But god has given you everything you need
- 00:05:09.332 --> 00:05:11.534
- To fight back and win.
- 00:05:11.534 --> 00:05:13.503
- In "the divine defense,"
- 00:05:13.503 --> 00:05:15.138
- Dr. robert jeffress reveals six practical strategies
- 00:05:15.138 --> 00:05:18.374
- From ephesians chapter 6 to defeat satan's destructive plan.
- 00:05:18.374 --> 00:05:22.612
- When you put on the full armor of god,
- 00:05:22.612 --> 00:05:24.614
- Satan doesn't have a prayer.
- 00:05:24.614 --> 00:05:26.449
- Request "the divine defense"
- 00:05:26.449 --> 00:05:28.084
- When you give a generous ministry gift
- 00:05:28.084 --> 00:05:29.952
- To "pathway to victory."
- 00:05:29.952 --> 00:05:32.588
- ♪ music ♪
- 00:05:32.588 --> 00:05:38.561
- The other night, i was flipping
- 00:05:39.195 --> 00:05:40.363
- Through the television channels,
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- And i landed on a movie i had not seen before on purpose.
- 00:05:42.098 --> 00:05:48.037
- (congregation laughs)
- 00:05:48.538 --> 00:05:49.772
- It was one of those forbidden movies
- 00:05:49.772 --> 00:05:52.809
- That i had gone out of my way not to see,
- 00:05:52.809 --> 00:05:56.546
- But i'll have to confess to you,
- 00:05:56.546 --> 00:05:57.914
- My curiosity got the best of me,
- 00:05:57.914 --> 00:06:00.416
- And so i indulged.
- 00:06:00.416 --> 00:06:02.218
- Now, before the deacons call an emergency meeting,
- 00:06:03.219 --> 00:06:05.955
- (congregation laughs)
- 00:06:05.955 --> 00:06:07.557
- Let me assure you, it was not some pornographic skin flick.
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- It was a movie you may have heard about.
- 00:06:11.294 --> 00:06:14.230
- It was called "the exorcist."
- 00:06:14.230 --> 00:06:16.966
- Remember, "the exorcist" came out 50 years ago
- 00:06:17.900 --> 00:06:20.236
- When i was in high school?
- 00:06:20.236 --> 00:06:22.071
- The story of a catholic priest who exercises,
- 00:06:22.071 --> 00:06:25.908
- Removes a demon from a 12-year-old girl.
- 00:06:25.908 --> 00:06:29.078
- I remember when that movie came out,
- 00:06:29.078 --> 00:06:30.847
- There were such a hubbub about it.
- 00:06:30.847 --> 00:06:32.782
- Pastors preached sermons against it,
- 00:06:32.782 --> 00:06:35.485
- Pamphlets and books said that if you were a christian
- 00:06:35.485 --> 00:06:38.020
- And saw that movie,
- 00:06:38.020 --> 00:06:39.355
- That was the next step towards satan worship,
- 00:06:39.355 --> 00:06:42.225
- And so i avoided it for a long time,
- 00:06:42.225 --> 00:06:44.560
- But knowing that i was going to preach on this subject,
- 00:06:44.560 --> 00:06:47.330
- I decided to watch it.
- 00:06:47.330 --> 00:06:48.865
- I'm going to tell you the truth,
- 00:06:48.865 --> 00:06:50.099
- It was so boring
- 00:06:50.099 --> 00:06:51.567
- (congregation laughs)
- 00:06:51.567 --> 00:06:52.702
- That i ended up turning it off.
- 00:06:52.702 --> 00:06:55.438
- But the fact is, that movie, when you look in history,
- 00:06:55.438 --> 00:06:59.242
- It began what has been 50 years
- 00:06:59.242 --> 00:07:01.811
- Of discussion in our country, in our world about exorcisms,
- 00:07:01.811 --> 00:07:06.282
- Demonic influence, satanic influence.
- 00:07:06.282 --> 00:07:09.519
- It's a discussion that continues right until today,
- 00:07:09.519 --> 00:07:12.955
- And we've looked at paul's weapons in ephesians 6
- 00:07:12.955 --> 00:07:16.092
- For defeating satan's plan to destroy your life,
- 00:07:16.092 --> 00:07:20.263
- But are we missing something
- 00:07:20.263 --> 00:07:21.864
- When we don't mention exorcism as a viable tool?
- 00:07:21.864 --> 00:07:25.735
- I mean, the fact is, are there some extreme instances
- 00:07:25.735 --> 00:07:29.605
- Of demonic activity that are so severe
- 00:07:29.605 --> 00:07:33.342
- They demand an extreme ritual like an exorcism?
- 00:07:33.342 --> 00:07:37.547
- That's what we're going to talk about today.
- 00:07:38.447 --> 00:07:41.017
- Today, we're going to look at how we exercise power
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- Without exercising demons.
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- If you have your bibles, turn to luke chapter 4.
- 00:07:48.491 --> 00:07:52.061
- You know, in bible study,
- 00:07:52.061 --> 00:07:53.529
- We have a principle called the law of first mention.
- 00:07:53.529 --> 00:07:57.266
- It's very simple.
- 00:07:57.266 --> 00:07:58.501
- If you're studying a topic,
- 00:07:58.501 --> 00:07:59.835
- An individual, a word in the bible,
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- You need to look at the first time it's used in the bible.
- 00:08:01.637 --> 00:08:05.741
- And what makes luke 4 interesting is,
- 00:08:05.741 --> 00:08:08.044
- It is the first exorcism in the bible,
- 00:08:08.044 --> 00:08:11.948
- And it was performed by the first exorcist, jesus himself.
- 00:08:11.948 --> 00:08:17.286
- You know, when i read this story in luke 4,
- 00:08:18.220 --> 00:08:19.922
- I'm reminded of what one british pastor said, he said,
- 00:08:19.922 --> 00:08:23.726
- "you know, after the apostle paul preached,
- 00:08:23.726 --> 00:08:26.228
- The people rioted.
- 00:08:26.228 --> 00:08:28.230
- After i finished preaching, the people go have tea."
- 00:08:28.230 --> 00:08:31.867
- Well, when jesus preached,
- 00:08:31.867 --> 00:08:34.737
- It excited everybody, including the demons.
- 00:08:34.737 --> 00:08:38.140
- Look at what happened, luke 4 beginning with verse 31,
- 00:08:38.140 --> 00:08:41.310
- "and jesus came down to capernaum, a city of galilee,
- 00:08:41.310 --> 00:08:45.181
- And he was teaching them on the sabbath.
- 00:08:45.181 --> 00:08:47.450
- And they were amazed at his teaching,
- 00:08:47.450 --> 00:08:49.752
- For his message was with authority.
- 00:08:49.752 --> 00:08:52.421
- In the synagogue, there was a man possessed
- 00:08:52.421 --> 00:08:55.424
- By the spirit of an unclean demon."
- 00:08:55.424 --> 00:08:58.027
- As we've seen, that term, demon possession,
- 00:08:58.027 --> 00:09:00.429
- Is not in the scripture.
- 00:09:00.429 --> 00:09:02.064
- What it actually says in the original language was,
- 00:09:02.064 --> 00:09:05.468
- "there was a man who was being demonized."
- 00:09:05.468 --> 00:09:09.372
- He was under the influence of a demon,
- 00:09:09.372 --> 00:09:12.074
- And that demon cried out with a loud voice.
- 00:09:12.074 --> 00:09:15.311
- Remember, demons don't have voice boxes.
- 00:09:15.311 --> 00:09:18.881
- They have to speak through human beings,
- 00:09:18.881 --> 00:09:21.484
- And so this demon yelled out with a loud voice,
- 00:09:21.484 --> 00:09:25.688
- "leave us alone!
- 00:09:25.688 --> 00:09:27.690
- What business, jesus, do we have with each other,
- 00:09:27.690 --> 00:09:31.327
- Jesus of nazareth?
- 00:09:31.327 --> 00:09:32.995
- Have you come to destroy us?
- 00:09:32.995 --> 00:09:35.197
- I know who you are.
- 00:09:35.197 --> 00:09:37.233
- You are the holy one of god."
- 00:09:37.233 --> 00:09:40.202
- How did jesus respond to the demon?
- 00:09:40.202 --> 00:09:41.937
- Look at verse 35,
- 00:09:41.937 --> 00:09:43.339
- "but jesus rebuked him saying,
- 00:09:43.339 --> 00:09:46.075
- 'be quiet and come out of him.'
- 00:09:46.075 --> 00:09:49.178
- And when the demon had thrown the man down
- 00:09:49.178 --> 00:09:52.014
- In the midst of the people,
- 00:09:52.014 --> 00:09:53.683
- He came out of him without doing any harm."
- 00:09:53.683 --> 00:09:57.720
- Jesus doesn't tell the disciples,
- 00:09:58.454 --> 00:10:00.389
- "oh, we've got trouble.
- 00:10:00.389 --> 00:10:01.924
- We've got a problem.
- 00:10:01.924 --> 00:10:02.858
- We've got a demon-possessed man.
- 00:10:02.858 --> 00:10:04.460
- Now, let's form a prayer circle
- 00:10:04.460 --> 00:10:06.595
- Around this demon-possessed man and begin praying for him."
- 00:10:06.595 --> 00:10:10.399
- They don't engage in hours of prayer
- 00:10:10.399 --> 00:10:12.635
- For this demon-possessed individual.
- 00:10:12.635 --> 00:10:15.004
- They don't all put on garlic necklaces.
- 00:10:15.004 --> 00:10:18.107
- They don't break out in latin incantations.
- 00:10:18.107 --> 00:10:21.177
- None of that!
- 00:10:21.177 --> 00:10:22.445
- Instead, jesus says simply to the demon,
- 00:10:22.445 --> 00:10:26.348
- "be quiet."
- 00:10:26.348 --> 00:10:27.850
- Literally, be muzzled.
- 00:10:27.850 --> 00:10:29.285
- "put a lid on it, demon, and come out of him."
- 00:10:29.285 --> 00:10:32.354
- And the demon submits himself to jesus' authority.
- 00:10:32.354 --> 00:10:36.225
- That was the first exorcism.
- 00:10:36.225 --> 00:10:38.360
- No drama, no theatrics like you see on religious tv today
- 00:10:38.360 --> 00:10:43.032
- In some places, just a simple command,
- 00:10:43.032 --> 00:10:45.634
- And the demon responded.
- 00:10:45.634 --> 00:10:48.003
- I'm going to submit to you today three reasons why exorcism
- 00:10:48.003 --> 00:10:53.008
- Is neither relevant nor even effective
- 00:10:53.843 --> 00:10:57.179
- In spiritual warfare today.
- 00:10:57.780 --> 00:11:00.449
- Three reasons we do not practice exorcism.
- 00:11:00.449 --> 00:11:04.220
- Number one, the specificity of the gift of exorcism.
- 00:11:05.287 --> 00:11:09.892
- The specificity of the gift of exorcism.
- 00:11:09.892 --> 00:11:13.462
- Namely, it is only given to a few specific individuals.
- 00:11:13.462 --> 00:11:18.033
- Go back to the names of the apostles,
- 00:11:18.033 --> 00:11:20.736
- The names of the people to whom this gift was given.
- 00:11:20.736 --> 00:11:23.806
- Peter, andrew, james, john, philip, bartholomew.
- 00:11:23.806 --> 00:11:27.176
- Do you find the name of any prominent televangelist in here?
- 00:11:27.176 --> 00:11:31.413
- (congregation laughs)
- 00:11:31.413 --> 00:11:32.248
- Anywhere?
- 00:11:32.248 --> 00:11:33.916
- Is there the name of any pastor in this list?
- 00:11:33.916 --> 00:11:38.420
- Is your name in this list anywhere?
- 00:11:38.420 --> 00:11:41.791
- No one of us has our name as a recipient
- 00:11:42.658 --> 00:11:45.928
- Of these miraculous gifts.
- 00:11:45.928 --> 00:11:48.030
- Why do we assume that promises and gifts
- 00:11:48.030 --> 00:11:51.367
- Given to somebody else
- 00:11:51.367 --> 00:11:53.102
- Automatically become our promises and our gifts?
- 00:11:53.102 --> 00:11:57.540
- People always say,
- 00:11:57.540 --> 00:11:58.908
- "oh, pastor, there is a passage in the bible
- 00:11:58.908 --> 00:12:01.811
- That indicates all believers have been given this gift,
- 00:12:01.811 --> 00:12:06.215
- And it's found in mark 16 verses 17 and 18."
- 00:12:06.215 --> 00:12:10.152
- Turn there for a moment
- 00:12:10.152 --> 00:12:11.620
- Because somebody at some point will ask you about this.
- 00:12:11.620 --> 00:12:15.391
- Look at mark 16 verses 17 and 18,
- 00:12:15.391 --> 00:12:18.460
- "these signs will accompany those
- 00:12:18.460 --> 00:12:20.763
- Who have believed.
- 00:12:20.763 --> 00:12:22.198
- In my name," they will what?
- 00:12:22.198 --> 00:12:24.767
- "cast out demons;
- 00:12:24.767 --> 00:12:26.468
- They will speak with new tongues;
- 00:12:26.468 --> 00:12:29.004
- They will pick up serpents;
- 00:12:29.004 --> 00:12:30.940
- And if they drink any deadly poison, it will not hurt them;
- 00:12:30.940 --> 00:12:34.443
- And they will lay hands on the sick, and they will recover."
- 00:12:34.443 --> 00:12:39.782
- Now, most bibles will have those verses
- 00:12:40.649 --> 00:12:43.619
- In italics or written inside of a bracket,
- 00:12:43.619 --> 00:12:47.590
- And if you have a study bible,
- 00:12:47.590 --> 00:12:49.124
- There'll be a note somewhere in your study bible
- 00:12:49.124 --> 00:12:51.327
- That indicates these verses, mark 16:9-20,
- 00:12:51.327 --> 00:12:55.464
- Including the ones we just read,
- 00:12:56.098 --> 00:12:58.000
- These verses are not found
- 00:12:58.000 --> 00:13:00.603
- In the most reliable manuscripts of the new testament,
- 00:13:00.603 --> 00:13:04.607
- And therefore, it is questionable
- 00:13:04.607 --> 00:13:06.609
- Whether they're really part of god's word.
- 00:13:06.609 --> 00:13:09.178
- "oh, he's doing it again.
- 00:13:09.178 --> 00:13:11.580
- He's making us doubt the word of god."
- 00:13:12.414 --> 00:13:14.750
- Some of you now listen,
- 00:13:14.750 --> 00:13:16.752
- There are three passages in the new testament scholars know
- 00:13:16.752 --> 00:13:20.422
- Don't appear in the most reliable manuscripts.
- 00:13:20.422 --> 00:13:24.226
- They're not 30 of them, they're not 300 passages.
- 00:13:24.226 --> 00:13:27.930
- There are three.
- 00:13:27.930 --> 00:13:29.665
- It's this one, it's also john 7:53-8:11,
- 00:13:29.665 --> 00:13:33.903
- The story of the woman caught in adultery,
- 00:13:34.803 --> 00:13:37.172
- And then it's matthew 18:11,
- 00:13:37.172 --> 00:13:38.941
- Is the third one where you find in brackets the verse for,
- 00:13:38.941 --> 00:13:43.479
- "the son of man came to seek
- 00:13:43.479 --> 00:13:45.180
- And to save those who were lost."
- 00:13:45.180 --> 00:13:47.416
- We know it appeared in luke's gospel.
- 00:13:47.416 --> 00:13:49.251
- Matthew's version is questionable.
- 00:13:49.251 --> 00:13:52.288
- So, what does that mean in our interpretation of this verse?
- 00:13:52.288 --> 00:13:57.326
- How are we to handle it?
- 00:13:57.326 --> 00:13:59.128
- We had dr. charles ryrie,
- 00:13:59.128 --> 00:14:01.530
- One of the most conservative christian theologians
- 00:14:01.530 --> 00:14:04.099
- In the world,
- 00:14:04.099 --> 00:14:05.401
- Was a member of our church for many years.
- 00:14:05.401 --> 00:14:07.036
- He's in heaven now.
- 00:14:07.036 --> 00:14:08.604
- But in his study bible,
- 00:14:08.604 --> 00:14:10.139
- You find this explanation about these verses, quote,
- 00:14:10.139 --> 00:14:14.710
- "the doubtful genuineness of verses 9 to 20
- 00:14:14.710 --> 00:14:18.614
- Makes it unwise to build a doctrine
- 00:14:19.348 --> 00:14:23.018
- Or base an experience on them,
- 00:14:23.018 --> 00:14:26.021
- Especially verses 16 to 18."
- 00:14:26.021 --> 00:14:29.158
- You know what dr. ryrie is saying very simply?
- 00:14:29.158 --> 00:14:32.828
- Before you go pick up a serpent, before you drink poison,
- 00:14:32.828 --> 00:14:38.100
- Or before you exercise demons,
- 00:14:38.734 --> 00:14:40.469
- You might want to find a more credible verse to do that
- 00:14:40.469 --> 00:14:44.907
- Than one that is questionable.
- 00:14:44.907 --> 00:14:48.410
- But there's a second reason exorcism
- 00:14:48.410 --> 00:14:50.913
- Is not relevant or effective,
- 00:14:50.913 --> 00:14:53.782
- And that's the infrequent mention of the gift in the bible.
- 00:14:53.782 --> 00:14:59.121
- Even if a few people have that gift today,
- 00:15:00.022 --> 00:15:01.657
- And i don't believe they do,
- 00:15:01.657 --> 00:15:03.292
- But even if they do, it's not an important gift
- 00:15:03.292 --> 00:15:06.762
- Because you don't find it mentioned
- 00:15:06.762 --> 00:15:08.697
- In scripture after the book of acts.
- 00:15:08.697 --> 00:15:10.933
- Think about that.
- 00:15:10.933 --> 00:15:12.234
- Whether you're talking about the apostle paul,
- 00:15:12.234 --> 00:15:14.336
- The apostle peter, john, the writers of the new testament,
- 00:15:14.336 --> 00:15:18.140
- Not one of them mentions the gift of exorcism.
- 00:15:18.140 --> 00:15:22.111
- They don't talk about it at all.
- 00:15:22.111 --> 00:15:24.413
- Isn't that interesting?
- 00:15:24.413 --> 00:15:26.048
- For example, turn to romans chapter 12,
- 00:15:26.048 --> 00:15:28.817
- Beginning with verse 6.
- 00:15:28.817 --> 00:15:30.786
- This is a listing of spiritual gifts
- 00:15:30.786 --> 00:15:33.956
- That god has given to every christian.
- 00:15:33.956 --> 00:15:36.091
- Every christian has one of these seven gifts.
- 00:15:36.091 --> 00:15:38.794
- Look at it with me, beginning with verse 6 of romans 12,
- 00:15:38.794 --> 00:15:41.997
- "since we add gifts that differ
- 00:15:41.997 --> 00:15:44.133
- According to the grace given to us,
- 00:15:44.133 --> 00:15:46.802
- Each of us is to exercise them accordingly.
- 00:15:46.802 --> 00:15:50.672
- If your gift is prophecy,
- 00:15:50.672 --> 00:15:52.441
- According to the proportion of faith;
- 00:15:52.441 --> 00:15:54.643
- If service, in his serving;
- 00:15:54.643 --> 00:15:56.812
- If he teaches, in his teaching;
- 00:15:56.812 --> 00:15:59.248
- Or he who exhorts, in exhortation;
- 00:15:59.248 --> 00:16:02.351
- He who gives with liberality;
- 00:16:02.351 --> 00:16:04.486
- He who leads with diligence;
- 00:16:04.486 --> 00:16:06.422
- He who shows mercy with cheerfulness;"
- 00:16:06.422 --> 00:16:08.757
- He who exercises demons with power.
- 00:16:08.757 --> 00:16:11.827
- No, that's not in there, is it?
- 00:16:11.827 --> 00:16:14.096
- No mention of it as a gift anywhere.
- 00:16:14.096 --> 00:16:16.965
- Or turn over to ephesians 6.
- 00:16:16.965 --> 00:16:18.500
- Your bible ought to land there immediately
- 00:16:18.500 --> 00:16:20.969
- Since we've been in this passage for months now.
- 00:16:20.969 --> 00:16:23.639
- Ephesians 6, we've looked at it phrase by phrase,
- 00:16:23.639 --> 00:16:26.442
- Verse by verse.
- 00:16:26.442 --> 00:16:27.676
- Let's look at it as a whole right now.
- 00:16:27.676 --> 00:16:30.079
- Here is paul's ultimate discourse on spiritual warfare.
- 00:16:30.079 --> 00:16:34.783
- How many of you believe spiritual warfare is real?
- 00:16:34.783 --> 00:16:37.586
- You believe it?
- 00:16:37.586 --> 00:16:38.954
- You believe satan has a plan to destroy your life?
- 00:16:38.954 --> 00:16:41.757
- You believe god has given you the tools you need,
- 00:16:41.757 --> 00:16:44.626
- The full armor of god?
- 00:16:44.626 --> 00:16:46.228
- Let's look and see what that full armor is.
- 00:16:46.228 --> 00:16:49.331
- It's all listed in ephesians 6, beginning with verse 10,
- 00:16:49.331 --> 00:16:52.768
- "finally, be strong in the lord
- 00:16:52.768 --> 00:16:54.837
- And in the strength of his might.
- 00:16:54.837 --> 00:16:56.905
- Put on the full armor of god,
- 00:16:56.905 --> 00:16:59.141
- So that you will be able to stand firm
- 00:16:59.141 --> 00:17:01.009
- Against the schemes of the devil.
- 00:17:01.009 --> 00:17:02.878
- For our struggle is not against flesh and blood,
- 00:17:02.878 --> 00:17:05.214
- But against the rulers, against the powers,
- 00:17:05.214 --> 00:17:07.416
- Against the world, forces of this darkness,
- 00:17:07.416 --> 00:17:10.252
- Against the spiritual forces of wickedness
- 00:17:10.252 --> 00:17:12.621
- In the heavenly places.
- 00:17:12.621 --> 00:17:14.022
- Therefore, take up the full armor of god,
- 00:17:14.022 --> 00:17:17.392
- So that you will be able to resist in the evil day
- 00:17:17.392 --> 00:17:19.761
- And having done everything to stand firm.
- 00:17:19.761 --> 00:17:22.264
- Stand firm, therefore, and here's the full armor,
- 00:17:22.264 --> 00:17:25.267
- Having girded your loins with truth
- 00:17:25.267 --> 00:17:27.469
- And having put on the breastplate of righteousness,
- 00:17:27.469 --> 00:17:30.305
- Having shod your feet with the preparation
- 00:17:30.305 --> 00:17:32.541
- Of the gospel of peace.
- 00:17:32.541 --> 00:17:33.909
- In addition of all, taking up the shield of faith,
- 00:17:33.909 --> 00:17:36.545
- With which you will be able
- 00:17:36.545 --> 00:17:37.913
- To extinguish the flaming arrows of the evil one.
- 00:17:37.913 --> 00:17:40.315
- And take up the helmet of salvation
- 00:17:40.315 --> 00:17:42.951
- And the sword of the spirit, which is the word of god."
- 00:17:42.951 --> 00:17:45.554
- And don't forget the necklace of garlic,
- 00:17:45.554 --> 00:17:47.689
- With which you will repel the prince of darkness.
- 00:17:47.689 --> 00:17:49.825
- (congregation laughs)
- 00:17:49.825 --> 00:17:52.261
- Anywhere?
- 00:17:52.261 --> 00:17:53.495
- If paul is going to give us a full listing of the armor of god,
- 00:17:54.796 --> 00:17:57.966
- Why did he talk about the power to exercise demons?
- 00:17:57.966 --> 00:18:02.671
- You know, i was talking to a friend this week
- 00:18:02.671 --> 00:18:04.439
- And they brought up an interesting point, they said,
- 00:18:04.439 --> 00:18:06.975
- "well, if you believe that, how do you explain
- 00:18:06.975 --> 00:18:09.745
- What we see happening in third-world countries,
- 00:18:09.745 --> 00:18:13.382
- Exorcisms taking place?"
- 00:18:13.382 --> 00:18:14.917
- Or, "what about pastor so-and-so?
- 00:18:14.917 --> 00:18:16.985
- He's conservative and he talks about in his study
- 00:18:16.985 --> 00:18:20.656
- Wrestling with the devil after he exercised him
- 00:18:20.656 --> 00:18:23.425
- From another human being?
- 00:18:23.425 --> 00:18:24.726
- How do you explain that?"
- 00:18:24.726 --> 00:18:27.162
- My answer is, i don't have to explain it.
- 00:18:27.162 --> 00:18:30.132
- I don't have to explain that.
- 00:18:30.132 --> 00:18:31.900
- God is free to do whatever he wants to do.
- 00:18:31.900 --> 00:18:35.270
- He can do whatever he wants to do, how he wants to do it.
- 00:18:35.270 --> 00:18:38.106
- But what i know with absolute certainty
- 00:18:38.106 --> 00:18:40.475
- About exorcism is two things.
- 00:18:40.475 --> 00:18:43.078
- First of all, nowhere in scripture am i commanded
- 00:18:43.078 --> 00:18:46.815
- To use exorcism as a way to fight satan and his demons.
- 00:18:46.815 --> 00:18:50.185
- There's no command that tells me to do that.
- 00:18:50.185 --> 00:18:52.387
- And secondly, beyond no command,
- 00:18:52.387 --> 00:18:54.890
- There's no instruction in how to do it.
- 00:18:54.890 --> 00:18:58.126
- Thirdly, the limitations of the gift of exorcism,
- 00:18:58.126 --> 00:19:02.564
- The limitations of the gift.
- 00:19:02.564 --> 00:19:05.300
- Even if you're able to remove somebody from demonic control,
- 00:19:05.300 --> 00:19:10.272
- There's no guarantee that it won't happen again
- 00:19:10.272 --> 00:19:14.142
- And again and again.
- 00:19:14.142 --> 00:19:16.245
- How do i know that?
- 00:19:16.245 --> 00:19:17.646
- Because jesus said the same thing in luke 11:24-26.
- 00:19:17.646 --> 00:19:22.417
- Listen to what jesus said,
- 00:19:22.985 --> 00:19:24.219
- "when the unclean spirit goes out of a man,
- 00:19:24.219 --> 00:19:26.955
- It passes through waterless places,
- 00:19:26.955 --> 00:19:29.124
- Seeking rest and not finding any, it says,
- 00:19:29.124 --> 00:19:31.893
- 'i will return to my house.'"
- 00:19:31.893 --> 00:19:33.962
- That other person.
- 00:19:33.962 --> 00:19:35.430
- "'i will return to that person from which i came.'
- 00:19:35.430 --> 00:19:38.333
- And when it comes, the demon comes,
- 00:19:38.333 --> 00:19:40.702
- It finds that it's swept.
- 00:19:40.702 --> 00:19:42.638
- The life is swept and put in order.
- 00:19:42.638 --> 00:19:45.240
- Then it goes and takes along seven other demonic spirits
- 00:19:45.240 --> 00:19:48.810
- More evil than itself, and they go in and live there.
- 00:19:48.810 --> 00:19:52.581
- And the last state of that man
- 00:19:52.581 --> 00:19:55.150
- Becomes worse than the first."
- 00:19:55.150 --> 00:19:57.653
- What jesus is saying is, whether it's an unsafe person
- 00:19:57.653 --> 00:20:01.089
- Or a demonically influenced individual,
- 00:20:01.089 --> 00:20:03.558
- There is no one-time act that demon-proofs somebody forever.
- 00:20:03.558 --> 00:20:09.431
- Dr. m. scott peck, the late dr. peck,
- 00:20:10.232 --> 00:20:13.535
- Believed that the key to understanding demonic influence
- 00:20:14.636 --> 00:20:18.307
- In our life is the human will.
- 00:20:18.307 --> 00:20:21.143
- He said that the single greatest determinant
- 00:20:22.044 --> 00:20:26.014
- In how demonic influence begins and how it is broken
- 00:20:26.014 --> 00:20:30.719
- Is the choice that we make.
- 00:20:30.719 --> 00:20:33.455
- He wrote a book entitled "glimpses of the devil,"
- 00:20:33.455 --> 00:20:36.725
- And he's discussed from a medical viewpoint
- 00:20:36.725 --> 00:20:39.628
- What happened in an exorcism.
- 00:20:39.628 --> 00:20:41.563
- I don't agree with everything he said in the book,
- 00:20:41.563 --> 00:20:44.466
- But he makes one statement that i think is dead-on accurate,
- 00:20:44.466 --> 00:20:48.203
- "the single most important factor in demonic control
- 00:20:48.203 --> 00:20:52.207
- Is a person's choices."
- 00:20:52.207 --> 00:20:54.676
- That's true for how demonic possession begins or influence.
- 00:20:55.844 --> 00:21:00.449
- You know, contrary to what people think,
- 00:21:00.449 --> 00:21:02.451
- It doesn't happen just haphazardly.
- 00:21:02.451 --> 00:21:06.054
- People aren't just walking along,
- 00:21:06.054 --> 00:21:07.789
- Singing a song one day when a demon says,
- 00:21:07.789 --> 00:21:10.125
- "oh, i think i'll invade that person."
- 00:21:10.125 --> 00:21:12.594
- No, there's an act of the human will that invites satan
- 00:21:12.594 --> 00:21:17.366
- And his demons to take control of their life.
- 00:21:17.366 --> 00:21:20.302
- In fact, in his book, he points to a woman
- 00:21:20.302 --> 00:21:22.871
- Who was under demonic control,
- 00:21:22.871 --> 00:21:24.673
- And she could trace it back to an evil book
- 00:21:24.673 --> 00:21:27.409
- She read as a little girl that fascinated her,
- 00:21:27.409 --> 00:21:30.545
- And she became fixated on.
- 00:21:30.545 --> 00:21:33.515
- In the same way,
- 00:21:33.515 --> 00:21:35.550
- Being free from demonic influence
- 00:21:35.550 --> 00:21:38.587
- Is also a matter of the will.
- 00:21:38.587 --> 00:21:41.256
- In an interview with christianity today, dr. peck said,
- 00:21:41.256 --> 00:21:44.292
- "the most important exorcist,
- 00:21:44.292 --> 00:21:47.229
- The one who determines whether exorcism succeeds or not
- 00:21:47.229 --> 00:21:50.799
- Is the patient himself."
- 00:21:50.799 --> 00:21:53.101
- Perhaps dr. peck's observations explain why
- 00:21:53.969 --> 00:21:57.739
- After the book of acts,
- 00:21:57.739 --> 00:21:59.241
- You really don't find exorcism in the bible anywhere.
- 00:21:59.241 --> 00:22:02.844
- As more and more of the new testament was written,
- 00:22:02.844 --> 00:22:05.480
- There became less and less a need
- 00:22:05.480 --> 00:22:07.182
- For these miraculous sign gifts
- 00:22:07.182 --> 00:22:09.418
- To authenticate the message or the messengers.
- 00:22:09.418 --> 00:22:12.020
- The way we authenticate today
- 00:22:12.020 --> 00:22:13.889
- Whether somebody is a messenger or god or not
- 00:22:13.889 --> 00:22:16.958
- Is by their fidelity to the word of god.
- 00:22:16.958 --> 00:22:19.528
- That's the test, not whether they can speak
- 00:22:19.528 --> 00:22:21.563
- In tongues or perform exorcisms.
- 00:22:21.563 --> 00:22:24.566
- The need for signs is gone now that we have the scripture,
- 00:22:24.566 --> 00:22:28.336
- But we still had the need to be free from demonic control.
- 00:22:28.336 --> 00:22:33.608
- So, how do we do that?
- 00:22:34.109 --> 00:22:35.410
- This sentence is worth the price of the sermon.
- 00:22:35.410 --> 00:22:38.680
- Listen to neil anderson, he said,
- 00:22:38.680 --> 00:22:41.283
- "the responsibility for living free in christ
- 00:22:41.283 --> 00:22:45.387
- Has shifted from the specially endowed agent of authority
- 00:22:46.521 --> 00:22:50.926
- To the individual believer himself."
- 00:22:50.926 --> 00:22:54.229
- It's not some pastor, some priest, some pope,
- 00:22:55.163 --> 00:22:57.833
- Some spiritual christian
- 00:22:57.833 --> 00:22:59.568
- Who's going to free you from demonic control.
- 00:22:59.568 --> 00:23:02.404
- They have no authority to do that.
- 00:23:02.404 --> 00:23:04.973
- No, you are the most important determinant
- 00:23:04.973 --> 00:23:07.943
- In how much influence satan is going to have in your life.
- 00:23:07.943 --> 00:23:12.180
- Let me just cut to the chase here.
- 00:23:12.180 --> 00:23:14.983
- God has commanded and equipped every christian
- 00:23:14.983 --> 00:23:19.588
- To be his own exorcist.
- 00:23:20.088 --> 00:23:22.557
- We have everything we need, the holy spirit of god.
- 00:23:23.592 --> 00:23:26.862
- We have every instruction we need, ephesians 6, to be free.
- 00:23:26.862 --> 00:23:31.099
- ♪ music ♪
- 00:23:31.099 --> 00:23:35.637
- We don't need dramatic rituals
- 00:23:36.271 --> 00:23:38.173
- Or especially gifted individuals to set us free
- 00:23:38.173 --> 00:23:41.810
- From demonic influence.
- 00:23:41.810 --> 00:23:43.545
- The responsibility for living in victory
- 00:23:43.545 --> 00:23:45.847
- Rest within each one of us
- 00:23:45.847 --> 00:23:47.816
- And the choices we make every day.
- 00:23:47.816 --> 00:23:50.952
- Well, at "pathway to victory,"
- 00:23:50.952 --> 00:23:52.454
- We refuse to shy away from difficult topics.
- 00:23:52.454 --> 00:23:55.524
- We're committed to teaching
- 00:23:55.524 --> 00:23:56.791
- The uncompromising truth of scripture,
- 00:23:56.791 --> 00:23:59.427
- Even when it challenges popular opinion.
- 00:23:59.427 --> 00:24:02.364
- And because of your faithful support,
- 00:24:02.364 --> 00:24:04.232
- We're able to bring this kind of bold, biblical teaching
- 00:24:04.232 --> 00:24:07.903
- To people all across america and around the world.
- 00:24:07.903 --> 00:24:11.273
- Through television, radio, and digital streaming,
- 00:24:11.273 --> 00:24:14.409
- We're reaching men and women who are hungry for answers
- 00:24:14.409 --> 00:24:17.812
- That only god's word can provide.
- 00:24:17.812 --> 00:24:20.415
- Thank you to our pathway partners
- 00:24:20.415 --> 00:24:22.117
- And to everyone who gives generously to this ministry.
- 00:24:22.117 --> 00:24:26.054
- Together, we are piercing the darkness
- 00:24:26.054 --> 00:24:28.657
- With the light of god's word.
- 00:24:28.657 --> 00:24:30.559
- Now, please, stay right there.
- 00:24:30.559 --> 00:24:32.027
- I'll be back with more "pathway to victory"
- 00:24:32.027 --> 00:24:34.529
- In just a moment.
- 00:24:34.529 --> 00:24:36.665
- That recurring temptation, you can't shake,
- 00:24:36.665 --> 00:24:39.334
- The doubts that creep in during your darkest moments,
- 00:24:39.334 --> 00:24:42.337
- The tension in your closest relationships,
- 00:24:42.337 --> 00:24:44.739
- These aren't random struggles.
- 00:24:44.739 --> 00:24:46.541
- These are part of a strategic attack on your faith,
- 00:24:46.541 --> 00:24:49.210
- Your family, and your future.
- 00:24:49.210 --> 00:24:50.979
- Satan has a personalized plan
- 00:24:50.979 --> 00:24:53.748
- To discourage, deceive, and derail you,
- 00:24:53.748 --> 00:24:56.885
- But you don't have to live in defeat.
- 00:24:56.885 --> 00:24:59.287
- God has given you access to the same power
- 00:24:59.287 --> 00:25:01.790
- That raised jesus from the dead.
- 00:25:01.790 --> 00:25:03.858
- In my bestselling book, "the divine defense,"
- 00:25:03.858 --> 00:25:06.661
- I'll show you how to put on the full armor of god
- 00:25:06.661 --> 00:25:09.764
- And use six biblical strategies
- 00:25:09.764 --> 00:25:12.300
- To defeat satan's plan to destroy your life.
- 00:25:12.300 --> 00:25:15.837
- Request "the divine defense"
- 00:25:15.837 --> 00:25:17.439
- When you give a generous gift to "pathway to victory,"
- 00:25:17.439 --> 00:25:20.141
- Or when you become a pathway partner.
- 00:25:20.141 --> 00:25:22.277
- And when your gift is $100 or more,
- 00:25:22.277 --> 00:25:24.913
- We'll send you the complete resource set,
- 00:25:24.913 --> 00:25:26.982
- Including the study guide, "suit up!
- 00:25:26.982 --> 00:25:29.050
- The armor of god for kids"
- 00:25:29.050 --> 00:25:30.752
- And the teaching series on both cd and dvd.
- 00:25:30.752 --> 00:25:33.989
- Your mind is the devil's battlefield
- 00:25:33.989 --> 00:25:37.959
- On which he is warring against everything important to you.
- 00:25:37.959 --> 00:25:43.231
- It is a battle that seeks to destroy your faith,
- 00:25:44.199 --> 00:25:47.469
- Your family, and your future.
- 00:25:47.469 --> 00:25:49.771
- Thank you for supporting "pathway to victory."
- 00:25:49.771 --> 00:25:52.307
- Your generous ministry gift helps us
- 00:25:52.307 --> 00:25:54.309
- Broadcast biblical truth on television, radio, and online,
- 00:25:54.309 --> 00:25:58.179
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- 00:25:58.179 --> 00:25:59.881
- To stand firm and live victoriously
- 00:25:59.881 --> 00:26:02.617
- Together, we're piercing the darkness
- 00:26:02.617 --> 00:26:04.886
- With the light of god's word.
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- ♪ music ♪
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- Perhaps you've been waiting for someone else
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- To deliver you from a spiritual struggle,
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- But the truth is, god has already given you
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- Everything you need to experience victory.
- 00:26:16.031 --> 00:26:19.534
- The question is, will you use the weapons god has provided?
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- Next time, we're going to wrap up our series
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- On spiritual warfare with a very practical message
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- About putting on your divine defense.
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- I'll share six decisions you can make today
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- To diminish satan's influence in your life tomorrow
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- And the rest of your life.
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- Stay tuned for a preview of the next message in our series,
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- The divine defense.
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- The good news is, god has given us everything we need
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- To be successful in that fight
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- Against our adversary, the devil.
- 00:26:53.735 --> 00:26:56.538
- And today, we're going to answer the so-what question,
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- What can i do to diminish satan's influence in my life?
- 00:26:59.407 --> 00:27:04.245
- And i'd like to share with you six practical decisions
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- Or resolves we need to make
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- To diminish the influence of our enemy.
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- Set your dvr in.
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- Join us next time for the message
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- Using your divine defense here on "pathway to victory."
- 00:27:17.092 --> 00:27:17.092
