Brief Summary
Apostle Michael Oro delivers a powerful message on spiritual warfare, outlining key weapons available to believers. He emphasises the importance of understanding and utilising the whole armour of God, the name of Jesus, prophetic words, the blood of Jesus, the leading of the Holy Spirit, holy living, and prayer. He stresses that victory in spiritual battles depends on knowing and applying these weapons effectively, rather than relying solely on emotions or personal efforts.
- The whole armour of God is essential for standing against the wiles of the devil.
- The name of Jesus provides authority and control in the midst of storms.
- Prophetic words offer guidance and correction, even from unexpected sources.
- The blood of Jesus cleanses and empowers believers who walk in the light.
- The Holy Spirit leads believers to potential testimonies and shields them from harm.
- Holy living denies the devil a foothold.
- Prayer activates divine assistance and mobilises spiritual forces.
The Whole Armour of God
Apostle Oro introduces the first weapon in spiritual warfare: the whole armour of God, as detailed in Ephesians 6:10-17. He explains that believers must be strong in the Lord and utilise this armour to withstand the devil's schemes. Truth is essential, as it exposes and triumphs over principalities and powers through the cross. Believers are seated with Christ in heavenly places, giving them authority over Satan. He cautions against relying on emotional prayers or personal efforts, emphasising that authority in prayer comes from aligning with God's will.
Breastplate of Righteousness
The second weapon is the breastplate of righteousness, which Apostle Oro defines in three ways. Firstly, it is the nature of God, meaning believers possess God's DNA. Secondly, it is a gift, not earned, freeing believers from Satan's accusations based on their actions. Thirdly, understanding righteousness as both a nature and a gift enables believers to live righteously. He stresses that righteousness is not about morality alone but about recognising and embracing God's gift, which then motivates righteous living.
Preparation of the Gospel of Peace
Apostle Oro identifies the preparation of the gospel of peace as a crucial weapon. He encourages believers to actively preach the gospel, noting that soul-winning is not just about expanding the kingdom but also a vital component of spiritual armour. Those who are ready to share the gospel possess a readiness that strengthens their defence against spiritual attacks. Neglecting this preparation creates a vulnerability in one's spiritual armour.
Shield of Faith
The shield of faith is presented as the next weapon, essential for quenching the fiery darts of the devil. Apostle Oro stresses that faith is about trusting God alone, not relying on personal efforts like fasting or prayer. While these practices generate power, faith directs that power. Confidence should be anchored in God's abilities and actions, not in one's own. He uses the example of David and Goliath to illustrate that past experiences are useful only when faith is placed in God.
Helmet of Salvation and Sword of the Spirit
Apostle Oro explains that knowing what Jesus has done for you is the helmet of salvation, protecting the mind in spiritual warfare. He then identifies the sword of the Spirit, which is the rhema word of God, as a critical weapon. Victory in battle depends on hearing God's voice and receiving specific guidance. He criticises a passive approach to faith, where believers rely solely on leaders instead of developing their own ability to hear God.
The Name of Jesus
The name of Jesus is highlighted as a powerful weapon. Apostle Oro references Proverbs 18:10, emphasising that the name of the Lord is a strong tower. He explains that believers win through revelation, faith, and the deployment of the name of Jesus. This is not a fearful, knee-jerk reaction but a confident declaration based on the authority inherent in the name. He uses Paul's experience in a shipwreck to illustrate the power of speaking the name of Jesus with revelation and faith.
Prophetic Words
Prophetic words are presented as another essential weapon in spiritual warfare. Apostle Oro explains that God sometimes sends prophetic words through others, and neglecting these words can be detrimental. He cautions against arrogance and encourages honouring everyone, as God may use unexpected people to deliver important messages. He uses biblical examples, such as the prophet's rebuke of Eli, to illustrate the importance of heeding prophetic warnings, even when they are difficult to accept.
The Blood of Jesus Christ
Apostle Oro identifies the blood of Jesus Christ as a vital weapon. He explains that believers overcome by the blood of the Lamb and the words of their testimony. The power of the blood is activated by walking in the light and by speaking words of faith. He contrasts this with the common tendency to speak negatively, emphasising the importance of thinking and speaking the word of God to release its power.
Leading of the Holy Spirit
The leading of the Holy Spirit is presented as another weapon. Apostle Oro explains that when the Holy Ghost leads, believers become invincible. He references Psalm 23 to illustrate how the Holy Ghost guides believers through difficult situations, ensuring their ultimate safety and leading to potential testimonies.
Holy Living
Apostle Oro stresses that holy living is a crucial weapon against Satan. He references Ephesians 4:27, warning against giving the devil a foothold. He explains that Satan seeks those who provide him with space to devour, and maintaining consecration is essential for protection. He urges believers to heed the Holy Ghost's guidance to avoid sin and its consequences.
Prayer
Apostle Oro concludes by emphasising prayer as a vital weapon. He explains that the weapons of warfare are not carnal but mighty through God. Prayer involves casting down imaginations and bringing everything into obedience to Christ. He highlights that all advantages are activated in prayer, and the Holy Ghost, angels, and perfected spirits of the righteous join in the battle when believers pray. He encourages believers to engage in various types of prayer to achieve victory.
