Text: Philippians 3:1-6
Memory verse:
“For we are the circumcision, who worship God in the Spirit, rejoice in Christ Jesus, and have no confidence in the flesh,”
‭‭Philippians‬ ‭3‬:‭3‬
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One of the most dangerous manifestations of satan in the world today is the religious spirit. His goal is to compete with God and to draw peoples’ attention from God by deceiving. It acts as counterfeit of the Spirit of God, attempting to cause chaos, confusion, shame, and guilt in its victims. “And no wonder! For Satan himself transforms himself into an angel of light.” ‭‭(II Cor 11‬:‭14‬)
A religious spirit is a type of demonic spirit that influences a person or a group of people, to replace a genuine relationship with God through Christ with works and traditions. People with religious spirit attempt to earn salvation rather than receive salvation as a gift. To them, salvation is an achievement and the work of grace is not meaningful. This is built on religious traditions and customs over the years. They boast of their religious practices and activities without a reference to the works of grace. Indeed, they are so zealous and religious that it becomes very difficult to doubt their salvation except by the spirit.
Like in our text today, such was Paul, who was formerly called Saul before he met Christ.
We have been saved by grace and not by our works (Eph 2:8-8; Titus 3:5).
Have you encountered God’s grace of salvation? Can you talk about your salvation experience, not your activities in the church? Are you boasting of your religious activities or the grace of God that is working in you?

Prayer points
1. Father, I thank You for saving me by Your grace in Jesus name
2. Father, bring Your salvation to everyone who is under the deception of religion in Your church in Jesus name

Today’s declarations

1. I am saved by grace alone
2. He who is conscious of grace can never be a victim of religious spirit

Contact: pastor@thf.org.ng