“And take  . . .  the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God,” Ephesians 6:17.

In our studies of the armour that the Christian must don in order to engage in that warfare with the devil and his agents which is unavoidable if we are to enjoy God’s blessing, we have so far looked at that which plays basically a defensive role in the battle. Our warfare is one in which we chiefly are engaged in a defensive role.

We are standing our ground against the enemy’s attack. However, we are required to go on the offensive. We must assail our enemies and expel then from that territory that is the Lord’s and endeavour to “tread upon the lion and adder: the young lion and the dragon shalt thou trample under feet,” Psalm 91:13. These are symbols of the devil and his attacks upon us.

We not come to that instrument which is very definitely one of attack — the SWORD OF THE SPIRIT.

It is, of course, the Word of God.

The Holy Spirit is principally known as a Person of peace. He Who is likened unto the dove, the gently blowing breeze, the sweet and silent evening dew carries a sword. He is not to be considered as a Pacifist! He is the One Who enables the child of God to fight and overcome His enemies.

Othniel — “And the Spirit of the LORD came upon him, and he judged Israel, and went out to war,” Judges 3:10.

Gideon — “But the Spirit of the LORD came upon Gideon, and he blew a trumpet; and Abiezer was gathered after him,” Judges 6:34.

Jephthah — “Then the Spirit of the LORD came upon Jephthah, and he passed over Gilead,” Judges 11:29.

The Lord Jesus — “Then was Jesus led up of the Spirit into the wilderness to be tempted of the devil,” Matthew 4:1.

I. THE HOLY SPIRIT IS ENGAGED IN THE WAR AGAINST SIN

Sin is rebellion against God. The Holy Spirit plays a vital role in the war against sin. “The LORD is a man of war,” Ex 15:3.

1. God the Father fights in this war. 

Ps 2. Here is the Father fighting.

2. God the Son fights in this war. 

Joshua 5:14 - He is the One spoken of by the Father in Ex 23:20-22; Isa 55:4. Above all, He will return to this earth as a Soldier/King, Rev 19:11-21.

3. God the Holy Spirit fights in this war. 

“But they rebelled, and vexed his holy Spirit: therefore he was turned to be their enemy, and he fought against them,” Isaiah 63:10. The Holy Spirit actively resists sin. Sin turns Him into an enemy!