Sermon Title: “Deliver Us from Evil”
Matthew 6:13 – The Model Prayer
Introduction
Prayer is one of the most intimate and powerful privileges we have
as children of God. In the Lord’s Prayer, Jesus taught His disciples
to ask for deliverance from evil or “the evil one.” This is not
merely a poetic conclusion to a prayer—it’s a profound
acknowledgment of the spiritual battle every soul is engaged in. We
live in a world filled with temptation, suffering, and deception,
and we need God’s protection and strength to navigate it faithfully.
Jesus emphasized the importance of praying not to be led into
temptation and for deliverance from the power of Satan. In this
lesson, we will explore the meaning behind these words and what it
means to pray for deliverance in our lives.
Life Is a Time of Soul-Making
This life is not our final home; it is a probationary period, a time
of choosing. Each day, we are confronted with choices that shape our
eternal destiny. Jesus described two roads: one broad and easy that
leads to destruction, and one narrow and difficult that leads to
life (Matthew 7:13–14). This life is the opportunity to decide
whether we will love and obey God or follow the deceitful path of
sin. Prayer, especially this prayer for deliverance, acknowledges
the seriousness of these choices and our need for divine help.
The Origin and Nature of Evil
Satan was not created evil. Like all of God’s creation, he was made
good. But he chose to rebel against God—motivated by pride and
desire for power. Scriptures such as 2 Peter 2:4 and Matthew 25:41
show us that Satan and his angels sinned, were cast down, and are
now awaiting final judgment. They have no hope of redemption. Satan
is described as the “evil one,” the prince of demons, the ruler of
all who rebel against God. When we pray for deliverance from evil,
we are asking to be spared from the influence and snares of this
tempter.
Satan: The Tempter and Deceiver
Satan’s work is to tempt, entice, and deceive. He customizes
temptations, just as a fisherman chooses different bait for
different fish. He lures with what looks desirable, only to trap and
destroy. Jesus was tempted by the devil (Matthew 4), and Satan is
repeatedly called the tempter in Scripture. His work is not just
external—he works to entice our desires, as James 1:13–15 teaches.
Temptation is not sin, but giving in is. Christians must be alert,
sober, and prayerful, asking God for strength to resist.
Resisting Evil Through God’s Power
Though Satan is powerful, he is not omnipotent. He cannot force
anyone to sin. We have been given the ability to choose, and God has
equipped us with what we need to resist. 1 Peter 5:8–9 tells us to
resist the devil, standing firm in the faith. Hebrews 3:13 reminds
us to exhort one another daily, warning and encouraging each other
against sin’s deceitfulness. We need God’s Word, the support of the
church, and consistent prayer to remain vigilant.
The Deceptive Nature of Sin
Sin often appears attractive—much like bait disguises a deadly hook.
The world portrays sin as exciting, fulfilling, and harmless. But
it’s a mask, hiding corruption and spiritual ruin. The enemy works
tirelessly to make evil look good and good look evil. Christians
must pray for discernment and clarity, that they may not be deceived
by appearances.
Deliverance Comes Through Prayer
Jesus instructed His disciples to pray, “Deliver us from evil.” This
is a plea for spiritual protection and a recognition of our
dependence on God. It is a prayer of humility—acknowledging that we
cannot navigate this life without divine help. Just as Jesus said in
Matthew 26:41, we must watch and pray lest we fall into temptation.
The Prayer Ends as It Began—with Glory to God
“For Yours is the kingdom and the power and the glory forever.
Amen.” This doxology brings the prayer full circle. We begin with
reverence and end with praise. God’s kingdom reigns, His power
sustains, and His glory will endure eternally. The final word,
“Amen,” means “so be it.” It is a declaration of submission and
agreement, affirming that everything we’ve prayed is our true
desire.
Sermon Outline: “Deliver Us
from Evil”
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Introduction
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Life Is a Time of Soul-Making
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The Origin and Nature of Evil
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Satan: The Tempter and Deceiver
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Resisting Evil Through God’s Power
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1
Peter 5:8–9; Hebrews 3:13 – We can resist with God’s help
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We
need the Word, the church, and prayer
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The Deceptive Nature of Sin
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Deliverance Comes Through Prayer
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Conclusion: The Kingdom, Power, and Glory
Call to Action
This week, examine your prayer
life. Are you praying with urgency and humility for deliverance from
temptation and deception? Are you aware of Satan’s schemes, and are
you seeking God’s help to resist? Don’t walk blindly through a world
filled with traps. Pray with faith. Watch carefully. Resist firmly.
And glorify God in all things—because His kingdom, His power, and
His glory are forever. Amen. |