Josh Strelecki, Pastor-Teacher, explores the themes of spiritual warfare and the armor of God as described in Ephesians 6. He emphasizes that believers are engaged in a "good fight" that transcends physical confrontations, as it is fundamentally spiritual, involving a battle for the mind and heart. The sermon contrasts earthly perceptions of war with the divine perspective, where victory is already secured through Jesus Christ. Strelecki highlights apostle Paul's exhortation to put on the "whole armor of God," underscoring the importance of understanding and utilizing spiritual truths and doctrines as weapons and defense against spiritual adversaries.

Strelecki delves into the role of institutions established by God, such as the church, marriage, family, and government, as reflections of eternal realities. He contrasts these with the corrupted powers and principalities described in Ephesians, influenced by spiritual wickedness. Through various scriptural references, including Romans 13 and Colossians 1, the sermon illustrates the nature and purpose of governmental authority and the believer's responsibility to live contrary to the world’s darkness. He calls believers to live by faith, equipped with spiritual armament, to fight against the influence of darkness, emphasizing that true transformation occurs within believers' hearts and minds through God's Word.

Josh Strelecki, Pastor-Teacher, delves into Ephesians 6:5-9, addressing the complex issue of slavery and its biblical context. He emphasizes that while labor and servitude have been misused and abused throughout history, work itself is a divinely ordained institution, established by God before the fall of man. Strelecki encourages believers to perceive their work as a reflection of their faith, serving their earthly masters "as unto Christ" with singleness of heart, not as mere men-pleasers. By doing so, they exhibit the love and grace of Jesus, reflecting the principles that will continue into eternity.

Strelecki further connects this idea to the broader themes within the Book of Ephesians, highlighting the importance of walking worthy of one's calling in Christ. He explains that this involves not merely going through the motions but understanding and living out one's vocation through the power of the Spirit and the wisdom of God. The pastor underscores the eternal impact of demonstrating Christ-like servitude in earthly relationships, suggesting that such actions serve both as a testament to one's faith and as preparation for the life to come. He invites listeners to see their work as an opportunity to glorify God, promising that the true reward is not earthly recognition but the eternal inheritance received from the Lord.

Josh Strelecki, Pastor-Teacher, leads the congregation through Ephesians chapter 6, specifically focusing on the verses 5 through 9, where the Apostle Paul provides guidance on the dynamics between servants and masters. Strelecki emphasizes the importance of being Spirit-filled in all aspects of life, including work, encouraging believers to view their jobs as opportunities to serve Christ rather than merely their earthly employers. He draws upon historical contexts, comparing biblical and Roman slavery to contemporary work relationships, highlighting that regardless of circumstances, believers must embody the qualities of Christ in their interactions. Strelecki also outlines how understanding God's will objectively, as revealed through the exaltation of Christ, shapes believers into lights within worldly institutions, urging a Spirit-led approach to daily labor.

Strelecki turns to biblical references to illustrate how the principles of servitude and freedom in Christ transcend earthly bondage. Citing scriptures from both the Old and New Testaments, he delves into the historical and scriptural context of slavery, demonstrating God's emphasis on attitude and character over the societal structures of the time. He encourages believers to draw from Christ's example of humility and service, reminding them of the eternal rewards promised to those who labor in faith and obedience. Through this lens, mundane tasks gain spiritual significance, motivating believers to transform their workplace experiences into acts of worship and testimony. Strelecki concludes by urging the congregation to be thankful for opportunities to illuminate Christ's life in all their endeavors, thereby aligning their personal conduct with the heavenly vocation to which they are called.

Josh Strelecki, Pastor-Teacher, discusses Ephesians 6:1-4 to explore the concept of a Spirit-filled family, focusing on the roles and responsibilities of parents and children. He emphasizes the importance of children obeying and honoring their parents as foundational to eventually honoring God, while urging parents, particularly fathers, to balance authority with love and guidance. Strelecki explains the cultural context of Roman law, where fathers had absolute power, contrasting it with the Christian approach where parental correction is founded on love rather than domination. He encourages parents to avoid provoking their children to wrath and instead nurture them with the teachings and discipline of the Lord.

Continuing, Strelecki underscores the necessity of spiritual nourishment through the "nurture and admonition of the Lord," interpreting nurture as corrective instruction with a purposeful aim toward righteousness. He references the broader biblical theme of divine chastening, which serves to instruct and correct believers lovingly, producing the peaceable fruit of righteousness. He challenges parents to instill spiritual teachings and discipline, aiming for heartfelt obedience rather than mere outward conformity. As parents exercise this role, they themselves grow in spiritual maturity. Strelecki concludes by encouraging families to be Spirit-filled, drawing wisdom and guidance from God's Word to build strong, faith-based relationships within the family unit.

Josh Strelecki, Pastor-Teacher, focuses on the importance of spirit-filled parenting, drawing insights from Ephesians 6:1-4 and other biblical texts. He highlights the necessity for parents to bring up their children in the "nurture and admonition of the Lord," emphasizing teaching, correcting, and instructing. Strelecki acknowledges the challenges contemporary families face, particularly with the influences of media and the erosion of traditional developmental stages, but insists that scripture provides the necessary wisdom and guidance. He stresses the significance of obedience and honor from children and the pivotal role of parents, especially fathers, in creating a strong family unit that stands in contrast to societal norms.

Strelecki also addresses the distinct roles of mothers and fathers within the family structure. He underscores the nurturing aspect of motherhood and the fathers' responsibility to lead without provoking their children to wrath. Drawing from various passages, he illustrates how the biblical approach to parenting transcends dispensations, providing timeless principles that guide believers today. By investing time, love, and the teachings of Christ into their children, parents not only fulfill their God-given roles but also prepare their children to navigate and withstand the challenges of the world, ultimately living lives that honor God.

Josh Strelecki, Pastor-Teacher, delves into Ephesians 6 to address the practical roles and responsibilities of children and parents within a Spirit-filled family. He emphasizes the biblical directives for children to obey and honor their parents, noting these actions as crucial for spiritual development and as a reflection of their relationship with God. Strelecki acknowledges children's natural inclination towards foolishness and underlines the importance of parental guidance in teaching children to discern right from wrong. He advises parents to consistently say "no" when necessary, invest time in their children, and prioritize spiritual guidance over worldly pursuits.

Strelecki encourages parents to recognize the fleeting yet significant opportunity they have to influence their children's spiritual growth. He suggests involving children in church activities and fostering a love for God’s Word as practical steps toward nurturing obedience and honor. Additionally, he extends these principles to all believers, stressing the importance of spiritual discipline and adherence to God’s commandments. Strelecki calls for a focus on fostering godliness within the family and church community, urging believers to prioritize spiritual relationships and to be actively involved in supporting the local church.