E53: Awake and Armed: Understanding Spiritual Warfare and Jesus’ Call to Faithful Action

Are you ready for a spiritual battle?

In this episode, Eric Scovill sits down with entrepreneur Greg Downey, who shares how his experience in the business world revealed the importance of acknowledging the spiritual side of life. Greg is an experienced entrepreneur and investor with over 20 years. He is the founder of Pirum Ventures, a venture capital firm focused on hands-on support of portfolio companies.

Today, Greg discusses the reality of spiritual warfare and emphasizes the need for believers to engage with Scripture and exercise the authority and gifts provided by God. He provides a biblical perspective on spiritual warfare, challenging Christians to prepare for spiritual battles through faith, prayer, and utilizing their God-given spiritual tools.

Here are some topics from today’s discussion:

• Greg's background in early-stage companies and venture capital
• Defining spiritual warfare and its relevance today
• Jesus' teachings on faith, miracles, and preparing disciples
• Personal experience with spiritual healing through prayer
• Authority given to believers and call to action

Episode Highlights:

[09:38] What is Spiritual Warfare?

Spiritual warfare refers to the biblical belief that Christians are engaged in an unseen battle between forces of good and evil. As believers, we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against spiritual powers of wickedness. Spiritual warfare involves defending against and resisting attacks from demonic spirits that seek to deceive, tempt, and destroy. It is an acknowledgment that there are supernatural forces at work beyond what is seen with physical eyes – and that through faith in Jesus Christ, we have been given authority and spiritual tools to fight against the enemy.

[19:00] Faith in Action: Jesus Trains the Disciples and a Story of Spiritual Healing

Jesus emphasized the importance of faith through both belief and works. He trained his disciples and sent them out, preparing them for testing through experience. Greg shares a personal story of spiritual healing through prayer with his family. This experience highlighted the spiritual aspect of healing and the authority believers have been given through Christ's name.

[34:00] Preparing for Battle: The Call to Engage in Spiritual Warfare and Advance God's Kingdom

Greg encourages listeners to actively engage with the spiritual realm through studying Scripture and utilizing the tools God has provided. While a relationship with God is key, believers also have a responsibility as active participants working to advance God's kingdom on earth. As believers, we need to prepare by acknowledging spiritual warfare and exercising the authority and power we have been given by Christ.

Resources Mentioned:

Purim Ventures

The Unseen Realm