Spiritual Warfare – Being a Relationship Builder
Pastor Tan Thai · Aug 29, 2015
This sermon teaches that close relationships are the most important thing in human life, and that believers are called to be relationship builders in their families, churches, and communities. Through four practical biblical principles, the sermon shows how to build and maintain deep, lasting relationships following the example of Jesus Christ.
The sermon opens by affirming that close relationships are the most important thing in human life. People can endure poverty and hardship if they have loved ones beside them, but wealth without love brings no true happiness. The image of the cross is used to illustrate Jesus Christ's mission of reconciliation, and believers are called to reflect that mission by building bonds in their families, churches, and communities. The sermon is part of a series on spiritual warfare, emphasizing that the devil constantly seeks to destroy relationships in order to tear apart families and churches.
Four practical principles are developed from Colossians 3:12-13. First, one must take the initiative—the first step—to build relationships and seek reconciliation when conflict arises, rather than allowing pride or fear to be a barrier. A story from Gabriel García Márquez's novel about a marriage destroyed over a bar of soap vividly illustrates the destructive consequences of pride that refuses to admit fault. Second, one must focus on the needs and interests of others rather than only one's own, following the example of Jesus who came not to be served but to serve (Matthew 20:28).
Third, words have the power to build or destroy relationships. Proverbs and James are quoted to emphasize the power of the tongue. A relationship builder must use words to encourage, uplift, and comfort, while avoiding gossip and slander, which quickly destroy trust and friendship. Fourth, genuine relationships require honesty and openness, including the courage to speak the truth in love according to Ephesians 4:14-15. A true relationship cannot avoid conflict but must face and resolve it in a spirit of love.
The final principle is faithfulness and commitment to the end. The sermon cites the example of Ruth with Naomi (Ruth 1:16-17) and Jesus loving His disciples to the very end (John 13:1) to illustrate that true friendship cannot be built on fleeting emotions but must be grounded in promises, will, and persevering commitment. The sermon concludes with a call for the church to be a loving community where everyone is encouraged, comforted, and corrected in love rather than harsh judgment.