Life and Relationships

What Is Spiritual Warfare?

Spiritual warfare is the conflict between God's kingdom and the forces of evil, and the believer's struggle against temptation, deception, sin, and spiritual opposition.

Published 2026-09-13 · Updated 2026-09-27

Written and reviewed by the Word Oasis Editorial Team. Read our editorial policy.

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Great Controversy

Biblical explanation

Paul gives the clearest description: “We wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world” (). Paul then describes the armor God provides: Truth Righteousness The gospel of peace Faith Salvation The Word of God Prayer (.) Spiritual warfare therefore is not primarily about dramatic supernatural experiences. It includes the daily battle to remain faithful to God amid temptation, deception, persecution, false teaching, and spiritual opposition. Peter says: “Be sober, be vigilant” (). The Bible does teach a genuine supernatural conflict. But it does not encourage believers to become obsessed with Satan. The focus is repeatedly on Christ, truth, faith, prayer, Scripture, obedience, and dependence upon God.

In brief

Paul gives the clearest description: “We wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world” ().

Bible references

Go deeper into this topic Where Did Evil Come From? Start the study

Editorial note

This answer is written and reviewed by the Word Oasis Editorial Team, and is presented with supporting references so you can examine each passage in context. If you notice an error or unclear statement, please suggest a correction.