La LUCHA interna que todo creyente enfrenta - Watchman Nee
Understanding the Internal Battle of Faith
The Struggle Within
- The speaker addresses the common experience of believers feeling a constant internal battle between peace and doubt, emphasizing that this struggle is not a sign of weak faith but evidence of being alive in Christ.
- Reference to Watchman Nee's insights on this universal believer's experience, setting the stage for exploring biblical teachings about internal conflict.
- Quoting Apostle Paul from Romans 7, highlighting his honest expression of wanting to do good yet struggling with sin, resonating with many believers' experiences.
Nature of the Conflict
- Watchman Nee explains that this conflict arises not from being poor believers but because one has been born again; before knowing Christ, there was no real struggle against sin.
- The metaphor of two kings in one kingdom illustrates the old nature (the flesh) versus the new nature (the spirit), both vying for control over one's life.
- Galatians 5:17 is cited to show how the desires of the flesh oppose those of the Spirit, creating daily tension in a Christian's life.
Navigating Internal Warfare
- Emphasis on understanding that trying to defeat the old self through personal strength is futile; it leads to exhaustion and frustration.
- The solution lies not in self-improvement but in surrendering to Christ’s completed work on the cross.
- Two fundamental truths are highlighted: our old nature was crucified with Christ (Romans 6:6), which we must accept by faith rather than strive against temptation alone.
Living in Victory
- Believers should consider themselves dead to sin and alive to God through Jesus Christ. This involves recognizing both aspects daily as part of their spiritual journey.
- Daily prayer emphasizes reliance on Christ’s sufficiency rather than personal ability, inviting His Spirit to take control and live through them.
- An illustration from grafting shows how believers should remain connected to Christ (the vine), receiving life naturally without striving for fruitfulness independently.
Perspective Shift
- True victory comes from focusing on Jesus rather than our struggles; Christianity transforms into a loving relationship based on dependence instead of mere duty.
- When failing, believers are encouraged not to dwell in condemnation but return to grace and allow God's life within them once more.
- The internal struggle serves as a reminder of our need for salvation; it’s an invitation for deeper dependence on God rather than a sign of failure.
Conclusion
- Encouragement is given that feelings of tension indicate active spiritual life; believers should remember their identity in Christ and rely on His power for victory each day.