Understanding Spiritual Warfare: From Relics to Righteous Principles

Sometimes, when we’re studying the covenants and the power of the restored gospel, the topics we encounter can feel… intense. We talk about the Spirit, we study the Book of Mormon, we prepare for missions, and sometimes, the conversation drifts into the deepest trenches of spiritual warfare. It’s humbling to realize how much unseen battle rages, not just in the world, but sometimes right in our own hearts.

Listening to Fr. Carlos Martins share his experiences was a powerful reminder that the battle for souls is real, and the tools we use—whether they are sacred ordinances, deep scripture study, or simply the consistent testimony of the gospel—are potent. It made me reflect on the foundation of what it means to be a disciple in this day and age.

The Principle Over the Prophecy

One of the most striking takeaways for me was the emphasis on *principle*. When Fr. Martins recounted his early experiences, he spoke of being called to act, even when he felt untrained. The core principle guiding him, and what I think we all need to anchor ourselves to, is that spiritual opposition, no matter how strong or seemingly overwhelming, is ultimately a legal, juridical process. The enemy operates by establishing rights, and our work, as agents of the restored Church, is to help restore those rights to God and the covenants.

This resonated deeply with me as a returned missionary. We spend so much time learning the *script*—the perfect talk, the flawless testimony. But the *principle* is what sustains us when the talk falls flat or the investigator challenges us with a tough question. It’s remembering *why* we are doing the work, even when the Spirit feels distant.

The Internet Missionary Perspective

This whole discussion really hammered home the mantra of the Rogue Disciples: every member can be an Internet missionary, every member can be a disciple anywhere, all the time. We may not be standing in a mission field, but our homes, our classrooms, and our online interactions are the field. If we understand that the spiritual battle is waged over adherence to truth—the truth found in the restored gospel—then we are equipped for whatever corner of the internet we find ourselves in.

It’s easy to get caught up in the sensational aspects of spiritual struggle, but the enduring message is always one of Christ’s Atonement and the power of covenants. We are called to be discerning, to seek knowledge through reliable sources (like our LivingBook scripture studies!), and to always point back to the Savior.

A Bite-Sized Mission Prep Skill: Discerning the Source

When we hear accounts of spiritual oppression or warfare, it can be overwhelming. A simple, practical skill we can practice right now—whether we’re studying scriptures or having a missionary discussion—is learning to discern the *source* of the feeling or the argument. Is this fear based on a natural human failing (like trauma or temptation), or is it an external, targeted opposition? By naming the source, we can apply the proper spiritual defense, just as the brethren teach us in our training.

If you want to dig deeper into the theology of spiritual opposition, I highly recommend revisiting the teachings on this topic. If you haven't already, check out the latest Iron Rod writings on spiritual warfare—they are incredibly clarifying.

If you’re feeling the call to deepen your understanding of these profound topics, join us this week for a virtual Bible Study Group in HolyPlaces. It’s a wonderful place to wrestle with the hard questions together, supported by fellow disciples. Come ready to learn, and come ready to be taught!