Spiritual Warfare by Billy Graham Crusade Phoenix, AZ 1974

Summary

In this sermon, Billy Graham presents occultism and violence as signs of an intensifying spiritual conflict between God and the devil. He opens with several reported crimes in which perpetrators allegedly described themselves as devil worshippers, then points to growing interest in witchcraft, Satanism, exorcism, and films about the devil. He argues that Scripture warns against divination and witchcraft, citing Deuteronomy 18 and Saul’s consultation of a medium.

Graham describes the devil, in biblical terms, as a real and deceptive spiritual being who opposes God, and says demons are fallen angels active in the world. He attributes their rebellion to pride while acknowledging that the Bible does not explain every detail of evil’s origin. He teaches that Christ defeated the devil through the cross and resurrection, and that Satan and his followers will ultimately be judged.

On exorcism, Graham says Jesus cast out demons by command rather than through elaborate rituals. He cautions against treating every psychological or emotional problem as demonic, emphasizing the need for discernment. In his view, Christians may be harassed or tempted by demons but cannot be possessed if they belong to Christ. He advises believers to seek Christ, live under the Holy Spirit’s guidance, confess sin, and resist temptation.

The sermon’s central practical teaching is the “armor of God” from Ephesians: truth, Christ’s righteousness, the peace of the gospel, faith, salvation, and knowledge of Scripture. Graham also stresses prayer. He concludes that Christians may still face suffering and persecution, but that Christ has won the ultimate victory.

Presenter or Contributor

• Billy Graham — Presenter and preacher, identified by the video title. No other presenters or contributors are evident in the subtitles.