MOVING MOUNTAINS, TAKING TERRITORIES

Title: MOVING MOUNTAINS, TAKING TERRITORIES

By Rev. Samuel Arimoro

Main Text:
Matthew 17:20 (NKJV) – "So Jesus said to them, 'If you have faith as a mustard seed, you will say to this mountain, “Move from here to there,” and it will move; and nothing will be impossible for you.'"

Supporting Texts:
Mark 11:23
Luke 10:19
Isaiah 54:2-3
Joshua 1:3

INTRODUCTION:
As believers, we are called to live a life of faith that can move mountains and take territories for God’s Kingdom. This sermon will explore the power of faith and the authority we possess as children of God to conquer obstacles and expand His Kingdom.

1. UNDERSTANDING MOUNTAINS
Mountains represent the challenges and obstacles we face in life. They can be physical, spiritual, or emotional barriers that hinder our progress.

a) Mountains as Obstacles: Mountains can symbolize problems, fears, or strongholds that seem insurmountable (Isaiah 41:15).

b) Spiritual Mountains: These are the spiritual battles we encounter that can affect our faith and relationship with God (Ephesians 6:12).

c) Emotional Mountains: Issues like anxiety, depression, or past traumas can also feel like mountains (Psalm 61:2).

d) Physical Mountains: These include any external circumstances that challenge our pursuit of God’s will (Hebrews 12:1).

Biblical Example:
Moses faced the mountain of the Red Sea, but through faith, he led the Israelites across on dry land (Exodus 14:21-22).

2. THE POWER OF FAITH
Faith is the key to moving mountains. It enables us to overcome obstacles that stand in our way.

a) Faith Defined: Faith is believing in God’s ability to intervene in our situations (Hebrews 11:1).

b) Mustard Seed Faith: Even a small amount of faith can lead to significant breakthroughs (Matthew 17:20).

c) Faith in Action: True faith requires action, aligning our steps with God’s promises (James 2:17).

d) Endurance in Faith: We must be patient and steadfast in our faith, trusting God’s timing (Hebrews 10:36).

Biblical Example:
The woman with the issue of blood demonstrated faith by reaching out to touch Jesus’ garment, resulting in her healing (Mark 5:34).

3. TAKING TERRITORIES
God has called us not just to overcome obstacles but to expand His Kingdom by taking new territories.

a) Understanding Authority: As believers, we have been given authority to tread on serpents and scorpions (Luke 10:19).

b) Claiming Our Inheritance: God promises us territories that we can claim through faith (Joshua 1:3).

c) Expanding God’s Kingdom: We are to actively seek opportunities to share the Gospel and make disciples (Matthew 28:19-20).

d) Boldness in Taking Territories: We must approach new challenges with confidence, knowing God is with us (1 John 5:14).

Biblical Example:
Joshua and Caleb, after witnessing the Promised Land, boldly encouraged the Israelites to take possession despite the giants (Numbers 13:30).

4. STRATEGIES FOR MOVING MOUNTAINS
Moving mountains and taking territories require intentional strategies grounded in God’s Word.

a) Prayer and Fasting: These are powerful tools for overcoming spiritual obstacles (Matthew 17:21).

b) The Word of God: Speaking and standing on the promises of God gives us the power to change our circumstances (Isaiah 55:11).

c) Community Support: Engaging with fellow believers strengthens our faith and resolve (Hebrews 10:24-25).

d) Obedience to God’s Leading: Following the Holy Spirit’s guidance is essential in moving forward (John 16:13).

Biblical Example:
David used his sling and stones to defeat Goliath, demonstrating that God’s methods are not limited to human understanding (1 Samuel 17:49).

5. CELEBRATING VICTORIES
As we move mountains and take territories, we must celebrate God’s faithfulness and the victories He grants us.

a) Acknowledging God’s Role: Recognising that every success is due to God’s grace helps us stay humble (1 Corinthians 15:57).

b) Sharing Testimonies: Our victories inspire and encourage others in their faith journey (Psalm 66:16).

c) Continuous Praise: Maintaining an attitude of gratitude and praise fuels our faith (Psalm 100:4).

d) Setting New Goals: Each victory is an opportunity to set new goals for further kingdom expansion (Philippians 3:14).

Biblical Example:
After defeating Jericho, the Israelites celebrated God’s faithfulness through a triumphant shout and worship (Joshua 6:20).

CONCLUSION:
God has equipped us with the faith and authority to move mountains and take territories for His Kingdom. By understanding our challenges, exercising our faith, and following God’s leading, we can experience tremendous breakthroughs. Let us embrace our calling to impact the world around us and celebrate the victories that come through our obedience and trust in Him.

PRAYER POINTS:
1. Lord, help me identify the mountains in my life that need to be moved.

2. Father, increase my faith to believe in Your ability to overcome obstacles.

3. I declare that every mountain blocking my progress is being moved in Jesus’ name.

4. Lord, empower me to take the territories You have promised me.

5. Help me to be bold in sharing the Gospel and expanding Your Kingdom.

6. I pray for wisdom and strategies to overcome the challenges I face.

7. May I be surrounded by a community that strengthens my faith.

8. Lord, teach me to rely on Your Word for the promises I need.

9. I thank You for the victories I have experienced; help me to celebrate them.

10. May my life reflect Your glory as I move mountains and take territories for You!

PROPHETIC DECLARATIONS:
1. I declare that every mountain in your life is being uprooted and cast into the sea!

2. God is empowering you with the faith to conquer every obstacle you face.

3. You will take possession of the territories God has promised you!

4. Every setback will turn into a setup for a great comeback in your life.

5. You will experience breakthroughs that will inspire others to follow Christ.

6. Your prayers and faith will bring down strongholds in your life and community.

7. I decree that you will walk boldly in the authority given to you by Christ.

8. Your testimonies will be a beacon of hope and faith for those around you.

9. You are entering a season of victory and expansion in Jesus’ name!

10. Your life will reflect the power of God as you move mountains and take territories!