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Rules of Engagement: Preparing for Your Role in the Spiritual Battle
Readers of Derek Prince--and all who desire biblically grounded teaching on an imperative subject--will welcome this well-rounded body of material on the nurture and preparation of the Christian disciple and warrior.
Like fireside chats, these meaty chapters share the message Derek Prince most wanted to impart in the years before his death. With superb biblical exposition and practical application, he discusses the interaction between believers on earth and spiritual powers in heavenly places. Topics include building a soldier's character, facing testing, Holy Spirit training, and the battle of the heavenlies. With this manual in hand, readers will learn to develop character that endures to the end.
Like fireside chats, these meaty chapters share the message Derek Prince most wanted to impart in the years before his death. With superb biblical exposition and practical application, he discusses the interaction between believers on earth and spiritual powers in heavenly places. Topics include building a soldier's character, facing testing, Holy Spirit training, and the battle of the heavenlies. With this manual in hand, readers will learn to develop character that endures to the end.
224 pages, Paperback
First published March 1, 2006
158 people are currently reading
544 people want to read
About the author
Derek Prince
792 books441 followersDerek Prince (1915-2003), was an International Bible teacher and founder of Derek Prince Ministries International, wrote more than fifty books.
He was born in India of British parents. Educated as a scholar of Greek and Latin at Eton College and Cambridge University, England, he held a Fellowship in Ancient and Modern Philosophy at King’s College. He also studied Hebrew and Aramaic, at Cambridge University and the Hebrew University in Jerusalem. His daily radio broadcast, Derek Prince Legacy Radio, still reaches listeners around the world.
He was born in India of British parents. Educated as a scholar of Greek and Latin at Eton College and Cambridge University, England, he held a Fellowship in Ancient and Modern Philosophy at King’s College. He also studied Hebrew and Aramaic, at Cambridge University and the Hebrew University in Jerusalem. His daily radio broadcast, Derek Prince Legacy Radio, still reaches listeners around the world.
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Displaying 1 - 25 of 25 reviews
April 13, 2023
"If we desire the unhindered operation of spiritual gifts, we sometimes need to set ourselves free from traditional ideas of how we should behave in church."
The above quote sums up many of the concepts expressed in this book. Those bound by legalism and dedicated to viewing scripture exclusively through a particular denominational lens will probably not make it far enough to even locate, let alone consider this--and more's the pity. But for those who can make it past the idea of spiritual gifts still being in operation (including the ones they've been taught to see as odd or spooky), there's a lot here to absorb and utilize.
"We each need to ask ourselves, "What is the will of God in my life? What does my Father expect of me?"
(This reader heartily agrees, only expounding that we ought to ask this of ourselves, and God, daily--if we're to keep our priorities in order.)
Prince's prose is warm, conversational, and endearingly British--carried along at a steady clip, and logically organized. Here we see him start readers off easy and build upon the information offered, all while regularly relaying scriptural citations and his extensive knowledge of both the Bible and the Greek language.
The author's intellectual atheistic background, followed by his conversion via private Bible reading and eventual Pentecostal background gives him a refreshingly matter-of-fact way of presenting the spiritual realm--along with our responsibilities and potential effects on it. He's instructive and paternal, without being even remotely unkind. And for those who have some existing experience in deliverance ministry... his words ring both effective and true.
"Do not ever think that you are clever enough to argue with the devil. He is much more clever than you are. He has been in this business a long, long time. Do not try to convince him with your arguments, instead meet him with The Scripture. The Scripture is authoritative. Accept it. Live by it. Answer the devil with it. But remember, you have to speak it. (Ephesians 6:17)"
Favorite Quote:
"There is no room for sloppiness or laziness in any area of the Christian life. Very rarely, if ever, does God call a person out of failure in a secular calling to success in a spiritual calling. He who is unfaithful in the least (secular) will be unfaithful also in the greatest (the spiritual.) See Luke 16:10."
The above quote sums up many of the concepts expressed in this book. Those bound by legalism and dedicated to viewing scripture exclusively through a particular denominational lens will probably not make it far enough to even locate, let alone consider this--and more's the pity. But for those who can make it past the idea of spiritual gifts still being in operation (including the ones they've been taught to see as odd or spooky), there's a lot here to absorb and utilize.
"We each need to ask ourselves, "What is the will of God in my life? What does my Father expect of me?"
(This reader heartily agrees, only expounding that we ought to ask this of ourselves, and God, daily--if we're to keep our priorities in order.)
Prince's prose is warm, conversational, and endearingly British--carried along at a steady clip, and logically organized. Here we see him start readers off easy and build upon the information offered, all while regularly relaying scriptural citations and his extensive knowledge of both the Bible and the Greek language.
The author's intellectual atheistic background, followed by his conversion via private Bible reading and eventual Pentecostal background gives him a refreshingly matter-of-fact way of presenting the spiritual realm--along with our responsibilities and potential effects on it. He's instructive and paternal, without being even remotely unkind. And for those who have some existing experience in deliverance ministry... his words ring both effective and true.
"Do not ever think that you are clever enough to argue with the devil. He is much more clever than you are. He has been in this business a long, long time. Do not try to convince him with your arguments, instead meet him with The Scripture. The Scripture is authoritative. Accept it. Live by it. Answer the devil with it. But remember, you have to speak it. (Ephesians 6:17)"
Favorite Quote:
"There is no room for sloppiness or laziness in any area of the Christian life. Very rarely, if ever, does God call a person out of failure in a secular calling to success in a spiritual calling. He who is unfaithful in the least (secular) will be unfaithful also in the greatest (the spiritual.) See Luke 16:10."
September 29, 2023
First half is pretty dry.. Last was busting though. 💁♂️
August 23, 2016
Derek Prince never fails to instruct and inspire
August 5, 2020
Derek Prince is a godly man who takes God and the Bible seriously.
Reading this book and watching his videos made me realise more and more about the spiritual reality around me.
This book is soaked in Scriptures.
Reading this book and watching his videos made me realise more and more about the spiritual reality around me.
This book is soaked in Scriptures.
November 30, 2022
This is a masterpiece. A book that will help you walk in your journey of faith. Seek the LORD'S wisdom in this writing and hear it in every page and every chapter!
Read this book if you have not! Read it today!
Read this book if you have not! Read it today!
November 30, 2024
This book is very deep and powerful. If you can obey and follow everything in your bible and this book, you can confront any power from bellow.
Thank you so much for this impact and input. Derek Prince is my newfound author for now.
Thank you so much for this impact and input. Derek Prince is my newfound author for now.
August 5, 2019
Great book on spiritual warfare. Must read!
September 17, 2019
Great book
Very good read. Some outstanding thoughts! Another heart teaching tool. A must read for ministry teams. Love these books, pat
Very good read. Some outstanding thoughts! Another heart teaching tool. A must read for ministry teams. Love these books, pat
May 26, 2021
Good book
July 2, 2023
For the WArriors in Christ.
April 30, 2025
Another great Derek Prince book on Spiritual warfare. So many great scripture references, stories, and wisdom. Great read for anyone.
July 10, 2025
This book is great especially if you want a basis for Spiritual warfare that's based solely on the Bible.
September 25, 2012
Derek Prince is a well known Bible teaching and author. He passed away in 2003, at the age of 88 years old. The publisher has decided to rerelease this book with new teachings he has written before he passed. Rules of Engagement is written to strengthen believers into facing and enduring until the final battle between Jesus and satan's demonic forces. Every person has to encounter testing times and chastening from our sins sometime in their lives. Chastening occurs when we have committed sins and have been disobedient and God is calling us to repent and turn from them. Testing means we're growing in our character while having to undergo difficult times. Trusting in God and His faithfulness is a key aspect in coming out stronger in our testing times. Derek Prince had a wonderful point about how people are willing to trust a banker with their money than trusting that God will bring them out of their current circumstances that they are dealing with.
The book also encourages readers to worship and praise the Lord who died for our many sins and mistakes. Worship is considered to be an attitude of thanksgiving and we're supposed to bow our head or bow down on our knees with our hands raised worshiping our Creator. Derek Prince personally believed that worship is a time of resting in God's holy presence. I have to admit that I haven't considered worship to be a state of resting, breathing, and listening to His voice. In my church, we identify worship as singing and dancing, not being still and resting. But Prince looks as worship and praise as two separate things that we can do to honor our Heavenly Father. Praise is the element of singing and dancing about the goodness of God during a church service or even a home service. There are times when we need to shout with a voice of triumph about how thankful we are to be saved, loved, protected, provided for, healed, made whole, and forgiven. Another facet is remembering that praise and saying the name of Jesus makes the enemy tremble and shake! He has to flee!
I would recommend this book to anyone who wants to learn about how to conquer our enemy with praising and worshiping our Savior. This book will guide readers into applying the word of God and how to put on the full armor of God against attacks from satan. This book taught be a lot about enduring to the final battle and holding on until Christ's glorious return. If you're looking to grow in your faith and trusting in God's all power then this book will benefit you. Satan wants you to live in fear and doubt but always remember that he is the one who is really afraid of our Jesus!
"I received this book free from the publisher through the Bethany House Publishers/ Chosen book review bloggers program."
The book also encourages readers to worship and praise the Lord who died for our many sins and mistakes. Worship is considered to be an attitude of thanksgiving and we're supposed to bow our head or bow down on our knees with our hands raised worshiping our Creator. Derek Prince personally believed that worship is a time of resting in God's holy presence. I have to admit that I haven't considered worship to be a state of resting, breathing, and listening to His voice. In my church, we identify worship as singing and dancing, not being still and resting. But Prince looks as worship and praise as two separate things that we can do to honor our Heavenly Father. Praise is the element of singing and dancing about the goodness of God during a church service or even a home service. There are times when we need to shout with a voice of triumph about how thankful we are to be saved, loved, protected, provided for, healed, made whole, and forgiven. Another facet is remembering that praise and saying the name of Jesus makes the enemy tremble and shake! He has to flee!
I would recommend this book to anyone who wants to learn about how to conquer our enemy with praising and worshiping our Savior. This book will guide readers into applying the word of God and how to put on the full armor of God against attacks from satan. This book taught be a lot about enduring to the final battle and holding on until Christ's glorious return. If you're looking to grow in your faith and trusting in God's all power then this book will benefit you. Satan wants you to live in fear and doubt but always remember that he is the one who is really afraid of our Jesus!
"I received this book free from the publisher through the Bethany House Publishers/ Chosen book review bloggers program."
September 12, 2012
The very first time that I read the title: Rules of Engagement: Preparing for Your Role in the Spiritual Battle, I thought I was getting a book on how to better understand the spiritual warfare battle. But let me tell you, I got that and more! It's a book on how to build character and veracity to fight the war. Spiritual warfare is something that we are constantly facing in our Christian walk, therefore; it is extremely important to wear the armor of God at all times. And Prince shows us how important it is to FIRST be obedient to God.
When we face difficulties in our lives, it is so much easier for us to tend to want to fix things by ourselves. Sometimes we are put in situations to learn to acknowledge the importance of seeking God's help; as a matter of fact, Derek Prince shows us that being obedient is one of the most important things when we face spiritual battles.
This book is filled with excellent advice and several examples of how Biblical men went through struggles - so that they could learn a life lesson. For example; there is Jacob who had a physical struggle with the Angel of the Lord, this taught him to give up his independence. Like Jacob, we must learn to surrender.
CHARACTER is another important requirement; BE VIGILANT! Prince states that we must always be aware that the enemy seeks to destroy. And like a soldier, we must learn personal discipline. Here is an example:
"Be sober, be VIGILANT; because your adversary the devil walks about like a roaring lion, seeking whom he may devour" (1 Peter 5:8).
Prince also states: "Prepare for service by remaining submissive to God and training our souls to stay in submission to our spirits."
"Watch, stand fast in the faith, be brave, be strong. Let all that you do be done with love."
(1 Corinthians 16: 13-14).
You will find learn in Rules of Engagement: Preparing for Your Role in the Spiritual Battle, that OBEDIENCE, VIGILANCE, and PREPARATION is important to be in the army of the Lord, and like a soldier prepares for battle - we too must learn to prepare to face all spiritual battles that come our way. So how do we do this? We must seek God daily through prayer and supplication. I definitely recommend this OUTSTANDING book.
*This book was provided by Bethany House in exchange for a review.
When we face difficulties in our lives, it is so much easier for us to tend to want to fix things by ourselves. Sometimes we are put in situations to learn to acknowledge the importance of seeking God's help; as a matter of fact, Derek Prince shows us that being obedient is one of the most important things when we face spiritual battles.
This book is filled with excellent advice and several examples of how Biblical men went through struggles - so that they could learn a life lesson. For example; there is Jacob who had a physical struggle with the Angel of the Lord, this taught him to give up his independence. Like Jacob, we must learn to surrender.
CHARACTER is another important requirement; BE VIGILANT! Prince states that we must always be aware that the enemy seeks to destroy. And like a soldier, we must learn personal discipline. Here is an example:
"Be sober, be VIGILANT; because your adversary the devil walks about like a roaring lion, seeking whom he may devour" (1 Peter 5:8).
Prince also states: "Prepare for service by remaining submissive to God and training our souls to stay in submission to our spirits."
"Watch, stand fast in the faith, be brave, be strong. Let all that you do be done with love."
(1 Corinthians 16: 13-14).
You will find learn in Rules of Engagement: Preparing for Your Role in the Spiritual Battle, that OBEDIENCE, VIGILANCE, and PREPARATION is important to be in the army of the Lord, and like a soldier prepares for battle - we too must learn to prepare to face all spiritual battles that come our way. So how do we do this? We must seek God daily through prayer and supplication. I definitely recommend this OUTSTANDING book.
*This book was provided by Bethany House in exchange for a review.
March 19, 2016
I have been a student of Derek Prince since the 1990s. This is a seminal book for Christians. Mr. Prince shows his metal as a master teacher by presenting a book about building a Godly character and integrity. He spends a lot of time on the nature of God and His relationship with us. He explains that Gad wants to be our only source of strength and to depend upon Him completely. Mr. Prince explains that we must undergo tests once we begin on the path of Christianity. I t is not a journey for the weak-willed or lukewarm believer. We are to be transformed into an example of endurance and hope in God through character-building tests, studying the scriptures and applying it to life and our faith journey. It is in achieving that threshold of endurance that we can grasp the power of God and the weapons of spiritual warfare.
Mr Prince expresses a profound truth in the following excerpt from his book: “Truth is not obtained cheaply. It demands much time given to prayer and study of the Scriptures, followed by practical applications in our daily lives. It must take priority over the many forms of cheap entertainment offered by our secular culture. It is a lifetime commitment.”
I came away with a clear view of God's plan for my total dependence on God. I was schooled on filtering out the daily mundane trials and worries and focusing on the spiritual truths of scripture.
One of the truths is that the devil is very real and that he and his demons plot our destruction. he has a plan which he is following. Ultimately, his spiritual poison, the spirit of the antichrist which is the seed of humanism will flower with the antichrist. Armed with a Godly character, wisdom and endurance, true and devout believers and practitioners can and will overcome the devil. Mr. Prince ends his book with a message of encouragement and a promise of victory.
Mr Prince expresses a profound truth in the following excerpt from his book: “Truth is not obtained cheaply. It demands much time given to prayer and study of the Scriptures, followed by practical applications in our daily lives. It must take priority over the many forms of cheap entertainment offered by our secular culture. It is a lifetime commitment.”
I came away with a clear view of God's plan for my total dependence on God. I was schooled on filtering out the daily mundane trials and worries and focusing on the spiritual truths of scripture.
One of the truths is that the devil is very real and that he and his demons plot our destruction. he has a plan which he is following. Ultimately, his spiritual poison, the spirit of the antichrist which is the seed of humanism will flower with the antichrist. Armed with a Godly character, wisdom and endurance, true and devout believers and practitioners can and will overcome the devil. Mr. Prince ends his book with a message of encouragement and a promise of victory.
February 17, 2017
Derek Prince, my favorite Bible teacher of all time. Like his other books and podcasts, he teaches spiritual warfare in truth, with knowledge and in a manner that makes it easy to understand.
He may be in heaven now, but his teaching still reaches those of us on this side.
He may be in heaven now, but his teaching still reaches those of us on this side.
May 14, 2014
Derek Prince was a pioneer in deliverance ministry and spiritual warfare.
This book will help you understand how spiritual warfare is waged in the heavenlies, and what place the Christian prayer warrior plays in it.
It is filled with insightful, practical teaching for the Christian who is determined to go after God at all costs and finish his or her race well in the war of the ages.
This book will help you understand how spiritual warfare is waged in the heavenlies, and what place the Christian prayer warrior plays in it.
It is filled with insightful, practical teaching for the Christian who is determined to go after God at all costs and finish his or her race well in the war of the ages.
June 19, 2015
four steps you must follow in order to prepare for battle in the spiritual world: build your soldier or warriors' character...know your guide, the one that prepares for the battle...understand your battle...it is against unseen evil and endure until the end...fight the good fight, run the race, endure and win the fight...excellent!
January 23, 2009
Derek Prince is an interesting figure in the world of Christianity. He is highly regarded as a scriptorian and a teacher. This is a compilation of his work over the years and I found it very intriguing and enlightening.
January 12, 2013
this book is well worth reading if you want to persue a life of total commitment to serving God, well written and full of helpful advice.
August 31, 2013
Fairly simple in approach. Short chapters that build on each other. Nothing extraordinary, just solid content that builds a practical approach to spiritual warfare
November 23, 2015
Best Prince book I have read yet. He has quickly become my favorite teacher and author in the faith.
September 8, 2016
Theological exposition by the sage of modern day pentacostalism. A biblical study on spiritual warfare.
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March 13, 2018This book is an oldie but a goodie. Dr. Prince left his earthly home for his heavenly home years ago. The principles he taught, however, remain true. After my recent snake encounter, this book has been a great reminder that we don’t fight or wrestle with people or things but that our battle is with principalities in the heavens.
May 24, 2019
AS A 19 YEAR OLD STARTING OFF INTO THE COMMUTE WORK LIFE AND FRESLY CONVERTED, I AM HONORED TO HAVE FOUND THIS BOOK AND NOT ONLY SO BUT TO THE TEACHINGS OF DEREK PRINCE, WHOM I LOOKED UP TO AND LEARNED FROM EVER SINCE. A GREAT LEGACY NEVER TO BE FORGOTTEN!
HONESTLY, I TRIED TO RUSH TROUGH THE FIRST 5 CHAPTERS BUT I COULD NEVER BE SATISFIED. SOMETHING ALWAYS MADE ME GO BACK AND RE READ, OR ANALYZE, OR EVEN START OVER. IT HELPED ME TO REALLY PAY ATTENTION TO WHERE I WAS BEING GUIDED, I TOOK IT WITH ME EVERYWHERE AND READ IT ON MY LUNCH BREAKS.
LIKE I SAID, WHEN I THOUGHT I HAD COMPLETED A SECTION, SOMETHING ALWAYS TOLD ME TO GO BACK AND RE READ. IT WAS LIKE IF I WAS THERE IN A CLASSROOM WITH DEREK PRINCE HIMSELF!
HONESTLY, I TRIED TO RUSH TROUGH THE FIRST 5 CHAPTERS BUT I COULD NEVER BE SATISFIED. SOMETHING ALWAYS MADE ME GO BACK AND RE READ, OR ANALYZE, OR EVEN START OVER. IT HELPED ME TO REALLY PAY ATTENTION TO WHERE I WAS BEING GUIDED, I TOOK IT WITH ME EVERYWHERE AND READ IT ON MY LUNCH BREAKS.
LIKE I SAID, WHEN I THOUGHT I HAD COMPLETED A SECTION, SOMETHING ALWAYS TOLD ME TO GO BACK AND RE READ. IT WAS LIKE IF I WAS THERE IN A CLASSROOM WITH DEREK PRINCE HIMSELF!
Displaying 1 - 25 of 25 reviews