Ephesians 6:10-18 (KJV):
- “Finally, my brethren, be strong in the Lord, and in the power of his might.
- Put on the whole armour of God, that ye may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil.
- For we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high places.
- Wherefore take unto you the whole armour of God, that ye may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand.
- Stand therefore, having your loins girt about with truth, and having on the breastplate of righteousness;
- And your feet shod with the preparation of the gospel of peace;
- Above all, taking the shield of faith, wherewith ye shall be able to quench all the fiery darts of the wicked.
- And take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God:
- Praying always with all prayer and supplication in the Spirit, and watching thereunto with all perseverance and supplication for all saints.”
The Armor of God provides us with the tools needed for spiritual warfare. Paul, in Ephesians 6, emphasizes the necessity of this armor to stand firm against the devil’s schemes.
Each piece of armor represents a specific aspect of spiritual defense and offense.
Be Strong in the Lord
Before detailing the armor, Paul urges believers to be strong in the Lord. Strength in the Christian life comes not from oneself but from God. Psalm 28:7 affirms, “The Lord is my strength and my shield; my heart trusted in him, and I am helped.” Trusting in God’s power is foundational.
The Whole Armor of God
Paul repeatedly stresses the importance of putting on the “whole armor of God.” This implies that partial armor leaves vulnerabilities. Each piece is crucial for complete protection.
Loins Girt About with Truth
“Stand therefore, having your loins girt about with truth.” Truth is the first piece of armor. It holds everything together. Jesus said in John 14:6, “I am the way, the truth, and the life.” Knowing and living by the truth is essential. It combats the enemy’s lies and deception.
The Breastplate of Righteousness
“And having on the breastplate of righteousness.” The breastplate protects the heart and vital organs. Righteousness, given through faith in Christ, guards our hearts against accusations and condemnation. Isaiah 54:17 promises, “No weapon that is formed against thee shall prosper.” Righteous living also fortifies our defense.
Feet Shod with the Preparation of the Gospel of Peace
“And your feet shod with the preparation of the gospel of peace.” Firm footing is necessary for stability in battle. The gospel provides that foundation. Romans 10:15 states, “How beautiful are the feet of them that preach the gospel of peace.” Being ready to share the gospel brings peace and prepares us for spiritual battles.
The Shield of Faith
“Above all, taking the shield of faith, wherewith ye shall be able to quench all the fiery darts of the wicked.” Faith acts as a shield, extinguishing the enemy’s attacks. Hebrews 11:6 reminds us, “But without faith it is impossible to please him.” Faith in God’s promises and protection is crucial for deflecting doubts and fears.
The Helmet of Salvation
“And take the helmet of salvation.” The helmet protects the mind. Assurance of salvation guards against the enemy’s attempts to sow doubt. First Thessalonians 5:8 says, “But let us, who are of the day, be sober, putting on the breastplate of faith and love; and for an helmet, the hope of salvation.” Confidence in our salvation keeps our minds secure.
The Sword of the Spirit
“And the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God.” The sword is the only offensive weapon in the armor. Hebrews 4:12 describes it as “quick, and powerful, and sharper than any two-edged sword.” God’s Word is powerful for both defense and attack. Jesus used Scripture to counter Satan’s temptations (Matthew 4:1-11).
Praying Always
“Praying always with all prayer and supplication in the Spirit.” Prayer is the means of communication with our Commander. It’s how we seek guidance, strength, and support. Philippians 4:6 encourages, “Be careful for nothing; but in every thing by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God.” Persistent prayer is vital in spiritual warfare.
We also have another article related to this one: The Fruit Of The Spirit.
Implications of the Armor of God
- Constant Readiness: The Armor of God signifies the need for constant readiness. First Peter 5:8 warns, “Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil, as a roaring lion, walketh about, seeking whom he may devour.” Spiritual vigilance is crucial.
- Divine Protection: Each piece of armor represents divine protection. Psalm 91:4 assures, “He shall cover thee with his feathers, and under his wings shalt thou trust.” God’s protection encompasses all aspects of our being.
- Active Engagement: Spiritual warfare requires active engagement. James 4:7 instructs, “Submit yourselves therefore to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you.” Resistance is an active stance against the enemy.
- Holistic Approach: The whole armor implies a holistic approach to spirituality. Neglecting any piece can lead to spiritual vulnerability. Colossians 3:12-14 encourages us to “put on” various virtues, reflecting a comprehensive spiritual lifestyle.
- Community Support: Ephesians 6:18 emphasizes praying for all saints. Spiritual warfare is a communal effort. Galatians 6:2 instructs, “Bear ye one another’s burdens.” Supporting one another strengthens the entire body of Christ.
Scriptural Examples
Consider David and Goliath. David, though armed with physical weapons, declared in 1 Samuel 17:45, “I come to thee in the name of the Lord of hosts.” His faith in God was his true armor. Daniel in the lion’s den exemplifies trust in God’s protection. Daniel 6:23 reveals, “no manner of hurt was found upon him, because he believed in his God.” His faith was his shield.
The early apostles also demonstrate the armor of God. Peter, after being filled with the Holy Spirit, preached boldly (Acts 2:14-41). His sword of the Spirit was the Word of God. Paul’s life, filled with hardships, shows persistent reliance on spiritual armor. Second Corinthians 11:23-28 recounts his trials, yet his faith remained steadfast.
Living Out the Armor of God
To live out the Armor of God, daily commitment is essential. Romans 12:2 advises, “And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind.” Renewing our minds aligns us with God’s truth.
Regular Bible study strengthens our understanding of God’s Word. Psalm 119:105 says, “Thy word is a lamp unto my feet, and a light unto my path.” Scripture illuminates our path and sharpens our spiritual sword.
Prayer fortifies our connection with God. First Thessalonians 5:17 instructs, “Pray without ceasing.” Constant communication with God empowers and guides us.
Community and fellowship are vital. Hebrews 10:24-25 reminds us to “consider one another to provoke unto love and to good works: Not forsaking the assembling of ourselves together.” Fellowship offers mutual support and encouragement.
Conclusion
The Armor of God in Ephesians 6:10-18 provides essential tools for spiritual warfare. Each piece—truth, righteousness, the gospel of peace, faith, salvation, and the Word of God—equips us to stand firm against spiritual adversaries.
Through prayer, Scripture, and community, we can effectively engage in spiritual warfare, embodying the strength and protection that comes from God.
