Key Verses: Ephesians 6:10-18, "10 Finally, be strong in the Lord and in his mighty power. 11 Put on the full armor of God, so that you can take your stand against the devil’s schemes. 12 For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities,against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms. 13 Therefore put on the full armor of God, so that when the day of evil comes, you may be able to stand your ground, and after you have done everything, to stand. 14 Stand firm then, with the belt of truth buckled around your waist, with the breastplate of righteousness in place, 15 and with your feet fitted with the readiness that comes from the gospel of peace. 16 In addition to all this, take up the shield of faith, with which you can extinguish all the flaming arrows of the evil one. 17 Take the helmet of salvation and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God.18 And pray in the Spirit on all occasions with all kinds of prayers and requests. With this in mind, be alert and always keep on praying for all the Lord’s people."
The Apostle Paul understood conflict with the world. Paul had been stoned and left for dead, whipped, beaten, and run out of various cities, all because he willingly gave his life to serve Christ.
One of the most well-known passages of the New Testament is Paul's description of the spiritual armor of God. In describing it, Paul helps us see that not only is our battle a real one against evil, but that God has equipped us to be victorious. Let's take a closer look.
Open your Bible to Ephesians 6:10-18. Paul did a cool job of providing perspective on nature of conflict. What did Paul say in verse 12 that speaks to who the real enemy is? Paul said the real enemy is not other people ("flesh and blood"), but the evil spiritual forces at work in this world. How might this shift in perspective help you deal with people who seem to be your enemies? In verse 11, the Greek word Paul used for "full armor," is the term used for the full equipment, both defensive and offensive, of the heavily armed Roman foot soldier. Some scholars have even guessed that Paul was writing this letter while looking at a Roman soldier. (Remember, Paul was in jail at the time). So, when Paul talking about going into battle, he wasn't joking.
Read Ephesians 6:14. Roman soldiers would fasten their clothing securely around their waist with a belt. This made quick movements easier and was crucial to their ability to fight in combat. How does knowing the truth of God's word help your ability to respond quickly to trials? The Roman soldier's breastplate was a metal piece that protected the chest, lungs, and heart. How does living a good (righteous) life protect you from those who want to bring you down?
Read Ephesians 6:15. When going into battle, soldiers need footwear that will allow them to move quickly and cover long distances. What is it about the Gospel that makes you want to go quickly out in the world?
Read Ephesians 6:16. Roman soldiers had a large, oblong shield made of two large pieces of wood. This shield was used to defensive purposes, oftentimes for defense from the enemy's flaming arrows. In what ways does your faith help defend you from Satan's arrows of temptation?
Read Ephesians 6:17. The Roman soldier's helmet served the same purpose helmets serve today: it protected the soldier's head. How does your salvation in Christ protect you from the doubts, fears, and impure thoughts that sometimes enter your mind?
The Greek word Paul used for sword was the short, sharp sword crucial for Roman soldiers fighting in close combat. The sword is the only offensive weapon Paul mentioned. How can you depend on God's word to help you make it through tough situations?
How cool is it that you have all the available tools to help you withstand the persecution of the world? God has given you the ability to stay strong. He wants you to stay in the fight. Next time the world seems like it is against you, remember these verses and stand tall. With God by your side, you can do it!
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