Paul wrote Ephesians as a prisoner, probably chained to a Roman soldier. He used the soldier’s equipment to describe how Christians stand firm. The battle he describes is spiritual: not against people, but against evil.
10 Finally, my brethren, be strong in the Lord, and in the power of his might. 11 Put on the whole armour of God, that ye may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil. 12 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. 13 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.
King James Version
Piece by piece
- Belt of truth: honesty and the truth of the Gospel hold everything together.
- Breastplate of righteousness: the righteousness God gives protects the heart.
- Shoes of the gospel of peace: readiness to bring peace wherever we go.
- Shield of faith: trust in God stops the fiery arrows of doubt and accusation.
- Helmet of salvation: the assurance of being saved guards the mind.
- Sword of the Spirit: the Word of God, the only piece used to strike.
Prayer completes the armor
Right after the list, Paul calls believers to pray at all times, for one another and for him (verses 18–20). The armor is not worn alone: it is the equipment of a praying community.
Questions for a small group
- Which piece of the armor do you most need today?
- Why is the sword the only offensive piece, and what does that teach us?
- How can our group pray for one another this week?
Read the whole chapter in the online Bible.
