As Paul wraps up his letter to the Ephesian church we are now blessed with a most passionate closing. In the previous chapters the apostle called on his audience to walk in unity, in truth and holiness and in love.
Paul then instructed husbands, wives and children to love and respect one another. HE also addressed slaves and masters also calling on both to be respectful.
The apostle now focuses on the strength of the church mentioning the armor of God and prayer, ultimate defense against evil.
“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.” (Ephesians 6:10-11)
What is the armor of God? It’s Hid love, His wisdom, His forgiveness. Why does this armor need to be “put on” rather than brought on? Because this armor is not of us but of God. The armor of God stems from His word and from Jesus Christ.
Paul continues his letter by exposing evil and that which challenges all Christians.
“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.” (Ephesians 6:12)
Strengthened by the word that is the armor of God believers are able to resist temptation brought on by Satan and put aside evil. Through the Holy spirit that dwells within true Christians we are predestined to winning the battle against the enemy.
Paul once again invites believers to put on the armor of God as he warns us to prepare for the attacks that are forthcoming. Anyone who ignores this warning is foolish and bound for disaster.
“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.” (Ephesians 6:13)
The day of evil is either the end times or the day when Satan’s attacks push us to our limit, to a point when an armor is necessary to survive the severity of the blows brought on by evil.
At that time Paul tells us we need to be prepared, armed with the “belt of truth”, the “breastplate of righteousness” and “the gospel of peace” which are the word of God and salvation.
Clearly in these verses the apostle writes about a battle against evil, a war during which believing alone is insufficient, a conflict where armor is not optional.
“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.” (Ephesians 6:14-15)
Paul describes this fight as one involving “flaming arrows” which in Paul’s time, flaming arrows could not penetrate the shields of Roman soldiers. For this reason the apostle calls on the Ephesian church to use their faith as a shield to deflect Satan’s attacks.
“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.” (Ephesians 6:16)
“17 Take the helmet of salvation and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God.” (Ephesians 6:17)
Preparedness also involves prayer, a powerful part of the war against evil.
“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 saints.” (Ephesians 6:18)
Paul calls on the Ephesians to pray for him so that he would fearlessly continue to preach the word of God no matter what.
“19 Pray also for me, that whenever I open my mouth, words may be given me so that I will fearlessly make known the mystery of the gospel, 20 for which I am an ambassador in chains. Pray that I may declare it fearlessly, as I should.” (Ephesians 6:19-20)
Describing himself as “ambassador in chains” the apostle Paul here confirms the fact he was in deed imprisoned in Rome where he was fulfilling his mission as part of God’s perfect plan.
The carrier of this letter, Tychicus a beloved friend of Paul was sent along this circular letter to answer any question believers would have and update them on the church’s status in Rome.
“21 Tychicus, the dear brother and faithful servant in the Lord, will tell you everything, so that you also may know how I am and what I am doing. 22 I am sending him to you for this very purpose, that you may know how we are, and that he may encourage you. 23 Peace to the brothers, and love with faith from God the Father and the Lord Jesus Christ. 24 Grace to all who love our Lord Jesus Christ with an undying love.” (Ephesians 6:21-24)
Paul ends this letter with a gracious benediction to all those in Ephesus.
What are we to get from these verses? That those who arm themselves with truth, righteousness, the word of God, with faith salvation and prayer will prevail on the day of evil, while those without these qualities will perish.
The Christian walk is not an easy one by any means. According to this scripture anyone claiming to be saved must be prepared for the day of evil and for each battle that will lead to that day. Sure death would await any soldier entering battle without an armor, the same applies to Christians.
Prepare yourself according to the word and you will prevail. Let’s pray!
Father God;
We thank you for your blessings in our lives and for your servant Paul,
We praise you Lord for his wisdom and for his works through this scripture,
We ask you Lord to inspire us to use these verses in our lives
As we grow in you through the teachings of your faithful apostle.
Lord we ask you to strengthen us each day as we endure through battles,
Allow us to praise and love each other through faith in you Jesus,
Shield us from evil through truth, the gospel, salvation and prayer,
Guide us to abide by your word as we spread your gospel to one and all
Becoming examples of faith through our character as we walk the narrow path.
God we pray that you will continue to bless us, to bless our lives and fill us with hope
We ask you Lord to guide our footsteps and lead us to the way everlasting,
Through faith in you Lord we seek salvation and a place with you in heaven
According to your word, your everlasting wisdom and strength.
May your will be done
In our lives, for your life.
We thank you for your love and all you bless us with each day.
Praise God,
Amen!
This message was written by Daniel St.Pierre
Email: DanielStPierre@ThriveThroughChrist.com
