Ephesians Study Chapter 6 - The Armor of God

Imitators of God! (Cont) (vs 1-9) Children obey your parentsThey are Christians It’s the 5th commandment It is right Fathers (or parents)Don’t provoke themDon’t say one thing and mean another Blame and praise when appropriate Do what you say you will do Don’t do what you say you won’t do Don’t do anything that confuses the child Bring them up in the discipline and admonition of the Lord Discipline themIn love not anger Be fair and consistent Instruct and encourage Christian masters (think boss or supervisor)Seek the servants’ (workers’) well being Don’t threaten Submit to the Lord Don’t play favorites Armor of God (vs 10-24) The enemy is spiritualThe devil - accuser Satan - adversary Satan’s helpers - demonic creatures that assist satan in his attacks. Satan’s abilitiesPowerful Crafty Strategic Cunning Our equipmentBelt (girdle) of truthHeld the other parts of the armor together Satan is a liar but truth will defeat him When a believer lies, everything falls apart. David is just one of many examples Breastplate of righteousnessCovered from neck to waist back and front Symbolized the believer’s righteousness in Christ and righteous life Satan as accuser can’t accuse the believer living a godly life in the power of the Spirit. Shoes of the gospelGospel gives us sure footing in battle Gives us peace with God and therefore not fear attack from man or Satan Satan declared war but with the Gospel we are to promote peace Shoes also prepare us to share the Gospel each day with those who haven’t heard. Provide beautiful feet (Isaiah 52:7) Shield of faithShield protected from arrows, spears, and fiery darts. A trust in the promises and power of God Faith is a defensive tactic deflecting Satans fiery darts. Interlocked the soldiers could march toward the enemy like a wall Not in this alone Helmet of salvationHelmet protects the head (mind) Signifies when God controls the mind, satan can’t lead astray Bible study plays a huge role in a believer’s Christian growth, service, and victory over satan. Sword of the SpiritOnly offensive weapon God provides A physical sword cuts the body The Word of God cuts the heart We were cut to the heart when the Word convicted us or our sins Satan tries to use the Word of God to confuse us but the more we study and understand the harder it is for Satan to confuse us. Jesus is the full armor of GodWe put on Jesus and we will always have the full protection from God. Reference: Wiersbe Bible Commentary