The Armour of God

Finally, be strong in the Lord and in his mighty power. Paul begins with finally — this is the culmination of everything he has said in Ephesians. He has spoken of our identity in Christ, of the mystery of the church, of life in the Spirit. Now he addresses the reality that all of this happens in a contested space. We are in a war. Not a war against people — Paul is explicit: our struggle is not against flesh and blood. The person who frustrates you, the colleague who undermines you, the family member who wounds you — they are not your enemy. They may be instruments of the enemy, but they are not the enemy. The enemy is spiritual, and Paul names him: rulers, authorities, powers of this dark world, spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms. Against such forces, human strength is simply insufficient. We need divine armour. The belt of truth — because the enemy's primary weapon is deception. The breastplate of righteousness — covering the heart with the imputed righteousness of Christ. The gospel of peace on our feet — we advance by bringing good news, not by winning arguments. The shield of faith — which extinguishes the flaming arrows of accusation and doubt. The helmet of salvation — protecting the mind with the assurance of who we are. And the sword of the Spirit — the only offensive weapon — which is the word of God. Put it all on. And then pray.