When an army is preparing to go into battle against a powerful enemy, it is crucial that the soldiers are properly equipped. If their equipment is inferior or outdated, the results will be disastrous. In the Christian’s spiritual battle, the right equipment is essential, and is also available. We consider now Ephesians 6:14-17 Armed for battle.
1. The belt
Paul begins with ‘the belt of truth’ (v14). The belt holds all the other garments in place, enabling a general readiness for battle. God himself is ‘truth’ -there is nothing false in him and he acts entirely in accord with his holy nature. Our lives are to be shaped by his truth revealed in Scripture. Truth is to be ‘in the inner parts’ (Psalm 51:6), life matching profession.
2. The breastplate
Next – ‘with the breastplate of righteousness in place’ (v14). This protects the heart, where Satan often strikes to bring discouragement and doubts about salvation. We are righteous in Christ (1 Corinthians 1:30), our sin and guilt removed. When we are ‘justified’, we live a holy, righteous life by the Spirit’s strength. Depending on Christ’s finished work, we are able to resist Satan’s discouragement, and so live a life of purity reflecting the Saviour.
3. The boots
The right footwear gives a secure foothold, hence ‘feet fitted with the readiness that comes from the gospel of peace’ (v15). We have ‘peace with God’ (Romans 5:10 and so can enjoy inward peace. With this secure foothold we can advance to engage the enemy, longing to see others set free by God’s grace. Gospel witness is part of our armour.
4. The shield
The ‘shield of faith’ (v16) protects the whole body. We face ‘the flaming arrows of the evil one’ – sudden temptations at weak or unguarded times. We are saved by faith and live by faith (1 Corinthians 5:7). Faith leads to action, leaving the enemy fewer opportunities.
5. The helmet
The head is protected by ‘the helmet of salvation’ (v17). By grace we share in the victory of Christ. Satan often attacks the mind since thoughts can be hard to control. We must rest in what God has done for us in Christ and fill our minds with what is good (Philippians 4:8).
6. The sword
Our offensive weapon is ‘the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God’ (v17). We attack with the Word, which is ‘alive and powerful’ (Hebrews 4:2). The Spirit reminds us of the truth we have stored in our minds, following Christ’s example in temptation (Matthew 4:4).