SGA Ephesians Lesson 13

THE WHOLE ARMOUR OF GOD
Lesson 13
Ephesians 6:11-24


(Vs. 11.) The believer lives in a world of evil. He is surrounded by evil powers and evil people. This world is not the friend of grace nor of God. Not only is sin around us, but sin is within us. The Christian life is a race to be run (Heb. 12:l), a battle to be fought (l Tim. 6:12; 2 Tim. 4: 7) and a conflict that will not be over until we die. We need help and strength to stand up against all of the deceit and strategies of Satan, who is the, great enemy of Christ and his people. God has provided an armour for his people and weapons to be used against Satan, sin and error.

(Vs. 12.) We are not contending against physical opponents. Frail, mortal men are not our real enemies. Our battle is against wicked spirits, who inhabit the supernatural sphere and who deal in lies, pride, idolatry, covetousness, lust, deceit, self-righteousness and all manner of sin against God.

(Vs. 13.) "Take upon yourselves the complete armour that God has provided for you, that you may be able to resist these evils and stand during every trial, conflict and temptation and having met every demand to continue to stand firmly in Christ." The battle is not against the flesh; therefore, the armour and weapons which God provides are not carnal but spiritual (2 Cor. 10:3-5).

(Vs. 14-18.) The parts of this armour are given in these verses.

(Vs. 19.) Pray for the ministers of the gospel, that God will not only open effectual doors for them to preach, but that he will give them boldness and wisdom to preach the gospel of Christ (which is a mystery only understood as the Holy Spirit reveals it – 1 Cor. 2:8-10; Rom. 10:13-17).

(Vs. 20.) Paul called himself an ambassador of Christ (2 Cor. 5:19,20). He was at that time in prison.

(Vs.21, 22.) Tychicus was a beloved brother, who accompanied Paul on his travels, whom Paul sent to the Ephesians to relate to them Paul's affairs and to encourage them in the gospel.

(Vs. 23, 24.) The epistle is concluded with the apostle's salutation. Those saluted are the brethren who love Christ sincerely. He wishes for them peace, love, faith and grace.


Henry Mahan
Ashland, Ky.

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