Ephesians 6:10–20 is an invigorating encouragement to serious believers: We can stand firm in the Christian faith. The overall tone of the “Armor of God” passage is positive. Those wearing the armor will overcome and sit with Christ on his throne (Rev. 3:21). The military theme evokes confidence and urges bravery. Believers gear up like Roman soldiers, the warriors that had won much of the world for Rome. What a great way to end a letter in which God has promised to conquer “the principalities and powers” of this age (3:10).
But this passage is also sobering. Armor is only necessary for those who have enemies. Educated, industrialized, safe people prefer to see Christianity as a journey or conversation, not as a war. But Christianity isn't an easy way of getting what we want. It is not merely a journey toward truth or a unique position in a worldview conversation. Christianity is a subversive movement against the enemies of God. To become a Christian is to enlist in the war against Satan and his armies.
Before we study the armor itself and how we use it, let's ask the uncomfortable question, “Why do I need armor?”
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