Saturday, August 28, 2009
Get Your Armor On!
(Ephesians 6:10-24)
In the final section of Paul’s letter to the Ephesians, he reminds believers of the reality of daily spiritual battles. The challenges of our lives come fundamentally, Paul asserts, from Satan himself (11). That means everything has a spiritual element. Everything is a spiritual battle or spiritual test. For example, when my car breaks down my reaction is a matter of spiritual warfare. Should I react with carnality, I have lost the battle—failed the test. Should I react with Spirit-filled poise, manifesting the grace of Christ, I have won!
We sometimes consider other human beings to be the enemy. In a limited sense, that may be true (Phil. 3:18). We must remember, however, that our greatest opponent is Satan, and our battles ultimately are with him (12). For example, Mormons are enemies of the Biblical Gospel of grace. However, Mormonism is ultimately of Satanic origin and continues to be energized by the demons of hell. Therefore, my battle is not with the Mormon boys who knock on my door. My battle is bigger—it’s with Satan himself! (Remember, those Mormon boys are both victims and accomplices of Satan. They need Christ!)
How can we win on such a momentous battlefield? The answer: “take unto you the whole armor of God” (13—emphasis mine). We must be completely clothed with every piece of God’s armor every day! Review the list in verses 14-17. Then, ask yourself, “Am I completely, fully clothed with God’s armor?” Satan always attacks at the weakest point, your area of neglect. Only Christians who are fully dressed are ready for battle!
