10 In conclusion, be strong in the Lord (be empowered through your union with Him); draw strength from Him (that strength which His boundless might provides) 11 Put on God’s armor (the armor of heavy-armed soldier which God supplies), that you may be able successfully to stand up against (all) the strategies and the deceits of the devil. 12 For we are not wrestling with flesh and blood (contending only with physical opponents), but against the despotisms (principalities), against the powers, against (the master spirits who are) the world rulers of this present darkness, against the spirit forces of wickedness in the heavenly (supernatural) sphere. 13 Therefore put on God’s complete armor, that you may be able to resist and stand your ground on the evil day (of danger) and having done all (the crisis demands), to stand (firmly in your place). 14 Stand therefore (hold your ground), having tightened the belt of truth around your loins and having put on the complete breastplate of integrity and of moral rectitude and right standing with God. 15 And having shod your feet in preparation (to face the enemy with the firm-footed stability, the promptness and the readiness produces by the good news) of the gospel of peace. 16 Lift up over all the (covering) shield of saving faith, upon which you can quench all the flaming missiles of the wicked (one). 17 And take the helmet of salvation and the sword of the Spirit wields, which is the Word of God. 18. Pray at all times (on every occasion, in every season) in the Spirit, with all (manner of) prayer and entreaty. To that end keep alert and watch with strong purpose and perseverance, interceding in behalf of all the saints (God’s consecrated people).
Ephesians 6:10-18
Q & A：
- What are some of the new identities we have received from the life of Christ Jesus? How do these new identities equip us to face and overcome spiritual warfare? Have you clarified your position in the “war zone”? Share some truths and insights about Christ that will help you stand firm in the face of the enemy’s attacks. (Eph 6:10-12)
- How do you share the gospel of peace with God with your friend? Describe your understanding of being at peace with God. Share how you have experienced God’s peace and stood firm against the enemy. (Eph 6:15; Col 2:15; Rom 5:1; Col 1:20; Phil 4:6-9; John 14:27)
- What role does the shield of faith play in spiritual warfare? What are some of the flaming arrows shot by the devil that you are aware of in your life and work environment? Regarding all the destructive behavior of our enemies, share how you have strengthened and developed the shield of faith and used it effectively. (Eph 6:11-13,16; Heb11:1,6)
Summary：
This week’s sermon delves further into the concept of spiritual armor, focusing on the significance of the shoes of peace and the shield of faith. The shoes of peace remind us to share the gospel rooted in our identity of peace with God. God’s peace gradually dispels anxiety, worry, and sorrow from within us. When we are filled with God’s peace, we can also extend that peace to those around us. The shield of faith helps us to defend ourselves against the flaming arrows of the devil. A strong faith will stop and quench those flaming arrows that threaten us. This sermon encourages us to share the Gospel of God and to lift up the shield of faith as a group to defend ourselves against the enemy.