Verses 14-17: The whole armor
of God consists of six pieces.
1. “Truth” (verse 14a), is
a knowledge of the truth of God’s Word (4:21). The ancient soldiers “loins”
(“waist”), were “girt about” with a leather belt which held most of the other
pieces of his armor in place. Similarly, the other pieces of the Christian’s
armor depend on, and are held in place by, his spiritual “belt” or his
knowledge of the “truth” of Scripture.
2. “The breastplate of
righteousness (verse 14b), may be read “the breastplate which is
righteousness.” It represents a holy character and moral conduct. Obedience to
the “truth” known produces a godly life (“righteousness”).
3. “Preparation of the
gospel of peace” (verse 15), means “eagerness that comes from the gospel of
peace.” That is, as the Roman soldier wore special shoes called caligae on his
feet, enabling him to advance against his enemy, so the Christian must have on
his feet (possess), as sense of “eagerness” or “willingness” to advance against
the Devil and take the fight to him. Such “eagerness” to contend with Satan
“comes from the gospel of peace.” The gospel gives peace to the believer, freeing
him from anxiety though he advances against such a powerful opponent.
4. “The shield of” (which is)
“faith” (verse 16), means taking God at His word by believing His promises.
Such trust will protect one from doubts induced by Satan.
5. “The helmet of salvation
(verse 17a): Since the readers are already Christians (2:8), they are not here
urged to be saved. (1 Thessalonians 5:8), describes this helmet as “the hope of
salvation” that is, the certainty (assurance), of salvation.
6. “The sword of the Spirit,
which is the word of God (verse 17b): The Greek term rendered “word” is not
logos, referring to the whole Word of God, but rhema, referring to certain
portions or selected verses of Scripture.
Your enemies have
their armor why do you not have your?
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