The Armor of God

August 1, 2017

Daily Reading (Click to read each Scripture)

Ephesians 6:10-18
Psalm 65:8-13
This week’s sermon text: Romans 1:1-17

Field Notes
Today’s scripture from Ephesians is one of the most indelible images in all of scripture for preparing ourselves in the way of discipleship. It’s notable that Paul here uses battle imagery for the task of discipleship. We often shy away from using language that might come across as antagonistic or that suggests conflict, yet Paul understood that the battle each of our spirits wages with sin and death is not a battle won cheaply. It can be hostile and nothing less than our souls hinge on the outcome.

What prepares us? First, it is the “belt of truth”: immersing ourselves in what we know to be true testimonies about God, primarily in scripture, makes sure that we are aligned with what is good. Then there is the “breastplate of righteousness”: the breastplate, of course, protects the heart, and it is only in striving after a righteous life that our hearts will be pure. Our feet must wear shoes that take us to proclaim the “gospel of peace.” It’s not enough just to keep the good news to ourselves; we must proclaim it for others. The “shield of faith” is always before us to protect us, the “helmet of salvation” reminds us of the saving acts of Christ, and finally the “sword of the Spirit” is not just scripture, but the testimony of the Holy Spirit in our hearts and lives.

Questions for the Field

• Are you missing any pieces in your armor of faith?
• Which ones would they be?

Family Field Talk

• What would it look like to be courageous for Christ?

Prayer Guide
God you know us and protect us from the forces of evil that seek to influences our lives. Give us courage and strength to fight the good fight of truth and love. Amen.