Good morning everyone!
Here is a teaching video of Ephesians 6. This was for my PaPaw, who passed away last night. This was his favorite reading. Robin Campbell
"The Armor of God: Strengthened in Christ"
Introduction:
Ephesians 6 is a powerful chapter in Paul's epistle, offering believers practical instruction and spiritual insight. As Paul concludes his letter to the Ephesians, he shifts from moral and relational teachings to a vivid spiritual metaphor—the Armor of God. This chapter challenges believers to live in obedience, walk in righteousness, and engage in spiritual warfare. In this study, we will break down each section of Ephesians 6 and reflect on Paul's message of spiritual strength, obedience, and the power of prayer.
Verses 1-4: The Call to Obedience
Paul begins by addressing children and parents. The Greek word used for "obey" in verse 1 is hypakouō, which means "to listen attentively" or "to heed." This implies more than mere compliance; it requires children to actively listen to their parents with respect and intention, rooted in the commandment to "honor your father and mother" (Exodus 20:12). Paul's audience includes children within Christian families. He emphasizes that obedience to parents is "right" and reflects God's order.
In verse 4, Paul also speaks to fathers, instructing them not to provoke their children to wrath. The emphasis here is on nurturing children with discipline and instruction grounded in the Lord, reflecting a Christ-centered approach to parenting.
Verses 5-8: Obedience in Work
Paul shifts his focus to servants (bondservants), urging them to obey their earthly masters with sincerity and reverence for Christ. This passage extends beyond the employer-employee relationship, teaching that whatever work believers do should be done as if serving Christ Himself. This reflects the understanding that Christian service extends beyond religious duties into everyday life, where our attitude toward work demonstrates our reverence for God.
Verse 9: Instructions to Masters
In verse 9, Paul addresses masters, reminding them that they, too, have a Master in heaven. This admonition creates a balance of power and mutual respect, breaking down hierarchical pride. Masters are to treat their servants fairly, knowing God shows no partiality. The gospel dismantles social boundaries, reminding believers that everyone stands equal before God.
Verses 10-17: The Armor of God
Paul's famous metaphor of the Armor of God serves as a call to spiritual readiness. The believer's struggle is not against flesh and blood but against spiritual forces of evil. Each piece of armor represents a critical aspect of spiritual life:
• Belt of Truth: Integrity and honesty bind the Christian's life together (compare with Ephesians 4:24, where believers are all called to put on the new self, created in truth and righteousness).
• Breastplate of Righteousness: Protects the heart and soul from evil by living righteous in Christ (see Ephesians 1:19-23, where Paul prays for believers to understand Christ's power over all forces).
• Shoes of the Gospel of Peace: Readiness to stand firm and proclaim the gospel (compare with Ephesians 3:16-21, where Paul prays for believers to be rooted in love and strength).
• Shield of Faith: Faith protects against the enemy's fiery darts—doubt, fear, temptation.
• Helmet of Salvation: Confidence in God's saving grace.
• Sword of the Spirit (Word of God): The Word is a defensive and offensive weapon to stand against falsehood and proclaim truth.
Paul's use of the armor metaphor vividly describes the spiritual battle Christians face, urging them to rely on God's strength, not their efforts.
Verses 18-20: The Power of Prayer
Paul closes this section with an emphasis on prayer, urging believers to "pray always with all prayer and supplication in the Spirit." Prayer is the lifeblood of spiritual warfare, connecting the believer to God's power. Paul's exhortation to persistent prayer is similar to his earlier teachings in Ephesians 1:16 and Ephesians 3:14-21, where he intercedes for believers, praying that they would all be filled with strength and spiritual wisdom. Additionally, Ephesians 5:20 encourages believers to give thanks always, demonstrating the importance of a prayerful attitude in all situations.
Paul also requests prayers for himself, showing that even an apostle relies on the church's prayers. This highlights the humility and interdependence of believers in the body of Christ.
Conclusion: Standing Firm in the Strength of the Lord
Ephesians 6 concludes with a call to stand firm, clothed in the Armor of God, and empowered through prayer. The chapter encapsulates Paul's message to the Ephesians: the Christian life is a spiritual battle that requires obedience and reliance on God's strength. As believers, we are all called to live in righteousness, respect those in authority, and remain steadfast in faith, knowing that God equips us to overcome every spiritual challenge.
By reflecting on these truths, we can be strengthened to live victoriously in Christ, confident that our armor—rooted in reality, righteousness, faith, and prayer—will sustain us through every trial.
In Christ, love Jared W Campbell
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