Ephesians Chapter 6
Walking in the Light and Fighting the Darkness
A. The Spirit-Filled Life and Two Other Special Areas of Submission
1. Ephesians 6:1–3 – The Spirit-Filled Life and the Parent-Child Relationship
Ephesians 6:1–3 (NKJV)
“Children, obey your parents in the Lord, for this is right. ‘Honor your father and mother,’ which is the first commandment with promise: ‘that it may be well with you and you may live long on the earth.’”
a. “Children, obey your parents”
The command is straightforward and divinely instituted: children are to obey their parents. This is not optional or culturally flexible. It is rooted in the natural order created by God and carries moral weight regardless of the surrounding society. The word “obey” implies listening attentively and acting accordingly — not just hearing, but doing.
Obedience is not innate. A child naturally inherits a fallen nature from Adam (Romans 5:12). Disobedience is instinctive; obedience must be intentionally taught and cultivated.
Proverbs 22:15 confirms this: “Foolishness is bound up in the heart of a child; the rod of correction will drive it far from him.”
Teaching obedience trains a child for spiritual obedience. If a child does not learn to submit to earthly authority, he will not understand how to submit to God's authority later.
b. “In the Lord, for this is right”
This obedience is not merely cultural or pragmatic; it is in the Lord. That is, it is rooted in a relationship with Christ. The phrase “for this is right” underscores that it is intrinsically righteous — not just expedient, not just socially beneficial, but morally and spiritually correct in God’s eyes.
Just as wives submit to their husbands “as unto the Lord” (Ephesians 5:22), children obey their parents as unto the Lord.
Even when children become adults and are no longer under the legal authority of their parents, the principle of honor still applies. Honor includes respect, care, and gratitude (Proverbs 23:22).
c. “Honor your father and mother”
This comes from Deuteronomy 5:16 (NKJV):
“Honor your father and your mother, as the Lord your God has commanded you, that your days may be long, and that it may be well with you in the land which the Lord your God is giving you.”
This is the first of the Ten Commandments that includes a specific promise — a prolonged and prosperous life.
In Jewish reckoning, the fifth commandment was considered a duty to God, not just man. The father and mother were God’s appointed representatives in the home.
When society breaks down in its respect for parental authority, it is not far behind in moral collapse (Romans 1:30, 2 Timothy 3:2).
d. “That it may be well with you and you may live long on the earth”
This is a general principle, not a guaranteed formula. It reflects God’s design that obedience and honor lead to stability, safety, and blessing — both individually and societally.
While this was originally a national promise to Israel regarding longevity in the land, Paul applies the principle universally. God honors those who honor the institutions He has ordained.
2. Ephesians 6:4 – How Parents Walk in the Light: Not Provoking Their Children to Wrath
Ephesians 6:4 (NKJV)
“And you, fathers, do not provoke your children to wrath, but bring them up in the training and admonition of the Lord.”
a. “And you, fathers”
The responsibility here is laid primarily on the father — the head of the household, the spiritual leader, the one accountable before God. While both parents are involved in raising children, Scripture places the ultimate leadership role on the father (Genesis 18:19; 1 Thessalonians 2:11).
This does not excuse absenteeism, passive leadership, or the outsourcing of spiritual instruction to mothers or Sunday school teachers. Fathers must lead the home spiritually.
A passive father will leave a spiritual vacuum that Satan will gladly fill.
b. “Do not provoke your children to wrath”
This is a command against harsh, critical, or inconsistent parenting that stirs resentment and rebellion in the heart of a child. It forbids overbearing rules, nagging, favoritism, or neglect.
Colossians 3:21 (NKJV) echoes this warning: “Fathers, do not provoke your children, lest they become discouraged.”
A child provoked to wrath loses heart. He stops trying. He becomes either rebellious or emotionally broken.
As D. Martyn Lloyd-Jones rightly warned:
“When you are disciplining a child, you should have first controlled yourself… What right have you to say to your child that he needs discipline when you obviously need it yourself?”
Discipline must always be balanced with love, consistency, and justice.
c. “But bring them up”
The phrase “bring them up” is the same used in Ephesians 5:29 (NKJV):
“For no one ever hated his own flesh, but nourishes and cherishes it, just as the Lord does the church.”
This speaks to tender care and patient cultivation. You are not merely commanding a child, but raising a soul. Nurture includes affection, teaching, and protection.
d. “In the training and admonition of the Lord”
Both aspects are required:
Training (Greek: paideia) – This includes correction, discipline, and structure. It is the word used in Hebrews 12:6–7 (NKJV):
“For whom the Lord loves He chastens, and scourges every son whom He receives.”
“If you endure chastening, God deals with you as with sons; for what son is there whom a father does not chasten?”Admonition (Greek: nouthesia) – Instruction, counsel, and warnings. This is verbal, not physical, and aims at the heart and mind.
This must be “of the Lord.” The Word of God must be the foundation. Christian parenting is not merely behavior management — it is soul-shaping. See 2 Timothy 3:16 (NKJV):
“All Scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness.”Parents are stewards of their children's souls and are called to teach them Scripture diligently (Deuteronomy 6:6–7), model godliness, and prepare them to live under God's authority.
This section of Ephesians continues the theme of Spirit-filled submission that began in chapter 5. Children submit to parents, and parents submit to God by how they raise their children. The Christian home is to reflect God’s order, God’s love, and God’s truth.
Walking in the Light and Fighting the Darkness
B. The Spirit-Filled Life in the Workplace: Submission and Authority
3. Ephesians 6:5–8 — How Employees Walk in the Light: Working as Servants of Jesus
Ephesians 6:5–8 (NKJV)
“Bondservants, be obedient to those who are your masters according to the flesh, with fear and trembling, in sincerity of heart, as to Christ; not with eyeservice, as men-pleasers, but as bondservants of Christ, doing the will of God from the heart, with goodwill doing service, as to the Lord, and not to men, knowing that whatever good anyone does, he will receive the same from the Lord, whether he is a slave or free.”
a. “Bondservants, be obedient... as to Christ”
The command is addressed to bondservants (Greek: doulos), but the principle extends to all who serve under human authority — including employees in a modern work context. The phrase “according to the flesh” reminds us that such authority is temporal and earthly, not ultimate.
The words “as to Christ” fundamentally alter the motive and dignity of work. Christians do not serve merely for a paycheck or recognition; they labor as those accountable to Jesus Christ Himself.
Colossians 3:23 (NKJV) reinforces this truth:
“And whatever you do, do it heartily, as to the Lord and not to men.”
b. “With fear and trembling, in sincerity of heart”
“Fear and trembling” speaks to a deep reverence and serious intent, not a cringing terror. It’s the same phrase used in Philippians 2:12 (NKJV):
“Work out your own salvation with fear and trembling.”
It reflects a seriousness in attitude, showing that Christians should be the most dependable and conscientious workers.
“Sincerity of heart” emphasizes integrity — doing your job with wholeness, not with divided motives.
c. “Not with eyeservice, as men-pleasers”
Paul condemns shallow, performative work. Eyeservice is the practice of appearing busy when the boss is watching, but slacking off otherwise. Men-pleasers serve to win approval rather than to honor Christ.
This is dishonesty in labor. It’s a form of hypocrisy — putting on a show instead of doing one’s duty.
Proverbs 10:4 (NKJV):
“He who has a slack hand becomes poor, but the hand of the diligent makes rich.”
d. “As bondservants of Christ, doing the will of God from the heart”
The believer’s entire life is to be lived under the lordship of Jesus Christ. Even our occupation is a field of obedience.
Labor is not beneath the Christian calling — it is the Christian calling when done as unto Christ.
“From the heart” refers to genuine effort and engagement, not grudging compliance.
Charles Spurgeon rightly observed:
“Grace makes us the servants of God while still we are the servants of men: it enables us to do the business of heaven while we are attending to the business of earth: it sanctifies the common duties of life by showing us how to perform them in the light of heaven.”
e. “With goodwill doing service, as to the Lord, and not to men”
This attitude eliminates bitterness or a sense of injustice. The Christian doesn’t serve his employer out of mere obligation, but serves Christ by serving others. Every workplace becomes a mission field, and every task an offering to God.
Ecclesiastes 9:10 (NKJV):
“Whatever your hand finds to do, do it with your might...”Grumbling is not godly. Faithfulness is the standard.
f. “Knowing that whatever good anyone does, he will receive the same from the Lord...”
God sees, God remembers, and God repays. Whether one is free or a slave, God’s judgment and reward are impartial and eternal.
Colossians 3:24 (NKJV):
“Knowing that from the Lord you will receive the reward of the inheritance; for you serve the Lord Christ.”This eternal perspective gives purpose and encouragement to workers in difficult or unfair conditions.
This verse subtly affirms a principle of divine justice that outlasts any earthly circumstance. The social status of “slave or free” is irrelevant before the throne of God. What matters is faithfulness to Christ in the role one is in.
4. Ephesians 6:9 — How Employers Walk in the Light: Treating Workers Well
Ephesians 6:9 (NKJV)
“And you, masters, do the same things to them, giving up threatening, knowing that your own Master also is in heaven, and there is no partiality with Him.”
a. “And you, masters, do the same things to them”
The same principles of sincerity, goodwill, and doing all things unto the Lord apply to those in positions of authority. Christian employers are not exempt from God’s expectations.
This was revolutionary in the Roman world, where slaves had no rights and masters were not accountable to them.
Paul reminds Christian masters that leadership must reflect Christ, not worldly power structures.
Luke 12:48 (NKJV):
“For everyone to whom much is given, from him much will be required.”
b. “Giving up threatening”
Employers are not to use intimidation or fear as motivators. Threats, verbal abuse, and manipulation have no place in Christian leadership. Christ-like authority is exercised in love, fairness, and respect.
Proverbs 16:12 (NKJV):
“It is an abomination for kings to commit wickedness, for a throne is established by righteousness.”
Moule noted:
“So the Gospel leaves its message of absolutely equal obligation, in Jesus Christ, upon the slave and upon the slave owner. The principle will do its work. There is no word of Revolution.”
c. “Knowing that your own Master also is in heaven”
The ultimate accountability for employers is not corporate review or financial bottom lines — it is the Lord Jesus Christ, who watches and judges from heaven.
This reminds all in authority that they too are under authority — divine authority.
Romans 2:11 (NKJV):
“For there is no partiality with God.”
No favoritism. No advantage due to wealth, education, or position. The ground is level at the foot of the cross. Earthly masters must live in light of their heavenly Master’s standards.
This section of Ephesians applies the Spirit-filled walk to daily labor and leadership, revealing that true Christianity transforms even the most mundane aspects of life. The Christian work ethic, rooted in submission to Christ and love for neighbor, sets believers apart as lights in a dark world.
B. Fighting Against the Darkness
1. Ephesians 6:10 – The Call to Stand Against the Devil
Ephesians 6:10 (NKJV)
“Finally, my brethren, be strong in the Lord and in the power of His might.”
a. “Finally, my brethren...”
The word finally marks Paul’s transition from practical instruction to the conclusion of the letter — one of supreme importance. It is not a throwaway closing, but rather a battle cry.
In light of all Paul has said up to this point:
In light of our adoption as sons (Ephesians 1:5).
In light of the riches of His grace (Ephesians 1:7).
In light of our unity as the body of Christ (Ephesians 2:14–16).
In light of the mystery now revealed (Ephesians 3:6).
In light of the call to walk worthy (Ephesians 4:1).
In light of the Spirit-filled life (Ephesians 5:18).
In light of submission in the home and workplace (Ephesians 5–6) —
the believer is called to war.
This warfare is not against people or institutions but against the spiritual forces of darkness (Ephesians 6:12). Every believer must understand that Christianity is not a playground — it is a battleground.
b. “Be strong in the Lord and in the power of His might”
The command here is not to muster up your own strength, but to be strengthened in the Lord. The verb is in the passive voice — literally, “be made strong.” Strength must come from a source outside of ourselves. That source is Christ alone.
Like David in 1 Samuel 30:6 (NKJV):
“But David strengthened himself in the Lord his God.”
So we too must draw from the Lord's strength.
Three key words describe this divine strength:
Be strong (endynamoo): To be empowered or enabled. We don’t fight this battle in our own name or power.
Power (kratos): God's ruling dominion. It refers to God's sovereign, operative strength.
Might (ischus): God's inherent ability — His raw, unlimited strength.
A muscular man’s arms display might, even when still. When he lifts something heavy, his might is put into power.
We are not told to be strong in theology, emotions, reputation, or personal discipline — as helpful as those things can be. The command is specific: be strong in the Lord. He is the source and supply.
It is not: “I do everything, and God helps a little.”
It is not: “I do nothing, and God does all.”
It is: “I step forward in obedience, relying totally on His strength.”
c. Hindrances to Strength — Spiritual Leaks
D. Martyn Lloyd-Jones wisely observed that many believers leak strength through poor spiritual habits. Among the most common:
Overcommitting to spiritual duties, becoming burnt out.
Too much idle talk or arguments.
Laziness and passive Christianity.
Flirting with ungodly entertainment.
Compromised relationships (e.g., unequally yoked).
Doubting or neglecting God's Word.
The Christian walk requires balance — the knife-edge between liberty and legalism, strength and rest, warfare and wisdom. As Lloyd-Jones said, “You can always tell by examining yourself whether your strength is increasing or declining.”
2. Ephesians 6:11 – The Command for the Whole Armor of God
Ephesians 6:11 (NKJV)
“Put on the whole armor of God, that you may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil.”
a. “Put on the whole armor of God”
The believer is commanded not to fight naked, but to be fully clothed in the armor of God. The phrase whole armor (Greek: panoplia) means complete equipment, not just part of it. God has provided every piece, and it must all be worn to be effective.
This exact word appears again in Luke 11:21–22 (NKJV):
“When a strong man, fully armed, guards his own palace, his goods are in peace. But when a stronger than he comes upon him... he takes from him all his armor in which he trusted.”
Jesus, the stronger man, disarmed the devil. Now we wear His armor.Isaiah 59:17 (NKJV):
“For He put on righteousness as a breastplate, and a helmet of salvation on His head...”
This is God’s own armor, shared with His people.
This armor is both from God and of God. It is divine in origin and supernatural in effect. With it, we are “more than conquerors through Him who loved us” (Romans 8:37).
b. “That you may be able to stand...”
The purpose of the armor is so that the believer may stand — not run, not retreat, not fall. This is a military term implying firm resistance under pressure.
To “stand” means to hold the ground Christ has already won.
Colossians 2:15 (NKJV):
“Having disarmed principalities and powers, He made a public spectacle of them, triumphing over them in it.”
We do not fight for victory — we fight from victory.
c. “Against the wiles of the devil”
The word wiles (Greek: methodeia) refers to trickery, schemes, and cunning deception. Satan is not always a roaring lion (1 Peter 5:8); he often appears as an angel of light (2 Corinthians 11:14). His primary tactic is deception.
Satan doesn’t need to make you wicked — just ineffective.
John Stott (quoting Simpson) captures it well:
“The tactics of intimidation and insinuation alternate in Satan’s plan of campaign. He plays both the bully and the beguiler. Force and fraud form his chief offensive against the camp of the saints.”
Summary of Satan’s Wiles:
Lies and accusations (Revelation 12:10).
Temptation to sin or compromise.
Distraction from spiritual disciplines.
Division within the body of Christ.
Discouragement and depression.
False doctrine and twisted Scripture.
Fear and condemnation.
The only way to stand against such tactics is to be equipped with God's full armor and empowered by His might.
This foundation sets the stage for the armor itself, which Paul will detail in Ephesians 6:13–17. The believer who would fight effectively must first be strong in the Lord, then suited in the full armor, and then unmoved in the face of the enemy’s deceit.
B. Fighting Against the Darkness
3. Ephesians 6:12 – The Fact of Spiritual Warfare
Ephesians 6:12 (NKJV)
“For we do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this age, against spiritual hosts of wickedness in the heavenly places.”
a. “For we do not wrestle against flesh and blood...”
Paul does not command believers to enter spiritual warfare — he announces it as an ongoing reality. Whether we recognize it or not, we are already in it. The language is emphatic: We do not wrestle against mere human opposition.
The term wrestle implies close-quarters, hand-to-hand combat — not distant or impersonal warfare.
This struggle is not with politicians, governments, or people — our true adversaries are unseen spiritual beings. Christians who misidentify the enemy will waste their energy fighting the wrong battles.
2 Corinthians 10:3–4 (NKJV) says:
“For though we walk in the flesh, we do not war according to the flesh.
For the weapons of our warfare are not carnal but mighty in God for pulling down strongholds.”
b. “But against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this age...”
Paul gives a four-tiered description of our enemies. These are not metaphorical abstractions; they are real spiritual beings, organized in a hostile hierarchy under Satan’s command:
Principalities (archas) – Ruling beings with delegated authority, the generals in Satan's army.
Powers (exousias) – Those who exercise derived authority or jurisdiction over others.
Rulers of the darkness of this age – Demonic forces influencing and promoting moral, cultural, and ideological darkness in the present world.
Spiritual hosts of wickedness in the heavenly places – Demonic forces operating in the spiritual realm, influencing minds, systems, and even false religion.
These terms depict a highly organized and strategic enemy. We are not dealing with chaos, but with a satanic military machine. Yet the Christian is not called to fear — but to stand.
c. Supporting Passages on Principalities and Powers
Other Scriptures give crucial insights:
Romans 8:38 (NKJV) – “For I am persuaded that neither death nor life, nor angels nor principalities nor powers… shall be able to separate us from the love of God which is in Christ Jesus our Lord.”
→ These beings cannot override the love of God.Ephesians 1:20–21 (NKJV) – Christ is seated “far above all principality and power and might and dominion.”
→ Jesus reigns supreme over every spiritual authority.Colossians 1:16 (NKJV) – “For by Him all things were created that are in heaven and that are on earth, visible and invisible, whether thrones or dominions or principalities or powers.”
→ Jesus is their Creator — they are not His equal.Colossians 2:15 (NKJV) – “Having disarmed principalities and powers, He made a public spectacle of them, triumphing over them in it.”
→ Christ stripped them of ultimate power at the cross.
These enemies may be strong, but they are defeated. Our role is not to defeat them again, but to stand firm in the victory already won by Jesus Christ.
d. Clarifying False Interpretations
Some theologians like Markus Barth have tried to interpret these terms as abstract ideas — political systems, social movements, or cultural forces. But Paul explicitly says our battle is not against flesh and blood — not against the human outworking of evil, but the invisible spiritual agents behind them.
This is not superstition or poetic metaphor. It is the reality of the unseen realm (Hebrews 11:3), which governs and influences the visible world more than most realize.
4. Ephesians 6:13 – The Proper Response to the Fact of Spiritual Warfare
Ephesians 6:13 (NKJV)
“Therefore take up the whole armor of God, that you may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand.”
a. “Therefore take up the whole armor of God...”
Because we face a structured and relentless enemy, the command is to take up — actively receive and equip ourselves with the whole armor of God. Paul repeats the phrase from verse 11 to stress its necessity.
Partial armor is not sufficient. Leaving any part behind creates a vulnerability.
We are not left to invent our own defense. God has already forged the armor — our task is to put it on.
This armor is not symbolic of natural skill, personality traits, or self-help strategies. It is spiritual equipment forged by God, modeled in Christ, and now entrusted to His saints.
b. “That you may be able to withstand in the evil day...”
The evil day is the moment when spiritual attack intensifies. For some, it is a season of temptation, trial, persecution, or demonic oppression. For all believers, it refers generally to life in this fallen world under constant spiritual pressure.
This passage teaches preparation — we must be equipped before the evil day comes. One does not build a fortress during a siege.
“Standby faith. Prepare now for battle — because the day of attack is coming, whether you’re ready or not.”
c. “And having done all, to stand.”
This is the goal: not to retreat, not to fall, but to stand. It doesn’t mean that we win by fighting back in our flesh — it means we win by not being moved from our position in Christ.
This word stand is packed with meaning:
We stand in grace – Romans 5:2 (NKJV): “Through whom also we have access by faith into this grace in which we stand...”
We stand in the gospel – 1 Corinthians 15:1 (NKJV): “Moreover, brethren, I declare to you the gospel... by which also you are saved, if you hold fast that word...”
We stand in faith – 2 Corinthians 1:24 (NKJV): “For by faith you stand.”
We stand in liberty – Galatians 5:1 (NKJV): “Stand fast therefore in the liberty by which Christ has made us free...”
We stand in unity – Philippians 1:27 (NKJV): “Stand fast in one spirit, with one mind striving together for the faith of the gospel.”
We stand in the Lord – Philippians 4:1 (NKJV): “So stand fast in the Lord, beloved.”
Standing means we do not yield to Satan’s pressure. We do not collapse under fear or compromise under temptation. We remain fixed in obedience and immovable in truth.
d. Summary of the Significance of “Stand”
It implies resistance — we are under attack.
It requires alertness — not passivity or spiritual slouching.
It excludes retreat — we hold the ground Christ has given us.
It demands readiness — “having done all” implies disciplined preparation.
This section forms the heart of the New Testament teaching on spiritual warfare. The believer is not left to guess or grope in the dark — we are given the truth of our position, the identity of our enemy, and the exact tools we need to resist and prevail.
C. The Armor of God — Defense in Spiritual War
5. Ephesians 6:14–15 – The Spiritual Armor to Have
Ephesians 6:14–15 (NKJV)
“Stand therefore, having girded your waist with truth, having put on the breastplate of righteousness,
and having shod your feet with the preparation of the gospel of peace;”
a. “Stand therefore...”
Once again, Paul emphasizes that the Christian’s responsibility in spiritual warfare is not to attack in the flesh but to stand firm — to hold the line. This firmness is only possible when the believer is fully equipped with the armor of God — not mere self-discipline, tradition, or willpower.
The phrase "Stand therefore" links back to verse 13 and draws attention to the strength available to us in Christ. This is not defensive cowardice but spiritual readiness.
Paul, being guarded by Roman soldiers, uses their armor as a visual aid. Just as a Roman soldier needed full gear to be ready for battle, so does the Christian in their conflict with unseen principalities.
Note: The armor is listed in the order a Roman soldier would put it on. This reflects not only a historical process but also the logical order of spiritual preparation — beginning with truth and ending with the Word of God.
b. “Having girded your waist with truth...”
The belt secured the soldier’s tunic and allowed free movement. Without it, the rest of the armor was unstable and the soldier was unprepared for action.
The word “girded” refers to readiness. Luke 12:35–36 (NKJV) says, “Let your waist be girded and your lamps burning; and you yourselves be like men who wait for their master...”
This belt symbolizes truth — the unchanging, absolute truth of God’s Word. It is not personal sincerity, but doctrinal accuracy that prepares a man for battle. The truth here is the whole counsel of God — the Bible rightly divided and understood. As Jesus said in John 17:17 (NKJV), “Sanctify them by Your truth. Your word is truth.”
A Christian who is not grounded in sound doctrine is like a soldier without a belt — exposed, unsteady, and unready.
As Salmond noted, the girdle “secured the proper soldierly attitude and freedom of movement.” Without it, one is likely to be tripped up in battle. Many believers try to engage in spiritual warfare without the stability of truth and are easily shaken.
c. “Having put on the breastplate of righteousness...”
The breastplate covered the chest and vital organs — especially the heart, the seat of emotions, and the lungs, which enable breath (often symbolizing the Spirit).
This righteousness is not self-righteousness, which is as “filthy rags” (Isaiah 64:6), but imputed righteousness through Christ.
2 Corinthians 5:21 (NKJV) — “For He made Him who knew no sin to be sin for us, that we might become the righteousness of God in Him.”
This piece of armor speaks of the assurance of salvation and right standing before God. It reminds the believer that their position is based on the finished work of Christ, not feelings or fluctuating experiences.
As Lloyd-Jones rightly emphasized: “You do not put on the breastplate of experiences, you put on the breastplate of righteousness.”
This is your defense against the accusations of the devil — not “Look what I’ve done,” but “Look what Christ has done for me.”
d. “Having shod your feet with the preparation of the gospel of peace...”
The Roman soldier’s footwear was specially designed for warfare — sandals with nails for grip, enabling them to march over rough terrain and stand firm in battle.
The gospel of peace is our foundation. It gives stability, mobility, and readiness. Paul calls it preparation — a foundation of assurance and a mindset of eagerness to go and proclaim peace through Christ.
Isaiah 52:7 (NKJV) says:
“How beautiful upon the mountains are the feet of him who brings good news,
Who proclaims peace,
Who brings glad tidings of good things,
Who proclaims salvation,
Who says to Zion, ‘Your God reigns!’”
As Josephus noted, soldiers’ shoes were often “thickly studded with sharp nails.” This imagery points to a believer who is firm in the gospel, not slipping in temptation or false doctrine, and ready to advance.
Preparation is key. One cannot declare peace with God unless one first possesses it.
6. Ephesians 6:16–18 – The Spiritual Armor to Take
Ephesians 6:16–17 (NKJV)
“Above all, taking the shield of faith with which you will be able to quench all the fiery darts of the wicked one.
And take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God;”
a. “Above all...”
This phrase doesn’t mean these pieces are more important, but that they are additional items to be taken up when needed — like a soldier reaching for tools at the moment of attack. The previous pieces are foundational (worn at all times), these are taken up actively in the moment of battle.
b. “Taking the shield of faith...”
The shield Paul describes is not a small, round one — it is the scutum, a large rectangular shield that covered the entire body.
This shield represents faith — confidence in God’s character, His Word, and His promises.
1 John 5:4 (NKJV) — “And this is the victory that has overcome the world — our faith.”
The fiery darts refer to satanic attacks — accusations, doubts, temptations, lies, and fear. The enemy doesn’t just attack once; he bombards the believer hoping to cause panic.
The Roman shield was often soaked in water to extinguish fire-tipped arrows. Likewise, a faith saturated with Scripture can extinguish Satan’s lies.
c. “And take the helmet of salvation...”
The helmet protected the head — symbolic of our mind and hope.
1 Thessalonians 5:8 (NKJV) — “But let us who are of the day be sober, putting on the breastplate of faith and love, and as a helmet the hope of salvation.”
The helmet is the confidence and assurance of our eternal destiny. It keeps the believer from discouragement, despair, and spiritual fatigue.
Satan wants to strike at your mind, make you believe the fight isn’t worth it. The helmet keeps the believer focused on the end result — that God wins, and we win with Him.
d. “And the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God...”
This is the only offensive weapon listed — but it’s more than enough.
The word “sword” here is machaira — a short sword used for close combat. This is a weapon for precision, not bludgeoning.
The phrase “word of God” here uses rhema, meaning a spoken or applied word — not merely general knowledge of Scripture, but specific, Spirit-empowered application in the moment.
Hebrews 4:12 (NKJV) — “For the word of God is living and powerful, and sharper than any two-edged sword...”
To wield the sword well, the believer must study it, memorize it, and practice it. Just as Jesus quoted Scripture to Satan in the wilderness (Matthew 4:1–11), so we too must be ready to answer temptation with “It is written.”
D. How to Use Spiritual Strength and the Armor of God
7. Ephesians 6:18–20 – The Role of Prayer in Spiritual Warfare
Ephesians 6:18–20 (NKJV)
“Praying always with all prayer and supplication in the Spirit, being watchful to this end with all perseverance and supplication for all the saints—
and for me, that utterance may be given to me, that I may open my mouth boldly to make known the mystery of the gospel,
for which I am an ambassador in chains; that in it I may speak boldly, as I ought to speak.”
a. “Praying always with all prayer and supplication in the Spirit...”
Paul transitions from armor to action — and that action is prayer. It is not enough to simply have the armor; it must be activated and empowered through Spirit-led prayer.
All prayer and supplication emphasizes variety and persistence in prayer. Silent prayer, vocal prayer, corporate prayer, intercessory prayer, prayers of thanksgiving, cries of lament — all are part of the Christian arsenal.
The phrase “in the Spirit” refers to prayer that is guided, empowered, and aligned with the will of the Holy Spirit, not fleshly desires. Compare Romans 8:26 (NKJV) — “Likewise the Spirit also helps in our weaknesses. For we do not know what we should pray for as we ought, but the Spirit Himself makes intercession for us…”
The Spirit doesn’t replace our prayer, but guides it so that our petitions align with the will of God.
Just as a soldier trains and fights with coordination and communication, the believer must maintain constant connection with headquarters through prayer.
Failure to pray is like a fully armed soldier falling asleep in battle.
As Winston Churchill warned in World War II, “Overconfidence leading to neglect and slothfulness is the worst of wartime crimes.” So too, spiritual apathy makes one vulnerable, no matter how sound their doctrine or how complete their armor.
b. “Being watchful to this end with all perseverance and supplication for all the saints...”
The term watchful is a military term — it pictures a sentry at his post, eyes scanning for threats.
We are to be alert, discerning the spiritual battlefield, and persevering in prayer. This isn’t a one-time request but ongoing warfare in prayer.
Prayer is both a defensive shield and an offensive strike. The Christian must not only pray for personal needs, but must be burdened for the entire body of Christ.
This prayer includes supplication for all the saints — intercession for brothers and sisters in Christ, especially those on the frontlines of spiritual conflict, including missionaries, pastors, teachers, and fellow soldiers in the faith.
c. “And for me, that utterance may be given to me…”
After urging believers to pray for all saints, Paul makes a personal plea — not for release, safety, or comfort — but for boldness and clarity in proclaiming the gospel.
Utterance here refers to spiritually anointed speech — the right words at the right time, not just eloquence but effectiveness.
d. “That I may open my mouth boldly to make known the mystery of the gospel…”
Paul’s heart was not on his own condition, but on the mission — the bold proclamation of the gospel. The mystery here refers to the gospel truth, previously hidden but now revealed: that both Jew and Gentile are united in Christ (see Ephesians 3:6).
He prays for courage to declare truth in the face of opposition. This is the spiritual soldier’s warfare — not against men, but against blindness, lies, and unbelief.
e. “For which I am an ambassador in chains…”
Paul uses a powerful juxtaposition. Ambassadors usually wear regalia and walk in freedom. Paul, however, wears chains — yet views them as badges of honor, like the ceremonial chains worn by imperial representatives.
His prison chains are not a hindrance, but a platform for the gospel.
2 Timothy 2:9 (NKJV) — “For which I suffer trouble as an evildoer, even to the point of chains; but the word of God is not chained.”
f. “That in it I may speak boldly, as I ought to speak.”
Paul again repeats the need for boldness. Fearlessness in the face of imprisonment or death is not natural — it is the result of divine empowerment through Spirit-filled prayer.
May every believer aspire to pray for themselves and their leaders in this same way — not for comfort, but for clarity, courage, and gospel advance.
E. Conclusion to the Letter
8. Ephesians 6:21–22 – The Sending of Tychicus
Ephesians 6:21–22 (NKJV)
“But that you also may know my affairs and how I am doing, Tychicus, a beloved brother and faithful minister in the Lord, will make all things known to you;
whom I have sent to you for this very purpose, that you may know our affairs, and that he may comfort your hearts.”
a. “Tychicus, a beloved brother and faithful minister in the Lord…”
Tychicus was one of Paul’s trusted companions and emissaries. He is also mentioned in:
Acts 20:4 (NKJV)
Colossians 4:7 (NKJV)
2 Timothy 4:12 (NKJV)
Titus 3:12 (NKJV)
He served as a courier and a living encouragement to the churches Paul could not visit. His life was an extension of Paul’s ministry.
b. “That he may comfort your hearts…”
Paul’s imprisonment might have discouraged the Ephesians. Tychicus was not merely a messenger; he was sent to strengthen and reassure the church. The Greek word for comfort implies encouragement, support, and instruction.
F. Final Words of Benediction
9. Ephesians 6:23–24 – The Closing Blessing
Ephesians 6:23–24 (NKJV)
“Peace to the brethren, and love with faith, from God the Father and the Lord Jesus Christ.
Grace be with all those who love our Lord Jesus Christ in sincerity. Amen.”
a. “Peace to the brethren, and love with faith…”
Paul ends where he began — with peace, love, and faith — the hallmarks of genuine Christian fellowship. All these come from God the Father and the Lord Jesus Christ — not from effort or law.
Peace with God (Romans 5:1) leads to peace with others.
Love and faith are the sustaining virtues of Christian life and community.
b. “Grace be with all those who love our Lord Jesus Christ in sincerity…”
The word sincerity literally means incorruptibility or purity. This is a heart-level love, untainted by compromise or pretense.
Paul’s blessing is not indiscriminate. It is directed toward those who truly love the Lord Jesus Christ — the regenerate, faithful believers who walk in obedience and affection for the Savior.
Paul doesn’t just wish them well — he speaks grace over them. As he opened the letter in Ephesians 1:2 (NKJV), “Grace to you and peace…” he now closes it with the same themes.
c. Summary and Application
The epistle ends on a note of grace, peace, love, faith, and hope — gifts from God to His children. The battle is real, the enemy is active, but the victory is certain. Believers are equipped with the armor of God, empowered by prayer, supported by fellow saints, and upheld by the unchanging love of Christ.
Ephesians 1:3 (NKJV) — “Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who has blessed us with every spiritual blessing in the heavenly places in Christ.”
