Outline 4
Delivered from the Lion (Part 4)
The Armor
Finally, be strong in the Lord and in the strength of his might. Put on the whole armor of God, that you may be able to stand against the schemes of the devil. For we do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the cosmic powers over this present darkness, against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly places. 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 firm. Stand therefore, having fastened on the belt of truth, and having put on the breastplate of righteousness, and, as shoes for your feet, having put on the readiness given by the gospel of peace. In all circumstances take up the shield of faith, with which you can extinguish all the flaming darts of the evil one; and take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God, praying at all times in the Spirit, with all prayer and supplication. To that end keep alert with all perseverance, making supplication for all the saints.
—Ephesians 6:10–18 ESV
We must be strong to wear the armor of God.
We are not strong in ourselves, but in Christ.
Our might is from His resurrection power (Eph. 1:20).
We stand in confidence.
The schemes of the devil are not hard to recognize.
He destroys.
He perverts.
He desires to control.
He is a manipulator.
People are not our enemy.
Principalities hold the highest positions of rank and authority.
Powers are delegated authority.
Rulers of darkness of this world are the rank and file put into order (military).
Spiritual wickedness in high places refers to bad, vile, malevolent, vicious, impious, and malignant spirits.
Put on the full armor of God.
Belt of truth: the logos, written Word of God (see 2 Tim. 3:16–17)
The belt is the only visible part of the armor.
The belt holds the armor together.
Breastplate of righteousness (see Prov. 28:1)
Condemnation is the source of cowardice and apathy.
Our mental attitude affects how we perform in the fight.
Shoes of peace (see Col. 3:15; Rom. 16:20)
Peace with God (Col. 1:20–21)
Peace of God (Col. 3:15)
Peace gives us a firm footing.
Peace is an offensive weapon against the enemy.
Shield of faith (see Rom. 12:3)
Your shield is just the right size to protect you.
We must keep our shields well oiled.
A shield soaked in water quenched the fiery darts of the enemy.
Soldiers were able to fasten their shields together to form a wall against the enemy.
Helmet of salvation (see 2 Cor. 10:4–5)
“Wiles” is the road the devil takes to enter the mind.
“Devices” are mind games the devil plays (2 Cor. 2:11).
“Deception” is the bait by which we are caught.
A “stronghold” is both a fort and a prison.
Sword of the Spirit: the rhema, revealed Word of God (see Heb. 4:12)
The literal translation is “two-mouthed sword.” The written Word, revealed and spoken, is double-edged.
Through meditation, we receive revelation.
Lance of prayer (see 1 John 5:14–15)
There are various kinds of prayer.
Consecration
Petition
Authority (prayer of faith)
Thanksgiving
Supplication
Intercession
We are to pray with the understanding and pray “in the Spirit” (1 Cor. 14:14–15).
