In our study of the Book of Ephesians, we have come to the last major section of the book. In Eph. 6:10 through the end of the chapter, the Apostle Paul is teaching the Ephesian Christians and us today how to live in a world that is controlled by Satan. Paul realized that Christians would need the resources to combat the “wiles of the devil.” He knew that we could not win the battle in our own strength, but need the constant encouragement and help from the Lord.
One of the great themes of the Book of Ephesians stress the reality that we are “in Christ.” Because of our faith and obedience, we have repented of our sins and been baptized into Christ for the remission of our sins and have received the promise of the indwelt Holy Spirit (Acts 2:38). The Holy Spirit helps us to live for the Lord Jesus. Just as God will not force anyone to become a Christian; they must desire to be one, likewise He will not force us to grow spiritually. We must desire “to grow in the grace and knowledge of the Lord Jesus.” (2 Peter 3:18).
If that is our desire, God has promised that we will enjoy all the spiritual resources He has to offer. We have the Word of God to read, study and mediate upon. We have the avenue of prayer, and fellow believers to encourage us.
Christians must have a high regard for the importance of God’s work. The Apostle Paul, writing in 2 Timothy 3:16 tells us that “ALL Scripture is given by inspiration of God…” The Christian who desires to be “An Approved Servant of God” must hold this view of God’s Word.
Timothy is commended by Paul in 2 Timothy 3:14-15 because of his love for, and dedication to the Old Testament Scriptures. Paul tells him and all Christians that we must have the right attitude when it comes to God’s Word.
In the remainder of Ephesians 6, Paul tells us how to stand strong in spiritual warfare. The most important thing is that we don’t have to do it alone! Jesus said, in the Great Commission, “lo, I am with you always.” We are. Going to break down these remaining verses in the following manner.
- Be Aware of the Battle (Eph. 6:10-13)
- Be Equipped with God’s Armor (Eph. 6:13-17)
- Be Devoted to Prayer (Eph. 6:18-20)
- Final Remarks (Eph. 6:21-24)
Remember, believers are called to stand firm in the midst of a crooked and perverse world with God’s armor and in constant prayer.
