Ephesians

Fourth Day: Review Ephesians 6:10-17, concentrating on verses 13-14.

1. In view of the mighty struggle we are in, what does Paul again urge us to do in Ephesians 6:13?

2. The “day of evil” means “when things are at their worst.”¹² Sometimes we forget that we live in a fallen world, and that we are in the midst of a battle. We expect life to be easy and we are bewildered when things aren’t the way we want them to be. What do you learn about this from John 15:20, 16:33 and 17:15?

3. Personal: There are two groups of the Christian’s pieces of armor, indicated by the verbs used. If we are truly Christians, we already have the first three, with which we are to “stand firm.” Then, we are to “take” or “take up” the remaining three. Before proceeding, are you certain you are a Christian? Have you placed your faith in what Jesus Christ did on the cross to take away your sin and bring you into relationship with God? Your salvation depends not on what He did plus something you do, but just on what He did alone. If you haven’t, won’t you do it now?

4. The pieces of armor Paul details for us are the specific ways we carry out his call to be strong in the Lord. The armor is a symbolic description of the various facets of the Lord. The armor is the life of Christ lived out in our life. What is the first piece of armor listed in Ephesians 6:14a?

5. The Roman soldier’s belt was not merely ornamental. When a soldier went into battle, he would tuck his tunic into his belt to keep his legs free. The belt helped hold the breastplate in place and from it hung the scabbard, which held his sword. As Christian soldiers, we wear the belt of truth. What do you learn about truth from John 1:17, John 14:6 and Hebrews 13:8?

6. Personal: Truth explains all things; it never changes. It gives assurance that our sins are forgiven, grace and strength for living today, and hope for tomorrow and throughout eternity. This good news is the truth of Jesus Christ, and He never changes. How does having this belt of truth help you stand against the lies of the enemy?