Ephesians 6:10–18
Sermon on the Armor of God
"Put on the whole armour of God, that ye may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil."
— Ephesians 6:11 (KJV)
Big Idea
The Christian life is warfare, and the believer who wins is not the one who fights hardest but the one who wears the armor God has provided.
Context
Ephesians 6:10–18 closes Paul's most theologically rich letter. After three chapters on identity in Christ and three on conduct, Paul ends with combat — because the gospel always has enemies.
Expository Outline (verse-by-verse)
1. The Enemy (v. 10–12)
- •Our wrestling is not against flesh and blood.
- •Principalities, powers, rulers of darkness, spiritual wickedness in high places.
- •Real, organized, evil opposition.
2. The Armor (v. 13–17)
- •Belt of truth; breastplate of righteousness.
- •Feet shod with the gospel of peace.
- •Shield of faith, helmet of salvation, sword of the Spirit.
3. The Prayer (v. 18)
- •Praying always with all prayer.
- •In the Spirit, for all saints.
- •The armor is worn while praying, not after.
Topical Outline (one big idea)
1. Spiritual Warfare 101
- •The battle is real.
- •The battle is not flesh and blood.
- •The battle is won in Christ.
2. Wearing the Armor Daily
- •Put on truth — refuse the lie.
- •Hold up faith — extinguish the fiery darts.
- •Take the Word — the only offensive weapon.
Cross-references
- 2 Corinthians 10:3-5 — Weapons of our warfare not carnal but mighty through God.
- 1 Peter 5:8 — Your adversary the devil walketh about as a roaring lion.
- James 4:7 — Resist the devil, and he will flee from you.
Illustrations
- "A Roman soldier never undressed in enemy territory. The Christian never has off-duty hours."
Application questions
- Which piece of armor have you been leaving in the closet?
Closing prayer
Captain of the Lord's host, clothe us today. We stand in You. Amen.