The Armor of God

The Belt of Truth (Ephesians 6:14a)

The Roman soldier's belt held everything together and supported the sword. Truth (aletheia) is foundational to the Christian's stance. Isaiah 11:5 describes the Messiah: 'Righteousness shall be the belt of his waist, and faithfulness the belt of his loins.'

The Breastplate of Righteousness (Ephesians 6:14b)

Protects the vital organs, especially the heart. Isaiah 59:17 says of God: 'He put on righteousness as a breastplate.' This is imputed righteousness received from Christ, not self-generated morality.

Feet Fitted with the Gospel of Peace (Ephesians 6:15)

Roman soldiers wore caligae (hobnailed sandals) for sure footing. Isaiah 52:7: 'How beautiful upon the mountains are the feet of him who brings good news, who publishes peace.' The gospel gives believers stability and a mission.

The Shield of Faith (Ephesians 6:16)

The thureos (door-shaped shield) could be soaked in water to extinguish flaming arrows. Psalm 18:30: 'He is a shield for all those who take refuge in him.' Faith actively deflects the enemy's deceptive attacks.

The Helmet of Salvation (Ephesians 6:17a)

Protects the mind -- the battlefield where doubt, fear, and deception wage war. Isaiah 59:17: 'He put a helmet of salvation on his head.' Assurance of salvation guards the believer's thought life.

The Sword of the Spirit (Ephesians 6:17b)

The only offensive weapon: the word of God (rhema -- the spoken word). Jesus modeled this by answering every temptation with 'It is written' (Matthew 4:4, 7, 10). Scripture is the weapon that puts the enemy to flight.