Ephesians

Lesson 12: Prepare for Battle

Like a commander galvanizing his troops before battle, Paul gave a dramatic
call to the Ephesians. He challenged them to use every God-given tool
described throughout the letter—strength, truth, peace, faith, righteousness,
grace, love, and prayer—to fight the spiritual battle that all of us face.

EPHESIANS 6:10-24

Previous Lesson Review

Personalize the truth. In God’s view, no one is “beneath” anyone else. He

wants everyone, regardless of social status, to be treated with dignity and
justice. Is there anyone you tend to dismiss as inferior? Are there certain
people you tend to not even see? Ask Him to give you compassion for
those whom society may overlook or treat with disdain.

Instructions for Christian Households 28. What takeaways did you get
from the Study Questions or Commentary on Paul’s teaching about loving
or respecting others, obeying or serving them?

Day 1

Write God’s Word for the week: Ephesians 6:12. 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.

Ephesians 6:10-12—Standing against the Enemy - 1. This section begins

with an exhortation to “be strong in the Lord and in the strength of his
might.” a. How had God demonstrated that might, according to Ephesians
1:19-21 ? b. How do you think this awareness could help God’s people to
be strong?

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In Ephesians 1:19-21, the Apostle Paul speaks of God’s might as demonstrated
through the immeasurable greatness of His power toward believers1. This
power is described as the same strength that God exerted when He raised
Christ from the dead and seated Him at His right hand in the heavenly realms2.
This act is seen as the ultimate display of God’s power and authority, surpassing
all rule and dominion, not only in the present age but also in the one to come2.

Awareness of God’s might, as described in these passages, can help God’s

people be strong by providing them with a sense of security and confidence in
God’s sovereign power. It assures them that the same power that raised Christ
from the dead is at work within them, enabling them to face challenges and
adversities with courage3. This awareness can foster a deep trust in God’s
ability to protect, sustain, and empower His people, which in turn can lead to a
life marked by spiritual strength and resilience4. It’s the understanding that they
are not relying on their own strength, but on the boundless power of God that is
always at work in and around them5.

2. Who does today’s passage identify as the real enemies of all who follow
Christ?

3. According to Ephesians 1:20-23 and Colossians 2:15, what did God,

through Christ, do to the rulers and authorities?

In Ephesians 1:20-23, it is described that God worked in Christ by raising Him

from the dead and seating Him at His right hand in the heavenly places. This act
signifies Christ’s supremacy, authority, and ability, placing Him far above any
ruler or authority, power or leader, not only in this world but also in the world to
come. It is a declaration of Christ’s exaltation and the fullness of His authority
over all things12.

Colossians 2:15 speaks of Christ disarming the rulers and authorities, making a
public spectacle of them, and triumphing over them by the cross. This passage
indicates that through His death and resurrection, Christ defeated the spiritual
powers and authorities, stripping them of their power and publicly shaming them,
showcasing His victory34.

Together, these passages convey the message that through Christ’s

resurrection and ascension, God has established Christ’s dominion over all
spiritual rulers and authorities, demonstrating His ultimate victory and power.

4. From Ephesians 6:11, what practical defense do believers have against

“the spiritual forces of evil”?

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Ephesians 6:11 advises believers to “put on the full armor of God, so that you
can take your stand against the devil’s schemes.” This metaphorical armor
represents various aspects of spiritual strength and defense that can be used in
practical ways:

Belt of Truth: Being honest and living in truth can protect against deception.
Breastplate of Righteousness: Righteous living according to biblical principles
can safeguard the heart against evil influences.
Feet Fitted with the Readiness of the Gospel of Peace: Being prepared to share
the message of peace can help stand firm in conflict.
Shield of Faith: Strong faith can deflect doubts and misleading thoughts.
Helmet of Salvation: Assurance of salvation can protect the mind from
discouragement.
Sword of the Spirit: The Word of God is a tool for both defense and offense
against spiritual deception.
These elements are not physical but are meant to be a guide for living a life that
is resilient against spiritual challenges12. The “spiritual forces of evil” mentioned
are interpreted as influences or entities that are opposed to the teachings and
influence of God, and the ‘armor’ is a metaphor for the spiritual resources
available to believers3.

5. For personal thought: How does knowing who your real enemies are
affect the way you view conflict with other people?

Day 2

Write God’s Word for the week: Ephesians 6:12.

Ephesians 6:13-15—The Armor of God - 6. Why is “the whole armor of

God” essential for the believer?

“The whole armor of God” mentioned in Ephesians 6:13-15 is essential for the
believer because it symbolizes the spiritual protection and tools that Christians
are encouraged to utilize in order to stand firm against spiritual challenges and
adversities1. The passage emphasizes the importance of being fully equipped
with God’s armor, which includes truth, righteousness, the gospel of peace,
faith, salvation, and the word of God2. This armor is said to be necessary to
withstand the “evil day,” which can be interpreted as times of moral or spiritual
trial3. By donning the full armor, believers are prepared to face temptations,
resist evil influences, and maintain their spiritual integrity4.

7. Read 2 Corinthians 10:4. How are God’s weapons of warfare unique?

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2 Corinthians 10:4 speaks of the unique nature of God’s weapons of warfare,
emphasizing that they are not physical but have divine power. The verse states:
“For the weapons of our warfare are not of the flesh but have divine power to
destroy strongholds.” This signifies that the tools and strategies used in spiritual
battles are different from worldly weapons and tactics. They are not based on
human strength or wisdom but are empowered by God to demolish spiritual
strongholds, which can be understood as barriers or fortresses of false beliefs,
arguments, and every pretension that sets itself up against the knowledge of
God12.

In essence, God’s weapons are unique because they are spiritual in nature and
carry divine authority to overcome and dismantle the obstacles and deceptions
that oppose God’s truth and righteousness. These weapons include faith, truth,
righteousness, the gospel of peace, salvation, the word of God, and prayer, as
described in Ephesians 6:10-18. They are mighty through God for pulling down
strongholds, meaning they are effective in the spiritual realm to confront and
overcome the forces of darkness and untruth2.

8. The first piece of armor mentioned is “the belt of truth” (Eph. 6:14). a.
From the wording of this verse and what you know about belts, what
function does truth have in the spiritual warrior’s armor? b. How do the
following verses help you understand the significance of this particular
piece of armor? • Isaiah 11:5 • John 8:44 • John 14:6

“belt of truth” mentioned in Ephesians 6:14 is a metaphorical piece of the

spiritual armor that represents truthfulness and integrity. In the context of a
Roman soldier’s armor, the belt was essential for securing the rest of the gear
and providing readiness for battle. Similarly, in the spiritual sense, truth serves
as a foundational quality that holds together the character of a believer, enabling
them to stand firm against deception and falsehood1.

The significance of the “belt of truth” is further illuminated by the following

verses:

Isaiah 11:5 speaks of righteousness and faithfulness as belts, suggesting that

truth and faithfulness are closely linked and serve as a stabilizing force for a
person’s actions and decisions2.
John 8:44 contrasts the devil, who is described as the father of lies, with the
notion of truth. This highlights the importance of truth as a defense against lies
and deceit, which are tools of the devil3.
John 14:6 where Jesus declares Himself as “the way, the truth, and the life,”
indicating that truth is not just a concept but embodied in the person of Christ.
This suggests that embracing truth is synonymous with following Christ, who is
the ultimate example of truth and life4.
Together, these verses emphasize that truth is not only a defensive measure but
also an active force that characterizes the life of a believer, enabling them to live
righteously and faithfully in alignment with God’s will. Truth, therefore, is central
to the spiritual warrior’s armor, providing both protection and direction.

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9. The next piece mentioned is “the breastplate of righteousness” (Eph.
6:14). a. What role does a breastplate play in a soldier’s armor? b. What
qualities are associated with righteousness in 2 Corinthians 6:6-7? c. Read
Philippians 3:9. Where can a person find true righteousness, and in what
ways do you think it would protect the heart in a spiritual battle?

“breastplate of righteousness” mentioned in Ephesians 6:14 is part of the Armor

of God metaphor, which describes spiritual armor for Christians. Let’s explore
your questions:

a. The role of a breastplate in a soldier’s armor is crucial. It is designed to

protect the chest and torso during combat, covering the front and sometimes the
back of the upper body. This piece of armor was essential for safeguarding the
vital organs from enemy strikes, absorbing and distributing the force across its
surface1234.

b. The qualities associated with righteousness in 2 Corinthians 6:6-7 include

purity, knowledge, patience, kindness, holiness of spirit, genuine love, truthful
speech, and the power of God. These qualities are seen as “weapons of
righteousness” for both defense and offense in spiritual battles567.

c. According to Philippians 3:9, true righteousness can be found in Christ, not

through one’s own efforts or adherence to the law, but through faith. This
righteousness from God is based on faith. In a spiritual battle, this righteousness
would protect the heart by providing assurance of salvation and God’s approval,
which can be a source of strength and confidence against spiritual attacks8910.

In summary, the breastplate of righteousness symbolizes the protection of the

heart with virtues that come from a right relationship with God through faith in
Christ. These virtues serve as a defense against spiritual adversity, much like a
physical breastplate protects vital organs in battle.

10. Even our feet need to be prepared for battle, according to Ephesians
6:15. a. What connection do you see between Ephesians 6:15 and Isaiah
52:7? b. Read Philippians 4:6-7. Where does true peace come from, and
how might it prepare you for spiritual battle?

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Ephesians 6:15 speaks about being prepared with the “gospel of peace” as part
of the spiritual armor1. This readiness is likened to the footwear that allows one
to stand firm and be ready to move. Isaiah 52:7 describes the beauty of those
who bring good news of peace and salvation2. The connection here is the
emphasis on peace and good news, which is central to the message of the
gospel.

Philippians 4:6-7 encourages believers not to be anxious but to present their

requests to God with thanksgiving, and in return, they will experience the peace
of God3. This peace is said to guard the hearts and minds of believers in Christ
Jesus. True peace comes from God and is a result of trusting Him and
surrendering worries through prayer. This peace can prepare one for spiritual
battle by providing a sense of calm and assurance, allowing one to focus on
faith and the promises of God rather than being distracted or overwhelmed by
fear or anxiety. It acts as a guard for the believer’s heart and mind, which are
crucial in spiritual warfare.

Day 3

Write God’s Word for the week: Ephesians 6:12.

Ephesians 6:16-17—Offensive and Defensive Weapons - 11. What do you

learn from this passage about how our spiritual enemy fights, and what
are some examples of how this might look in our lives?

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Ephesians 6:16-17 is part of a passage that describes the “armor of God,” which
Christians are encouraged to put on to stand firm against the schemes of the
devil. In these verses, the apostle Paul talks about taking up the shield of faith to
extinguish all the flaming arrows of the evil one and the helmet of salvation and
the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God123.

From this passage, we learn that our spiritual enemy, often referred to as the
devil or Satan, fights with deception, temptation, and accusations—likened to
“flaming arrows.” These attacks aim to undermine faith, hope, and trust in God2.

In our lives, this might manifest as doubts about our worth or God’s love,
temptations to act against our values, or feelings of condemnation and guilt that
go beyond healthy conviction. It could also look like confusion, fear, or division
within communities2.

The “shield of faith” represents a trust in God and His promises that protects
against these attacks. The “helmet of salvation” is understanding and holding
onto the salvation offered through Christ, which guards our minds. The “sword of
the Spirit” is the word of God, which we can use to counter lies and temptations
with truth123.

In practical terms, maintaining faith might involve regular prayer, meditation on

Scripture, and fellowship with other believers to reinforce the truths of the
Christian faith. It’s about being proactive in spiritual disciplines to keep the shield
up and the sword sharp, so to speak123.

12. This passage lists both offensive and defensive weapons to fight
against this attack. What are they?

13. Read 2 Samuel 22:1-4. What example do you find in this passage of
what it means to “take up the shield of faith” (Eph. 6:16)?

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In the passage from 2 Samuel 22:1-4, David expresses his trust in God as his
protector and deliverer. He describes the Lord as his “rock,” “fortress,” and
“shield” — metaphors that convey strength, safety, and defense1. This imagery
aligns with the concept of “taking up the shield of faith” as mentioned in
Ephesians 6:16. The shield of faith represents a Christian’s trust and belief in
God’s promises and protection against any spiritual attacks2.

David’s declaration of faith in God’s deliverance from his enemies serves as an

example of how faith acts as a shield. It’s not a physical shield but a spiritual
one, where faith in God’s power and goodness protects the believer from fear,
doubt, and despair. By trusting in God as David did, believers can
metaphorically raise their shield of faith to extinguish the “flaming arrows of the
evil one,” which can be understood as temptations, accusations, or any form of
spiritual attack2.

So, in the context of Ephesians 6:16, “taking up the shield of faith” means
actively trusting in God’s truth and promises, just as David did when he praised
God for his deliverance and protection. It’s about holding onto faith to defend
against and overcome challenges and adversities in life.

14. Paul called on believers to put on “the helmet of salvation.” a. What

additional insight does 1 Thessalonians 5:8 offer for what this means? b. A
helmet protects the head or the mind. In what practical ways can we put
this helmet on according to the following verses? • Romans 12:2 • 2
Corinthians 10:5 • Philippians 4:8

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The phrase “the helmet of salvation” is part of the metaphorical armor of God
that believers are encouraged to put on as described in Ephesians 6:17. It
represents protection for the mind against doubt and discouragement, affirming
the hope of salvation.

a. 1 Thessalonians 5:8 offers additional insight by associating the helmet with

the hope of salvation. It emphasizes being sober and putting on the breastplate
of faith and love, along with the helmet of hope1. This suggests that faith, love,
and hope are integral to a believer’s defense against spiritual challenges.

b. To practically put on the helmet of salvation, the following verses provide

guidance:

Romans 12:2 advises not to conform to the pattern of this world but to be
transformed by the renewal of the mind. This transformation allows believers to
discern God’s will, which is good, pleasing, and perfect2.
2 Corinthians 10:5 speaks of demolishing arguments and every pretension that
sets itself up against the knowledge of God, and taking every thought captive to
make it obedient to Christ3. This means actively rejecting thoughts that oppose
God’s truth and submitting all thinking to Christ’s authority.
Philippians 4:8 instructs believers to focus their thoughts on things that are true,
noble, right, pure, lovely, admirable, excellent, or praiseworthy4. This verse
encourages a mindset that reflects on positive and godly qualities.
In essence, the helmet of salvation is about guarding one’s thoughts with truth,
faith, and hope in God’s promises, leading to a life that reflects His will and
character.

15. The final piece of armor Paul mentioned is “the sword of the Spirit,
which is the word of God” (Eph. 6:17). a. According to Hebrews 4:12, in
what way is the word of God like a sword? b. For personal thought: What
are some ways you could use the word of God as a sword in your own
life?

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a. In Hebrews 4:12, the word of God is likened to a sword because it is
described as “alive and active, sharper than any double-edged sword.” It is said
to penetrate “even to dividing soul and spirit, joints and marrow,” and it judges
“the thoughts and attitudes of the heart.” This metaphor emphasizes the
powerful, penetrating, and discerning nature of God’s word1.

b. For personal thought, using the word of God as a sword in one’s life could
mean several things:

Discernment: Applying biblical principles to discern right from wrong in various

situations.
Guidance: Using scripture as a guide for making decisions and navigating life’s
challenges.
Defense: Defending oneself against false teachings or ideologies by knowing
and understanding biblical truths.
Correction: Allowing the word of God to correct and rebuke when necessary,
leading to personal growth and transformation.
Encouragement: Drawing strength and comfort from the promises and
assurances found in the Bible during difficult times.
These are just a few ways one might use the word of God as a sword in their
life, wielding it with wisdom and care.

Day 4

Write God’s Word for the week: Ephesians 6:12.

Ephesians 6:18-20—How to Pray - 16. Though not listed as part of the

armor of God, prayer is another important weapon we use in spiritual
battle. From this passage, when, how, and for whom should believers
pray?

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Ephesians 6:18-20 provides guidance on prayer as a spiritual practice for
believers. According to the passage and its interpretations:

When to Pray: Believers are encouraged to pray “at all times” and "on all
occasions"1. This suggests that prayer should be a constant and ongoing
activity, not limited to specific times or situations.
How to Pray: The passage instructs to pray “in the Spirit”, which implies praying
with sincerity, depth, and in alignment with the Holy Spirit’s guidance1. It also
mentions praying with “all kinds of prayers and requests”, indicating the inclusion
of various forms of prayer such as supplication, thanksgiving, intercession, and
praise1.
For Whom to Pray: Believers should make supplications “for all the saints”,
meaning that prayers should be offered for all fellow believers1. Additionally, the
apostle Paul requests prayers for himself, particularly that he may speak boldly
and fearlessly to make known the mystery of the gospel1.
Prayer, as described in these verses, is a comprehensive practice that
encompasses all aspects of life and community, emphasizing the importance of
intercessory prayer and the need for spiritual vigilance. It’s a call to be persistent
and inclusive in prayer, supporting one another in the faith community.

17. Read Colossians 4:12. a. In what ways did Epaphras, an apprentice of

Paul, follow the instruction of Ephesians 6:18? b. What ideas does this
Colossians verse give you for how to pray “for all the saints”?

Epaphras, a companion of Paul, exemplified the instructions of Ephesians 6:18

by being persistent in prayer. Ephesians 6:18 encourages believers to pray in
the Spirit on all occasions with all kinds of prayers and requests, to be alert, and
to always keep on praying for all the Lord’s people12. Epaphras followed this by
“always wrestling in prayer” for the believers in Colossae, as mentioned in
Colossians 4:123. This shows his dedication to intercessory prayer, which is
praying on behalf of others.

From Colossians 4:12, we can draw several ideas for how to pray for all the
saints:

Persistently: Epaphras was always wrestling in prayer, indicating a continuous,

fervent effort in his prayers.
Purposefully: His prayers were focused on the believers standing firm in all the
will of God, maturing in their faith, and being fully assured3.
Passionately: The term “wrestling” suggests a deep, earnest, and intense
manner of praying.
These points reflect a prayer life that is active, intentional, and deeply concerned
for the spiritual well-being of others. Epaphras serves as an example of how to
diligently pray for fellow believers to grow and be strengthened in their faith.

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18. This section of Ephesians ends with Paul asking for prayer for himself.
a. Given the fact that Paul was “in chains” for preaching about Jesus, what
would you have expected him to want prayer for? b. What did he request
instead? c. We see here for the third time in this letter that Paul was a
prisoner. (See also Eph. 3:1; 4:1.) What did Paul’s attitude toward his
situation seem to be?

a. One might expect Paul to request prayers for his release from chains or for
his comfort. However, Paul’s focus was different.

b. Instead of seeking prayer for his own relief, Paul requested prayers that would
help him to continue to boldly proclaim the gospel. In Philippians 1:19-20, he
expresses confidence that through the prayers of the Philippians and the help of
the Spirit of Jesus Christ, his situation will turn out for his deliverance. His
primary concern was that Christ would be exalted in his body, whether by life or
by death1.

c. Paul’s attitude toward his imprisonment was remarkably positive. He saw his
circumstances as an opportunity to advance the gospel (Philippians 1:12-14).
He refers to himself as a prisoner for Christ and seems to embrace his situation,
not as a setback, but as a strategic position for ministry. In Ephesians 3:1 and
4:1, he identifies himself as a prisoner for the sake of the Gentiles and urges the
Ephesians to live a life worthy of their calling, indicating a sense of purpose and
duty rather than despair23.

Paul’s perspective is an inspiring example of finding purpose in every situation

and focusing on the greater good beyond personal comfort. His letters from
prison reflect a deep trust in God’s sovereignty and a commitment to the
mission, regardless of personal circumstances.

19. For personal thought: How does Paul’s request inspire or challenge
you?

Day 5

Write God’s Word for the week: Ephesians 6:12.

Ephesians 6:21-24—Final Words - 20. Read Colossians 4:7 along with

today’s passage. Who was Tychicus, and what role did he play?

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Tychicus was a significant figure in the early Christian church and is mentioned
five times in the New Testament. He played a crucial role as a companion and
messenger for the Apostle Paul. Here’s what we know about Tychicus:

Origin: Tychicus was from Asia Minor, which is modern-day Turkey1.

Companion of Paul: He is first mentioned in Acts 20:4 as one of Paul’s
companions on his journey from Corinth to Jerusalem to deliver a gift to the
church there1.
Messenger: Tychicus was entrusted with the important task of delivering Paul’s
epistles to the Ephesians and Colossians. In Ephesians 6:21-22 and Colossians
4:7-8, Paul refers to Tychicus as a “dear brother,” a “faithful servant,” and a
“faithful minister” who would inform the congregations of Paul’s circumstances
and provide encouragement12.
Interim Pastor: He also served as an interim pastor of sorts, filling in for Titus in
Crete and Timothy in Ephesus, as mentioned in Titus 3:12 and 2 Timothy 4:121.
Character: Tychicus is described as zealous, trustworthy, and someone who
encouraged others with sound doctrine1.
In summary, Tychicus was a trusted associate of Paul, delivering his letters and
providing pastoral care in his absence. His dedication and service were
instrumental in the spread and establishment of the early Christian church.

21. From the benediction in Ephesians 6:23-24, what would you say Paul
desired for the Ephesian believers?

Ephesians 6:23-24, Paul expresses his desire for the Ephesian believers to
experience peace, love with faith, and grace. These verses serve as a
benediction where Paul wishes peace to the brethren and love with faith from
God the Father and the Lord Jesus Christ. He also extends his wish for grace to
all who love our Lord Jesus Christ with an undying love.

Paul’s emphasis on peace and love with faith reflects his desire for the believers
to live in harmony and unity, bound by their common faith in Jesus Christ. The
mention of grace underscores the unmerited favor and spiritual blessings that
come from a relationship with God through Christ1.

These closing verses encapsulate the core themes of the Epistle to the
Ephesians, highlighting the spiritual blessings in Christ and the unity of the
church as the body of Christ. Paul’s words are meant to encourage and
strengthen the believers in their faith and relationships with one another and with
God.

22. What might love that is “incorruptible” look like?

23. Apply the truth: Consider how your prayers match Paul’s instructions
in Ephesians 6:18. What could you do this week to “keep alert” during
prayer? In what way might God be calling you to show more perseverance
in your prayers?

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Ephesians 6:18 encourages believers to pray at all times in the Spirit, with all
kinds of prayers and requests, and to stay alert with all perseverance in their
prayers for all the saints. To “keep alert” during prayer this week, you might
consider setting aside dedicated time for prayer without distractions. This could
involve finding a quiet space, turning off electronic devices, or perhaps keeping
a prayer journal to focus your thoughts.

Additionally, showing more perseverance in prayer could involve being

consistent in your prayer life, even when you may not feel like it or when you
haven’t seen immediate answers to your prayers. It’s about committing to pray
regularly and earnestly for others and for the issues that God places on your
heart.

Here are some practical steps you could take:

Create a Prayer Schedule: Set specific times each day for prayer to build a
routine.
Prayer Journal: Write down your prayers and track how they are answered over
time.
Pray with Others: Join a prayer group to stay motivated and supported.
Study Prayer: Read books or listen to teachings on prayer to deepen your
understanding.
Pray Scripture: Use Bible verses as the foundation for your prayers.
Remember, the key is to be intentional and disciplined in your approach to
prayer, seeking to deepen your relationship with God and to be attentive to His
voice.

Day 6 (Class Notes)

Notes:

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