INTRODUCTION
Outline.
1. The Enemy Situation
2. The Engagement Strategies
3. The Equipment Safeties
Remarks.
1. In this lesson today, we will discuss the theme: “Ephesus’ Operations Order.” This lesson will deal with the saint’s need to understand the enemy situation in this fight; the battle environment and rules of engagement and the equipment safeties required: for the saint’s battle in their spiritual warfare, against the wiles of the devil and his allies. We will review Paul’s Operations Order (OPORD) written to Ephesus’ that would enable them: to be fit-to-fight! He wrote: “Finally, my brethren, be strong in the Lord, and the power of his might. Put on the whole armor of God, that ye may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil,” Ephesians 6:10-11. This begins his final directives to the church. It constitutes an assured victory for them over the “wiles of the devil” in their warfare; and, to all the saints in every age, affording them the same triumph. This sermon uses elements of the Army’s 5 Paragraph Operations Order, Reference, 7, at the end of this lesson.
2. First, we will review the saint’s “situational awareness” regarding their enemy during this spiritual warfare. Paul mentions this twice in the text of emphasis. First, he wrote: “Put on the whole armor of God: that ye may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil,” Ephesians 6:11. Second, he penned: “Wherefore take unto you the whole armor of God, that ye may be able to withstand in the evil day and having done all, to stand,” Ephesians 6:13. The saints at Ephesus were given an OPORD to make them aware of the enemy’s situation during this spiritual warfare. Paul also instructs them to don the whole armor of God: that they may be able to stand against the wiles, i.e., the evil devices and works of the devil.
3. Second, we will consider the saint’s engagement strategies in sustained warfare: during their temptations, trials, and spiritual conflicts. Paul mentions: “For we (you and I) wrestle not against flesh and blood, but principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high places,” Ephesians 6:12. These are the devil's principalities, powers, rulers of this world's darkness, and spiritual wickedness in high places (above the earthly realm). Paul was currently engaged in a battle for the gospel's message; he waged within the household of Caesar and the Roman government: while a prisoner of Rome.
4. Lastly, we will investigate the saint’s equipment safeties or the "whole armor" of God, designed to be worn during their stand against the devil and his allies. Finally, he pens: “Wherefore take unto you the whole armor of God; that ye may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand. Stand therefore, having your loins girt about with truth, and having on the breastplate of righteousness; And your feet shod with the preparation of the gospel of peace; Above all, taking the shield of faith, wherewith ye shall be able to quench all the fiery darts of the wicked. And take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God,” Ephesians 6:13-17. This is the saint’s battle dress equipment (BDE). The saint’s BDE is worn always to repel Satan’s constant assaults against their faith, hope, and loving obedience to their Captain in battle: the Lord Jesus Christ. Amen. With this brief introduction behind us, let’s consider the first point, “the enemy situation.”
BODY OF LESSON
I THE ENEMY SITUATION
A. First, he wrote: “Finally, my brethren, be strong in the Lord, and in the power of His might,” Ephesians 6:10. Paul’s Letter to Ephesus was full of mysteries and instructions to these saints (Chapters 1-5). He now concludes his Letter to them. He states to them his last “finally.” This was a foundation for the purpose yet to come in this Letter. It had a dual purpose for the brethren (all saints). Observe--
1. Paul begins: "Finally, my brethren; that we must yet apply ourselves to our work and duty as Christ’s soldiers. Therefore, as good soldiers, it is burdened on us to be both strong-in-hearted and well-equipped for the battles that lay before us. Purpose one is that they “be strong in the Lord.”
2. Strong in the Lord. This was a theme throughout all Paul’s Letters to the saints: that they are to be strong in the Lord. Our strength for this warfare begins, continues, and will end by being strong in the Lord. This is a bold appeal for the soldiers of the Lord; to be of good courage and unafraid during their engagement with the forces of evil and the evil one himself.
NOTE: Illustrate “Jehovah’s encouragement and assurances to Joshua,” Joshua 1:1; Joshua 1:5-9. He said: “As I was with Moses: so shall I be with you. Be strong and very courageous; be not afraid, neither be thou dismayed: for the LORD thy God is with thee whithersoever thou goest,” Joshua 5:13-15. He promised to be with Joshua in all of his battles. You can read about Jehovah’s strategies to take the city of Jericho, Joshua 6:1-27. It will encourage your hearts!
a. This is a lifetime of warfare; it is unending until we are called from labor to reward. It is such; because we struggle with the typical trials and temptations of our lives while living in the flesh. This is spiritual warfare. We have put down a life living after the flesh; to be engaged in the war against the forces of the flesh: sin, wickedness, and evil lusts and enticements, James 1:13-15.
b. It is so also; because we struggle against the powers of darkness and with evil forces that threaten our spiritual life and favor with the Lord, our heavenly Father, and our hope of eternal life in glory.
c. We have enemies that we fight against, a Captain that we fight with, a banner we fight under, and rules of engagement that regulate our conduct during these conflicts. Purpose two that they (are) to be strong in the power of His might. Observe--
3. The power of His might. Ephesus’ OPORD directed that they were to be strong in the Lord and the power of His strength. We must take a closer look at these powerful words outlining their actions in their original language.
a. First, be strong. The word “strong” in Gr., is endynamoo or en-dü-nä-mo'-o, which means to empower:—enable, (increase in) strength (-en), be (make) strong; to receive power, or to be strengthened, 1 Timothy 1:12; Philippians 4:13.
b. Further, in power. The word “power” in Gr., is kratos or krä'-tos, which means vigor ("great"):—dominion, might (-ily), power, strength; mighty with great power, Ephesians 1:19; Acts 19:20.
c. Finally, of His might. The word “might” in Gr., is ischys or e-skhü's, which means forcefulness:—ability, might (-ily), power, strength; ability, force, strength, and might, 1 Peter 4:11; Revelation 7:12.
d. Conclusion: Our strength resides in the Lord and the power of His might. We rely on Him to empower, to strengthen, and to equip us for the ability to stand, withstand and having done all to stand: and stand, therefore, in our engagements with the evil one and his forces. We stand in the Lord’s mighty power; and, we are continuously strengthened by Him for this fight and running the race that is set before us: “Looking unto Jesus Who is the author and finisher of our faith,” Hebrews 12:1-2.
4. It is the Lord that fights for the saints. We must trust in His power to grant us patience to endure in this battle, to see our promised victory against all our enemies. We stand, the Lord fights, we see the wins that are pledged unto us, even before the battle commences.
a. Paul wrote: “For we are more than conquerors through Him that loved us,” Romans 8:37. We are conquerors overwhelmingly through Christ’s love of us!
b. John wrote: “This is the victory that overcomes the world, even our faith,” 1 John 5:4. The victory belongs to the saints; due to the mighty workings of Christ.
c. The word “conquerors” in Gr., is hypernikao or hü-per-ne-kä'-o, which means to conquer beyond, i.e., gain a decisive victory:—more than to obtain the victory. This word is used once in the New Testament, right here, to assure us.
d. Its fuller meaning is that we are more than a conqueror; but, shall gain (or win), a surpassing victory, against all of our adversaries, through Christ Jesus our Lord.
B. Further, he wrote: “Put on the whole armor of God: that ye may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil,” Ephesians 6:11. He begins to describe this spiritual warfare they were presently engaged in at Ephesus. He instructs them—
1. That they put on: this was their part -to don their battle dress equipment. We will discuss this defensive and offensive equipment later in the lesson. But, for now, it is sufficient to say: “put on;” or “don” the whole armor of God. This is our part in this spiritual warfare; to wear our BDE at all times; because our fight is continual against the “wiles of the devil.” Put on--
2. The whole armor of God. This armor belongs to God; but, was given unto them, to equip themselves for the battle utilizing God's equipment safeties: "the whole armor of God,” Ephesians 6:11. This armor is our safety equipment as well. We too – must – “put on” or “don” our equipment safeties: to be able to stand within the evil day, having done all to stand. Observe--
3. That ye may be able to stand. Listen to Paul’s message: not to wage war or engage the enemies, but, stand fast during the battles that rage in, around, and against us. So that we might endure, overcome and see Christ’s victorious fight in our defense against all of our enemies (human or satanic).
C. Next, the enemy situation. Beloved, we cannot be ignorant of his devices. The saints were given instructions for preparedness; and how to achieve situational awareness. The soldier must know their enemy's capabilities and disabilities. I wish I had some help in this lesson. Observe--
1. To Ephesus, he wrote: “That ye may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil,” Ephesians 6:11. That we might stand in defense against the wiles of the devil. Notice our part in this fight.
a. Be able to stand. Nowhere in this OPORD were the saints instructed to engage the enemy. Paul told the saints to don their BDE and be ready to stand against – the – “wiles of the devil,” allowing the Lord to repel the onslaught of the enemy forces.
b. Dress up; to STAND up! Suit up to fight; but, allow the Lord to engage the enemy with His mighty power.
c. The soldiers’ stand at Ephesus was in defense, not in the offense. I wish I had some help! We will address this more completely further in the lesson.
d. He instructs them to don the whole armor of God: that they may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil’s evil devices, cunning craftiness, and deceptive arts. The enemy’s workings are outlined in the Ephesus’ OPORD.
2. This OPORD was to provide to give the saints “situational awareness” regarding their enemies: before, during, and after their spiritual warfare. We must know our enemies, their strength, tactics, and not be ignorant of their cunning methods and devices. It would help us investigate the word “wiles” to understand Satan’s ways and workings of evil and deception. Observe—
a. The word “wiles” in Gr., is methodeia or me-tho-da'-ä, which means, i.e., travesty (trickery):—wile, method, or to lie in wait. It’s from this word we get our English word: method. Satan uses cunning arts, deceit, craft, and trickery to deceive or bewitch the people, Acts 8:9-11. Satan’s plans are deception, sorcery, magic, and cunning arts.
1) They are but allusions; false, beguiling words and fancies, done merely to turn away believers from the faith; and, to pervert the right ways of the Lord, Acts 12:8-12. Saints, are you listening?
2) Let no man beguile you, Colossians 2:18; Colossians 2:8.
3) Let no man bewitch you, Galatians 3:1.
4) Let no man deceive you, Matthew 24:24.
b. We find an example of Satan’s “wiles” elsewhere in this Letter. He wrote: “That we henceforth are no more children, tossed to and fro, and carried about with every wind of doctrine, by the sleight of men, and cunning craftiness, whereby they lie in wait to deceive,” Ephesians 4:14. These are unstable minds and hearts.
c. The goal of donning the whole armor of God is to be able to know and understand the wicked ones' use of these devices: every wind of doctrine, sleight of men, cunning craftiness, whereby they (evil men and seducers) lie in wait to deceive. These are the "wiles," "methods," and “schemes” of the devil.
d. To the saints at Thessalonica. Paul wrote: "With all power and signs and lying wonders: And with all deceivableness of unrighteousness in them that perish; because they receive not the love of the truth, that they might be saved. And for this, cause God shall send them strong delusion, that they should believe a lie: That they all might be damned who believe not the truth, but have pleasure in unrighteousness,” 2 Thessalonians 2:8-12. Observe--
1) Satan’s workings are with all power and signs and lying wonders.
2) With all deceivableness of unrighteousness in them that perish.
3) Because they receive not the love of the truth, that they might be saved.
4) For this cause, God will send them strong delusion:
a) That they might believe a lie.
b) That they might be damned who believe not the truth.
c) But have pleasure in unrighteousness.
NOTE: Moses suffered the people's afflictions, rather than enjoying the pleasures of sin for a season, Hebrews 11:24-26.
3. What a sad picture Paul paints. Satan deceives with powers, signs, and lying wonders. Causing all unrighteousness in them that perish; they do not accept the truth so that they might be saved. Their reward is a belief of Satan's lies that those who desire evil might believe it and be damned because they have pleasures in unrighteousness.
NOTE: Illustrate the “Lies of President Trump.” They have deceived the hearts of many. His lies spud an insurrection caused innocent people's lives, and now sow divisions throughout the Halls of Congress. And not one Republican leader has stood and exposed his lies, wicked behavior, and continuous divisive discord among the American people. Why?
a. They are truly bewitched and ignorant of Satan’s devices; they love the pleasures of unrighteousness; they are not willing to receive the love of the truth.
b. How shameful and cowardly is their silence during the times of this nation's loss of lives and desperate need for healing and relief during this pandemic.
c. A word from this Party’s Leadership could help heal the nation. Where are the soldiers of Christ? Who among them will don the whole armor of God and stand against the wiles of the devil?
d. Is their re-election more vital to them than the health and safety of this nation? I am praying and trusting that some will “stand-up and speak-up!” With this, let me move forward in this point--
4. To Corinth Paul wrote:
a. Of Satan’s gaining advantage of us: “Wherefore I beseech you that ye would confirm your love toward him. To this end also did I write, that I might know the proof of you, whether ye are obedient in all things. To whom ye forgive anything, I also forgive: for if I forgave anything, to whom I forgave it, for your sakes forgave I it in the person of Christ; Lest Satan should get an advantage of us: for we are not ignorant of his devices,” 2 Corinthians 2:8-11.
1) Here, he admonishes the saints after forgiving a brother or sister, and reconfirm love towards them, to receive them again within their company; lest Satan should take advantage of the situation: causing the one forgiven to feel still rejected, and remaining an outcast from the church family, because of their sins. He urges--
2) Forgive them, reconfirm your love, and receive them again into the church’s fellowship. When God forgives, we must also forgive.
3) To do less is to allow Satan an opportunity to cause confusion and division and to sow ill will between the saints forgiven; and, the saints that are restoring, the erroring brother or sister to the church.
4) True forgiveness means complete restoration and inclusions into the church's worship, fellowship, and business affairs.
b. How the serpent beguiled Eve. He wrote: “But I fear, lest by any means, as the serpent beguiled Eve through his subtilty, so your minds should be corrupted from the simplicity that is in Christ,” 2 Corinthians 11:3.
1) Paul advises that Satan beguiled Eve through his cunning words and slander against God. Satan inferred God did not mean you: “Would die; He just doesn’t want you to be wise like Him.” He's just trying to hold you back; sound familiar? God was trying to preserve them; not, destroy them. Sin causes death and separation from God, Isaiah 59:1-2. Consider--
2) Moses wrote: “And the serpent said unto the woman: Ye shall not surely die: For God doth know that in the day you eat thereof, your eyes shall be opened, and you shall be as gods, knowing good and evil,” Genesis 3:4-5.
3) Satan craftily places doubt in our hearts regarding the commandments and promises of God. He didn't mean "water” in John 3:5. He was speaking of Spirit,” in John 3:8. Such words are beguiling to anyone blinded by the evil one, and not having on the "whole armor of God." Jesus said what He meant and meant what He said! His words require our obedience, not deceptive interpretations!
4) We cannot be deceived by the elusive words of evil men and seducers. Paul advised Timothy: “But evil men and seducers shall wax worse and worse, deceiving, and being deceived. But continue thou in the things which thou hast learned and hast been assured of, knowing of whom thou hast learned them; And that from a child thou hast known the Holy Scriptures, which can make thee wise unto salvation through faith which is in Christ Jesus,” 2 Timothy 3:14-15; 2 Timothy 3:16-17. True wisdom is found in the study and investigation of the scriptures. Don't be fooled; if Satan has his words or doctrines; then, he also has his apostles, messengers, and ministers. I present this only to inform you! Observe--
c. Satan’s ministers: “For such are false apostles, deceitful workers, transforming themselves into the apostles of Christ. And no marvel; for Satan himself is transformed into an angel of light. Therefore it is no great thing if his ministers also are transformed as the ministers of righteousness; whose end shall be according to their works,” 2 Corinthians 11:13-15.
1) We cannot be ignorant or swayed by their works or words. Equipping the saints in the scriptures will protect them from the devil and his ministers' doctrines.
2) Some will depart from the faith, 1 Timothy 4:1-5.
3) Some will turn away their ears from the truth, 2 Timothy 4:1-5.
4) Some are now following their pernicious (perishing and destructive) ways, 2 Peter 2:1-2. These are they who:
a) “Profess to be wise, but became fools before God,” Romans 1:22-25.
b) “Profess that they know God; but in works they deny Him, being abominable, and disobedient, and unto every good works reprobate,” Titus 1:15-16.
c) “Have a form of godliness, but denying the power thereof: from such turn away,” 2 Timothy 3:5; Titus 1:1-3.
d) “Creep into houses, and lead captive silly women laden with sins, led away with divers lusts: Every learning, and never able to come to the knowledge of the truth,” 2 Timothy 3:7.
NOTE: I once was lost, but now I’m found. I was blind, but now I see. I found the light, and now try to correctly inform others of the “light of the gospel of Christ.” Hoping many will accept it, so as to become as I am, yet without these bonds, Acts 26:27-29. This said, the apostle Paul to King Agrippa when ending his sermon.
d. An appeal to you. Don’t just read this lesson, but, search out the truth of it with all diligence. I will pray that God will: “Peradventure give unto these repentance to the acknowledging (accepting) of the truth; and that all may recover themselves out of the snare of the devil, who are taken captive by him at his will,” 2 Timothy 2:24-26; Acts 16:13-15; Acts 16:25-34. Just like these:
1) Buy the truth and sell it not, Proverbs 23:23.
2) Discard all that you have, and surrender unto the Lord all your heart, soul, mind, and strength, Philippians 3:7-8. And do just what he asks!
3) He said: “If any man will come after me, let him deny self, and take up his cross, and follow me. For whosoever will save his life shall lose it: and whosoever will lose his life for my sake shall find it. For what is a man profited, if he shall gain the whole world, and lose his own soul? Or what shall a man give in exchange for his soul? For the Son of man shall come in the glory of his Father with his angels; and then he shall reward every man according to his works,” Matthew 16:24-27; Matthew 10:37-38; 1 Peter 4:1-2. Let me continue, we are almost done.
5. To Rome, Paul wrote: “Now I beseech you, brethren, mark them which cause divisions and offenses contrary to the doctrine which ye have learned; and avoid them. For they that are such serve not our Lord Jesus Christ, but their belly; and by good words and fair speeches deceive the hearts of the simple,” Romans 16:17-18. Paul calls their teaching; good words and fair speeches. In such doctrines there is no "power to save," Romans 1:16; James 1:21.
a. And notice who is being deceived: the hearts of the simple. These are the unlearned, beguiled, and infants in the faith, being unable to "discern between good and evil," Hebrews 5:12-14.
b. This is the challenge for the church of Christ in every generation. To keep the children of God rooted, grounded, and settled in the truth.
c. Satan will make every effort to twist, arrest, sway, bend and even pervert the gospel of Christ, Galatians 1:6-12.
d. The soldiers of Christ must "contend for the faith once delivered unto the saint," Jude 1:3; 2 Timothy 2:1-4; Titus 1:4; Titus 1:9-11.
e. Paul now begins to deal with the whole armor of God. Observe--
D. Additionally, he penned: “Wherefore take unto you the whole armor of God,” Ephesians 6:13a. We will discuss the armor in fullness later in the lesson.
1. For now, it is sufficient to say: that we must put on the whole armor of God.
2. Equip ourselves with every piece of God’s “panoply” or “defensive armor.”
3. Every part is needed; every piece has a specific function: to aid in our protection against the enemies’ assaults.
4. The saints cannot and should not engage the enemies of evilness without being correctly suited–up for the conflict. They must be fit-to-fight!
5. The armor of God consists of the saint’s equipment safeties: their battle dress equipment (BDE).
E. Finally, the evil day. The reason: “That ye may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand,” Ephesians 6:13b.
1. That ye may be able to withstand in the evil day!
2. To bear and endure Satan’s assaults in the evil day. The apostles wrote in chapter 5 that the days are NOW evil.
a. He penned: “Wherefore he saith, Awake thou that sleepest and arise from the dead, and Christ shall give thee light. See then that ye walk circumspectly, not as fools, but as wise: Redeeming the time because the days are evil. Wherefore be ye not unwise, but understanding what the will of the Lord is,” Ephesians 5:14-17. He proposes—
b. To Rome: “And that, knowing the time, that now it is high time to awake out of sleep: for now is our salvation nearer than when we believed,” Romans 13:11. To Ephesus again he compels them--
c. To walk circumspectly, Ephesians 5:15. He meant to observe our entire surroundings. The saints will not always know from where the assaults will originate. By being observant, they could watch that any given situation is changing, and therefore, could be the start of the enemies’ assault.
d. To redeem the time. To Colossae, he also wrote: “Walk in wisdom toward them that are without, redeeming the time,” Colossians 4:5. He meant they were to buy back the time; preserve it for later use. Walk wisely in all that we do.
e. To know that days are evil, Ephesians 5:16. Please note—He did not say the times or days will become evil. But, the days are already corrupt.
NOTE: Download our lesson entitled: “Don’t be foolish serve God,” from SermonCentral.com. It discussed these verses more fully. Observe--
1) David wrote: “They shall not be ashamed in the evil time: and in the days of famine they shall be satisfied,” Psalms 37:19; Psalms 37:25.
2) Solomon penned:
a) First, “Cast thy bread upon the waters: for thou shalt find it after many days. Give a portion to seven, and also to eight; for thou knowest not what evil shall be upon the earth,” Ecclesiastes 11:1-2.
b) Second, “Remember now thy Creator in the days of thy youth, while the evil days come not, nor the years draw nigh when thou shalt say, I have no pleasure in them,” Ecclesiastes 12:1.
3) Amos recorded: “Therefore the prudent shall keep silence in that time; for it is an evil time,” Amos 5:13.
4) The Lord’s evil day. At the arrest of the Lord, Jesus said: “Unto the chief priests, and captains of the temple, and the elders, which were come to him: you come out, as against a thief, with swords and staves? When I was daily with you in the temple, ye stretched forth no hands against me: but this is your hour, and the power of darkness,” Luke 22:52-52.
a) The days of the wicked are continually evil, and their final day will end with desolation and destruction,” Ecclesiastes 8:13; Psalms 9:5; Job 21:30.
i. The wicked: “shall be cut off from the earth, and the transgressors shall be rooted out of it,” Proverbs 2:22.
ii. But the: “Horn of the righteous shall be exalted,” Psalms 75:10.
b) Some days of the saints will be evil. However, they shall emerge from them with God’s blessed assurance: “That all things will work together for good for them that love God, and are called according to His purpose,” Romans 8:28; 2 Corinthians 2:14; Ecclesiastes 8:12.
c) This pandemic is the nation’s evil day. We are all engaged in defending ourselves, our families, and our neighbors from this terrible virus.
NOTE: Download our lesson entitled: Learning to be Content, from SermonCentral.com. We present instruction for the church and the world on how to fight against this evil.
f. Conclusion: There seems to be an excellent warning for all regarding the evil days. The evil days shall come; and, those that prepared for them shall be satisfied. God will provide for their needs. Those that help others shall obtain a return of their bread in the evil days. The youth that remembers their Creator in the days of their early age shall find no pleasure in its follies. The wise that remain silent (and in prayer) during the bad times shall be blessed.
3. Understanding the will of the Lord. Paul also reminds them to understand the will of the Lord. Understand that they must withstand the evil day as faithful stewards and soldiers of Christ. He then concludes, with: having done all to stand.
NOTE: For a complete “understanding of the will of the Lord,” get our lesson entitled: “Don’t be foolish serve God,” as mentioned earlier.
4. Having done all to stand. Some translate this, “having overcome all," although it may have some merit. However, many do not agree this is the best translation of the phrase: “having done all to stand.” The appeal is first "to withstand,” i.e., to resist all the enemies’ attacks; when we have "done all" that we are called upon to do, then “stand,” i.e., by planting our feet firmly on the rock of Christ, being “steadfast and unmovable,” 1 Corinthians 3:11; 1 Corinthians 15:58.
a. The first explanation seems to exalt the soldier's gallantry in battle (fighting all he can); but, the second shows the saint’s calming quietness and patient waiting for the Lord's help in the evil day.
b. We must do all that is possible to stand-on and hold the higher grounds in Christ Jesus.
1) Once we have been valiant in our stand, then, stand your ground without wavering, in the strength of Jesus Christ.
2) We should stir up ourselves to resist every temptation; endure every trial and suffering, with our total reliance upon Christ's all-sufficiency, we can do exceeding abundantly above all that we ask or think, according to the power that worketh in us,” Ephesians 3:20-21.
c. Job inscribed: “He shall deliver thee in six troubles: yea, in seven there shall no evil touch thee. In famine, he shall redeem thee from death: and in war from the power of the sword,” Job 5:19-20.
d. David rehearsed: “Though a host should encamp against me, my heart shall not fear: though war should rise against me, in this will I be confident...I had fainted unless I had believed to see the goodness of the LORD in the land of the living. Wait on the LORD: be of good courage, and he shall strengthen thine heart: wait, I say, on the LORD,” Psalms 27:3; Psalms 27:13-14.
e. Conclusion: Nowhere in Ephesus’ OPORD did Paul instruct them to fight or do battle with any weapon of warfare. His orders were: suit up, stand against, withstand, having done all “to stand,” and “stand, therefore,” now, let me add: “stand some more.” Amen brethren. The victory is our; but, the fight belongs to the Lord, hold your peace and pray, Deuteronomy 20:4; Exodus 14:14; 2 Chronicle 32:7-8. This brings us to point two in this lesson, “the engagement strategies.”
II THE ENGAGEMENT STRATEGIES
A. Paul mentions: “For we wrestle not against flesh and blood.” There is warfare, a “battle of life,” that all must assume while looking at the world's current condition. There can be no question whether we wrestle or war against flesh and blood, or even against evil powers in the world. We see conflicts and hear of wars and rumors of war. Jesus promised: “There shall be wars and rumors of wars,” Matthew 24:6; Mark 13:7; Luke 21:9. But these are not the wars Paul writes about unto the saints at Ephesus. He wrote--
1. First, to the Hebrews: “Forasmuch then as the children are partakers of flesh and blood, He (Jesus) also himself likewise took part of the same; that through death he might destroy him that had the power of death, that is, the devil: And deliver them who through fear of death were all their lifetime subject to (fear and) bondage,” Hebrews 2:14-15. David wrote: “Precious in the sight of the LORD is the death of His saints,” Psalms 116:15. The Lord--
a. Jesus came by “flesh and blood,” John 1:13; John 1:1-3.
b. But, His conflict was not with or among enemies of “flesh and blood.”
c. It was against the “principalities and powers of the devil.”
d. And the Lord, “Having spoiled (all) principalities and powers, he made a shew of them openly, triumphing over them in it,” Colossians 2:15; Ephesians 2:20-23.
e. Christ, “Who is gone into heaven, and is on the right hand of God; angels and authorities and powers being made subject unto him,” 1 Peter 3:22; Hebrews 1:1-3.
2. Further, to Corinth: “For though we walk in the flesh, we do not war after the flesh: (For the weapons of our warfare are not carnal, but mighty through God to the pulling down of strongholds); Casting down imaginations, and every high thing that exalteth itself against the knowledge of God, and bringing into captivity every thought to the obedience of Christ; And having in a readiness to revenge all disobedience, when your obedience is fulfilled,” 2 Corinthians 10:3-6. Our warfare—
a. Not after the flesh: (For the weapons of our warfare are not carnal, but mighty through God to the pulling down of strongholds).
b. Casting down imaginations, and every high thing that exalteth itself against the knowledge of God.
c. Bringing into captivity every thought to the obedience of Christ.
d. And having in a readiness to revenge all disobedience, when your obedience is fulfilled.
e. Conclusion: Paul reminds the saints that though they were in the body, they walked not after the flesh. Similarly, though we do war, our weaponry is not carnal; but, mighty through God; who hath given us the victory over the law of sin and death, through Jesus Christ our Lord. It is Christ that enables me to cast down imaginations and every high thing that exalts itself against the knowledge of God: whether it be philosophies, human wisdom, principalities, powers, or the rulers of the darkness of this world: bringing into captivity every thought, word or deed to the obedience of Christ. I am set with the message of Christ: to preach the gospel to the poor; to heal the brokenhearted; to bring deliverance to the captives; to recovering the sight of the blind; and to set at liberty them that are bruised: to preach a sufficient time for the Lord, till your obedience is fulfilled.
3. Next, to Timothy:
a. First, “Fight the good fight of faith, lay hold on eternal life, whereunto thou art also called, and hast professed a good profession before many witnesses,” 1 Timothy 6:12; 1 Timothy 1:18; 2 Timothy 2:1-2.
b. Second, “Thou, therefore, endure hardness, as a good soldier of Jesus Christ. No man that warreth entangleth himself with the affairs of this life; that he may please Him who hath chosen him to be a soldier,” 2 Timothy 2:3-4.
c. Third, “I have fought a good fight,” 2 Timothy 4:7. Paul here informs Timothy that he too was still engaged in the “good fight.” He was awaiting his final sentence from Nero, after which he would be “beheaded” on the execution block in Rome. Paul encourages Timothy to join him in Rome, 2 Timothy 4:9; 2 Timothy 4:21. Observe--
1) It was Paul’s plea to see the lad again before his execution and death. Tradition teaches that Timothy was permitted to see Paul before his end; however, the scriptures are silent on this issue.
2) Paul reminded Timothy of his faith and prepared for his persecutions for Christ Jesus's name, Hebrews 13:23. Paul's closing remarks to the Hebrews; lead us to believe he was just recently released from prison and would be joining Paul in their visit to the brethren.
d. Fourth, “But thou hast fully known my doctrine, manner of life, purpose, faith, longsuffering, charity, (and) patience. Persecutions, afflictions, which came unto me at Antioch, at Iconium, at Lystra; what persecutions I endured: but out of them all: the Lord delivered me. Yes, and all that will live godly in Christ Jesus shall suffer persecution. But evil men and seducers shall wax worse and worse, deceiving, and being deceived,” 2 Timothy 3:10-13; 2 Timothy 4:16-18. Paul defines his struggles against the evil one to the Roman saints.
4. Additionally, to Rome: “For I delight in the law of God after the inward man: But I see another law in my members, warring against the law of my mind, and bringing me into captivity to the law of sin which is in my members. O wretched man that I am! Who shall deliver me from the body of this death? I thank God through Jesus Christ our Lord. So then with the mind, I serve the law of God; but with the flesh the law of sin,” Romans 7:22-25.
a. This is the war that is raging within the Christian every day.
b. Thank God for Christ’s deliverance: “There is therefore now no condemnation to them which are in Christ Jesus, who walk not after the flesh, but after the Spirit. For the law of the Spirit of life in Christ Jesus hath made me free from the law of sin and death. For what the law could not do, in that it was weak through the flesh, God sending his own Son in the likeness of sinful flesh, and for sin, condemned sin in the flesh: That the righteousness of the law might be fulfilled in us, who walk not after the flesh, but after the Spirit,” Romans 8:1-4.
c. Paul no longer lived by the law; nor walked after the flesh; but now lives in Christ Jesus, by faith. He wrote: "For I through the law died to the law that I might live to God. I have been crucified with Christ; it is no longer I who live, but Christ lives in me; and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave Himself for me. I do not set aside the grace of God; for if righteousness comes through the law, then Christ died in vain,” Galatians 2:19-21.
5. Finally, to Galatia: “This I say then, Walk in the Spirit, and ye shall not fulfill the lust of the flesh. For the flesh lusteth (warreth) against the Spirit and the Spirit (warreth) against the flesh: These are contrary to the other: so that ye cannot do the things that ye would. But if you be led of the Spirit, ye are not under the law,” Galatians 5:16-18. Ye are freed from the law of sin and death!
a. The saints are in a constant war against sin, evil, and unrighteousness. The flesh warreth against the Spirit; and, the Spirit against the flesh: these are contrary one to the other.
b. We are no longer under the law of sin and death. We have been delivered from these by Jesus Christ. Who shall deliver us from the body of this death!
c. If we then are led by the Spirit: “There is therefore now no condemnation to them which are in Christ Jesus, who walk not after the flesh, but after the Spirit,” Romans 8:1.
6. Conclusion: The warfare we face is not one against another (after the flesh) but after the Spirit. We have the tactical advantage because we understand the enemy's situation and strategies and have the equipment safeties to withstand their attacks. We will discuss this idea in the last point. For now, we must ask: Who are those things that oppose us? In the Ephesians’ OPORD, Paul gave the saints a vivid description of those powers and beings they were wrestling or fighting against. Observe--
B. First, for we wrestle “against principalities.” The “principalities,” describes all the angelic hosts and authorities, whether of good or evil. It would be best that we review this word in its original language.
1. The word “principalities” in Gr., is arche or är-kha', which means chief (in various applications of order, time, place, or rank):—beginning, first (estate), magistrate, principality, principle, rule: of angels and demons.
2. Some have speculated that these are the powers of both angels and demons. These angelic beings were expelled from heaven for rebellion and disobedience to God, who now are in chains of darkness waiting for Judgment Day.
a. First, Jesus taught chief rulers: “Ye are of your father the devil, and the lusts of your father ye will do. He was a murderer from the beginning and abode not in the truth because there is no truth in him. When he speaketh a lie, he speaketh of his own: for he is a liar, and the father of it,” John 8:44.
b. Peter wrote: “For if God spared not the angels that sinned but cast them down to hell, and delivered them into chains of darkness, to be reserved unto judgment,” 2 Peter 2:4. The satanic angels are restrained by the chains of darkness in hell.
c. Jude wrote: “And the angels that kept not their first estate or (principality) but left their habitation, he hath reserved in everlasting chains under darkness unto the judgment of the great day,” Jude 1:6.
1) There are wicked angels, but God binds them to what they can do unto us. We do not need to fear their evil work, nor the workings of the evil one.
2) The powers of the evil one and his forces: are under the divine restraints of the Lord. One angel threw “Satan into the bottomless pit,” Revelations 20:1-3.
3) He and his forces have been subdued. Satan's working now is done through evil men and women: the principalities and powers of this present world.
d. The Lord’s angels that are sent have enormous power. It took one to smite the Assyrians’ camp that warred against King Hezekiah, Isaiah 37:33-38. Observe--
1) Jesus said: “God’s little ones (children) have an angel in heaven watching over them,” Matthew 18:10. We are the children of God, 1 John 3:1-2; 1 John 4:4. It is your protective angel He sends when after your hours of suffering and trials when you need comforting and strengthening, Matthew 4:11; Luke 22:43. They watch over all of God’s children to protect and preserve us from evil. Notice--
2) David wrote: “The angel of the Lord encamps all around those who fear Him: And delivers them,” Psalms 34:7; Psalms 34:17.
a) The Lord hates evil! “He preserves the souls of His saints; He delivers them out of the hand of the wicked,” Psalms 97:10.
b) Doesn’t this sound a lot like us, who are now engaged in life’s struggles and resisting the attacks of the wicked ones from every side?
c) Do not fear what “man can do unto you,” Hebrews 13:6b; Psalms 27:3; Psalms 118:6. Our God can deliver us and sustain us during every trial of faith.
d) Conclusion: The saints have help in times of trouble. The Lord will deliver them and preserve them. He watches over them to deliver them from the hand of the wicked. The Lord is ever with us: “He will never leave us, nor forsake us,” Hebrews 13:6a. Little children do not be afraid; do not be faint-hearted; "be strong in the Lord and the power of His might."
3) Paul wrote: “Are they (angels) not all ministering spirits sent forth to minister for those who will inherit salvation?” Hebrews 1:14; Hebrews 2:1-4.
4) Is this not the saints of God? Acts 28:28; 1 Peter 1:9-10; Hebrews 5:8-9; Jude 1:3.
3. The Ephesians had once practiced sorcery, Acts 19:19a. Paul reminds them of their engagement with the evils of darkness and wicked spirits to worship the gods of this world.
a. But they burned their books of art and sorceries, Acts 19:19b. They now serve the living God.
b. They are no longer the children of darkness; but, they are now the children of light, Ephesians 5:8-13.
4. Ephesus wrestling or waring. Not against “flesh and blood.” Paul surely was not suggesting none of their enemies were flesh and blood. For it was men in the flesh that arrested, imprisoned, beat and crucified the Lord; and now terrorize the saints at Ephesus. They are instruments of the evil one. Satan working in them and all other unscrupulous persons, powers, principalities are instruments and workers of evil and the darkness of this world. They are carnal and corrupted people in power and government: doing the will of the evil one. They are the sources and origin of all our spiritual conflicts and warfare for the cause of Christ.
5. These are the same “principalities” that Paul wrote to the Romans: “For I am persuaded, that neither death, nor life, nor angels, nor principalities, nor powers, nor things present, nor things to come: Nor height, nor depth, nor any other creature, shall be able to separate us from the love of God, which is in Christ Jesus our Lord,” Romans 8:38-39. Fix your heart and mind upon things above, Colossians 3:1-2; Philippians 4:8.
C. Second, “against powers.” Paul separated this "wiles" from principalities in an earlier discussion. Although “principalities and powers are presented in the same phrase within the scriptures: Romans 8:38; Ephesians 1:21; and Titus 3:1. I have separated them like Paul here, to describe each separately as one of the devil's "wiles" or "schemes."
1. The word “powers” in Gr., is exousia or eks-ü-se'-ä, which means privilege, i.e., force, capacity, competency, freedom, or a magistrate, potentate, token of control, or delegated influence:—authority, jurisdiction, liberty, power, right, strength. The apostle seems to be alluding to forces that are both superhuman, and human that had been endowed authority and power from another source. Observe--
a. Power from above. Jesus said to Pilate: “Thou couldest have no power “exousia” at all against me, except God gave it to thee from above: therefore he that delivered me unto thee hath the greater sin," John 19:11. Pilate's authority to rule was given to him from above: God. In the same manner, consider--
b. Jesus had power. Jesus taught: “Therefore doth my Father love me, because I lay down my life, that I might retake it. No man taketh it from me, but I lay it down of myself. I have the power to lay it down, and I have the power to retake it. This commandment have I received of my Father,” John 10:17-18. He had power, divine authority; that was given to Him by the Father. The word “power” in Gr., is “exousia,” in both cases. Here Christ is claiming divine power: superhuman.
2. Authorities appointed by God. Paul wrote: “Let every soul be subject unto the higher powers. For there is no power but of God: the powers that be are ordained of God. Whosoever, therefore, resisteth the power resisteth the ordinance of God: and they that shall receive to themselves damnation. For rulers are not terrors to good works, but the evil. Wilt thou then not be afraid of the power? Do that which is good and thou shalt have praise of the same: For he is the minister of God to thee for good. But if thou do that which is evil, be afraid; for he beareth not the sword in vain: for he is the minister of God, a revenger to execute wrath upon him that doeth evil. Wherefore, you must need be subject, not only for wrath, but also for conscience sake," Romans 13:1-5. In this passage, we see that God sets up the higher powers “exousia” for good; and, we must be subject to these powers for both suffering the wrath given to them to execute; and, for our conscience sake to be pleasing and acceptable to God. Still another—
3. To be subject unto them. Paul wrote Titus: “Put them (the saints) in mind to be subject to principalities and powers, to obey magistrates, to be ready to every good work,” Titus 3:1; 1 Timothy 6:12-16. We will let Peter provide his inspiration on this issue. Observe—
4. Submit yourselves. Peter wrote: “Submit yourselves to every ordinance of man for the Lord's sake: whether it be to the king, as supreme; Or unto governors, as unto them that are sent by him for the punishment of evildoers, and for the praise of them that do well. For so is the will of God, that with well doing ye may put to silence the ignorance of foolish men: As free, and not using your liberty for a cloke of maliciousness, but as the servants of God. Honor all men. Love the brotherhood. Fear God. Honor the king (i.e., the President),” 1 Peter 2:13-17.
5. Summary: These inspired writers gave us a commandment to be subject to these authorities and higher powers that God sets up. We are to obey the laws (traffic laws and directions to wear a face-covering while in public places). As Christians, we should be the best citizens in the country. God has appointed these authorities and higher powers; to do well and execute judgment on those that are evil and disobedient. We obey them to avoid the wrath granted to them by God on the defiant; and, for conscience sake before God.
NOTE: Christians would never align themselves to ungodliness and unrighteousness for any reason. No wicked voice could turn them from God to serve the evil one or one of his allies.
a. Some are called such, within specific religious orders: that speak evil of authorities and dignities. However,
b. Peter wrote: “But chiefly them that walk after the flesh in the lust of uncleanness, and despise government. Presumptuous are they, self-willed, they are not afraid to speak evil of dignities,” 2 Peter 2:10-11.
c. Jude wrote: “Likewise, these filthy dreamers defile the flesh, despise dominion, and speak evil of dignities. When contending with the devil, Michael the archangel disputed about Moses's body, durst not bring (make) against him a railing accusation, but said: The Lord rebuke thee. But these speak evil of those things which they know not: but what they know naturally, as brute beasts, in those things they corrupt themselves,” Jude 1:8-10; Titus 3:10-11.
d. Paul mistakenly spake against the high priest, and apologies; while making his defense before the Jewish council in Jerusalem, Acts 23:5.
6. Conclusion: Now, let's make "heads and tails" of these powers. They are put in place by God for good. But when they turn to evil or behave contrary to the will and ordinances of God, they must be exposed. In like manner, when they work for the good and wellbeing of the nation's good, we are commanded to: obey them.
a. When they, on the other hand, are working for evil and in ungodly behavior, we are to: resist them. Satan and his "powers" must be fought and ousted within the ordained Constitution and this country's laws.
b. That means: voted them out! No Christian should be a party to or attempt to overthrow the government and powers that God has ordained. We pray to God about them and then exercise our rights under the law: to vote them out of office. Christians, too, should exercise their rights to vote to effect (cause) change that is good, righteous, and honorable for all citizens of the United States of America.
c. This the Nation did in the 2020 Presidential Election. Now we must get behind this duly appointed government of God and support their efforts to heal the country. All in opposition to their good is against God! Be it known: “Your arms are too short to fight against God.” Observe--
1) Jewish council stood against the apostles, Peter and John.
a) Peter and John said unto them, during their first questioning: “Whether it is right in the sight of God to hearken unto you...we cannot but speak the things we have seen and heard,” Acts 4:19-20. Like Jeremiah: ”His word was in their hearts like a burning fire shut up in their bones, they could not contain...For I have heard the defaming of many, fear on every side...All my familiars watched for my halting...But the Lord is with me as a mighty terrible one,” Jeremiah 20:9-11.
b) Peter said unto them, at their second questioning: “We ought to obey God rather than men,” Acts 5:29.
c) Dr. Gamaliel’s said unto them: “Then stood there up one in the council, a Pharisee, named Gamaliel, a doctor of the law, had in reputation among all the people...Said unto them, Ye men of Israel...And now I say unto you, Refrain from these men, and let them alone: for if this counsel or this work be of men, it will come to naught: But if it is of God, ye cannot overthrow it; lest haply ye be found even to fight against God,” Acts 5:33-39. Observe—
2) First, no evangelist, minister, or religious leader could ever agree to any legislation, laws, or policies by any local or state powers, governors, senators, or even a president; that is evil and opposes the constitutional duties of their office. These laws and policies that are enacted that are evil and transgress their powers before God must be opposed by righteous men and women everywhere.
3) Further, it is to these “powers and authorities” we are wrestling and warring against as the soldiers of Christ. These evils and unjust laws and policies must be uncovered, exposed, and overturned lawfully. When we find ourselves in conflict with such ungodliness and unrighteousness, we must stand against, withstand, and speak in disagreement wherever possible.
4) Finally, on the other hand, when they are good laws and policies that uplift all Americans, we must stand in support of them and obey them in support of these powers, and for conscience's sake before God.
d. Conclusion: The "children of God" cannot support or be a party to any evil and unrighteous acts that oppose the "powers" established by God. Any Christian claiming membership to any “hate group” or “terrorist’s movement” is not walking uprightly before God and men. Such memberships in, and support these groups and movements, are sinful and destructive to the faith of Christ!
D. Third, “against the rulers of the darkness of this world.” Paul now makes the application of these principalities, powers, and authorities at a local level. To which the people of Ephesus were fully aware at this time. These are the "rulers of the darkness of the world," Ephesians 6:12c. We stand against all the rulers of the darkness of this world in our messages and warfare. They attempt to destroy good; and obscure “light” with “darkness, evil and wickedness.” These are all the workings of the evil one.
1. For, “the darkness” is obviously “the darkness of this present world,” as a world that is overshadowed by sin, evilness, and is so kept, wholly or partially, from the light of God by the evil one, 1 John 5:19; Luke 10:18.
2. Jesus said: Of the prince of this world, the devil.
a. First, “Now is the judgment of this world: now shall the prince of this world be cast out,” John 13:31. God has judged the prince of the world and cast him out of His presence.
b. Second, “Now is the judgment of this world: now shall the prince of this world be cast out,” John 12:31. Thus the fulfillment is Isaiah 14:12.
c. Third, “Hereafter I will not talk much with you: for the prince of this world cometh, and hath nothing in me,” John 14:30. This statement references Judas, John 13:21; John 13:26-27; John 6:70-71; John 17:12.
d. Fourth, “Of judgment, because the prince of this world is judged,” John 16:11.
e. Conclusion: Jesus calls Satan the “prince of this world.” When Satan is working in a person, that person has “nothing in them of Christ.” These are full of all unrighteousness and ungodliness working all that which is evil and unjust toward the children of God and all men. Such was the case with Judas: “Who was a guide to them that took Jesus,” Acts 1:16. See his end and reward, Acts 1:17-20. Paul continued--
3. He wrote: The “prince of the power of the air” and the world. Satan is described as being the prince of the power of the air and the world of darkness.
a. To Ephesus: “And you hath he quickened, who were dead in trespasses and sins; Wherein in time past ye walked according to the course of this world, according to the prince of the power of the air, the spirit that now worketh in the children of disobedience: Among whom also we all had our conversation in times past in the lusts of our flesh, fulfilling the desires of the flesh and the mind; and were by nature the children of wrath, even as others,” Ephesians 2:1-3.
b. To Corinth: “But if our gospel is hidden, it is hidden to them that are lost: In whom the god of this world hath blinded the minds of them which believe not, lest the light of the glorious gospel of Christ, who is the image of God, should shine unto them. For we preach not ourselves, but Christ Jesus the Lord; and ourselves your servants for Jesus' sake. For God, who commanded the light to shine out of darkness, hath shined in our hearts, to give the light of the knowledge of the glory of God in the face of Jesus Christ. But we have this treasure in earthen vessels, that the Excellency of the power may be of God, and not of us,” 2 Corinthians 4:3-7.
c. Conclusion: It is Satan, the god of this world--
1) That can blind the eyes of them which believe not, lest the light of the glorious gospel of Christ should shine unto them, 2 Corinthians 4:3-4.
a) Christ has come to give light and illumination to the eyes of the believers.
b) Satan works to bring darkness and blindness to the eyes of the disbelievers.
2) Can grant powers unto those that would subject themselves unto his evils, and work in darkness against the light of Jesus Christ, Matthew 4:8-9; Luke 4:6.
3) Can tempt and confuse those that are yet walking in the darkness of this world, Ephesians 4:17-19; Ephesians 2:12; Acts 26:16-20.
4) Can exercise control over and enslave them that "yield themselves" to obey his will, John 8:44; Acts 8:9-11; Acts 13:10; Romans 6:16-23.
4. John wrote: “And we know that we are of God, and the whole world lieth in wickedness,” 1 John 5:19.
a. John continued: “Love not the world, neither the things that are in the world. If any man loves the world, the love of the Father is not in him. For all that is in the world, the lust of the flesh, the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life are not of the Father but the world. And the world passeth away, and the lust thereof: but he that doeth the will of God abideth forever,” 1 John 2:15-17.
b. The whole world lieth in wickedness, consisting of the lust of the flesh, lust of the eyes, and the pride of life. All these are instruments of Satan’s temptations. He has used them since his inception of sin into the world.
1) He is the tempter, deceiver, the beguiler of sin and wickedness.
2) He tempted Eve, with these same “wiles” devices, methods, schemes of evil, and deception, Genesis 3:1-7.
3) He tempted Jesus with these same devices, Matthew 4:1-11.
4) He tempts us with these same tools of wickedness, 1 John 2:15-17.
c. James wrote of Satan’s methods of temptations, James 1:12-15.
NOTE: Illustrate temptations are not sins; but, to yield to temptation is sin.
5. Paul wrote: “There hath no temptation taken you but such as is common to man: but God is faithful, who will not suffer you to be tempted above that ye are able; but will with the temptation also make a way to escape, that ye may be able to bear it,” 1 Corinthians 10:13. Paul encourages us--
a. That we are not tempted with some unique or rare “wile” or trick of the devil. But with that which is “common to every man.”
b. That God is faithful and will not suffer us to be tempted above that which we can.
c. That He will, with the temptation, make a way to escape.
d. That we may be able to bear it. What a tremendous promise.
6. Don’t fret; resist the devil. Peter wrote: “Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil, as a roaring lion, walketh about, and seeking whom he may devour: Who resist steadfast in the faith, knowing that the same afflictions are accomplished in your brethren that are in the world. But the God of all grace, who hath called us unto his eternal glory by Christ Jesus, after that ye have suffered a while, make you perfect, establish, strengthen, settle you. To him be glory and dominion forever and ever. Amen,” 1 Peter 5:8-11. Here is some sound guidance from one that walked with Jesus. Observe—
a. Be sober and vigilant. Stay awake and alert.
b. Because your adversary is now walking about, seeking who he may devour.
c. Resist him steadfast in the faith.
d. Knowing the same afflictions is being dealt unto your brethren.
e. God who hath called you shall permit you to suffer a while:
1) To make you perfect,
2) To establish you,
3) To strengthen you, and
4) To settle you. See James 1:1-4; Romans 5:1-5.
e. Conclusion: After this strengthening period, you will overcome these trials, tribulations, and temptations. God is using this suffering to enable you to overcome a more critical test of your life: that is yet ahead of you. We need this fortification!
NOTE: Illustrate, we can't keep birds from flying over our heads; but, we can keep them from building a nest in our hair. In like manner, we cannot keep away the temptations of life, but we can call upon the Lord for strengthening in the days of sufferings, trials, or temptations.
E. Fourth, “against spiritual wickedness in high places.” The "spiritual powers" are not spiritual principles, but "spiritual hosts" of wickedness; and the phrase "in the heavenly places" has reference to “the power of the air” in, Ephesians 2:2.
1. Spiritual wickedness. The term “spiritual wickedness” in Gr., is pneumatikos or pnyü-mä-te-ko's and poneria or po-na-re'-ä, which means actions belonging to spirits, or to be higher than man but inferior to God: wicked spirits working in depravity, i.e., malice; plots, sins:—iniquity, wickedness, and unrighteousness. Christ came to destroy the powers and the workings of the devil.
a. To free men and women from the power of darkness, by “translating them into the kingdom of God’s dear Son,” Colossians 1:13-14. It is the "gospel of Christ,' that enlightens the believer to their true source of divine light; and, frees them from the power or workings of Satan, by translating them "into the kingdom of Christ and God," Ephesians 5:5.
b. It was for this work, Paul was arrested and imprisoned. He preached this unto both Jews and Gentiles: that Jesus was the Christ, and commissioned him to preach: "Confounding the Jews who dwelt in Damascus, proving that (Jesus) is the very Christ," Acts 9:20-22. He began his witness immediately after his conversion to Christ, through Ananias’ preaching and baptizing of him, Acts 9:15-16; Acts 9:17-19; Acts 22:16. Luke further wrote--
1) First, of the Jews: “And he said unto me, Depart: for I will send thee far hence unto the Gentiles. And they gave him audience unto this word, and then lifted their voices, and said: Away with such a fellow from the earth: for it is not fit that he should live. And as they cried out, and cast off their clothes, and threw dust into the air: The chief captain commanded him to be brought into the castle and bade that he should be examined by scourging; that he might know wherefore they cried so against him,” Acts 22:21-24.
2) Second, of the Gentiles: “But the Lord said unto him, Go thy way: for he is a chosen vessel unto me, to bear my name before the Gentiles, and kings, and the children of Israel: For I will shew him how great things he must suffer for my name's sake,” Acts 9:15-16.
3) Third, Paul’s preaching to King Agrippa of Jesus’ words to him near Damascus: “But rise, and stand upon thy feet: for I have appeared unto thee for this purpose, to make thee a minister and a witness both of these things which thou hast seen, and of those things in the which I will appear unto thee; Delivering thee from the people, and from the Gentiles, unto whom now I send thee, To open their eyes, and to turn them from darkness to light, and from the power of Satan unto God, that they may receive forgiveness of sins, and inheritance among them which are sanctified by faith that is in me,” Acts 26:15-18; Acts 26:29-21.
4) Fourth, Paul’s words to Rome: “Be it known therefore unto you, that the salvation of God is sent unto the Gentiles, and that they will hear it. And when he had said these words, the Jews departed, and had great reasoning among themselves,” Acts 28:28-29.
c. Conclusions: Paul’s was now in a Roman prison for preaching Christ unto the Jews and Gentile that they should turn them from darkness to light, and from the power of Satan unto God, that they may receive forgiveness of sins, and inheritance among them which are sanctified by faith that is in Christ Jesus. These are the spirits working spiritual wickedness in high places. Finally--
2. They reside in high places. These are the “spiritual powers” of the “spirits that now worketh in the children of disobedience;” through the “prince of the power of the air,” Ephesians 2:2.
a. These are agents of the devil currently ruling, governing, working, manifesting all evils and ungodliness: to entice, deceive and enslave the "children of darkness,” whose eyes have been blinded "by the god of this world," from the gospel of light, 2 Corinthians 4:3-4.
b. For God, “Who commanded the light to shine out of darkness, hath shined in our hearts, to give the light of the knowledge of the glory of God in the face of Jesus Christ,” 2 Corinthians 4:6.
c. Christ who said: “I am the light of the world: he that followeth me shall not walk in darkness, but shall have the light of life,” John 8:12; John 9:5; John 12:35.
d. Why do these walk in darkness? Jesus said: “For God so loved the world...For God sent not his Son into the world to condemn the world; but that the world through him might be saved,” John 3:16-17. He continued:
1) First, “He that believeth on him is not condemned: but he that believeth not is condemned already because he hath not believed in the name of the only begotten Son of God.”
2) Second, “And this is the condemnation, that light has come into the world, and men loved darkness rather than light because their deeds were evil.”
3) Third, “For every one that doeth evil hateth the light, neither cometh to the light, lest his deeds should be reproved.”
4) Fourth, “But he that doeth truth cometh to the light, that his deeds may be made manifest, that they are wrought in God,” John 3:17-31.
3. Christ sits in heavenly places. Let’s not compare these to the saints, which "have been raised together, and made to sit together in heavenly places in Christ Jesus," Ephesians 2:4-6; Ephesians 1:10; Ephesians 3:14-15. Recall, I have discussed the role of the angelic host in the lives of the children of God earlier in this lesson.
4. The saints are blessed. Paul wrote: “Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who hath blessed us with all spiritual blessings in heavenly places in Christ,” Ephesians 1:3. Paul affirms that Christ, who sits in heavenly places, has blessed us (the children of God) with all “spiritual blessing in heavenly places.”
5. Conclusion: Evil and ungodliness reside in high places, whose workings are manifested by evil. Blessing comes from heavenly places, through Jesus Christ, who sits at the “right hand of God in heavenly places,” Ephesians 1:20-23; Colossians 3:1; Hebrews 1:3.
a. Where: “Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, and cometh down from the Father of lights, with who is no variableness, neither shadow of turning. Of his own will begat he us with the word of truth, that we should be a kind of firstfruits of his creatures,” James 1:17-18.
b. We have become new creations, Ephesians 2:10. New creatures in Christ Jesus, 2 Corinthians 5:17. Whereby, Christ has: "Given unto us exceeding great and precious promises: that by these we might be partakers of the divine nature, having escaped the corruption that is in this world through lust," 2 Peter 1:3-4. With this discussion behind us, let’s consider now our last point, “the equipment safeties.”
III THE EQUIPMENT SAFETIES
A. The equipment safeties. Paul now outlines the saint’s equipment safeties. Paul continued: “Wherefore take unto you the whole armor of God; that ye may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand,” Ephesians 6:13.
1. He now outlines the battle dress equipment (BDE), the safety ensemble to be worn by the saints in their OPORD. There were two types of safety equipment; that made up the armor of God: one type was defensive, and the other offensive. We will consider both the saint's equipment safeties. We will review how each piece of armor had its specific function for both the soldier's protection and for the battle that could ensue against certain enemies.
2. Paul makes an analogy of the Roman Centurion’s Armour. He vividly describes each piece of armor and makes an application to the "Armour of God," and how each part of the defensive equipment is designed to be used; and, the protection it affords the saints in battle.
3. The Roman soldier’s armor consisted of 1) the girdle or belt, 2) the breastplate, 3) the greaves (or soldier's shoes), 4) the shield, 5) the helmet, and 6) the sword.
a. It is remarkable that, among all this equipment, there was no protection for the Centurion’s backside; if he were to turn his back upon from the enemy, their backs would lie openly exposed. The Centurion soldiers were Rome’s fighting machine.
b. These armor pieces were designed for defense: the girdle, the breastplate, the greaves (shoes), the shield, and the helmet.
c. Other Roman equipment was used for offensive tactics like the sword, spear, and bow and arrows (Paul did not mention these instruments). These were pieces of tactical equipment carried and used by the Legions following in close pursuit of the enemy, during hand-to-hand fighting, and after overtaking their enemies during their retreat.
4. The Roman soldier(s) that guarded Paul in Rome; perhaps were not equipped in this fashion, Acts 28:16. This soldier(s) was probably chained to Paul, during his entire watch over him, Acts 12:6-7.
5. He may have recalled the Centurions that march with him, when Claudius Lysias ordered, that he be removed from Jerusalem to Caesarea; after Lysias was warned of the Jew’s plot against his life, Acts 23:16-24; Acts 23:25-35.
6. These are the soldiers Paul had in mind when he wrote to Ephesus regarding "the whole armor of God." We will discuss the defensive equipment first, and then the offensive equipment. Just like the Roman Centurion, one piece of his equipment was the sword. Observe--
B. Defensive equipment: We now are at the place in this lesson to address the defensive BDE. Paul continues, stand, therefore--
1. First, “Having your loins girt about with truth,” Ephesians 6:14a. Fasten around your waist the belt of truth. Truth is the foundation of our faith and the fight. The Christian behaves himself: “In the church, which is the pillar and ground of the truth,” 1 Timothy 3:15. It is for truth, whether in battle or bonds, we fight to preserve. The apostle fought:
a. One, “In the defense and confirmation of the gospel,” Philippians 1:7; Philippians 1:17.
b. Two, “Giving no place by subjection, no, not for an hour, that the truth of the gospel might continue,” Galatians 2:5.
c. Three, “That they (all men) walk uprightly according to the truth of the gospel,” Galatians 2:14. The saints that dwell in Jehovah’s holy mountain and tabernacle will be those: “That walketh uprightly, and worketh righteousness, and speaketh the truth in (from the) hearts," Psalms 15:1-2.
d. Fourth, "For the hope which is laid up for all in heaven, of whom ye heard before in the word of the truth of the gospel," Colossians 1:5; 1 Timothy 6:12. After girting ourselves with the sash, strap, or belt of truth.
1) Some commentators have called this belt a girdle. My mother often said: “I hope this old girdle holds me altogether.” Our loving sisters might know what she meant! They might appreciate its application here in Ephesus’ OPORD.
2) It will be the truth that holds the church together during its strife and turmoil.
3) It will be the truth that holds the saints together during the trials of their faith.
4) Therefore, girt up your loin with the sash or girdle of truth!
5) Let truth hold you together during every attack of the devil.
2. Further, “Having put on the breastplate of righteousness,” Ephesians 6:14b. In other words, put on the breastplate of righteousness. There can be no righteousness without truth. Through truth, we put on "the righteousness of God," Romans 1:16-18; Romans 10:1-4.
a. Having on the breastplate of righteousness. The Old Testament scriptures have spoken regarding the “breastplate of righteousness.” Isaiah wrote:
1) First, “But with righteousness shall he judge the poor, and reprove with equity for the meek of the earth: and he shall smite the earth with the rod of his mouth, and with the breath of his lips shall he slay the wicked. And righteousness shall be the girdle of his loins, and faithfulness the girdle of his reins,” Isaiah 11:4-5.
2) Second, “For he put on righteousness as a breastplate, and a helmet of salvation upon his head; and he put on the garments of vengeance for clothing, and was clad with zeal as a cloke,” Isaiah 59:17. These were prophetic utterances of Christ’s: “Righteousness shall be the girdle of his loins,” and “He puts on righteousness as a breastplate.”
b. Paul wrote elsewhere of this metaphor. He wrote:
1) First, “But let us, who are of the day, be sober, putting on the breastplate of faith and love; and for a helmet, the hope of salvation,” 1 Thessalonians 5:8.
2) Second, “By the word of truth, by the power of God, by the armor of righteousness on the right hand and the left,” 2 Corinthians 6:7.
3) This piece of armor was worn to protect the soldier’s vital organs, his heart, and lungs from flaming darts or arrows, along with the shield. It covered him from his shoulder down to his loins, front and back.
c. The Christian must wear the breastplate of righteousness continually. It is while wearing this armor we walk as children of light: “(For the fruit of the Spirit is in all goodness and righteousness and truth): Proving what is acceptable unto the Lord. And have no fellowship with the unfruitful works of darkness, but rather reprove them,” Ephesians 5:8-11; Galatians 5:22-23. He continued--
3. Next, “Having your feet shod with the preparation of the gospel of peace,” Ephesians 6:15. To understand Paul’s real message here, we must look at the words of this phrase and verb in its original language.
a. Having your “feet shod” in Gr., is pous or pooce and hypodeo or hoop-od-eh'-o, which means: the "foot," and to bind under one's feet, i.e., to put on shoes or sandals:—bind on, or to (be) shod. This phrase and verb, has these meaning.
1) First, having to do with the student listening to their teacher's instruction, and are said to be at his feet; or to bind under one's self, to tie on the feet the message of the gospel of peace, Mark 6:9; Acts 12:8; and Ephesians 6:15.
2) Second, the idea is to prepare or make oneself ready for the work or mission ahead of you; by equipping your feet with i.e., shoes or sandals to stand prepared or being ready to march in an instant.
3) Third, the footwear was an essential piece of the soldier’s equipment, required for long and arduous marches to and from the battlefield.
4) Fourth, Roman's footwear was "shod," affording the sandal firm gripping over wet or muddy surfaces; and comfort while marching quickly over long periods, without injuring the feet.
5) Fifth, some commentators have conjectured that the soldier’s footwear was constructed for movement over all types of terrain, forest, and roads “by having the soul thickly studded with sharp nails" Page 277. See reference 5, below. This metaphor would fit Paul's text: "Having your feet shod.” Paul Continued--
b. With the “preparation.” The word “preparation” in Gr., is hetoimasia or het-oy-mas-ee'-ah, which means:—preparation, readiness, or promptness.
1) The condition of a person or thing so far as being prepared, having preparedness, or readiness, Psalms 10:17.
2) The OPORD is always preceded by a fragmentation order, “FRAGORDER.”
3) The FRAGORDER was to alert the soldiers of an upcoming mission: giving a brief mission synopsis, the enemy situation, rules of engagement, and the required BDE. This was their readiness order. Suit up! Equip yourself with the gospel of peace. He continues--
c. Of the gospel. The word “gospel” has not changed from our previous lessons. In Gr., the word “gospel” is euangelion or yoo-ang-ghel'-ee-on, which means i.e., the good news, a message of peace, the glad tidings of good things:—the gospel.
1) The glad tidings of the kingdom of God soon to be set up, and subsequently also of Jesus the Messiah, the founder of this kingdom.
2) The messianic rank of Jesus was proved by His words, deeds, death, the narrative of Christ's sayings, acts, and His death, burial, and resurrection: that came to be called “the gospel or glad tidings of good things.”
3) Equip yourself with the message of the gospel of peace. Paul wrote: “As it is written: How beautiful are the feet of them that preach the gospel of peace, and bring glad tidings of good things!" Romans 10:15. Evangelists, ministers, preachers, and teachers, we all have beautiful feet; and so saith the gospel that we preach. Finally, Paul concluded--
d. Gospel of peace. The gospel is Christ's message, suffering, death, burial, and resurrection, which grants peace to the world, believers, and every soul.
1) The word “peace” in Gr., is eirene or i-ray'-nay, which means peace; by implication, prosperity:—one, peace, quietness, rest, set at one again.
2) The word peace has several meanings, i.e., to be at peace between individuals, God, and conscience; to find harmony and concord; to have peace for one’s soul, in obedience to the gospel of salvation, and knowledge of the truth; and to find comfort and assurance in one’s faithful service to Christ, in life, in death, and the redemption of the body, at the Lord’s second coming.
e. Letters of Paul. Nearly all Paul’s Letters to the saints: either began or ended with this word: peace. It is the message of the gospel and the promise of God that grants peace to the believers. Faith and obedience to Christ afford the Christian peace with God and the hope of eternal life. Amen, brothers and sisters in the Lord. Paul continues in his discussion of the saints BDE.
4. Accordingly, “Above all, taking the shield of faith, wherewith ye shall be able to quench all the fiery darts of the wicked,” Ephesians 6:16. Paul now turns to the soldier’s shield: which he calls the “shield of faith.” He instructs them to: “Above all, taking the shield of faith.” The Roman shield — was the large oblong oval door-like shield of the Romans, four feet long by two and a half feet broad; not the small round buckler, carried by many other armies. Observe--
a. First, this piece of equipment affords protection from attacks on every side. It was wide and tall enough for the soldier to stand entirely behind it during an all-out dart assault by the enemy.
b. Further, it was their "shield of faith." For what purpose should it be used? He answered.
c. Next, “Wherewith ye shall be able to quench.” The shield was able to quench – the fiery darts. Let's look at the word "quench" a little closer. Observe--
1) The word “quench” in Gr., is sbennymi or sben'-noo-mee, which means extinguish:—go out, quench, Matthew 25:8; Hebrews 11:34; 1 Thessalonians 5:19.
2) The shield was constructed so the arrows would break, glance, or be deflected after striking the shield.
d. Finally, “All the fiery darts of the wicked.” It was a custom of good battle strategies to light the arrow with fire. For these arrow shot at the soldier would have on it a flaming or burning tip. The shield provided another feature: the pitch on the shield would quench the fiery arrows, protecting the soldier from burns. One commentator made this observation--
NOTE: “The shield of faith will certainly intercept, and so "quench, all the fiery darts" (an image from the ancient fire-darts, formed of cane, with tow and combustibles ignited on the head of the shaft, to set fire to woodwork, tents, etc.).” See Commentary by A. R. Fausset, BlueLetterBible.org, Reference 6, below.
e. Conclusion: Faith is the shield with which we must quench these fiery darts of the evil one. Faith will render them ineffectual, that they may not hit us, or at least that they may not hurt us. Confidence comes from the word of God. When applied to our stand against the fiery trials of the devil, it will permit us to quench the darts of our most fierce and vexing temptations and trials. For some temptation:
1) One might only need to command as Jesus: “Get hence behind me Satan.”
2) Others might need to quench their “lusts and passions” by calling upon the Lord or citing the word of God: like Jesus did during His temptations.
3) While a few, during their “fiery trials, miseries, and temptations,” that anguish their souls: will require, that they fall upon their knees and cry out in “effectual fervent” prayers unto the Lord; to quench burning lusts and entices, inflaming the hearts, souls and minds by the evil one in the evil day, James 1:13-15.
4) In either case: “Above all, taking the shield of faith,” Ephesians 6:16.
5. Afterwards, “And take the helmet of salvation, Ephesians 6:17a. Now take unto you the "helmet of salvation;" putting it on in the hope of your defense and salvation, by the Lord, during your trial of faith and pending conflict.
a. Take the helmet. The word helmet in the Gr., is perikephalaia or per-ee-kef-al-ah'-yah, which means an encirclement of the head, i.e., a helmet:—helmet—designed to the protection of the soul which consists in (the hope of) salvation.
b. Prophet Isaiah wrote: “For he put on righteousness as a breastplate, and the helmet of salvation upon his head; and he put on the garments of vengeance for clothing, and was clad with zeal as a cloke,” Isaiah 59:17.
c. Paul wrote the Thessalonians: “But let us, who are of the day, be sober, putting on the breastplate of faith and love; and for a helmet, the hope of salvation,” 1 Thessalonians 5:8.
d. The helmet of salvation is subjoined to the shield of faith, as its inseparable accompaniment, Romans 5:1-5. The head of the soldier was among the principal parts of the body to protect. The enemy can strike the deadliest blow to the soldier's head while in battle. It is the head that commands the whole body.
e. The head is the seat of the mind, which, when it has laid hold of the sure Gospel “hope” of eternal life. This saint will not receive false doctrine or give way to Satan's temptations to despair. God, by this hope, "lifts the head,” Psalms 3:3; Luke 21:28. And call upon the “name of the Lord” in their time of need, whether in the trial, temptation, persecution, or despair. He can deliver thee! Now let's consider the first of two offensive weapons for the saints in this warfare.
6. Lastly, “Take the sword of the spirit,” Ephesians 6:17b. The sword of the Spirit is the first offensive weapon employed by the saints in their spiritual warfare. But, there is another: prayer. Paul wrote: “Praying always with all prayers and supplication in the Spirit,” Ephesians 6:18. We will discuss them both under the heading: Offensive weapons, below. We are coming to a conclusion.
C. Offensive weapons. The last piece of the saint’s BDE is the sword. We will discuss it as the first piece of the soldier’s offensive weaponry. Observe--
1. First, “And take the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God,” Ephesians 6:17b. The sword is worn on the Centurion’s side (favoring either his right hand or left). The soldiers use the sword during hand-to-hand combat, when in the heat of battle, within striking range of the enemy. The Romans developed the art of using the blade in defensive and offensive operations.
a. The sword of the Spirit — that is, furnished by the Spirit, who inspired the writers of the word of God, 2 Peter 1:20-21. Again the Trinity is implied: the Spirit here; and Christ in “salvation” and God the Father, Ephesians 6:13.
b. Christ used it during His temptations as our pattern as to how the saints must wield it against Satan and his forces. Amen, brother Doors!
c. When Satan puts: “heat on you;” you put: “the word on him.” It is written!
2. Second, “This is the word of God.” Paul wrote that the “sword of the Spirit” represents the “word of God.” Through Jesus’ wielding the word of God, He was able to repel all the devil's attacks. How did Christ swing the word of God? He quoted the scriptures: "It is written." He did this three times.
a. Temptation one: “And when he had fasted forty days and forty nights, he afterward hungered. And the tempter came to Him.”
1) He said: "If thou be the Son of God, command that these stone be made bread." This temptation is the lust of the flesh.
2) But Jesus answered and said: “It is written, Man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word that proceedeth out of the mouth of God,” Matthew 4:3-4. Notice, the Lord said: “It is written.” It was the word of God that caused the devil to withdraw. Saints, put the scriptures on him when he puts heat on you to sin!
b. Temptation two: “Then the devil taketh him up into the holy city, and sitteth him on a pinnacle of the temple.” This temptation is the lust of the eyes and a presumptuous’ sin unto God.
1) And said unto Him: “If thou be the Son of God, cast thyself down: for it is written, He shall give his angels charge concerning thee: and in their hands, they shall bear thee up, lest at any time thou dash thy foot against a stone.”
2) Jesus said unto him: “It is written again, Thou shalt not tempt the Lord thy God,” Matthew 4:6-7. Are you starting to see a pattern here?
3) David wrote: “Keep back thy servant also from presumptuous sins; let them not have dominion over me: then shall I be upright, and I shall be innocent from the great transgression,” Psalms 19:13.
c. Temptation three: “Again, the devil taketh him up into an exceeding high mountain and sheweth him all the kingdoms of the world, and the glory of them.”
1) And saith unto Him: “All these things will I give thee if thou wilt fall down and worship me." This temptation is the pride of life.
2) Then saith Jesus unto him: “Get thee hence, Satan: for it is written, Thou shalt worship the Lord thy God, and Him only shalt thou serve,” Matthew 4:8-10.
d. Temptation ended: “Then the devil leaveth Him, and, behold, angels came and ministered unto Him,” Matthew 4:11.
3. Quick and powerful. Paul wrote: “For the word of God is quick, and powerful, and sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing even to the dividing asunder of soul and spirit, and the joints and marrow, and is a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart,” Hebrews 4:12.
a. It was a two-edged sword, cutting both ways. As Brother Warren would often say: “the word of God cuts gwo’win’ and com’min,” Psalms 45:3-4.
b. It strikes some with conviction and conversion, and others with condemnation, Acts 2:37-41; John 12:48.
c. It resides in the mouth of Lord, Isaiah 11:4-5; Revelations 19:15.
d. And within the hands of His saints, Psalms 149:5-9; Isaiah 49:2-3.
4. Conclusion: The word of God has the power to save, convert, and rebuke the evil one during his attacks on the saints. Follow the pattern of the Lord. When Satan tempted, the Lord quenched the temptation by quoting the word of God. The apostle John penned: “And they overcame him by the blood of the Lamb; and, by the word of their testimony; and they loved not their lives unto the death,” Revelation 12:11; Acts 20:24; Acts 21:13.
D. Praying always. He concluded: “Praying always with all prayer and supplication in the Spirit, and watching thereunto with all perseverance and supplication for all saints; And for me, pray that utterance may be given unto me, that I may open my mouth boldly, to make known the mystery of the gospel, For which I am an ambassador in bonds: that therein I may speak boldly, as I ought to speak,” Ephesians 6:18-20.
1. Paul directed the saints to pray. Prayer is our second offensive weapon: prayer and supplication in the Spirit. Paul leads the saints to pray elsewhere. Observe--
a. First, “I exhort therefore, that, first of all, supplications, prayers, intercessions, and giving of thanks, be made for all men; For kings, and for all that are in authority; that we may lead a quiet and peaceable life in all godliness and honesty,” 1 Timothy 2:1-2.
b. Further, “I will therefore that men pray everywhere, lifting holy hands, without wrath and doubting,” 1 Timothy 2:8. Notice--
1) Don’t fear, pray, Psalms 3:6; Psalms 27:1; James 5:16.
2) Don’t faint, pray, Luke 18:1; Psalms 27:13; Proverbs 24:10.
3) Don’t fret, pray, Psalms 37:7-8; Proverbs 24:19; Matthew 7:7-8.
4) Don’t falter, pray, 1 Kings 18:21; 1 Kings 18:36-40; Matthew 6:24.
c. Next, Luke wrote of Paul: “And when Paul had thus spoken, he kneeled, and prayed with them all. And they all wept sore, and fell on Paul's neck, and kissed him, sorrowing most of all for the words which he spake, that they should see his face no more. And they accompanied him unto the ship,” Acts 20:36-38.
NOTE: The scene here is as passionate and moving as the prayer and words of the Lord, at the tomb of Lazarus, John 11:33-44. The Lord's sorrow forced Him to weep at this gravesite gathering.
NOTE: Download our lesson entitled: "Paul's Farewell to Ephesus" from SermonCentral.com. Ron Freeman, Evangelist. It expounds upon this scene on the seaside in Miletus.
d. Finally, Luke wrote of Paul: “And when we had accomplished those days, we departed and went our way; and they all brought us on our way, with wives and children, till we were out of the city: and we kneeled on the shore, and prayed,” Acts 21:5.
2. Paul asked the saints for their prayers. He wrote: “And (pray) for me, that utterance may be given unto me, that I may open my mouth boldly, to make known the mystery of the gospel, For which I am an ambassador in bonds: that therein I may speak boldly, as I ought to speak,” Ephesians 6:19-20. Pray that--
a. That utterance might be given to me:
1) That I may open my mouth boldly.
2) To make known the mystery of the gospel.
b. For which I am an ambassador in bonds:
1) That I may speak boldly.
2) As I ought to speak.
c. Conclusion: Pray for me that I might remain bold in my preaching of the gospel message. It is for this message I am now an ambassador in bonds. For the truth, Paul was now in prison: the truth of God's mystery concerning the Gentiles. Many of the Jews that visited him were not in favor of this message. Like many of us at this time, we are criticized for our stand for the truth. It will be the truth that prevails; when the error is exposed. What this nation needs now, more than ever, are voices that speak righteousness at every level of government, pulpit, and saints. I ask:
1) Where are the righteous voices in our local, state, and federal governments?
2) Where are the righteous words being preached from the nation’s pulpits?
3) Where are the righteous saints during this “evil day” in America?
3. Paul’s “evil day.” The apostle was now chained to a Roman soldier in Rome. Yet, he was permitted to “preach Christ” unto all that came to visit with him. The results would be that he would win for Christ: “Chiefly they that are of Caesar's household," Philippians 4:21-23. This beloved servant of Christ was not silent during this imprisonment. He encouraged; and sought to embolden the saint at Philippi and elsewhere. Observe--
a. To Ephesus, he wrote: "Wherefore I desire that ye faint not at my tribulations for you, which is your glory,” Ephesians 3:13; Ephesians 6:19-20.
b. To Philippi he wrote: “But I would ye should understand, brethren, that the things which happened unto me have fallen out rather unto the furtherance of the gospel; So that my bonds in Christ are manifest in all the palace, and in all other places; And many of the brethren in the Lord, are waxing in confidence by my bonds, are much bolder to speak the word without fear,” Philippians 1:12-14.
c. To Colossae, he wrote: "That I may make it manifest, as I ought to speak,” Colossians 4:4.
d. To Thessalonica, he wrote: "But even after that we had suffered before and were shamefully entreated, as ye know, at Philippi, we were bold in our God to speak unto you the gospel of God with much contention,” 1 Thessalonians 2:2.
4. What is America’s "evil day?" We as a Nation are undergoing our "evil day." How are we going to get through this pandemic? The saints will put on "the whole armor of God" and encourage others to do the same. We will be patient, trusting, and obedient to "the powers" ordained by God, for our God. We also have another “evil day” to contend with now and in the next few weeks. That is--
5. Terrorist’s attack on the Nation’s Capital. The attack on the Capital Building" was by an armed terrorist group! This occurred on January 6, 2021. What were their intentions? It was to “overthrow the 2020 election.” The current “impeachment trial of Donald J. Trump,” as the leader and chief inciter of this terrorist mob’s that attacked the United States Capital, has just concluded on January 13, 2021. The former president was "found not guilty" by the Republican Party leadership and members. The vote was 57 "yeas" and 43 "nays." Their vote was along party lines. What does this mean?
a. The Republican Party cared more for their seat than they did the nation. They could not even stand up for Mike Pence, their former vice president: whose life and theirs were in mortal danger from an angry mob, sent to the Capital to assassinate him and members of both political parties.
b. Donald J. Trump, again, has escaped punishment in his second impeachment trial because of Republican’s fear of reprisal from him if they did the right thing.
c. The 50 Democrats and seven Republicans that stood with them voted that Trump was indeed guilty of the charges of inciting an “insurrection.”
1) The evidence was overwhelming and brilliantly presented by the prosecution team. This team performed an excellent service for the nation, its client. All of the team members should be commended!
2) The defense team defended their client, Donald J. Trump. They ignored the evidence and "cried wolf" for their client. They were merely the mouth-pieces for an evil and corrupted administration that nearly destroyed democracy in America.
3) The total fault in this failure of justice; rests with Mitch McConnell and the Republican Party. 7 Republicans broke ranks and voted to convict Donald J. Trump, they did the right thing. I am proud of them: there is hope for this party and America!
d. Conclusion: This behavior is the spiritual wickedness in high places. It is to these leaders that Paul makes mention of in this Letter. These are “the principalities, powers, rulers of the darkness of this world, and spiritual wickedness in high places” that appose: truth and justice every day in America.
1) And our mission as soldiers for Christ is to stand against them, "with the whole armor of God."
2) To fight the good fight of faith; defending the helpless and needy; standing for righteousness and truth in all that we do and say.
3) May our “oath to Christ” mean more to us than these Republican’s “oath of office” that they would: “Support and defend the Constitution of America against all enemies foreign and domestic.”
a) On January 13, they were miserable failures to themselves, their party, the American people, and ultimately to God when they swore an oath invoking His name: “So help me God.” They swore an oath unto God! Observe--
b) Moses spoke to Israel’s leaders: “And Moses spake unto the heads of the tribes concerning the children of Israel, saying: The LORD hath commanded. If a man vows a vow unto the LORD or swears an oath to bind his soul with a bond; he shall not break his word, he shall do according to all that proceedeth out of his mouth,” Numbers 30:1-2.
c) David wrote: “I have sworn, and I will perform it,” Psalms 119:106.
d) Jesus said: “Again, ye have heard that it hath been said by them of old time, Thou shalt not forswear thyself, but shalt perform unto the Lord thine oaths: But I say unto you, Swear not at all; neither by heaven; for it is God's throne...But let your communication be, Yea, yea; Nay, nay: for whatsoever is more than this cometh of evil,” Matthew 5:33-37. He Moses again--
4) Conclusion: “When thou shalt vow a vow unto the LORD thy God, thou shalt not slack to pay it: for the LORD thy God will surely require it of thee, and it would be sin in thee. But if thou shalt forbear to vow, it shall be no sin in thee,” Deuteronomy 23:21-22. We will pray for Mitch McConnell and for those of his party that did not keep their vow or oath unto God. As I approach our conclusion, let me speak briefly to Paul's compassionate closing of this Letter to the Ephesians.
E. Paul’s salutation and benediction. He wrote: “But that ye also may know my affairs, and how I do, Tychicus, a beloved brother and faithful minister in the Lord, shall make known to you all things: Whom I have sent unto you for the same purpose, that ye might know our affairs, and that he might comfort your hearts. Peace unto the brethren, and love with faith, from God the Father and the Lord Jesus Christ. Grace is with all of them that love our Lord Jesus Christ with sincerity. Amen,” Ephesians 6:21-24. Observe--
1. First, as with all his salutations, he mentions his faithful brothers. He gives reasons for sending them unto the church.
a. I send Tychicus, a beloved brother and faithful minister in the Lord.
b. He shall make known to you all things: Whom I have sent unto you for the same purpose.
c. That ye might know our affairs, and that he might comfort your hearts.
d. I send Tychicus, unto you a beloved brother and faithful minister in the Lord. This brother was to inform the church at Ephesus how Paul was faring, during his imprisonment in Rome: that they might know of his affairs, that their hearts may be comforted.
2. Further, Tychicus was mentioned in the Colossians’ Letter as well. He wrote: “All my state shall Tychicus declare unto you, who is a beloved brother, and a faithful minister and fellow-servant in the Lord: Whom I have sent unto you for the same purpose, that he might know your estate, and comfort your hearts; With Onesimus, a faithful and beloved brother, who is one of you. They shall make known unto you all things which are done here,” Colossians 4:7-9.
3. Next, Timothy was charged with a similar role unto the church at Philippi. He wrote: “But I trust in the Lord Jesus to send Timotheus shortly unto you, that I may be of good comfort when I know your state. I have no man likeminded who will naturally care for your state. For all seek their own, not the things which are Jesus Christ's. But ye know the proof of him, that, as a son with the father, he hath served with me in the gospel...Him, I hope to send presently,” Philippians 2:19-24.
4. Also, Epaphroditus was sent unto Philippi with news of Paul, after undergoing sickness from his last journey to Rome, Philippians 2:25-30.
5. Finally, his benediction. He concludes: “Peace be to the brethren, and love with faith, from God the Father and the Lord Jesus Christ. Grace is with all of them that love our Lord Jesus Christ with sincerity. Amen,” Ephesians 6:23-24. It is these words I now leave unto each of you here today/tonight. May God bless each of you as I conclude this sermon, recall we discussed--
CONCLUSION
A. Outline.
1. Know the Enemy Situation
2. Know the Engagement Strategies
3. Know the Equipment Safeties
B. Summarize main points.
1. First, we reviewed the saint's "situational awareness" regarding their enemy during this spiritual warfare. Paul mentions this twice in our scripture lesson. First, he wrote: “Put on the whole armor of God: that ye may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil,” Ephesians 6:11. Second, he penned: “Wherefore take unto you the whole armor of God, that ye may be able to withstand in the evil day and having done all, to stand,” Ephesians 6:13. The saints at Ephesus were given an OPORD to make them aware of the enemy’s situation during this spiritual warfare. Paul instructed them to don the whole armor of God: that they may be able to stand against the wiles, i.e., the evil devices, schemes, and works of the devil.
2. Second, we considered the saint's engagement strategies in sustained warfare: during their temptations, trials, and spiritual conflicts. Paul mentions: "For we (you and I) wrestle not against flesh and blood, but principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high places," Ephesians 6:12. These are the devil's principalities, powers, rulers of this world's darkness and wickedness, and spiritual wickedness in high places (above the earthly realm). Paul was engaged in a battle for the gospel's message; he waged within the household of Caesar and the Roman government: while a prisoner of Rome.
3. Lastly, we investigated the saint's equipment safeties or the "whole armor" of God, designed to be worn during their stand against the devil and his allies. Finally, he penned: “Wherefore take unto you the whole armor of God; that ye may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand. Stand therefore, having your loins girt about with truth, and having on the breastplate of righteousness; And your feet shod with the preparation of the gospel of peace; Above all, taking the shield of faith, wherewith ye shall be able to quench all the fiery darts of the wicked. And take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God,” Ephesians 6:13-17. This was the saint's battle dress equipment (BDE). Their BDE must always be worn for their constant engagements against Satan's attacks against their faith, hope, and loving obedience to their Captain in battle: the Lord Jesus Christ.
C. Invitation. Present the plan of salvation, H.B.R.C.B.
D. Exhortation.
E. Motivation.
References:
1. Matthew Henry's Concise Commentary on the Bible, by Matthew Henry, Christian Classics Ethereal Library, Grand Rapids, MI, 1706.
2. The People's New Testament, by B. W. Johnson, Christian Publishing Company, Grand Rapids, MI, 1891.
3. The New Greek-English Interlinear New Testament; United Bible Societies,’ Fourth, Corrected Edition, Tyndale House Publishers, Inc., Wheaton, IL, 1990.
4. Textus Receptus, taken from the Greek Text of Stephens 1550, The Englishman’s Greek New Testament, Zondervan Publishing House, Grand Rapids, Michigan, First Zondervan Printing, 1970.
5. New Testament Commentary, “Galatians, Ephesians, Philippians, Colossians and Philemon,” by William Hendriksen, Baker Books House Company, P. O. Box 6287, Grand Rapids, Michigan, 49516, First Printing, December 1995.
6. Commentary Critical and Explanatory on the Whole Bible, by Robert Jamieson, A. R. Fausset, and David Brown, BlueLetterBible.org, 1871.
7. The Operations Process, Field Manual No. 5-0, Headquarters Department of the Army, Washington, DC, 26 March 2010.
I submit this verse unto you that I may: “Render therefore to all their dues: tributes to whom tribute is due; custom to whom custom; fear to whom fear; and honor to whom honor, (is due),” Romans 13:7. I acknowledge my consultation with these distinguished authors in this lesson.
Ron Freeman, Evangelist
ronald.e.freeman@wwmchurchofchrist.org
https://wwmchurchofchrist.org/
Website: https://en.gravatar.com/refreeman
