Notes on Ephesians 6 and Spiritual Warfare

Introduction to Spiritual Warfare

• We are in a spiritual warfare. Ephesians 6:10-18 emphasizes the importance of putting on the whole armor of God.
• Armor symbolizes right believing, particularly in the gospel of grace.

The Importance of Right Believing

• Wrong beliefs create areas where the devil can attack.
• Effective prayer, especially praying in the Spirit, is a powerful way to address fears and worries.
• We pray from a position of victory, not for victory.

The Gospel's Power

• Romans 1:16: The gospel is the power of God unto salvation.
• The preaching of the gospel leads to transformation and salvation.
• Thousands are discovering the gospel of grace through platforms like YouTube.

The Armor of God

Ephesians 6 Overview

• Wealth: Spiritual blessings and riches in Christ (Ephesians 1-2).
• Walk: Living in a manner worthy of our calling (Ephesians 4-5).
• Warfare: Standing firm against spiritual attacks (Ephesians 6).

The Components of the Armor

1. Belt of Truth: Holds everything together. Truth is essential for stability in faith.
2. Breastplate of Righteousness: Protects the heart against condemnation. Righteousness is from Christ, not our own efforts.
3. Shoes of the Gospel of Peace: Preparation and foundation in peace through the gospel.
4. Shield of Faith: Protects against fiery darts from the enemy. Faith quenches attacks and afflictions.
5. Helmet of Salvation: Assurance of salvation protects the mind.
6. Sword of the Spirit: The Word of God, our offensive weapon in spiritual battles.

The Role of Prayer

• Praying in the Spirit: Key to receiving the armor and quenching fiery darts.
• Essential for building faith and receiving specific words from God in spiritual warfare.
• Testimony of a woman who prayed in the Spirit during a medical scare illustrates the power of prayer.

The Assurance of Salvation

• Believers are secure in their salvation; they cannot lose it.
• Wrong teachings can create fear and doubt about salvation.
• Eternal life and forgiveness are guaranteed for those who believe in Christ.

Conclusion: The Importance of Believing Right

• The necessity of believing in the righteousness of God in Christ and the gospel of peace.
• Warning against teachings that instill doubt or fear in believers.
• Final encouragement to embrace the truths of the gospel and pray in the Spirit consistently.