Ephesians 6:10-17 "A Man of God is a Man of War"

Session 3: A Man of God is a Man of War

Key Passage: Ephesians 6:10-17

1. Introduction

In the Christian life, men are called to be soldiers in a very real spiritual battle. The battle we fight is not against flesh and blood, but against the unseen spiritual forces of wickedness (Ephesians 6:12). As men of God, we must not ignore the reality of this war; instead, we are to embrace it with a mindset that is shaped by Scripture and empowered by God’s Spirit.

In Ephesians 6, Paul presents a vivid metaphor: the armor of God. This imagery isn’t merely poetic; it’s a powerful reminder that every believer is called to arm themselves for the battles of faith. This session aims to help us recognize our role as spiritual warriors, called to stand firm and actively engage with courage and conviction.

2. Strength for Battle

• Source of Strength: Paul’s opening words in this passage are clear: “Be strong in the Lord and in the strength of His might” (Ephesians 6:10). Here, the strength required for this battle isn’t from our own will or power but from God Himself. This truth reminds us that reliance on our own abilities will ultimately fail in spiritual warfare.

• Application: We are called to draw strength through three key practices:

1. Prayer – By communicating with God, we align our heart and mind with His purposes (Ephesians 6:18, Philippians 4:6-7).
    
2. Scripture – The Word of God provides wisdom, guidance, and clarity in the heat of battle (Psalm 119:105).
    
3. Fellowship – Strength from fellow believers can encourage us and hold us accountable (Hebrews 10:24-25).

By grounding ourselves in these practices, we prepare our hearts and minds to be empowered by the Lord.

3. Motivation for Battle

• God’s Glory and Love for Others: The ultimate motivation in this battle is not self-preservation or pride but rather a deep desire to honor God and to protect our loved ones from spiritual harm. As Jesus said, the greatest commandment is to love God, and the second is like it: to love our neighbor (Matthew 22:37-39). Fighting for what is right—whether against temptations, lies, or harmful influences—is an act of love.
   
• Application:

• Stand for Truth – A man of God stands for biblical truth, even when it’s unpopular, as a witness to God’s holiness (2 Timothy 4:2).
   
• Support Others – We use our strength not just for personal gain but to uphold, encourage, and protect those around us (Galatians 6:2).

As men, we must see this battle not as a mere personal endeavor but as a way to reflect God’s character and to build up others, protecting them from spiritual harm.

4. Resources for Battle (Ephesians 6:13-17)

In this section, Paul details the specific pieces of spiritual armor God provides to equip us. Each piece serves a unique role in guarding us against the enemy’s tactics and enabling us to stand firm.

• The Armor of God:

• Belt of Truth: The belt holds everything together. In the same way, the truth of God anchors our lives, allowing us to stand firm against lies (Ephesians 6:14a, John 8:32, Isaiah 5:27).
   
• Breastplate of Righteousness: This protects our hearts against accusations, guilt, and shame. Christ’s righteousness, credited to us, allows us to stand with confidence (Ephesians 6:14b, Romans 8:1, Isaiah 59:14ff).
   
• Shoes of the Gospel of Peace: We must be ready to share the gospel and live it out. The peace of Christ enables us to move forward boldly in any circumstance (Ephesians 6:15, Isaiah 52:7).
   
• Shield of Faith: Faith in God’s promises is our defense against Satan’s attacks of doubt and discouragement. With it, we can “extinguish all the flaming arrows of the evil one” (Ephesians 6:16).
   
• Helmet of Salvation: Assurance of salvation protects our minds from despair and confusion. Knowing our identity in Christ keeps us grounded (Ephesians 6:17a, 1 Thessalonians 5:8).
   
• Sword of the Spirit: This is our offensive weapon, the Word of God. Jesus Himself used Scripture to counter Satan’s temptations, showing us its power to defeat falsehood (Ephesians 6:17b, Matthew 4:1-11).

• Application:

• We are challenged to regularly “put on” each piece of armor—not just when we feel under attack, but daily, so we are constantly prepared. Reflect on areas where you may be spiritually vulnerable, and take intentional steps to strengthen yourself in that area.

5. Conclusion & Reflection

The call to spiritual warfare isn’t temporary; it’s a daily responsibility that requires diligence and intentionality. As Paul concludes, we must pray continually and remain alert (Ephesians 6:18). To be men of God is to be men ready for war—not physical, but spiritual.

• Call to Action: Make spiritual readiness a daily habit. Seek God’s strength each morning, actively “put on the full armor of God” before facing the day’s challenges, and commit to living as God’s warrior.

Discussion Questions:
 

1.  Personal Reflection: What worldly and evil influences are in your life? What will you do to fight against them?
    
2. Personal Reflection: What areas of your life require you to ‘stand firm’ in battle?
    
3. Group Encouragement: How can this group help equip each other to ‘put on the full armor of God’?

Reflecting on these questions will help strengthen and encourage each other as you grow together in Christ.