Serve, Defend, Pray
You can listen to Ephesians 6 below and read the passage in the New Living Translation here.
“Put on all of God’s armor so that you will be able to stand firm against all strategies of the devil. For we are not fighting against flesh-and-blood enemies, but against evil rulers and authorities of the unseen world, against mighty powers in this dark world, and against evil spirits in the heavenly places.
Therefore, put on every piece of God’s armor so you will be able to resist the enemy in the time of evil. Then after the battle you will still be standing firm. Stand your ground, putting on the belt of truth and the body armor of God’s righteousness. For shoes, put on the peace that comes from the Good News so that you will be fully prepared. In addition to all of these, hold up the shield of faith to stop the fiery arrows of the devil. Put on salvation as your helmet, and take the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God.”
Thank you for joining us in listening to Ephesians 6! You can also access a written copy of Ephesians 6 in the New Living Translation (NLT) here.
We would love to hear your thoughts on this passage of scripture. Below are some questions that made us think. Feel free to answer one or all of them! You can also comment with any other questions or thoughts about the chapter.
All scripture quoted is in the New Living Translation unless otherwise noted.
Discussion Questions
1. At the end of Ephesians 5, Paul wrote about God-centered marriage and in the first nine verses of this chapter, Paul gives instructions for other kinds of God-centered relationships.
-In what kind of relationships do you find it hardest to honor God— with your parents, kids, employees, co-workers, bosses?
-Why do you think that is? What changes might God be asking you to make in these relationships?
2. Paul ends this epic letter telling the early church about the armor God gives us to defend ourselves against evil: Truth, righteousness, the gospel of peace, faith, and salvation.
-How can we “put on” this armor? What does it look like to "put on" truth? Righteousness? The gospel of peace? Faith? Salvation?
3. God also gives us a way to fight against evil— we have the sword of the Spirit, the Word of God (the Bible). Paul says to pray in the Spirit on all occasions, with all kinds of prayers and requests. He says to pray for all the Lord’s people.
-What is a verse that helps you battle evil in your life?
-What advice would you give someone who feels they are losing the battle against evil in their lives?
-What keeps you from praying? How has God answered your prayers?
-Who will you pray for today?
4. The book of Ephesians is RICH. Thank you so much for joining us in seeking God through His Word!
-What meant most to you from your listening/reading of Ephesians?
-How are you different after studying the book of Ephesians?
