The Leadership ChallengeSample

Challenge 46

PAUL, THE LEADER’S SPIRITUAL ARMOR

READ: Ephesians 6:1–24

Paul often uses military metaphors when discussing spiritual truth. Perhaps the most famous of these is found in today’s text. I have known a number of soldiers who carried a challenge coin based on this reading. The apostle was frequently under close watch or chained to a Roman guard and had the opportunity to study their “battle rattle” up close. In our text, Paul describes five pieces of defensive armor (belt of truth, breastplate of righteousness, gospel shoes, shield of faith, and helmet of salvation) and one weapon for the offense (sword of the Spirit). But what exactly does Paul mean when he exhorts us to put on the whole armor of God? Like a well-prepared soldier, you need to know not just what equipment you have, but how each piece is used. Essentially, Paul is telling us to put on Christ (see Romans 13:14; Ephesians 4:20–24). This means to recognize and reflect on the truths of who we are in Christ, to grasp them by faith—believing that they are true of you—and then to act on that identity, living it out with the spiritual resources Christ gives. Using a good commentary or study Bible notes, reflect on the meaning of each piece of armor.

According to the text, why is the armor of God necessary? What does Paul want us to do with it? As you become aware of the nature of the spiritual battlefield, how can this knowledge shape your approach to leadership?