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Ephesians 6

Ephesians 6 offers practical advice and spiritual guidance on living a Christian life within various relationships, emphasizing the armor of God as a metaphor for spiritual preparedness against evil. This chapter transitions from specific household duties to a general exhortation for all believers to remain vigilant in spiritual warfare, detailing the various components of spiritual armor that believers should "wear" to stand firm against the forces of darkness.

Ephesians 6:1-4 (NKJV)
1 Children, obey your parents in the Lord, for this is right.
2 “Honor your father and mother,” which is the first commandment with promise:
3 “that it may be well with you and you may live long on the earth.”
4 And you, fathers, do not provoke your children to wrath, but bring them up in the training and admonition of the Lord.

This passage addresses the relationship between children and parents, emphasizing the importance of obedience, honor, and loving guidance. Children are instructed to obey their parents "in the Lord," meaning their obedience should align with God's principles, as this is both right and pleasing to Him. Honoring parents comes with a promise of well-being and a longer life, reflecting the blessings that come from respect and harmony within the family. Fathers, in particular, are cautioned not to provoke their children to anger through harshness or unreasonable demands but instead to nurture them with patience, love, and godly instruction. This passage underscores that the family is a key place for spiritual growth, where children are raised not only with discipline but also with the teaching and encouragement that reflect God's character.

Ephesians 6:5-9 (NKJV)
5 Bondservants, be obedient to those who are your masters according to the flesh, with fear and trembling, in sincerity of heart, as to Christ;
6 not with eyeservice, as men-pleasers, but as bondservants of Christ, doing the will of God from the heart,
7 with goodwill doing service, as to the Lord, and not to men,
8 knowing that whatever good anyone does, he will receive the same from the Lord, whether he is a slave or free.
9 And masters, do the same things to them, giving up threatening, knowing that your Master also is in heaven, and there is no partiality with Him.

This section addresses the relationship between servants and masters, which can be applied today to workers and employers, emphasizing respect, sincerity, and integrity in all work. Workers are instructed to obey their employers with respect and genuine effort, working as though serving Christ rather than just seeking to please people. Their work should be done wholeheartedly, knowing that their ultimate reward comes from the Lord. Employers, in turn, are called to treat their workers with fairness, kindness, and respect, avoiding harshness or threats, recognizing that they too are accountable to their Master in heaven, who shows no partiality. This passage teaches that both work and leadership should be guided by humility, justice, and a recognition that all believers, whether in positions of authority or service, ultimately serve God in everything they do.

Ephesians 6:10-13 (NKJV)
10 Finally, my brethren, be strong in the Lord and in the power of His might.
11 Put on the whole armor of God, that you may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil.
12 For we do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this age, against spiritual hosts of wickedness in the heavenly places.
13 Therefore take up the whole armor of God, that you may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand.

This passage calls believers to find their strength in the Lord and put on the "whole armor of God" to stand firm against the devil's schemes. Paul explains that the true battle is not against flesh and blood, but against "spiritual forces of evil"—unseen powers of darkness operating in the spiritual realm. These forces include Satan and his demonic host, who seek to deceive, tempt, and weaken believers through sin, discouragement, and confusion. This spiritual warfare can manifest as personal struggles with temptation, societal evils, or false teachings designed to pull people away from God. Because this battle cannot be fought with human strength or physical weapons, believers must equip themselves with God’s armor—truth, righteousness, faith, and salvation—to resist and remain standing firm in the face of trials and attacks. By relying on God's power and being spiritually prepared, believers can stand firm against these forces, knowing that their victory comes from being anchored in God's truth and strength.

Ephesians 6:14-18 (NKJV)
14 Stand therefore, having girded your waist with truth, having put on the breastplate of righteousness,
15 and having shod your feet with the preparation of the gospel of peace;
16 above all, taking the shield of faith with which you will be able to quench all the fiery darts of the wicked one.
17 And take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God;
18 praying always with all prayer and supplication in the Spirit, being watchful to this end with all perseverance and supplication for all the saints—

This section describes the "whole armor of God" that equips believers to stand firm in spiritual warfare. The belt of truth symbolizes God’s Word and a life of integrity, holding everything together and guarding against deception. The breastplate of righteousness represents Christ’s righteousness that covers believers and their commitment to live uprightly, protecting their hearts from guilt and sin. The gospel of peace (shoes) provides stability and readiness to stand firm and share God’s message of peace, even in adversity. The shield of faith deflects the "fiery darts" of the enemy—doubts, fears, and temptations—by trusting in God’s promises. The helmet of salvation guards the mind, reminding believers of their assurance of salvation and protecting their thoughts from fear and discouragement. The sword of the Spirit, which is the Word of God, is the offensive weapon that counters lies, refutes temptation, and proclaims truth. Finally, Paul highlights prayer as essential for staying connected to God, seeking His strength, and interceding for others. Together, these elements equip believers to stand strong, resist evil, and remain faithful in their spiritual journey.

Ephesians 6:19-20 (NKJV)
19 and for me, that utterance may be given to me, that I may open my mouth boldly to make known the mystery of the gospel,
20 for which I am an ambassador in chains; that in it I may speak boldly, as I ought to speak.

Paul asks the believers to pray that he may be given the right words to fearlessly make known the "mystery of the gospel," even while he is in chains as an ambassador for Christ. Despite his imprisonment, Paul’s primary concern is not for his safety but for his ability to speak with courage and clarity so that the message of salvation reaches others. This request underscores the vital role of prayer in supporting those who spread God’s Word and reminds believers that sharing the gospel often requires boldness in the face of adversity. Paul’s example shows that true freedom is found in faithfully representing Christ, regardless of external circumstances.

Ephesians 6:21-24 (NKJV)
21 But that you also may know my affairs and how I am doing, Tychicus, a beloved brother and faithful minister in the Lord, will make known to you all things.
22 Whom I have sent to you for this very purpose, that you may know our affairs, and that he may comfort your hearts.
23 Peace to the brethren, and love with faith, from God the Father and the Lord Jesus Christ.
24 Grace be with all those who love our Lord Jesus Christ in sincerity. Amen.

In the closing remarks, Paul mentions sending Tychicus to the Ephesians to update them on his circumstances and to offer comfort. His final blessing encompasses peace, love, and grace, underscoring the themes of unity and spiritual perseverance that permeate the letter. This conclusion serves not only as a personal note but also as a reinforcement of the communal bonds among believers.

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