Up to this point, the inspired Apostle had discussed God’s plan of salvation, the structure of His church, the need for moral living, and the correct way to act in various relationships. In conclusion to this great epistle, Paul boils everything down to the great struggle the church, and individual Christians are having to endure.

The strength necessary to wage this war only comes from God. It is a spiritual war against a spiritual opponent. The Devil is constantly working to defeat us, and we are to be constantly working to resist him, and to put forth our best counter attacks. As Paul says elsewhere, it is Christ who strengthens us (cf. Philippians 4:13). However, there is no mysterious way in which this takes place. God provides us with a panoply, and we must be willing to put it on.

This “armor of God” allows us to stand firm against the adversary and his powers. If we arm ourselves with God’s supply, there is no chance of defeat. When we fall short of God’s glory in sin (cf. Romans 3:23), it is not due to His neglect, but ours. The next verses contain specifics as to the armor of God. Each piece is important, and if lacking, provides an opportunity for an effective offensive thrust from the wicked one. “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” (v. 13).