Questions for Personal Reflection and Group Discussion
Read Ephesians 6:10-24 (ESV):
Finally, be strong in the Lord and in the strength of his might. 11 Put on the whole armor of God, that you may be able to stand against the schemes of the devil. 12 For we do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the cosmic powers over this present darkness, against the spiritual forces of evil 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 firm. 14 Stand therefore, having fastened on the belt of truth, and having put on the breastplate of righteousness, 15 and, as shoes for your feet, having put on the readiness given by the gospel of peace. 16 In all circumstances take up the shield of faith, with which you can extinguish all the flaming darts of the evil one; 17 and take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God, 18 praying at all times in the Spirit, with all prayer and supplication. To that end, keep alert with all perseverance, making supplication for all the saints, 19 and also for me, that words may be given to me in opening my mouth boldly to proclaim the mystery of the gospel, 20 for which I am an ambassador in chains, that I may declare it boldly, as I ought to speak. 21 So that you also may know how I am and what I am doing, Tychicus the beloved brother and faithful minister in the Lord will tell you everything. 22 I have sent him to you for this very purpose, that you may know how we are, and that he may encourage your hearts. 23 Peace be to the brothers, and love with faith, from God the Father and the Lord Jesus Christ. 24 Grace be with all who love our Lord Jesus Christ with love incorruptible.
- What do you think of the idea that the real enemy we struggle with isn’t other humans, but rather it’s the devil and his evil spiritual forces? What evidence is there that this is true?
- What happens when we mistakenly view people as our enemy and forget about the spiritual dimension?
- Talk about some institutions and structures in society that were intended for good, but in many cases can become twisted and distorted by evil spiritual powers. What causes humans – who were made by God and therefore good – to go bad?
- Talk about: (1) the virtues and values represented by each piece of armor that Paul urges us to put on and (2) how each piece helps us stand against the devil’s schemes.
- Belt of truth
- Breastplate of righteousness
- Gospel of peace
- Shield of faith
- Helmet of salvation
- Sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God
- What is Paul communicating about prayer in verses 18-20?
- How did Jesus display these virtues and values in his life as a human?
- Which of these virtues/values do you find most challenging in your own life?
- What did you sense God saying to you through this passage and this message?
