Message from Scripture:  1/13/2021

Our message from Scripture for today comes from Eph. 6:11. “Put on all of God’s armor so that you will be able to stand firm against all strategies of the devil.”

A song we often sing is "Soldiers of Christ, Arise."  One verse of this song states, “Stand, then in his great might, with all his strength endued; But take to arm you for the fight, the Panoply of God."  The Greek word for panoply refers to the full equipment of the heavily armed foot-soldier, including both offensive and defensive weapons.  Every Roman soldier going to battle would take special care to be thoroughly equipped and prepared, as his life literally depended on it.

This word is used in the New Testament, but in a spiritual, not physical, sense.  Paul exhorted the Ephesians to put on the “whole armor,” or panoply of God.  This would enable them to stand against the devil's schemes (Eph. 6:11).  From the breastplate of righteousness, to the sword of the Spirit, God has provided us the spiritual equipment needed to overcome sin, to be victorious in daily Christian living.

When Paul used this term, he wasn't romanticizing warfare.  He had in view the harsh and stern reality of the soldier's life.  Peter tells us this is true spiritually, as, “Your enemy the devil prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour” (1 Pet. 5:8).  As Christians, we are engaged in a war for our souls (2 Cor. 10:3-5).  Let’s rejoice in the loving care God exercises through his Son, that “His divine power has given us everything we need for life and godliness” (2 Pet. 1:3).

We should take seriously the struggle we face with sin daily.  We can be completely equipped and prepared for Satan's attacks, if we take advantage of the provision God offers through Christ.  Stand firm in the panoply of God and make use of it in the battles you face. Your soul's salvation depends on it. God bless.

Robert