◄ Ephesians 6 ►
Book Study • Verse Study • Study Que
Summary The Full Armor of God Ephesians 6 empowers us to face the challenges of life fully equipped with the armor of God. It reminds us that our battle is not against flesh and blood but spiritual forces. With clear instructions on familial and societal relationships, it emphasizes love, respect, and fairness. This chapter beckons us to the battlefield, yet assures us of victory through the power of prayer and the armor of God. Verses 1-4: Children and Parents Paul begins by addressing children and parents, instructing children to obey their parents and urging fathers not to exasperate their children but bring them up in the training and instruction of the Lord. Verses 5-9: Slaves and Masters Paul provides instructions for slaves and masters, emphasizing mutual respect, sincerity, and the knowledge that both are accountable to the same Master in heaven. Verses 10-18: The Armor of God Paul highlights the reality of spiritual warfare, urging believers to put on the full armor of God. This includes the belt of truth, the breastplate of righteousness, feet fitted with the readiness of the gospel of peace, the shield of faith, the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit. Verses 19-24: The Power of Prayer Paul emphasizes the need for constant prayer, requesting prayers for himself to proclaim the gospel fearlessly. He concludes the letter with greetings and blessings of peace, love, and grace to all who love the Lord Jesus Christ. Ephesians 6 concludes the epistle with practical guidance on family and societal relationships, followed by a vivid description of the spiritual battle Christians are engaged in. It introduces the full armor of God, which believers must don to stand firm against spiritual attacks, and emphasizes the essential role of prayer in the believer's life. Teaching Points Children and Parents (Ephesians 6:1-4) Children, obey your parents in the Lord, for this is right (Ephesians 6:1). This command emphasizes the importance of family structure and obedience within the Christian household. Fathers are instructed not to provoke their children to anger but to bring them up in the discipline and instruction of the Lord (Ephesians 6:4). Slaves and Masters (Ephesians 6:5-9) Slaves, obey your earthly masters with respect and fear, and with sincerity of heart, just as you would obey Christ (Ephesians 6:5). This passage speaks to the attitude of service and respect in all work relationships. Masters are reminded to treat their slaves in the same way, without threats, recognizing that both master and servant have the same Master in heaven (Ephesians 6:9). The Armor of God (Ephesians 6:10-18) Put on the full armor of God, so that you can make your stand against the devil’s schemes (Ephesians 6:11). This section details the spiritual armor necessary for believers to withstand spiritual attacks. The armor includes the belt of truth, breastplate of righteousness, gospel of peace, shield of faith, helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God (Ephesians 6:14-17). Prayer and Alertness (Ephesians 6:18-20) Pray in the Spirit at all times, with every kind of prayer and petition (Ephesians 6:18). Paul emphasizes the importance of constant prayer and vigilance in the spiritual battle. Practical Applications Encourage children to honor and obey their parents as a reflection of their obedience to God. In your workplace, serve with integrity and respect, as if serving Christ Himself. Daily put on the full armor of God through prayer and meditation on His Word to stand firm against spiritual challenges. Cultivate a lifestyle of prayer, being alert and persistent in interceding for others. People 1. Children Ephesians 6:1-3 addresses children, instructing them to obey their parents "in the Lord, for this is right." The passage emphasizes the importance of honoring one's father and mother, referencing the commandment with a promise of well-being and longevity. The Greek word for "children" here is "τέκνα" (tekna), which generally refers to offspring or descendants. 2. Fathers In Ephesians 6:4, fathers are specifically instructed not to provoke their children to anger but to bring them up in the "discipline and instruction of the Lord." The Greek term used is "πατέρες" (pateres), which can mean fathers or ancestors, but in this context, it refers to the male parent. 3. Slaves Ephesians 6:5-8 addresses slaves, urging them to obey their earthly masters with respect and sincerity, as they would obey Christ. The Greek word "δοῦλοι" (douloi) is used, which means slaves or bondservants. The passage encourages serving wholeheartedly, as if serving the Lord, not people. 4. Masters In Ephesians 6:9, masters are instructed to treat their slaves in the same way, without threats, recognizing that both they and their slaves have the same Master in heaven, who shows no favoritism. The Greek term "κύριοι" (kurioi) is used, meaning lords or masters. 5. The Lord Throughout Ephesians 6, the Lord (Greek: "Κύριος," Kyrios) is referenced as the ultimate authority and the one whom believers serve. The passage emphasizes the spiritual relationship between earthly roles and their heavenly significance. 6. The Devil Ephesians 6:11-12 mentions the devil, instructing believers to put on the full armor of God to stand against the devil's schemes. The Greek word "διάβολος" (diabolos) is used, meaning accuser or slanderer, highlighting the spiritual battle against evil forces. 7. Principalities, Powers, World Forces of Darkness, Spiritual Forces of Evil In Ephesians 6:12, these terms describe the spiritual entities against which believers struggle. The Greek words used are "ἀρχάς" (archas) for principalities, "ἐξουσίας" (exousias) for powers, "κοσμοκράτορας" (kosmokratoras) for world forces, and "πνευματικὰ" (pneumatika) for spiritual forces, indicating a hierarchy of spiritual opposition. Places 1. Heavenly Realms Ephesians 6:12 refers to the "heavenly realms" in the context of spiritual warfare. The Greek term used here is "ἐπουράνιος" (epouranios), which signifies the spiritual dimension where spiritual forces operate. This highlights the unseen spiritual battle that believers are engaged in. 2. The World In Ephesians 6:12, the "world" is mentioned as the domain where rulers, authorities, and powers of this dark world operate. The Greek word "κόσμος" (kosmos) is often used to describe the world system that is in opposition to God. 3. The Evil Day Ephesians 6:13 speaks of "the evil day," which is not a physical place but a time of intense spiritual challenge or temptation. The Greek word "πονηρός" (ponēros) is used to describe evil, indicating a period when believers must be especially vigilant. Events 1. Children and Parents "Children, obey your parents in the Lord, for this is right." (Ephesians 6:1) This command emphasizes the importance of obedience within the family structure, rooted in the Greek word "ὑπακούετε" (hypakouete), meaning to listen or obey. 2. Honor Your Father and Mother "Honor your father and mother" (which is the first commandment with a promise), "that it may go well with you and that you may have a long life on the earth." (Ephesians 6:2-3) This event highlights the promise attached to the commandment, reflecting the Hebrew root of "כבד" (kabed), meaning to honor or give weight to. 3. Fathers and Children "Fathers, do not provoke your children to wrath; instead, bring them up in the discipline and instruction of the Lord." (Ephesians 6:4) The Greek word "παιδεία" (paideia) is used here, indicating the training and education of children in a godly manner. 4. Slaves and Masters "Slaves, obey your earthly masters with respect and fear and sincerity of heart, just as you would obey Christ." (Ephesians 6:5) The term "δοῦλοι" (douloi) refers to slaves or servants, emphasizing obedience and sincerity in service. 5. Serve Wholeheartedly "Serve with good will, as to the Lord and not to men," (Ephesians 6:7) This instruction encourages serving with a sincere heart, as if serving Christ Himself. 6. Masters and Slaves "And masters, treat your slaves in the same way. Do not threaten them, since you know that He who is both their Master and yours is in heaven, and there is no favoritism with Him." (Ephesians 6:9) The Greek word "κύριοι" (kurioi) for masters, emphasizes the mutual respect and accountability before God. 7. The Armor of God "Finally, be strong in the Lord and in His mighty power. Put on the full armor of God, so that you can make your stand against the devil’s schemes." (Ephesians 6:10-11) The imagery of armor, "πανοπλία" (panoplia), signifies spiritual readiness and defense. 8. Struggle Against Spiritual Forces "For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this world’s darkness, and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms." (Ephesians 6:12) This verse highlights the spiritual nature of the Christian battle, using the Greek "κοσμοκράτορας" (kosmokratoras) for world rulers. 9. Stand Firm with the Armor "Stand firm then, with the belt of truth buckled around your waist, with the breastplate of righteousness arrayed," (Ephesians 6:14) The armor pieces symbolize virtues and spiritual truths necessary for standing firm in faith. 10. Prayer and Alertness "Pray in the Spirit at all times, with every kind of prayer and petition. To this end, stay alert with all perseverance in your prayers for all the saints." (Ephesians 6:18) The Greek "προσευχόμενοι" (proseuchomenoi) emphasizes continuous and vigilant prayer. 11. Paul’s Request for Prayer "Pray also for me, that whenever I open my mouth, divine utterance may be given me, so that I will boldly make known the mystery of the gospel," (Ephesians 6:19) Paul seeks prayer for boldness in proclaiming the gospel, highlighting the Greek "παρρησία" (parrēsia) for boldness. 12. Final Greetings and Blessings "Peace to the brothers and love with faith from God the Father and the Lord Jesus Christ." (Ephesians 6:23) The closing blessings emphasize peace, love, and faith, foundational elements of Christian fellowship. Connections to Additional Scriptures Family Relationships Colossians 3:20-21, which also addresses the roles of children and parents. Work Relationships Colossians 3:22-24, which parallels the instructions to slaves and masters. Spiritual Warfare 2 Corinthians 10:3-5, which discusses the nature of spiritual battles and the weapons we use. Prayer 1 Thessalonians 5:17, which encourages believers to pray without ceasing. Prayer Points Pray for families to be strengthened in love, respect, and obedience to God's Word. Ask God to help you serve others with sincerity and integrity in all areas of life. Seek God's guidance in putting on the full armor of God daily, to stand firm against the enemy. Pray for a deeper commitment to prayer and spiritual alertness in your life and the lives of fellow believers. As we conclude this study, may we be reminded of the spiritual realities we face and the divine resources available to us through Christ. Let us stand firm, fully equipped, and prayerfully engaged in the battle. Bible Study Questions 1. How can Paul's instructions to children and parents in verses 1-4 apply to your family relationships? 2. How do you interpret and apply Paul's instructions for slaves and masters in today's context? 3. Reflect on verses 10-18. How do you understand the concept of spiritual warfare? 4. Which piece of the spiritual armor do you feel you need to strengthen in your life and why? 5. How can you apply the metaphor of the armor of God in dealing with personal struggles and challenges? 6. How does the depiction of spiritual warfare in Ephesians 6 influence your understanding of the struggles you face? 7. In what ways can you practice constant prayer as advised in verses 19-24? 8. How can you seek and offer prayer support within your Christian community? 9. How does Paul's request for prayer encourage you in your prayer life? 10. Reflect on the balance between spiritual warfare and prayer in Ephesians 6. How does this inform your approach to spiritual challenges? 11. How does Ephesians 6 challenge your understanding of Christian living in the face of adversity? 12. How can you promote the principles of fairness, respect, and love in your societal relationships based on Ephesians 6? 13. How does the concept of the 'Armor of God' equip you to face challenges in your everyday life? 14. How can Paul's closing prayers and blessings inspire you in blessing others? 15. Reflect on the role of truth, righteousness, readiness, faith, salvation, and the Word of God as described in this chapter. How are these aspects relevant in your spiritual journey? 16. In what ways does the concept of spiritual warfare manifest in contemporary society, and how can you respond based on Ephesians 6? 17. How does Ephesians 6 shape your understanding of the power and importance of prayer in spiritual battles? 18. How can the teachings in this chapter inspire you to live out your faith more fearlessly? 19. How can you actively 'put on the armor of God' in your daily life? 20. How does Ephesians 6 inspire you to persevere in faith and prayer amid challenges? Topics 1. Children and Parents Ephesians 6:1-4 discusses the relationship between children and parents. It begins with the exhortation, "Children, obey your parents in the Lord, for this is right." The passage emphasizes the importance of honoring one's father and mother, which is the first commandment with a promise. The Greek word for "obey" (ὑπακούω, hypakouō) implies listening attentively and submitting to authority. Fathers are also instructed not to provoke their children to anger but to bring them up in the discipline and instruction of the Lord. 2. Slaves and Masters Ephesians 6:5-9 addresses the relationship between slaves and masters. Slaves are instructed to obey their earthly masters with respect and sincerity, as they would obey Christ. The Greek term for "slave" (δοῦλος, doulos) can also be translated as "servant," reflecting the cultural context of the time. Masters are reminded to treat their slaves in the same way, without threats, recognizing that both slave and master have the same Master in heaven. 3. The Armor of God Ephesians 6:10-18 describes the spiritual armor that believers must put on to stand against the schemes of the devil. The passage begins with the exhortation to "be strong in the Lord and in His mighty power." The armor includes the belt of truth, breastplate of righteousness, gospel of peace, shield of faith, helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God. The Greek word for "armor" (πανοπλία, panoplia) suggests a full set of equipment for battle, emphasizing the comprehensive nature of spiritual preparedness. 4. Prayer and Alertness Ephesians 6:18-20 emphasizes the importance of prayer and alertness. Believers are encouraged to pray in the Spirit on all occasions with all kinds of prayers and requests. The passage highlights the need for perseverance and intercession for all the saints. The Greek term for "alert" (ἀγρυπνέω, agrypneō) conveys the idea of being watchful and vigilant, underscoring the continuous nature of spiritual warfare. 5. Final Greetings and Benediction Ephesians 6:21-24 concludes the letter with final greetings and a benediction. Paul mentions Tychicus, a beloved brother and faithful servant in the Lord, who will inform the Ephesians of Paul's circumstances. The letter ends with a blessing of peace, love with faith, and grace to all who love the Lord Jesus Christ with an undying love. The Greek word for "grace" (χάρις, charis) reflects the unmerited favor and kindness of God towards believers. Themes 1. Obedience and Honor in Family Relationships Ephesians 6:1-3 emphasizes the importance of children obeying their parents, which is described as "right" and is linked to the commandment to "Honor your father and mother." This theme underscores the biblical principle of family order and respect, rooted in the Greek word "τιμάω" (timao), meaning to honor or value. 2. Parental Responsibility In Ephesians 6:4, fathers are instructed not to provoke their children to anger but to bring them up in the "discipline and instruction of the Lord." This theme highlights the balance of authority and nurturing, with "παιδεία" (paideia) referring to training and education. 3. Servitude and Mastery Ephesians 6:5-9 addresses the relationship between slaves and masters, urging slaves to obey their earthly masters with respect and sincerity, as they would Christ. Masters are reminded to treat their slaves well, knowing they share the same Master in heaven. The Greek word "δοῦλος" (doulos) for slave emphasizes servitude, while "κύριος" (kyrios) for master denotes authority. 4. The Armor of God Ephesians 6:10-17 introduces the metaphor of the "armor of God," encouraging believers to stand firm against spiritual forces. This theme includes elements like the "belt of truth," "breastplate of righteousness," and "shield of faith," each representing spiritual virtues. The Greek "πανοπλία" (panoplia) refers to a full set of armor, symbolizing comprehensive spiritual protection. 5. Prayer and Spiritual Vigilance Ephesians 6:18 emphasizes the importance of prayer, urging believers to pray "in the Spirit on all occasions with all kinds of prayers and requests." This theme highlights the necessity of constant spiritual vigilance and communication with God, with "προσευχή" (proseuche) meaning prayer. 6. Boldness in Proclaiming the Gospel In Ephesians 6:19-20, Paul requests prayers for boldness in proclaiming the gospel, even as he is an ambassador in chains. This theme underscores the courage and commitment required to spread the Christian message, with "παρρησία" (parrhesia) denoting boldness or confidence. 7. Community and Encouragement Ephesians 6:21-24 concludes with a focus on community and encouragement, as Paul sends Tychicus to inform and comfort the believers. This theme highlights the importance of fellowship and mutual support within the Christian community, with "παρακαλέω" (parakaleo) meaning to comfort or encourage. Bible Hub Chapter Summaries and Bible Study Questions