Be strong in the Lord

Introduction

First of the Prison epistles.

The chapter is set in the midst of the setting of Christian life in the sinful world.

Verse 10 is a tipping point of the chapter.

Ephesians 6:10 ESV

Finally, be strong in the Lord and in the strength of his might.

On one part of the scale there is a list of life activities requiring spiritual maturity.

On the other side of the scale is the spiritual characteristics of spiritual maturity.

There is no direct connection, but the armor is used to quence the fiery darts of the wicked -

Practical teachings for checking sin and temptation. Check with Chapter Eph. 4:3, 14, 17, 25–31; 5:3–7 “3 But sexual immorality and all impurity or covetousness must not even be named among you, as is proper among saints. 4 Let there be no filthiness nor foolish talk nor crude joking, which are out of place, but instead let there be thanksgiving. 5 For you may be sure of this, that everyone who is sexually immoral or impure, or who is covetous (that is, an idolater), has no inheritance in the kingdom of Christ and God. 6 Let no one deceive you with empty words, for because of these things the wrath of God comes upon the sons of disobedience. 7 Therefore do not become partners with them;”

Paul reminds us of this in Eph. 6:12

Ephesians 6:12 ESV

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.

I. Christian Parents and Children

Ephesians 6:1–2 KJV 1900

1 Children, obey your parents in the Lord: for this is right. 2 Honour thy father and mother; (which is the first commandment with promise;)

II. Employees and Employers

Ephesians 6:5–9 ESV

5 Bondservants, obey your earthly masters with fear and trembling, with a sincere heart, as you would Christ, 6 not by the way of eye-service, as people-pleasers, but as bondservants of Christ, doing the will of God from the heart, 7 rendering service with a good will as to the Lord and not to man, 8 knowing that whatever good anyone does, this he will receive back from the Lord, whether he is a bondservant or is free. 9 Masters, do the same to them, and stop your threatening, knowing that he who is both their Master and yours is in heaven, and that there is no partiality with him.

III. Strength to Accomplish God’s Will

Ephesians 6:10 ESV

10 Finally, be strong in the Lord and in the strength of his might.

The Warfare Requires the Correct Armor

Ephesians 6:11–18 ESV

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,

Strong in the Lord, not strong in sports, strong in spelling, or geography

Matthew 6:33 ESV

33 But seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness, and all these things will be added to you.