Ephesians (Armor of God)

Introduction

Talk about a battle and how there are times for rest, there are times for watching and there are times for fighting.

Talk about the Drizzt series and their battles, using it only as an example to discuss the times and strain of battle and war.

Talk about how we are amidst a battle now and who the targets are and how we are to protect them (we are under siege or being infiltrated).

Body

Read Ephesians 6:10-20

Ephesians 6:10–20 NKJV

Finally, my brethren, be strong in the Lord and in the power of His might. Put on the whole armor of God, that you may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil. For we do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this age, against spiritual hosts of wickedness in the heavenly places. 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. Stand therefore, having girded your waist with truth, having put on the breastplate of righteousness, and having shod your feet with the preparation of the gospel of peace; above all, taking the shield of faith with which you will be able to quench all the fiery darts of the wicked one. And take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God; praying always with all prayer and supplication in the Spirit, being watchful to this end with all perseverance and supplication for all the saints—and for me, that utterance may be given to me, that I may open my mouth boldly to make known the mystery of the gospel, for which I am an ambassador in chains; that in it I may speak boldly, as I ought to speak.

Know our enemy and who and what we are fighting

Talk about the difference pieces of armor, the 3 to be worn always and the 3 to have at the ready

Belt, Breastplate and Boots are to been worn when going out to battle.

Shield, Sword and Helmet are to be kept close and donned when the time for immediate battle is upon us.

Prayer is to be the underlying foundation to everything we do and every decision we make. Prayer is our decoded, undeciphered communication between God the Father. It is the avenue that we are allowed to reach our leader and be led towards the path that is set for us.

Discuss being in battle and the difference between fighting, guarding and resting.

Talk about who and when is to be on guard

Talk about the difference between facts and truths

Conclusion

Talk about knowing the outcome of something and how not only our perspective, but also our actions will change based upon this knowledge. Use a football game as an example.

Challenge everyone to pray for the circumstances in their life as we close this year. Praying also for the church, 2022 and our church family.