Why Paul Commands Us to Put On the Whole Armor of God

Ephesians

Feb 10

Introduction: Ephesians 6:11 Explained

“Put on the whole armor of God, so that you may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil.” – Ephesians 6:11 (NRSV)

If anyone understood the reality of spiritual warfare, it was the Apostle Paul. His life was a testament to the battles we face as believers—battles against doubt, fear, opposition, and even our own weaknesses. But it was also a testament to the power of God’s armor. Before we dive into what Ephesians 6:11 means, let’s take a moment to step into Paul’s shoes. His story isn’t just a historical account; it’s a living example of why we need the armor of God.

From Religious Bigot to Humble Servant: Paul’s Transformation

Paul didn’t start out as a hero of the faith. In fact, he began as a religious bigot. As a devout Pharisee, he was zealous for the law and saw the early Christians as a threat to Judaism. He approved of Stephen’s stoning (Acts 7:58) and went from house to house, dragging believers to prison (Acts 8:3). He was, by his own admission, “a blasphemer, a persecutor, and a man of violence” (1 Timothy 1:13).

But everything changed on the road to Damascus. In a blinding encounter with the risen Christ, Paul’s life was turned upside down. Jesus asked him, “Saul, Saul, why are you persecuting me?” (Acts 9:4). In that moment, Paul realized he wasn’t just fighting against people; he was fighting against God.

This transformation is crucial to understanding why Paul commands us to put on the armor of God. He knew what it was like to be on the wrong side of the battle. He knew what it was like to be blinded by pride and self-righteousness. And he knew that without God’s intervention, we’re all vulnerable to the enemy’s schemes.

Paul’s Battles: A Life of Spiritual Warfare

After his conversion, Paul didn’t live a life of ease. Instead, he became a target. He faced beatings, imprisonments, shipwrecks, and constant opposition. In 2 Corinthians 11:23-28, he gives us a glimpse of his struggles:

“Are they servants of Christ? I am a better one—I am talking like a madman—with far greater labors, far more imprisonments, with countless floggings, and often near death. Five times I received the forty lashes minus one. Three times I was beaten with rods. Once I received a stoning. Three times I was shipwrecked; for a night and a day I was adrift at sea; on frequent journeys, in danger from rivers, danger from bandits, danger from my own people, danger from Gentiles, danger in the city, danger in the wilderness, danger at sea, danger from false brothers and sisters; in toil and hardship, through many a sleepless night, hungry and thirsty, often without food, cold and naked. And, besides other things, I am under daily pressure because of my anxiety for all the churches.”

Paul’s life was a battlefield. But through it all, he learned to rely on God’s strength, not his own. He learned to put on the armor of God.

What Does Ephesians 6:11 Mean?

When Paul writes, “Put on the whole armor of God, so that you may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil,” he’s speaking from experience. He’s not giving us a theoretical concept; he’s giving us a survival guide.

The phrase “put on” is an active command. It’s something we have to do. The armor of God isn’t automatic; it requires intentionality. Just as a soldier wouldn’t go into battle without suiting up, we can’t face spiritual warfare without putting on God’s armor.

The word “wiles” (or “schemes” in some translations) is also significant. It reminds us that the enemy is cunning. He doesn’t always attack head-on; he often works through deception, distraction, and discouragement. Paul knew this firsthand. He faced false teachers who tried to undermine his message (Galatians 1:6-9), and he dealt with internal struggles like fear and despair (2 Corinthians 1:8-9).

But here’s the good news: the armor of God is more than enough to withstand the enemy’s schemes. As Paul writes in Romans 8:37, “In all these things we are more than conquerors through him who loved us.”

Why the Armor of God Is Essential

Paul’s command to put on the armor of God isn’t just a suggestion; it’s a necessity. Here’s why:

1. Spiritual Warfare Is Real

Paul didn’t see life as a series of random events; he saw it as a spiritual battle. In Ephesians 6:12, he writes, “For our struggle is not against enemies of blood and flesh, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the cosmic powers of this present darkness, against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly places.”

This isn’t to say that every challenge we face is directly caused by the devil. But it does mean that there’s a spiritual dimension to every battle. Whether it’s a struggle with sin, a season of doubt, or a relationship conflict, the enemy is always looking for ways to exploit our weaknesses.

2. We Can’t Fight Alone

Paul knew what it was like to feel weak. In 2 Corinthians 12:7-10, he talks about a “thorn in the flesh” that tormented him. Though we don’t know exactly what this thorn was, it was a source of constant struggle. But through it, Paul learned a profound truth: “My grace is sufficient for you, for power is made perfect in weakness” (2 Corinthians 12:9).

The armor of God reminds us that we’re not meant to fight in our own strength. It’s God’s power that sustains us, His truth that protects us, and His Word that equips us.

3. The Stakes Are High

Paul didn’t take spiritual warfare lightly because he knew the stakes were eternal. In 1 Timothy 6:12, he urges Timothy to “fight the good fight of the faith.” This isn’t just about personal victory; it’s about advancing God’s kingdom and standing firm.

Lessons from Paul’s Life: How to Put on the Armor of God

So, how do we practically put on the armor of God? Let’s look at three lessons from Paul’s life:

1. Ground Yourself in Truth

Paul’s transformation began with a confrontation with truth. On the road to Damascus, he realized that everything he thought he knew was wrong. From that moment on, he dedicated his life to proclaiming the truth of the gospel.

For us, putting on the belt of truth means grounding ourselves in God’s Word. It means rejecting the lies of the enemy and standing firm in what God says about us.

2. Protect Your Heart with Righteousness

Paul’s life was marked by integrity. Even when he was falsely accused, he refused to compromise his faith. In Philippians 1:20, he writes, “It is my eager expectation and hope that I will not be put to shame in any way, but that by my speaking with all boldness, Christ will be exalted now as always in my body, whether by life or by death.”

Putting on the breastplate of righteousness means living a life of holiness and integrity. It means guarding our hearts against sin and staying aligned with God’s will.

3. Stand Firm in Faith

Paul’s faith was tested time and time again. But through it all, he held up the shield of faith. In Acts 16:22-25, we see Paul and Silas praying and singing hymns after being beaten and thrown into prison. Their faith didn’t waver, even in the darkest moments.

For us, holding up the shield of faith means trusting God’s promises, even when circumstances seem impossible.

A Final Thought: Standing Firm in God’s Strength

Paul’s life is a powerful reminder that the armor of God isn’t just for spiritual giants; it’s for ordinary people like you and me. It’s for those who feel weak, those who’ve made mistakes, and those who are tired of the fight.

So today, as you face whatever battles are in front of you, remember this: you’re not alone. You’re not powerless. You’re equipped with the whole armor of God. Put it on. Stand firm. And trust that the One who fights for you will never let you fall.