Standing firm

So far in Ephesians 4-6 Paul has encouraged us to no longer live like the world, but what difference has it made to us studying here in Rochester, or to you, reading this blog?

Because there’s no doubt about it, the Christian life is tough. Of course, we’ve always known that haven’t we? Or have we been so comfortably living like the world that the challenge of Paul’s words and the reality of living differently haven’t caused us any trouble at all?

But Paul knows it’s tough. Here in Ephesians 6:10-18 he reminds us that we’re in a battle; every Christian is serving on the frontline – it’s not just for a select few - and we are to stand firm.

In the middle of a spiritual warzone, Paul wants us to remember where our strength comes from. Ever thought the Bible was a self-help book? Walk into a bookshop and find me another self-help book that tells you that you’re in a mess, heading for disaster, and can’t do anything to save yourself. Paul is clear here that the power and strength to support us in this battle isn’t from us. As we try to protect unity in the Church, live wisely, retain sexual purity, and do all of the things Paul tells us should be setting us apart from the world, we do it through a lifetime of reliance on the risen and victorious Jesus.

Yes - the victorious Jesus – because the enemy (and make no mistake, there is an enemy) has already been defeated. However, even though Satan has lost, he’s trying to cause as much collateral damage on God’s people as possible, and he won’t give up.

That’s why it’s important that we wear our armour and fight. The armour of God is an enduring picture that’s stayed with me since childhood, but I probably thought it was a bit pick-and-mix. No, says Paul – you need it all. You need to put things on – clothe yourself with a knowledge of the truth of God, an attitude to live differently and a readiness to make peace. You need to take up a certainty that you can’t be separated from God, and to fill your mind with God and what he’s achieved through Jesus. And don’t forget your only weapon: the word of God that gave Jesus the answers he needed to rebuff Satan, and can do the same for us.