Baptismal Armor

Today we finish up Ephesians. We are going to continue in the Epistles and pick up Philippians and then Colossians. For today:

Read 2 Kings 12

Read Ephesians 6

When St. Paul uses the phrase "put on..." (as he does in v. 11) we recognize it as baptismal language. Frequently he will talk about putting on Christ, or putting on love, or some similar comment. Earlier in Ephesians he encouraged us to "put off your old self...and to put on the new self, created after the likeness of God in true righteousness and holiness" (4:22-24). We know that we are made new creations through the washing and regeneration of the Holy Spirit. We are made new and given the righteousness of Christ in our baptism.

Today we are called to recall our baptismal gift and to renew our determination to live fully in that new life. Today we are called to rely on the protective armor that was given to us the day we were given new birth. What an encouraging thing it is to remember that we have been given salvation, righteousness, truth. We have the Gospel of peace, which, ironically, prepares us for battle. We have faith that can extinguish the attacks of the evil one. We have the Word of God that we can wield as a weapon against our spiritual adversary. And remember, it is a spiritual adversary. This is why physical violence or force does no good. Our struggle is not against flesh and blood. Even if we have flesh and blood enemies of Christ and of His Christians (us), ultimately, the Old Evil Foe is driving them. The real enemy are the "cosmic powers over this present darkness, against the spiritual forces of evil."

So, Christians, stand firm in your baptismal armor. Be confident, knowing that the victory is in Christ. And it's a good thing too...because if the victory were up to me or to you, we would be doomed for sure. Truly, we all fall short and are found weak and weary in the midst of attack. Even when the foe is not railing against us, our own sinful flesh lures us down the wrong paths.

But Christ is our Victor. He has won the battle through his cross and empty tomb. And (praise God!) He is pleased to call us His soldiers. So, soldiers, stand up and stand firm!

Stand up, stand up for Jesus, Stand in His strength alone.
The arm of flesh will fail you, Ye dare not trust your own.
Put on the Gospel armor; Each piece put on with prayer.
Where duty calls or danger, Be never wanting there.

Stand up, stand up for Jesus; The strife will not be long;
This day the din of battle, The next the victor's song.
The soldiers, overcoming, Their crown of life shall see
And with the King of Glory Shall reign eternally.

(LSB 660:3-4)

Ask Yourself:

What are the Devil's favorite attacks against me? Against my family?

What can I do to better stand firm against him? What can I do to better equip my family to stand firm?

What encouragement do I find in today's reading?

Pray:

Pray from your heart today concerning the questions you asked yourself. Ask God for forgiveness. Ask Him for strength. Give Him thanks for the victory!

Study with me tomorrow,

Pastor Jon

Soli Deo Gloria!