Ephesians 6:13
Verse
Context
The Full Armor of God
12For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this world’s darkness, and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms.13Therefore take up the full armor of God, so that when the day of evil comes, you will be able to stand your ground, and having done everything, to stand.14Stand firm then, with the belt of truth buckled around your waist, with the breastplate of righteousness arrayed,
Sermons







Summary
Commentary
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
Wherefore - Because ye have such enemies to contend with, take unto you - assume, as provided and prepared for you, the whole armor of God; which armor if you put on and use, you shall be both invulnerable and immortal. The ancient heroes are fabled to have had armor sent to them by the gods; and even the great armor-maker, Vulcan, was reputed to be a god himself. This was fable: What Paul speaks of is reality. See before on Eph 6:11 (note). That ye may be able to withstand - That ye may not only stand fast in the liberty wherewith Christ hath made you free, but also discomfit all your spiritual foes; and continuing in your ranks, maintain your ground against them, never putting off your armor, but standing always ready prepared to repel any new attack. And having done all, to stand - Και ἁπαντα κατεργασαμενοι στηναι· rather, And having conquered all, stand: this is a military phrase, and is repeatedly used in this sense by the best Greek writers. So Dionys. Hal. Ant., lib. vi., page 400: Και παντα πολεμια εν ολιγῳ κατεργασαμενοι χρονῳ· "Having in a short time discomfited all our enemies, we returned with numerous captives and much spoil." See many examples in Kypke. By evil day we may understand any time of trouble, affliction, and sore temptation. As there is here allusion to some of the most important parts of the Grecian armor, I shall give a short account of the whole. It consisted properly of two sorts: 1. Defensive armor, or that which protected themselves. 2. Offensive armor, or that by which they injured their enemies. The apostle refers to both. I. Defensive Armor Περικεφαλαια, the Helmet; this was the armor for the head, and was of various forms, and embossed with a great variety of figures. Connected with the helmet was the crest or ridge on the top of the helmet, adorned with several emblematic figures; some for ornament, some to strike terror. For crests on ancient helmets we often see the winged lion, the griffin, chimera, etc. St. Paul seems to refer to one which had an emblematical representation of hope. Ζωμα, the Girdle; this went about the loins, and served to brace the armor tight to the body, and to support daggers, short swords, and such like weapons, which were frequently stuck in it. This kind of girdle is in general use among the Asiatic nations to the present day. Θωραξ, the Breast-Plate; this consisted of two parts, called πτερυγες or wings: one covered the whole region of the thorax or breast, in which the principal viscera of life are contained; and the other covered the back, as far down as the front part extended. Κνημιδες, Greaves or brazen boots, which covered the shin or front of the leg; a kind of solea was often used, which covered the sole, and laced about the instep, and prevented the foot from being wounded by rugged ways, thorns, stones, etc. Χειριδες, Gauntlets; a kind of gloves that served to defend the hands, and the arm up to the elbow. Ασπις, the clypeus or Shield; it was perfectly round, and sometimes made of wood, covered with bullocks' hides; but often made of metal. The aspis or shield of Achilles, made by Vulcan, was composed of five plates, two of brass, two of tin, and one of gold; so Homer, Il. U. v. 270: - - επει πεντε πτυχας ηλασε Κυλλοποδιων, Τας δυο χαλκειας, δυο δ' ενδοθι κασσιτεροιο, Την δε μιαν χρυσην. Five plates of various metal, various mold, Composed the shield; of brass each outward fold, Of tin each inward, and the middle gold. Of shields there were several sorts: Γερῥων or γερρα, the gerron; a small square shield, used first by the Persians. Λαισηΐον, Laiseion; a sort of oblong shield, covered with rough hides, or skins with the hair on. Πελτη, the Pelta; a small light shield, nearly in the form of a demicrescent, with a small ornament, similar to the recurved leaves of a flower de luce, on the center of a diagonal edge or straight line; this was the Amazonian shield. Θυρεος, the scutum or Oblong Shield; this was always made of wood, and covered with hides. It was exactly in the shape of the laiseion, but differed in size, being much larger, and being covered with hides from which the hair had been taken off. It was called θυρεος from θυρα, a door, which it resembled in its oblong shape; but it was made curved, so as to embrace the whole forepart of the body. The aspis and the thureos were the shields principally in use; the former for light, the latter for heavy armed troops. II. Offensive Armor, or Weapons;the Following Were Chief: Εγχος, enchos, the Spear; which was generally a head of brass or iron, with a long shaft of ash. Δορυ, the Lance; differing perhaps little from the former, but in its size and lightness; being a missile used, both by infantry and cavalry, for the purpose of annoying the enemy at a distance. Ξιφος, the Sword; these were of various sizes, and in the beginning all of brass. The swords of Homer's heroes are all of this metal. Μαχαιρα, called also a sword, sometimes a knife; it was a short sword, used more frequently by gladiators, or in single combat. What other difference it had from the xiphos I cannot tell. Αξινη, from which our word Axe; the common battle-axe. Πελεκυς, the Bipen; a sort of battle-axe, with double face, one opposite to the other. Κορυνη, an iron club or mace, much used both among the ancient Greeks and Persians. Τοξον, the Bow; with its pharetra or quiver, and its stock or sheaf of arrows. Σφενδονη, the Sling; an instrument in the use of which most ancient nations were very expert, particularly the Hebrews and ancient Greeks. The arms and armor mentioned above were not always in use; they were found out and improved by degrees. The account given by Lucretius of the arms of the first inhabitants of the earth is doubtless as correct as it is natural. Arma antiqua manus, ungues, dentesque fuere, Et lapides, et item silvarum fragmina rami, Et flammae, atque ignes postquam sunt cognita primum: Posterius ferri vis est, aerisque reperta: Sed prius aeris erat quam ferri cognitus usus: Quo facilis magis est natura, et copia major. De Rerum Nat., lib. v. ver. 1282. Whilst cruelty was not improved by art, And rage not furnished yet with sword or dart; With fists, or boughs, or stones, the warriors fought; These were the only weapons Nature taught: But when flames burnt the trees and scorched the ground, Then brass appeared, and iron fit to wound. Brass first was used, because the softer ore, And earth's cold veins contained a greater store. Creech. I have only to observe farther on this head, 1. That the ancient Greeks and Romans went constantly armed; 2. That before they engaged they always ate together; and 3. That they commenced every attack with prayer to the gods for success.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
take . . . of God--not "make," God has done that: you have only to "take up" and put it on. The Ephesians were familiar with the idea of the gods giving armor to mythical heroes: thus Paul's allusion would be appropriate. the evil day--the day of Satan's special assaults (Eph 6:12, Eph 6:16) in life and at the dying hour (compare Rev 3:10). We must have our armor always on, to be ready against the evil day which may come at any moment, the war being perpetual (Psa 41:1, Margin). done all--rather, "accomplished all things," namely, necessary to the fight, and becoming a good soldier.
John Gill Bible Commentary
Wherefore take unto you the whole armour of God,.... This is a repetition of the exhortation in Eph 6:11; which repetition seems necessary by reason of the many powerful enemies mentioned in the preceding verse, and serves to explain what is meant by putting it on: and leads on the apostle to give an account of the several parts of this armour: the end of taking it is much the same as before, that ye may be able to withstand in the evil day; that is, that ye may be able to stand against the wiles and stratagems of Satan, against his power and might, to oppose his schemes, and resist his temptations: and so the Syriac version renders it, "that ye may be able to meet the evil one"; to face him, and give him battle, being accoutred with the whole armour of God; though the Greek copies, and other versions, read, "in the evil day"; in which sin and iniquity abound, error and heresy prevail, Satan is very busy, trials and afflictions come on, persecution arises because of the word, and God's judgments are in the earth: and having done all to stand; or having overcome, having routed the enemy, stand as conquerors; or rather, having took and put on the whole armour of God, in order to stand, and withstand the enemy.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
6:13 God’s armor gives believers the ability to resist the attacks of the devil in the time of evil—when evil seems to prevail—and to keep standing firm.
Ephesians 6:13
The Full Armor of God
12For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this world’s darkness, and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms.13Therefore take up the full armor of God, so that when the day of evil comes, you will be able to stand your ground, and having done everything, to stand.14Stand firm then, with the belt of truth buckled around your waist, with the breastplate of righteousness arrayed,
- Scripture
- Sermons
- Commentary
The Unshakable Life
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The Apostasy - the Remnant Part 2
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Preparing to Stand in the Coming Storm
By Carter Conlon1.9K45:51PSA 41:1MAT 7:7MAT 7:11EPH 6:13This sermon emphasizes the importance of preparing to stand in the coming storm by focusing on red letter words directly from Jesus in Matthew chapter 7. It highlights the need to ask, seek, and knock, trusting in God's provision and generosity. The speaker shares personal stories to illustrate God's desire to give good gifts to His children and the importance of moving beyond childish perspectives to embrace the miraculous life God offers.
The King Is Coming
By Jack Hyles1.4K38:42Second Coming Of ChristEPH 6:13In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of standing up for Jesus and being ready for his coming. He shares a story about a servant who diligently cares for a vineyard, expecting his master to return at any moment. The preacher encourages the audience to be like the faithful servant, keeping their lives clean and prepared for the return of Jesus. He reminds them that despite the mockery and disbelief of others, the King is indeed coming, and they should be ready for his arrival.
Having Done All to Stand
By Elmer F. Schmelzenbach1.4K58:07Spiritual WarfareMAT 14:29MAT 17:20MRK 5:34MRK 10:51LUK 5:17JHN 11:43EPH 6:13In this sermon, the speaker shares a personal testimony about the faithfulness of God in providing for his ministry. He talks about receiving financial support from a man named General Budget, who was diligent in knowing where his money was being used. The speaker also mentions facing challenges and feeling lonely, but finding comfort in knowing that he was part of a global family of believers. He emphasizes the importance of prayer and the support he received from fellow Christians during difficult times.
(Ephesians) Fit for the Fight
By Brian Brodersen1.1K58:34EPH 6:13In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of prayer in making disciples and experiencing spiritual prosperity. He shares a personal experience of relying on prayer while doing outreach in Hungary and witnessing the Lord's provision. The speaker also highlights the need for perseverance in prayer and not being distracted by meaningless things. He concludes by sharing a thought-provoking comment from a non-Christian about the world's priorities during a time of potential conflict.
One Time Wonder
By Teresa Conlon84050:061KI 13:4MAT 6:33JHN 15:4ROM 8:31EPH 6:13In this sermon, the preacher shares a true story of a soccer team that survived a plane crash in the Andes Mountains. After the crash, the survivors divided their limited food supplies among themselves, but one young man who was unconscious was initially denied his portion. However, his friend fought for him to receive his share. As the days turned into weeks and rescue seemed unlikely, the young man who had been unconscious regained consciousness and decided to walk out and find help. This story is used as a metaphor for Jesus Christ being our friend who fights for us and provides for us even when we are helpless and lost in sin.
Hated for His Name's Sake
By Scott Hynds68602:46MAT 5:11LUK 21:17EPH 6:13HEB 13:81PE 3:15This sermon emphasizes the reality of being hated for standing in the truth of God's Word and the fundamentals of faith. Despite the world's changing values, Christians are called to remain steadfast and uncompromising, proclaiming Jesus Christ as the ultimate truth. The message encourages believers to be defenders of the faith and to boldly declare the gospel, even in the face of opposition and hatred.
Give God the Glory!
By Basilea Schlink62704:35Radio ShowPSA 119:105ROM 12:11CO 10:31EPH 6:131TH 5:161PE 4:7REV 14:7The sermon transcript emphasizes the importance of giving God the glory and making Him the Lord of our lives. It encourages believers to live according to God's commandments and stand firm in the face of deception and confusion. The sermon also calls for unity among believers in order to combat Satanic deception in the last days. The transcript concludes by reminding listeners to honor God by accepting themselves as He has made them and by praising and worshiping Him.
Silence the Mocking Voices
By Shane Idleman52136:49JOB 38:1JER 2:13MAT 27:28MAT 27:39MAT 27:50MAT 27:54JHN 19:30EPH 6:13This sermon emphasizes the impact of mocking voices that can lead to discouragement and distraction from God's will. It delves into the mocking of Jesus and the importance of surrendering to God amidst challenges. The narrative also touches on the significance of God's sovereignty, the conquering of death through Christ's sacrifice, and the need for Christians to stand firm in truth despite societal pressures.
Living the Christ-Life in Your Family First
By Zac Poonen3741:36:00FamilyEXO 25:8MAT 13:58MRK 6:5EPH 5:22EPH 6:13In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of the gospel working in our own homes before sharing it with others. He uses the analogy of a faulty DVD player to illustrate the point that we should not give something that is not working properly to someone we love. The speaker also highlights the responsibility of parents, particularly fathers, in raising children in the ways of the Lord. He references Ephesians 6:1-3, which instructs children to obey and honor their parents, and encourages parents to teach their children these values. The sermon concludes with a mention of Malachi 4:6, which speaks about the restoration of the hearts of fathers and children in the last days.
The True Spirit of Prayer, Part 2
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Epistle 283
By George Fox0FaithfulnessEncouragementMAT 6:20EPH 6:11EPH 6:131TH 1:42TI 1:6HEB 2:71PE 1:42PE 3:1George Fox emphasizes the importance of standing firm in faith and wearing the whole armor of God to withstand trials and tribulations. He encourages believers to maintain their public testimonies and support one another, especially during difficult times, reminding them to keep their focus on heavenly treasures rather than earthly concerns. Fox expresses his desire for all to remain steadfast and faithful to the truth, despite personal struggles and weaknesses. He urges Friends to visit and encourage each other, ensuring that no one falters in their faith. His heartfelt message is a call to unity and perseverance in the face of adversity.
Daring to Stand for Truth
By A.W. Tozer0Courage in FaithStanding for TruthPRO 28:1ISA 59:14MAT 5:10ACT 5:29ROM 12:21GAL 1:10EPH 6:132TI 4:21PE 3:15JUD 1:3A.W. Tozer emphasizes the importance of standing for truth, even when it disrupts our peace. He explains that while the peace found in God's presence is sweet, there are times when Christians must oppose sin and injustice, despite the personal cost. Tozer warns against the temptation to remain silent for the sake of peace, as this can lead to complicity with wrongdoing. He highlights that true spirituality sometimes requires courage to confront evil, even when it is unpopular. Ultimately, the Spirit-filled Christian is called to live in love while also being willing to stand firm against iniquity.
Faith on Trial: The Problem Stated
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The Believer's Present Victory
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Richard Nelson Ii. the Athanasian Creed
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Watch
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Waiting on God
By R. Stanley0PSA 27:14ISA 30:15ISA 55:8ROM 15:5EPH 6:13R. Stanley preaches on the importance of waiting on God in a fast-paced world, emphasizing the need for patience and the art of 'Waiting on God.' The sermon delves into the reasons why we should wait on God, such as knowing God's mind, strengthening our hearts, and fighting the enemy. It highlights the biblical understanding and experience of waiting on God, which is essential for Christian discipleship and growth.
Two Kingdoms
By Oswald Chambers0MAT 5:3JHN 3:3JHN 18:362CO 7:10EPH 6:13Oswald Chambers emphasizes the importance of personal devotion to Jesus Christ over worldly activities, highlighting the need for a deep, private relationship with God rather than just outward displays of Christian work. He stresses the significance of seeking God's Kingdom first, trusting in His provision, and focusing on spiritual truths rather than worldly concerns. Chambers delves into the necessity of repentance, conviction of sin, and the transformative work of the Holy Spirit in a believer's life. He also discusses the radical nature of being born again, the purity required by God, and the continual renewal and dependence on God for spiritual life.
De Vitis Patrum, Book Ix
By Heribert Rosweyde0JER 9:21MAT 21:19LUK 1:2ACT 5:11CO 9:271CO 12:81CO 12:112CO 3:18EPH 6:13Heribert Rosweyde preaches on the lives of devout men, like Jacobus of Nisibis, who embraced a solitary life in pursuit of virtue and wisdom, demonstrating through their actions the power of God's grace and the importance of living a life worthy of emulation. Jacobus, akin to a latter-day Moses, performed miracles through prayer and divine intervention, showcasing his gentleness and compassion in dealing with those who erred. His humility and dedication to serving the poor, widows, and orphans led to his appointment as bishop, where he continued his selfless acts of kindness and displayed unwavering faith in God's providence.
June 25. 1678.
By Jane Lead0PSA 18:2ISA 45:22EPH 6:13HEB 6:19Jane Lead emphasizes the importance of fixing our gaze on God, the ultimate source of help and relief. She encourages anchoring our hope in the power of the God-head to withstand challenges and obstacles. By remaining steadfast in God, we can become like a strong, unyielding wall against all opposition.
Attacks on Biblical Truths
By J.C. Philpot0JHN 14:61CO 16:13EPH 6:131TI 6:202TI 1:14J.C. Philpot addresses the relentless attacks on Biblical truths, highlighting the disputes and arguments that have been raised against various aspects of divine revelation. Despite the efforts to deny God's existence, the necessity of divine revelation, the Deity of Jesus, and the eternal transactions of covenant love, truth remains unshaken by human assaults, upheld by the almighty power and invincible grace of 'the Truth.' Philpot emphasizes the importance of defending and holding onto all revealed truths, even when faced with disagreements from other respected individuals in the faith.
Valiant for the Truth - Phil. 1:27
By Bernard Fell02CO 12:9EPH 4:3EPH 6:13PHP 1:271PE 2:5Bernard Fell preaches on the importance of unity and solidarity among Christians, drawing inspiration from the story of the noble King of Sparta who showcased his army as the walls of the city. He emphasizes the need for believers to stand together, like bricks in a wall, against false teachings and spiritual dangers, echoing the call to be strong in faith and unwavering in their commitment to Christ. Through tribulations and challenges, Christians are encouraged to rely on God's grace and stand as living stones in the ramparts of true witness.
Let Luther Speak for Himself
By Ian Paisley0MAT 5:10EPH 6:132TI 4:2HEB 10:351PE 4:16Ian Paisley preaches with fervor and boldness, echoing the spirit of reformers like Luther and Knox. He emphasizes the importance of standing firm in the truth, even if it means facing opposition and persecution. Paisley draws parallels between the struggles of the reformers against the Papacy and the challenges faced by believers in upholding biblical principles in the face of adversity. Through his passionate delivery, he encourages unwavering faith and dedication to God's Word, regardless of the cost.
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
Wherefore - Because ye have such enemies to contend with, take unto you - assume, as provided and prepared for you, the whole armor of God; which armor if you put on and use, you shall be both invulnerable and immortal. The ancient heroes are fabled to have had armor sent to them by the gods; and even the great armor-maker, Vulcan, was reputed to be a god himself. This was fable: What Paul speaks of is reality. See before on Eph 6:11 (note). That ye may be able to withstand - That ye may not only stand fast in the liberty wherewith Christ hath made you free, but also discomfit all your spiritual foes; and continuing in your ranks, maintain your ground against them, never putting off your armor, but standing always ready prepared to repel any new attack. And having done all, to stand - Και ἁπαντα κατεργασαμενοι στηναι· rather, And having conquered all, stand: this is a military phrase, and is repeatedly used in this sense by the best Greek writers. So Dionys. Hal. Ant., lib. vi., page 400: Και παντα πολεμια εν ολιγῳ κατεργασαμενοι χρονῳ· "Having in a short time discomfited all our enemies, we returned with numerous captives and much spoil." See many examples in Kypke. By evil day we may understand any time of trouble, affliction, and sore temptation. As there is here allusion to some of the most important parts of the Grecian armor, I shall give a short account of the whole. It consisted properly of two sorts: 1. Defensive armor, or that which protected themselves. 2. Offensive armor, or that by which they injured their enemies. The apostle refers to both. I. Defensive Armor Περικεφαλαια, the Helmet; this was the armor for the head, and was of various forms, and embossed with a great variety of figures. Connected with the helmet was the crest or ridge on the top of the helmet, adorned with several emblematic figures; some for ornament, some to strike terror. For crests on ancient helmets we often see the winged lion, the griffin, chimera, etc. St. Paul seems to refer to one which had an emblematical representation of hope. Ζωμα, the Girdle; this went about the loins, and served to brace the armor tight to the body, and to support daggers, short swords, and such like weapons, which were frequently stuck in it. This kind of girdle is in general use among the Asiatic nations to the present day. Θωραξ, the Breast-Plate; this consisted of two parts, called πτερυγες or wings: one covered the whole region of the thorax or breast, in which the principal viscera of life are contained; and the other covered the back, as far down as the front part extended. Κνημιδες, Greaves or brazen boots, which covered the shin or front of the leg; a kind of solea was often used, which covered the sole, and laced about the instep, and prevented the foot from being wounded by rugged ways, thorns, stones, etc. Χειριδες, Gauntlets; a kind of gloves that served to defend the hands, and the arm up to the elbow. Ασπις, the clypeus or Shield; it was perfectly round, and sometimes made of wood, covered with bullocks' hides; but often made of metal. The aspis or shield of Achilles, made by Vulcan, was composed of five plates, two of brass, two of tin, and one of gold; so Homer, Il. U. v. 270: - - επει πεντε πτυχας ηλασε Κυλλοποδιων, Τας δυο χαλκειας, δυο δ' ενδοθι κασσιτεροιο, Την δε μιαν χρυσην. Five plates of various metal, various mold, Composed the shield; of brass each outward fold, Of tin each inward, and the middle gold. Of shields there were several sorts: Γερῥων or γερρα, the gerron; a small square shield, used first by the Persians. Λαισηΐον, Laiseion; a sort of oblong shield, covered with rough hides, or skins with the hair on. Πελτη, the Pelta; a small light shield, nearly in the form of a demicrescent, with a small ornament, similar to the recurved leaves of a flower de luce, on the center of a diagonal edge or straight line; this was the Amazonian shield. Θυρεος, the scutum or Oblong Shield; this was always made of wood, and covered with hides. It was exactly in the shape of the laiseion, but differed in size, being much larger, and being covered with hides from which the hair had been taken off. It was called θυρεος from θυρα, a door, which it resembled in its oblong shape; but it was made curved, so as to embrace the whole forepart of the body. The aspis and the thureos were the shields principally in use; the former for light, the latter for heavy armed troops. II. Offensive Armor, or Weapons;the Following Were Chief: Εγχος, enchos, the Spear; which was generally a head of brass or iron, with a long shaft of ash. Δορυ, the Lance; differing perhaps little from the former, but in its size and lightness; being a missile used, both by infantry and cavalry, for the purpose of annoying the enemy at a distance. Ξιφος, the Sword; these were of various sizes, and in the beginning all of brass. The swords of Homer's heroes are all of this metal. Μαχαιρα, called also a sword, sometimes a knife; it was a short sword, used more frequently by gladiators, or in single combat. What other difference it had from the xiphos I cannot tell. Αξινη, from which our word Axe; the common battle-axe. Πελεκυς, the Bipen; a sort of battle-axe, with double face, one opposite to the other. Κορυνη, an iron club or mace, much used both among the ancient Greeks and Persians. Τοξον, the Bow; with its pharetra or quiver, and its stock or sheaf of arrows. Σφενδονη, the Sling; an instrument in the use of which most ancient nations were very expert, particularly the Hebrews and ancient Greeks. The arms and armor mentioned above were not always in use; they were found out and improved by degrees. The account given by Lucretius of the arms of the first inhabitants of the earth is doubtless as correct as it is natural. Arma antiqua manus, ungues, dentesque fuere, Et lapides, et item silvarum fragmina rami, Et flammae, atque ignes postquam sunt cognita primum: Posterius ferri vis est, aerisque reperta: Sed prius aeris erat quam ferri cognitus usus: Quo facilis magis est natura, et copia major. De Rerum Nat., lib. v. ver. 1282. Whilst cruelty was not improved by art, And rage not furnished yet with sword or dart; With fists, or boughs, or stones, the warriors fought; These were the only weapons Nature taught: But when flames burnt the trees and scorched the ground, Then brass appeared, and iron fit to wound. Brass first was used, because the softer ore, And earth's cold veins contained a greater store. Creech. I have only to observe farther on this head, 1. That the ancient Greeks and Romans went constantly armed; 2. That before they engaged they always ate together; and 3. That they commenced every attack with prayer to the gods for success.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
take . . . of God--not "make," God has done that: you have only to "take up" and put it on. The Ephesians were familiar with the idea of the gods giving armor to mythical heroes: thus Paul's allusion would be appropriate. the evil day--the day of Satan's special assaults (Eph 6:12, Eph 6:16) in life and at the dying hour (compare Rev 3:10). We must have our armor always on, to be ready against the evil day which may come at any moment, the war being perpetual (Psa 41:1, Margin). done all--rather, "accomplished all things," namely, necessary to the fight, and becoming a good soldier.
John Gill Bible Commentary
Wherefore take unto you the whole armour of God,.... This is a repetition of the exhortation in Eph 6:11; which repetition seems necessary by reason of the many powerful enemies mentioned in the preceding verse, and serves to explain what is meant by putting it on: and leads on the apostle to give an account of the several parts of this armour: the end of taking it is much the same as before, that ye may be able to withstand in the evil day; that is, that ye may be able to stand against the wiles and stratagems of Satan, against his power and might, to oppose his schemes, and resist his temptations: and so the Syriac version renders it, "that ye may be able to meet the evil one"; to face him, and give him battle, being accoutred with the whole armour of God; though the Greek copies, and other versions, read, "in the evil day"; in which sin and iniquity abound, error and heresy prevail, Satan is very busy, trials and afflictions come on, persecution arises because of the word, and God's judgments are in the earth: and having done all to stand; or having overcome, having routed the enemy, stand as conquerors; or rather, having took and put on the whole armour of God, in order to stand, and withstand the enemy.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
6:13 God’s armor gives believers the ability to resist the attacks of the devil in the time of evil—when evil seems to prevail—and to keep standing firm.