Ephesians 6:17
Verse
Context
Sermons





Summary
Commentary
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
Take the helmet of salvation - Or, as it is expressed, Th1 5:8, And for a helmet, the hope of salvation. It has already been observed, in the description of the Grecian armor, that on the crest and other parts of the helmet were a great variety of emblematical figures, and that it is very likely the apostle refers to helmets which had on them an emblematical representation of hope; viz. that the person should be safe who wore it, that he should be prosperous in all his engagements, and ever escape safe from battle. So the hope of conquering every adversary and surmounting every difficulty, through the blood of the Lamb, is as a helmet that protects the head; an impenetrable one, that the blow of the battle-axe cannot cleave. The hope of continual safety and protection, built on the promises of God, to which the upright follower of Christ feels he has a Divine right, protects the understanding from being darkened, and the judgment from being confused by any temptations of Satan, or subtle arguments of the sophistical ungodly. He who carries Christ in his heart cannot be cheated out of the hope of his heaven, The sword of the Spirit - See what is said before on ξιφος and μαχαιρα, in the account of the Greek armor (Eph 6:13 (note)). The sword of which St. Paul speaks is, as he explains it, the word of God; that is, the revelation which God has given of himself, or what we call the Holy Scriptures. This is called the sword of the Spirit, because it comes from the Holy Spirit, and receives its fulfillment in the soul through the operation of the Holy Spirit. An ability to quote this on proper occasions, and especially in times of temptation and trial, has a wonderful tendency to cut in pieces the snares of the adversary. In God's word a genuine Christian may have unlimited confidence, and to every purpose to which it is applicable it may be brought with the greatest effect. The shield, faith, and the sword - the word of God, or faith in God's unchangeable word, are the principal armor of the soul. He in whom the word of God dwells richly, and who has that faith by which he knows that he has redemption, even the forgiveness of sins, need not fear the power of any adversary. He stands fast in the liberty wherewith Christ hath made him free. Some suppose that του Πνευματος, of the Spirit, should be understood of our own spirit or soul; the word of God being the proper sword of the soul, or that offensive weapon the only one which the soul uses. But though it is true that every Christian soul has this for its sword, yet the first meaning is the most likely.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
take--a different Greek word from that in Eph 6:13, Eph 6:16; translate, therefore, "receive," "accept," namely, the helmet offered by the Lord, namely, "salvation" appropriated, as Th1 5:8, "Helmet, the hope of salvation"; not an uncertain hope, but one that brings with it no shame of disappointment (Rom 5:5). It is subjoined to the shield of faith, as being its inseparable accompaniment (compare Rom 5:1, Rom 5:5). The head of the soldier was among the principal parts to be defended, as on it the deadliest strokes might fall, and it is the head that commands the whole body. The head is the seat of the mind, which, when it has laid hold of the sure Gospel "hope" of eternal life, will not receive false doctrine, or give way to Satan's temptations to despair. God, by this hope, "lifts up the head" (Psa 3:3; Luk 21:28). sword of the Spirit--that is, furnished by the Spirit, who inspired the writers of the word of God (Pe2 1:21). Again the Trinity is implied: the Spirit here; and Christ in "salvation" and God the Father, Eph 6:13 (compare Heb 4:12; Rev 1:16; Rev 2:12). The two-edged sword, cutting both ways (Psa 45:3, Psa 45:5), striking some with conviction and conversion, and others with condemnation (Isa 11:4; Rev 19:15), is in the mouth of Christ (Isa 49:2), in the hand of His saints (Psa 149:6). Christ's use of this sword in the temptation is our pattern as to how we are to wield it against Satan (Mat 4:4, Mat 4:7, Mat 4:10). There is no armor specified for the back, but only for the front of the body; implying that we must never turn our back to the foe (Luk 9:62); our only safety is in resisting ceaselessly (Mat 4:11; Jam 4:7).
John Gill Bible Commentary
And take the helmet of salvation,.... Meaning either Christ himself, the Saviour; and so the Arabic version renders it, "the helmet of the Saviour": or the salvation itself, which he is the author of, and a well grounded hope of it; see Th1 5:8; the allusion is to Isa 59:17; and such an hope of salvation by Christ is a defence of the head against false doctrines; for the helmet is a piece of armour for the head; and it is an erecter of the head in times of difficulty, affliction, and distress; and it covers the head in the day of battle, when engaged with Satan, the enemy of souls: and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God; the word of God is compared to a "sword", for its two edges, the law and Gospel; the one convicts of sin, and cuts to the heart for it, and the other cuts down all the goodliness of man; and the Scriptures in general are a sharp sword, in convincing of sin, reproving for it, and threatening with wrath and ruin, in refuting error and heresy, and repelling Satan's temptations, and will be used in the destruction of antichrist: and this word may be called "the sword of the Spirit", because it is not carnal, but of a spiritual nature; and is used by the spiritual man; and because the Holy Spirit, as the Ethiopic version here expresses it, is the author of it; and which he furnishes the saints with, and teaches them how to make use of, and makes it powerful and effectual. So the Jews say (t), the words of the law are like to a sword, and speak of "the sword of the law" (u). (t) Targum in Cant. 3. 8. (u) Bereshit Rabba, sect. 21. fol. 19. 1.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
6:17 Put on salvation as your helmet: Protect the mind with the assurance that God has indeed saved and given eternal life to those who believe in Christ. • The sword of the Spirit pictures using the word of God to respond to an attack, either with the Good News or with the spoken or written word of God more generally (cp. Jer 23:29; Heb 4:12).
Ephesians 6:17
The Full Armor of God
16In addition to all this, take up the shield of faith, with which you can extinguish all the flaming arrows of the evil one.17And take the helmet of salvation and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God.
- Scripture
- Sermons
- Commentary
(1 Peter - Part 11): Wherefore, Gird Up Your Minds and Be Sober
By A.W. Tozer57K37:10SoberMAT 6:33ROM 13:12EPH 6:171TH 5:6TIT 2:111PE 1:31PE 1:13In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of being spiritually prepared and vigilant. He uses the analogy of a violinist who neglects to tune his instrument, resulting in a lack of melody. Similarly, believers who are not spiritually girded will not be effective in their faith. The preacher encourages the audience to be realistic about their spiritual condition and to look forward with expectation. He emphasizes the need to put on the breastplate of faith and love, and the helmet of salvation, as mentioned in 1st Thessalonians. The sermon also highlights the biblical method of laying strong foundations of truth and applying them morally in our lives.
Authority and God's Word - Part 1
By Derek Prince10K26:06PSA 12:6MAT 4:4MAT 5:17JHN 10:35JHN 14:26JHN 16:13EPH 6:172TI 3:16This sermon emphasizes the authority of Scripture, highlighting that all Scripture is inspired by God through the Holy Spirit. It discusses the importance of accepting the entire Bible as profitable and authoritative, not just selective parts. The sermon also delves into Jesus' attitude towards Scripture, showcasing how He used it to overcome temptation and fulfill God's Word. Additionally, it explores the role of the Holy Spirit as the ultimate interpreter and guide in understanding Scripture.
(Basics) 11. God's Word Helps Us Overcome Satan
By Zac Poonen7.9K12:51CondemnationMAT 4:4MAT 4:7EPH 6:17HEB 8:121PE 1:231PE 2:21JN 1:9In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of understanding and believing in the forgiveness and acceptance offered by God through Jesus Christ. He explains that God not only forgives our sins but also declares us righteous, justifying us through faith. The preacher uses the analogy of being accused of a crime and being forgiven by a judge, highlighting that God does not remember our sins and does not view us with shame or condemnation. He encourages believers to combat the attacks of Satan by using the weapon of God's word, which is compared to a seed that brings new life, milk that helps us grow, and a sword to fight against spiritual enemies.
3-Minute Call to Prayer
By George Verwer5.4K02:53Need For PrayerMAT 6:331CO 10:13EPH 6:171TH 5:171TI 2:1JAS 1:221PE 5:8In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of prayer in the church and the consequences of neglecting it. He highlights the decline of prayer meetings in America and attributes many societal issues, such as divorce and immorality, to the lack of spiritual warfare and prayer. The speaker urges the congregation to recommit their lives to God and to be obedient in wearing the whole armor of God, including the shield of faith and the sword of the spirit. He also acknowledges the presence of men and women of prayer, but expresses his concern that there are not enough individuals who take prayer seriously.
Deep Dealing - My Testimony
By Andrew Strom4.7K51:22TestimonyPRO 4:23MAT 6:331CO 14:26EPH 5:27EPH 6:172TI 2:21In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of surrendering to God and establishing a position in Him. They mention the teachings of Wigglesworth and Reese Howells, who also discuss this concept. The speaker believes that God is searching for reliable individuals who are not consumed by worldly desires, such as money, sex, and power. They highlight the need for salvation and express a desire to preach the truth to the youth, using music as a means to reach them.
Authority and the Power of God's Word - Part 1
By Derek Prince4.5K26:06GEN 3:1PSA 12:6MAT 4:4MAT 5:18MAT 22:31JHN 10:35JHN 14:26JHN 16:13EPH 6:172TI 3:16This sermon emphasizes the authority of the Bible, highlighting that all Scripture is inspired by God through the Holy Spirit, making it profitable for doctrine, reproof, correction, and instruction in righteousness. It stresses the importance of consulting the author, the Holy Spirit, for interpreting Scripture and addresses the fallibility of human authors by showcasing how the Word of God is purified by the Holy Spirit. Jesus' attitude towards the Bible is examined, showcasing His reliance on Scripture to combat temptation and His acknowledgment of the written Word's absolute authority. The sermon also delves into how Jesus' life fulfilled Scripture and the authority behind the New Testament, which is the Holy Spirit guiding the apostles into all truth.
(Exodus) Exodus 28:33-43
By J. Vernon McGee3.2K02:46ExpositionalEXO 28:33MAT 7:16ACT 1:8EPH 6:17In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of having a genuine and authentic Christian life. He highlights the need for believers to not only talk about their faith but also live it out in their daily lives. The speaker draws parallels between the instructions given for the high priest's attire in the Bible and the qualities that believers should possess today. He mentions the significance of the bell and pomegranate on the high priest's robe, symbolizing the need for both witness and fruit in the lives of believers. The sermon also touches on the importance of modesty and avoiding any display of the flesh in the service of God.
Command Me Partial
By David Wilkerson3.0K02:59CommandsEZK 37:9MAT 6:33JHN 3:8ACT 1:8ROM 8:111CO 2:4EPH 6:17In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of not just preaching the gospel, but also praying for a supernatural transaction between God and fallen man. He highlights the need for the Holy Spirit to do the work and bring about a heavenly transformation. The preacher references the story of Ezekiel, where he prophesied as commanded by God, and breath came into the lifeless bodies, turning them into an exceeding great army. The sermon emphasizes the power of prayer and the role of the Holy Spirit in bringing about spiritual revival and transformation.
(Basics) 35. Jesus Overcame Sin
By Zac Poonen2.7K12:57MAT 6:33EPH 6:17HEB 4:15HEB 12:1JAS 1:131JN 2:6In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of holiness and overcoming temptation. He uses the analogy of a father driving in a car and telling his son to run after him, highlighting the impossibility of humans trying to be like God. The speaker explains that holiness can only come when we are willing to say no to temptation. He also discusses how Jesus, as a man, encountered and overcame temptation in the power of the Holy Spirit, offering us the same power and hope. The speaker encourages listeners to have a goal of living like Jesus and pressing on towards that goal, gradually becoming more like Christ through the power of the Holy Spirit.
(Grace Baptist) Finding God's Will
By Bill McLeod2.6K40:17Will Of GodMAT 15:21ACT 2:14ACT 8:9ACT 13:16EPH 6:17PHP 4:13In this sermon, the speaker shares his personal experience of being called to preach and the fear he initially felt. Despite his reluctance, he eventually accepted the call and preached to a small group of people. The speaker emphasizes the importance of being ready to serve God whenever an opportunity arises, even if it is unexpected. He also highlights the need to trust in God and not be hindered by the fear of man. The sermon concludes with a reminder that God is waiting for believers to take action so that He can move in their lives.
Reality Through the Cross
By T. Austin-Sparks2.4K44:35The CrossMAT 3:7MAT 13:24MAT 23:13LUK 16:13JHN 3:1EPH 6:17HEB 4:12In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of reality in the kingdom of God. He explains that simply preaching the word or having knowledge of the Bible is not enough. Jesus desired a seamless connection between truth and life, doctrine and character. The speaker highlights the parables of the sower and the wheat and tares as examples of this principle. He concludes by stating that as we continue to walk with God, our concern for reality should deepen.
Ray Comfort Interview for Captivated Documentary
By Ray Comfort1.8K29:08PSA 1:1PRO 22:6MAT 7:21MRK 10:17ROM 2:15EPH 6:17This sermon by Ray Comfort emphasizes the importance of living a disciplined Christian life, focusing on the impact of media consumption, the need for repentance and genuine faith, the power of God's Word, the role of the Ten Commandments in convicting hearts, and the necessity of instilling biblical values in families to raise children in the fear of the Lord.
Pray, Read, Witness
By Jose Muniz1.7K1:02:48PSA 119:105PRO 28:13MAT 28:19ROM 10:17EPH 6:171TH 5:172TI 2:15HEB 4:12JAS 1:221PE 3:15This sermon emphasizes the importance of reading the Bible and spending time in prayer to strengthen one's faith and witness effectively. It highlights the need for Christians to be diligent in studying God's Word, confessing sins, and seeking God's guidance through prayer. The speaker urges the congregation to prioritize reading the Bible daily, aligning their lives with God's teachings, and being bold in sharing the Gospel with others.
Anabaptist History (Day 15) the Munster Tragedy and Melchior Hoffman
By Dean Taylor1.6K1:29:04PRO 3:5MAT 26:391CO 1:10GAL 1:8EPH 6:17COL 2:82TI 3:161JN 4:1This sermon provides a historical overview of the Dutch Mennonites, highlighting the challenges and influences faced by different groups of people in various regions. It emphasizes the importance of judging beliefs and revelations using the Word of God to contend for the faith delivered to the saints. The sermon also delves into the tragic events involving Jan Matthias and Jan van Luyden, showcasing the consequences of straying from biblical truths and relying on personal revelations.
Fighting Satanic Lions and Winning
By Ben Crandall1.6K54:50Spiritual WarfareMAT 4:4EPH 6:171PE 5:8In this sermon, the preacher shares a testimony about a woman named Jody who received a heart transplant from a young man who died in a motorcycle accident. The preacher emphasizes that there is a God in heaven who can give us a new heart. The sermon then shifts to the importance of reading and studying the Bible, encouraging listeners to take it seriously and consume it daily. The preacher uses the example of Jesus being tempted by Satan in the wilderness to highlight the power of the Word of God in fighting against the devil. The sermon concludes with the message of not running away from spiritual battles, but rather persistently seeking God and obeying His instructions to achieve victory.
Prayer 10 the Key to Victory
By Bob Clark1.1K41:44Victorious LivingPSA 32:8ISA 50:4MAT 6:33LUK 6:12EPH 6:17HEB 4:12HEB 4:16In this sermon, the speaker focuses on the importance of possessing rest and inheritance as God's people. The Word of God is highlighted as a tool to reveal the spiritual and carnal aspects of one's life. The speaker emphasizes that the Word should not be used as a weapon against others but as a means of personal growth. Prayer is compared to winding a clock, stating that it is essential for the Christian armor to function effectively. The speaker expresses gratitude for the warm hospitality and musical contributions during their time with the congregation.
(South West Baptist Church 2008) the Holy Spirit
By Gerhard Du Toit1.0K45:04Holy SpiritACT 1:1ROM 15:4EPH 6:172TI 2:152TI 3:162PE 1:21In this sermon, the speaker begins by sharing a personal anecdote about his broken watch in Australia, suggesting that time seems to pass faster in this country. He then mentions three things he wants to discuss. The first is the concept of personality, explaining that God has created humans with a body, soul, and spirit. The second point is about the importance of renewing our minds, emphasizing the need for transformation. Lastly, the speaker mentions a key verse in the book of Acts that opens up the exploration of the 28 chapters. The sermon focuses on the significance of the mind and the process of renewing it through the power of the Holy Spirit.
An Old Testament Revival - Part 2
By David Ravenhill9781:02:19DEU 20:42CH 31:20ISA 37:36ROM 15:4EPH 6:17JAS 5:16This sermon focuses on the story of Hezekiah in 2 Chronicles, highlighting the challenges he faced and how he overcame them through faith, prayer, and taking action. Hezekiah's life exemplifies the importance of trusting in God's deliverance, standing firm in the face of the enemy's threats, and seeking help from others in times of need. The sermon emphasizes the need for believers to be vigilant, to use the Word of God as a weapon, and to rely on God's strength to overcome any battle they may face.
Outcome of the Income
By Roy Hession83253:08Jesus ChristJHN 4:5JHN 7:37EPH 1:17EPH 3:16EPH 4:11EPH 5:26EPH 6:17In this sermon, the speaker discusses the common experience of believers trying to satisfy God's heart with their love and service, but failing to do so. He uses the analogy of a woman trying to give water to Jesus, but repeatedly presenting an empty water pot. The speaker emphasizes that even the apostle Paul struggled with this, expressing his frustration in Romans 7:15-24. The speaker suggests that the reason for this common experience is the lack of understanding and reliance on the grace of God. He encourages believers to recognize that the spring of living water is already within them through the Holy Spirit, but it needs to be experienced and revealed. The speaker also highlights the importance of sharing one's testimony as a way to experience the outcome of this living water and bless others.
Use Your Sword
By Erlo Stegen81854:17PSA 86:8MAT 6:33MRK 4:4LUK 8:11JHN 6:37EPH 6:17JAS 4:7In this sermon, the speaker shares a personal story about a young girl who had to make a decision between keeping a valuable ring or using the money to spread the message of God. The girl chooses to prioritize spreading the message and learns a valuable lesson about real values. The speaker then challenges the audience to examine their own lives and ask if they are living in a way that reflects these real values. The sermon emphasizes the importance of living for God in all aspects of life and making decisions that align with His word.
What Did the First Generation Christians Practice?
By Victor Choudhrie8171:00:52GEN 22:5PSA 51:17ACT 2:42ROM 15:16EPH 6:17HEB 13:16This sermon emphasizes the practices of the first generation Christians, focusing on Apostolic teaching, fellowship as a family of God, the importance of sharing and caring, and the significance of prayer after offering sacrifice. It highlights the impact of these practices, including instilling fear of the Lord, experiencing signs and wonders, promoting sharing and caring, engaging in evangelism by 'sheep stealing' in the temple, and the church growing daily with new believers being added consistently.
Audio Sermon: God's Word Helps Us Overcome Satan
By Zac Poonen69214:23EPH 6:17This sermon emphasizes the power of God's Word as a weapon to overcome spiritual attacks from Satan. It highlights how believers can combat discouragement, condemnation, and guilt by using the Word of God as a sword. The importance of believing in God's acceptance, forgiveness, and justification is emphasized, encouraging listeners to resist Satan's lies and accusations with the truth of Scripture.
Reason for Our Hope 1
By Peter Maiden68655:51HopeDEU 25:4MAT 6:33LUK 10:7EPH 6:171TI 5:182TI 3:16HEB 4:12In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the power and significance of the word of God. He describes it as quick, powerful, and sharper than any two-edged sword, capable of penetrating the soul and spirit of man. The preacher encourages believers to be people of faith who stand upon the word of God, even in challenging circumstances. He references the example of George Muller, a man of extraordinary faith who founded orphanages and relied on God's provision. The preacher also mentions that as Christians, we accept Christian doctrines not solely based on reason, but because they are revealed to us in the Word of God.
Vision Mondial - Spanish
By George Verwer48555:22MissionsPRO 22:6MAT 6:33ROM 12:1GAL 5:22EPH 6:172TI 2:15In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of maintaining a spiritual balance and avoiding extremism. He discusses three important books, including one on living a disciplined life and another on sharing one's faith. The preacher also shares a personal story about a friend who died but left behind a book on sharing faith. He highlights the power of literature in spreading the message of God and mentions the success of bookstores and coin sharing initiatives in Mexico. The sermon encourages listeners to read and apply the teachings found in these books and emphasizes the importance of having a Bible.
The Legend of the King's Sword
By E.A. Johnston39418:05Christian LifeJER 6:16MAT 6:33LUK 3:16ACT 1:8EPH 6:172TI 3:16HEB 4:12In this sermon, the preacher tells a story about a young prince who is captured by an evil enemy force, leaving his kingdom and the villagers under bondage. After the death of the old king, the prince is unable to assume the throne due to his captivity. In his hovel, the prince discovers his father's old sword, which he initially considers ordinary and heavy. However, when he dreams of being a king and fights with the sword, he realizes its power and uses it to defeat his enemies. Word spreads among the villagers, and the evil ruler is eventually defeated, setting the captives free and making the prince the new king. The preacher uses this story to emphasize the importance of returning to the old paths and relying on the power of God rather than new methodologies.
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
Take the helmet of salvation - Or, as it is expressed, Th1 5:8, And for a helmet, the hope of salvation. It has already been observed, in the description of the Grecian armor, that on the crest and other parts of the helmet were a great variety of emblematical figures, and that it is very likely the apostle refers to helmets which had on them an emblematical representation of hope; viz. that the person should be safe who wore it, that he should be prosperous in all his engagements, and ever escape safe from battle. So the hope of conquering every adversary and surmounting every difficulty, through the blood of the Lamb, is as a helmet that protects the head; an impenetrable one, that the blow of the battle-axe cannot cleave. The hope of continual safety and protection, built on the promises of God, to which the upright follower of Christ feels he has a Divine right, protects the understanding from being darkened, and the judgment from being confused by any temptations of Satan, or subtle arguments of the sophistical ungodly. He who carries Christ in his heart cannot be cheated out of the hope of his heaven, The sword of the Spirit - See what is said before on ξιφος and μαχαιρα, in the account of the Greek armor (Eph 6:13 (note)). The sword of which St. Paul speaks is, as he explains it, the word of God; that is, the revelation which God has given of himself, or what we call the Holy Scriptures. This is called the sword of the Spirit, because it comes from the Holy Spirit, and receives its fulfillment in the soul through the operation of the Holy Spirit. An ability to quote this on proper occasions, and especially in times of temptation and trial, has a wonderful tendency to cut in pieces the snares of the adversary. In God's word a genuine Christian may have unlimited confidence, and to every purpose to which it is applicable it may be brought with the greatest effect. The shield, faith, and the sword - the word of God, or faith in God's unchangeable word, are the principal armor of the soul. He in whom the word of God dwells richly, and who has that faith by which he knows that he has redemption, even the forgiveness of sins, need not fear the power of any adversary. He stands fast in the liberty wherewith Christ hath made him free. Some suppose that του Πνευματος, of the Spirit, should be understood of our own spirit or soul; the word of God being the proper sword of the soul, or that offensive weapon the only one which the soul uses. But though it is true that every Christian soul has this for its sword, yet the first meaning is the most likely.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
take--a different Greek word from that in Eph 6:13, Eph 6:16; translate, therefore, "receive," "accept," namely, the helmet offered by the Lord, namely, "salvation" appropriated, as Th1 5:8, "Helmet, the hope of salvation"; not an uncertain hope, but one that brings with it no shame of disappointment (Rom 5:5). It is subjoined to the shield of faith, as being its inseparable accompaniment (compare Rom 5:1, Rom 5:5). The head of the soldier was among the principal parts to be defended, as on it the deadliest strokes might fall, and it is the head that commands the whole body. The head is the seat of the mind, which, when it has laid hold of the sure Gospel "hope" of eternal life, will not receive false doctrine, or give way to Satan's temptations to despair. God, by this hope, "lifts up the head" (Psa 3:3; Luk 21:28). sword of the Spirit--that is, furnished by the Spirit, who inspired the writers of the word of God (Pe2 1:21). Again the Trinity is implied: the Spirit here; and Christ in "salvation" and God the Father, Eph 6:13 (compare Heb 4:12; Rev 1:16; Rev 2:12). The two-edged sword, cutting both ways (Psa 45:3, Psa 45:5), striking some with conviction and conversion, and others with condemnation (Isa 11:4; Rev 19:15), is in the mouth of Christ (Isa 49:2), in the hand of His saints (Psa 149:6). Christ's use of this sword in the temptation is our pattern as to how we are to wield it against Satan (Mat 4:4, Mat 4:7, Mat 4:10). There is no armor specified for the back, but only for the front of the body; implying that we must never turn our back to the foe (Luk 9:62); our only safety is in resisting ceaselessly (Mat 4:11; Jam 4:7).
John Gill Bible Commentary
And take the helmet of salvation,.... Meaning either Christ himself, the Saviour; and so the Arabic version renders it, "the helmet of the Saviour": or the salvation itself, which he is the author of, and a well grounded hope of it; see Th1 5:8; the allusion is to Isa 59:17; and such an hope of salvation by Christ is a defence of the head against false doctrines; for the helmet is a piece of armour for the head; and it is an erecter of the head in times of difficulty, affliction, and distress; and it covers the head in the day of battle, when engaged with Satan, the enemy of souls: and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God; the word of God is compared to a "sword", for its two edges, the law and Gospel; the one convicts of sin, and cuts to the heart for it, and the other cuts down all the goodliness of man; and the Scriptures in general are a sharp sword, in convincing of sin, reproving for it, and threatening with wrath and ruin, in refuting error and heresy, and repelling Satan's temptations, and will be used in the destruction of antichrist: and this word may be called "the sword of the Spirit", because it is not carnal, but of a spiritual nature; and is used by the spiritual man; and because the Holy Spirit, as the Ethiopic version here expresses it, is the author of it; and which he furnishes the saints with, and teaches them how to make use of, and makes it powerful and effectual. So the Jews say (t), the words of the law are like to a sword, and speak of "the sword of the law" (u). (t) Targum in Cant. 3. 8. (u) Bereshit Rabba, sect. 21. fol. 19. 1.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
6:17 Put on salvation as your helmet: Protect the mind with the assurance that God has indeed saved and given eternal life to those who believe in Christ. • The sword of the Spirit pictures using the word of God to respond to an attack, either with the Good News or with the spoken or written word of God more generally (cp. Jer 23:29; Heb 4:12).