Text: Eph 6:16
A. Describing the shield of faith.
Roman shield. a. Large oblong shield measuring 1.2m by 0.8m and weighing 10 kg. b. Made of wood and covered with leather. c. Slightly curved with a large metal boss in the centre.
Faith (Heb 11:1). a. Belief in the unseen (Joh 20:29). b. Based on evidence (2Ti 3:16). c. Bringing forth hope (Rom 8:24).
B. Defending with the shield of faith.
It quenches all the fiery darts of the wicked (Eph 6:16). a. Quenching worry (Mat 16:5-8; Php 4:6-7). b. Quenching unbelief (Luk 16:27-31; Mat 17:19-20). c. Quenching discouragement (Deu 1:28-33; Dan 3:16-17).
It protects against all the fiery darts of the wicked (Eph 6:13). a. Protecting the person (Luk 22:31,45-46; 2Co 12:9-10). b. Protecting the armour (Gen 3:1,4; 2Ti 1:12-13). c. Protecting others (1Ki 11:3-4; Rom 15:1-2).
C. Donning the shield of faith.
Even if it seems uncomfortable. a. Some do not take up their shields because they find it burdensome. b. Satan will attack the lazy (Mat 26:41). c. Get used to the Word of God (Heb 5:12-14).
Even if it seems unnecessary. a. Some do not take up their shields because they underestimate the enemy and overestimate their defence. b. Satan will attack the complacent (1Pe 5:8). c. Realize the value of the Word of God (Act 20:32).