Know Your Armour II (Eph 6:16-17)
Speaker: Rev Dr Quek Suan Yew
Date: 03 Oct 2021

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Sermon notes taken by:

Haw Shuen Siang


The complete armour of God is given to every believer. Besides the different pieces of the armour, we are also to pay attention to what the believer is to do with each piece. Having dealt with the first 3 pieces, and the need to “stand” (Eph 6:14), we now consider the next 3 pieces, and the need to “take” (Eph 6:16-17).

  • Taking the shield of faith (Eph 6:16)

“Above all, taking the shield of faith” (Eph 6:16) implies that the shield of faith is of utmost importance. This “faith” refers to the subjective faith that believers must exercise at the point of salvation and thereafter. It is a faith that can be strengthened or shaken. The “shield” is strengthened as we study God’s Word. Thus, we must have a systematic, disciplined approach to the study of God’s Word. We are to do it on an individual and personal basis. While having a strong shield is good, it is important that we “take” it up when faced with the fiery darts of the wicked. The “darts” may come in many forms: challenges, temptations, etc. Lot and Solomon are examples of those who know God’s Word but did not take up their shield. Beware of carnality, persecution and seduction from the world. They can cause us to give in and not take up the shield of faith. Let us trust in God alone. The stronger our faith becomes, the stronger the fiery darts will also be. Hence, we must continue to strengthen our shield of faith, and to take it up.

  • Take the helmet of salvation (Eph 6:17a)

A helmet protects our head, our thinking. Our salvation must be anchored and rooted in God’s Word, not our feelings. We must grow in God’s Word, and know the doctrines well. Begin with the doctrine of salvation and continue on. Otherwise, we can easily be swayed by the erroneous doctrines of false believers. The moment we doubt our salvation, we will be rendered useless. We cannot be used to save others or build the faith of others. We must hinge our knowledge of all doctrines on our salvation.

  • Take the Sword of the Spirit (Eph 6:17b)

The Sword of the Spirit is the only offensive piece in the whole armour. The word of God mentioned here is the declared, preached Word of God. We must grow in knowledge of, and faith in, God’s Word so that we can defend God and His Word using the Bible. That is why we must grow in God’s Word and not remain as a babe-in-Christ. We must have the confidence to be able to say, “Thus saith the Lord.” This is especially important during this time of apostate Christianity.

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