Shoes and Shields

Week 14

Ephesians 6:15-16 (KJV)  - And your feet shod with the preparation of the gospel of peace;  ¹⁶ Above all, taking the shield of faith, wherewith ye shall be able to quench all the fiery darts of the wicked.

·         Caligati “readiness”  

      Paul pictures the soldier of Christ with his feet shod with the preparation of the gospel of peace.  The Roman soldier wore sandals bound by thongs over the instep and round the ankle and the soles thickly studded with nails.  These sandals were called “caligae” and were worn only by the common soldier not superior officers.  These common soldiers were distinguished from their superiors as “caligati” which translates as “readiness”.  Are you ready?  Ready to answer God’s call?  Ready to share the Good News of Jesus Christ? 

·         “Gospel of Peace”   

      The Good News is that the law which separated us from God and brought judgment upon us has been satisfied by Christ.  Paul tells us in Ephesians 2:15 “Having abolished in his flesh the enmity, even the law of commandments contained in ordinances; for to make in himself of twain one new man, SO MAKING PEACE; And that he might reconcile both unto God in one body by the cross, having slain the enmity thereby”.  Peace with God and peace between the Jews and Gentiles so that God might create one new man – The Church.  Now that’s Good News!

·         “Above All”   

     This is important!  More than anything else that prepares us for combat against the enemies of our soul we must take up the shield of faith. The Greek word for shield is from a root word meaning “door”.  This is because they looked like doors.  There is an old song that comes to mind.  “Close the door.  Keep out the devil.  Close the door. Keep the devil outside.”  Paul told the Ephesians “By grace are you saved through faith.”  God’s grace entered your life through the door of faith and brought salvation.  The same “door” of faith that let God in will also keep the enemy out.  Keep the faith!  It’s important.

  

·         “Shot From Afar”  

     Those fiery darts from the enemy seem to come out of nowhere.  That is the nature of temptation.  History tells us that arrows were wrapped in flammable material and launched over the city walls.  The arrows would strike and spread the fire.  Temptation spreads to materials that are susceptible.  Self Confidence is very combustible but when we replace it with faith, dying to self dependence, we take away fuel for the fire.  Faith in God becomes our shield to quench the fiery dart.

·         “The Wicked”   

     You are being stalked and hunted by someone.  He is determined and resourceful.  He won’t give up.  He hates you and the image of God in you.  He is stronger than you and shows no mercy.  Your only hope is in Christ.  The Devil as a roaring lion seeks to devour you.  Take up your shield of faith and stand firm in your only hope.