If we're going to stand in the spiritual battle in which we find ourselves in this fallen world, then we must be people who are confident of the salvation God has secured for us and we must be people who are committed to His word. God gives us the helmet of salvation so that we will mind our heads and the the sword of the Spirit, which is the Word of God, so we can stand firm. In this study from Ephesians 6:17 we will follow the outline below:  

1. In all Circumstances Take up (v.17a)
2. Take up the Helmet of Salvation (v.17b)
3. Take up the Sword of the Spirit. (v.17c)

Soldiers knew one hit to the head could mean disaster in battle. For this reason, the helmet does more to put a soldier at ease than almost any other piece of armor. Paul associates the helmet in the armor of God with salvation. Salvation is ultimately the best protection against Satan, since nothing, even Satan, can separate us from the love of God in Christ (Romans 8:37–39).

In addition, Paul mentions "the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God." This is the first offensive weapon mentioned. The sword was used to kill and defeat enemies during attack. A properly-wielded sword, used as the soldier has been taught, is a capable tool. God's Word helps to defeat our enemies during spiritual attacks. The Word of God is a sufficient and effective weapon against Satan.

Getting Started                          

1. We have all at one point experienced a headache, but have you ever had a serious head injury or concussion? Share your experience.     

• Read Ephesians 6:10-20

2. What insight, principle, or observation from Sunday’s sermon did you find to be the most helpful, eye-opening, or troubling?

Digging Deeper

3. The picture of the helmet of salvation that Paul uses, teaches us that we need to have eternal security. The knowledge that we belong to God, that we belong to Him, that we are kept by Him, that we are saved by Him, that we are safe and secure with Him, is vital to the whole project of the Christian life. Read and discuss Romans 8:38-39, Jude 24, John 10:28-29 & Ephesians 4:30. 

4. Paul tells us in verse 17 that the sword of the Spirit is the word of God. The Greek word for ‘word’ used here is rhema – the spoken word. In other places the Greek word for ‘word’ is logos – the written word. What would you say is the difference and why is it significant that Paul uses the word ‘rhema’ here? 

5. To stand firm in this spiritual battle, we must be confident of the salvation God has secured for us. Hebrews 6:4-6 is a passage that if misinterpreted can cause Christians to doubt the assurance of their salvation. This passage does not teach that you can lose your salvation. How would you explain this passage to someone who is doubtful? 

The Heart of the Matter

6. Satan is a master strategist who uses lies and half-truths to attack and destroy our faith. What biblical truths has he tempted you to question? 

7. The helmet needs to be put on, to protect our minds against the devil’s doubts and accusations. Two of Satan’s powerful schemes against believers are doubt and discouragement. How has the devil tried to discourage you and cause you to doubt your relationship with God, in the past? 

8. Are you accepting deliberately and receiving readily the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit? How can the group pray for you to do better?