The full armor of God is detailed in Ephesians 6:10–18, where Paul commands believers to equip themselves spiritually:
“Put on the whole armor of God, that you may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil.”
This passage is not symbolic for mere moral living but a divine command for spiritual readiness against real spiritual forces. Verse 12 clarifies the enemy:
“For we do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this age, against spiritual hosts of wickedness in the heavenly places.”
The armor consists of six main components:
Belt of Truth: foundational integrity and knowledge of God’s Word.
Breastplate of Righteousness: practical holiness and right standing through Christ.
Feet shod with the preparation of the gospel of peace: stability and readiness in the Gospel.
Shield of Faith: trust in God that extinguishes all attacks from the enemy.
Helmet of Salvation: assurance and protection of the mind through the knowledge of salvation.
Sword of the Spirit: the Word of God, which is both defensive and offensive.
Prayer is added as the constant means by which the armor is employed:
“Praying always with all prayer and supplication in the Spirit” (Ephesians 6:18).
The armor of God is not optional. It is necessary for every believer to withstand temptation, deception, and spiritual assault. Each piece is tied to the person and work of Jesus Christ, and no believer can walk in victory without being fully armed.