Embracing the Breastplate of Righteousness in Spiritual Warfare

 

Summary

In Ephesians 6:14, Paul instructs believers to put on the "breastplate of righteousness" as part of the whole armor of God. This armor is essential for Christians engaged in spiritual warfare against the devil's schemes. The breastplate of righteousness is not merely about personal integrity but is the righteousness of God through faith in Jesus Christ. This divine righteousness is both imputed to us and imparted through the Holy Spirit's work in our lives, providing us with confidence and protection against the devil's attacks on our emotions and conscience.

The breastplate of righteousness is crucial in defending against temptation. The devil's tactics are varied and relentless, and while other parts of the armor, like the shield, are helpful, the breastplate offers constant protection. The root of unrighteousness is ungodliness, and history shows that moral decline follows a decline in godliness. Attempts to address moral issues through education and philosophy alone are insufficient because they fail to address the spiritual root of the problem. True righteousness and moral living stem from a relationship with God through Jesus Christ.

The breastplate also delivers us from a sense of condemnation, which the devil uses to lead us into despair and further temptation. By reminding ourselves of our righteousness in Christ, we can resist these attacks. Additionally, the breastplate reminds us of our identity as children of God, motivating us to live in a manner worthy of our calling. This understanding empowers us to stand firm against the devil's onslaughts, knowing that we are part of a greater spiritual battle, following our victorious Captain, Jesus Christ.

Key Takeaways:

- The breastplate of righteousness is essential for spiritual warfare, providing protection against the devil's attacks on our emotions and conscience. It is not our own integrity but the righteousness of God through faith in Jesus Christ that shields us. [03:30]

- Temptation is a significant challenge for Christians, and the breastplate of righteousness is the ultimate defense. History shows that moral decline follows a decline in godliness, and only a relationship with God can lead to true righteousness. [16:37]

- Deliverance from a sense of condemnation is crucial in resisting temptation. The devil uses feelings of hopelessness to lead us into further sin, but the breastplate of righteousness reminds us of our forgiveness and standing in Christ. [31:59]

- Our identity as children of God is reinforced by the breastplate of righteousness. This understanding motivates us to live in a manner worthy of our calling, empowering us to stand firm against the devil's attacks. [35:02]

- True transformation requires a new nature, which is offered through the gospel of Jesus Christ. Education and moral teaching alone cannot address the spiritual root of sin; only the righteousness of God can. [38:42]

Youtube Chapters:

[00:00] - Welcome
[00:10] - Introduction to Ephesians 6:14
[00:27] - The Whole Armor of God
[01:03] - Spiritual Warfare
[01:54] - The Breastplate of Righteousness
[02:41] - Spiritual Protection
[03:30] - Righteousness of God
[05:36] - Defense Against Temptation
[08:21] - Contemporary Relevance
[10:55] - Historical Evidence
[16:37] - Godliness and Righteousness
[24:50] - Modern Solutions and Their Failures
[29:55] - Deliverance from Condemnation
[33:22] - Identity in Christ
[38:42] - True Transformation
[39:34] - Conclusion and Next Steps

Study Guide

Bible Study Discussion Guide: The Breastplate of Righteousness

Bible Reading:
- Ephesians 6:14
- Romans 1:18
- Hebrews 4:15

---

Observation Questions:

1. What does Paul mean by the "breastplate of righteousness" in Ephesians 6:14, and how does it relate to spiritual warfare? [00:10]

2. According to the sermon, how does the breastplate of righteousness protect our emotions and conscience from the devil's attacks? [03:30]

3. What historical evidence does the sermon provide to show the connection between godliness and moral living? [16:37]

4. How does the sermon describe the devil's tactics in tempting believers, and why is the breastplate of righteousness considered the ultimate defense? [05:52]

---

Interpretation Questions:

1. How does the righteousness of God, as described in the sermon, differ from personal integrity, and why is this distinction important for believers? [03:30]

2. In what ways does the breastplate of righteousness help believers resist feelings of condemnation and hopelessness? [31:59]

3. How does the sermon suggest that a decline in godliness leads to moral decline, and what role does the breastplate of righteousness play in reversing this trend? [16:37]

4. What does the sermon imply about the limitations of education and philosophy in addressing the root of sin, and how does the gospel offer a solution? [38:42]

---

Application Questions:

1. Reflect on a recent situation where you felt spiritually attacked. How might putting on the breastplate of righteousness have changed your response? [03:30]

2. The sermon emphasizes the importance of remembering our identity as children of God. How can you remind yourself of this identity daily, especially when facing challenges? [35:02]

3. Consider a time when you felt condemned or hopeless. How can the truth of your righteousness in Christ help you overcome these feelings in the future? [31:59]

4. The sermon discusses the connection between godliness and moral living. What practical steps can you take to cultivate a deeper relationship with God this week? [16:37]

5. How can you apply the concept of the breastplate of righteousness in your interactions with others, especially when faced with temptation or conflict? [05:52]

6. Identify one area in your life where you rely on personal integrity rather than God's righteousness. How can you shift your focus to rely more on God's provision? [03:30]

7. The sermon suggests that true transformation requires a new nature. What specific changes do you feel called to make in your life to align more closely with the gospel? [38:42]

Devotional

Day 1: The Divine Armor of Righteousness
The breastplate of righteousness is a crucial part of the spiritual armor that God provides to believers. It is not about personal integrity or moral perfection but about the righteousness of God that is given to us through faith in Jesus Christ. This divine righteousness is both imputed to us and imparted through the Holy Spirit's work in our lives. It provides us with confidence and protection against the devil's attacks on our emotions and conscience. The breastplate of righteousness is essential for spiritual warfare, offering constant protection against the devil's schemes. [03:30]

Isaiah 59:17 (ESV): "He put on righteousness as a breastplate, and a helmet of salvation on his head; he put on garments of vengeance for clothing, and wrapped himself in zeal as a cloak."

Reflection: In what areas of your life do you need to rely more on God's righteousness rather than your own efforts? How can you remind yourself daily of this divine protection?


Day 2: The Ultimate Defense Against Temptation
Temptation is a significant challenge for Christians, and the breastplate of righteousness serves as the ultimate defense. The devil's tactics are varied and relentless, and while other parts of the armor, like the shield, are helpful, the breastplate offers constant protection. History shows that moral decline follows a decline in godliness, and attempts to address moral issues through education and philosophy alone are insufficient because they fail to address the spiritual root of the problem. True righteousness and moral living stem from a relationship with God through Jesus Christ. [16:37]

1 Corinthians 10:13 (ESV): "No temptation has overtaken you that is not common to man. God is faithful, and he will not let you be tempted beyond your ability, but with the temptation he will also provide the way of escape, that you may be able to endure it."

Reflection: What specific temptations are you currently facing, and how can you actively use the breastplate of righteousness to guard against them today?


Day 3: Freedom from Condemnation
Deliverance from a sense of condemnation is crucial in resisting temptation. The devil uses feelings of hopelessness to lead us into further sin, but the breastplate of righteousness reminds us of our forgiveness and standing in Christ. By reminding ourselves of our righteousness in Christ, we can resist these attacks. This understanding empowers us to stand firm against the devil's onslaughts, knowing that we are part of a greater spiritual battle, following our victorious Captain, Jesus Christ. [31:59]

Romans 8:1-2 (ESV): "There is therefore now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus. For the law of the Spirit of life has set you free in Christ Jesus from the law of sin and death."

Reflection: How can you remind yourself of your identity in Christ when feelings of condemnation arise? What practical steps can you take to embrace this freedom today?


Day 4: Living Out Our Identity in Christ
Our identity as children of God is reinforced by the breastplate of righteousness. This understanding motivates us to live in a manner worthy of our calling, empowering us to stand firm against the devil's attacks. By recognizing our identity in Christ, we are encouraged to live out our faith with confidence and purpose, knowing that we are part of a greater spiritual battle. This identity is not based on our achievements but on the righteousness of God through faith in Jesus Christ. [35:02]

1 Peter 2:9 (ESV): "But you are a chosen race, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a people for his own possession, that you may proclaim the excellencies of him who called you out of darkness into his marvelous light."

Reflection: In what ways can you live out your identity as a child of God today? How does this understanding change the way you approach your daily challenges?


Day 5: True Transformation Through the Gospel
True transformation requires a new nature, which is offered through the gospel of Jesus Christ. Education and moral teaching alone cannot address the spiritual root of sin; only the righteousness of God can. The breastplate of righteousness is a reminder that true change comes from a relationship with God through Jesus Christ. This transformation is not about external behavior modification but about an internal change of heart and mind, empowered by the Holy Spirit. [38:42]

Ezekiel 36:26-27 (ESV): "And I will give you a new heart, and a new spirit I will put within you. And I will remove the heart of stone from your flesh and give you a heart of flesh. And I will put my Spirit within you, and cause you to walk in my statutes and be careful to obey my rules."

Reflection: What areas of your life need true transformation? How can you invite the Holy Spirit to work in these areas and bring about lasting change?

Quotes



The breastplate of righteousness is not merely about personal integrity but is the righteousness of God through faith in Jesus Christ. This divine righteousness is both imputed to us and imparted through the Holy Spirit's work in our lives, providing us with confidence and protection against the devil's attacks on our emotions and conscience. [00:36:52]

The devil's tactics are varied and relentless, and while other parts of the armor, like the shield, are helpful, the breastplate offers constant protection. The root of unrighteousness is ungodliness, and history shows that moral decline follows a decline in godliness. Attempts to address moral issues through education and philosophy alone are insufficient because they fail to address the spiritual root of the problem. [00:75:04]

Deliverance from a sense of condemnation is crucial in resisting temptation. The devil uses feelings of hopelessness to lead us into further sin, but the breastplate of righteousness reminds us of our forgiveness and standing in Christ. By reminding ourselves of our righteousness in Christ, we can resist these attacks. [00:78:36]

Our identity as children of God is reinforced by the breastplate of righteousness. This understanding motivates us to live in a manner worthy of our calling, empowering us to stand firm against the devil's attacks. This understanding empowers us to stand firm against the devil's onslaughts, knowing that we are part of a greater spiritual battle, following our victorious Captain, Jesus Christ. [00:81:68]

True transformation requires a new nature, which is offered through the gospel of Jesus Christ. Education and moral teaching alone cannot address the spiritual root of sin; only the righteousness of God can. The breastplate of righteousness is essential for spiritual warfare, providing protection against the devil's attacks on our emotions and conscience. [00:84:41]

The breastplate of righteousness helps us at this point by delivering us from a sense of condemnation. A sense of condemnation always leads to a sense of hopelessness and despair, and that is where the devil is so subtle. He knows very well that if our general condition is one of depression and of unhappiness, he's got a very ready victim. [00:88:24]

The breastplate of righteousness helps us in this matter also by reminding us of who we are and what we are. This is something to me very wonderful. This is the New Testament way of preaching Holiness. This is the New Testament way of presenting the doctrine of sanctification. Always see it doesn't start with us and say it's got something to give us which will give us Victory or make us happiness. [00:91:00]

The breastplate of righteousness is the only defense, the only adequate defense against temptation to sin. This, of course, is a very contemporary matter. This, I suppose, that next to the great problem of the world situation, this is the most urgent problem of all today confronting the Statesman quite apart from the fact that it confronts us all as individuals. [00:94:12]

The breastplate of righteousness is something like that every time you look at it you remember who you are and that puts Vigor and Vim into you and strength and power you feel You've got something to fight for you remember who you are you don't slouch about you stand on your feet you got on the breastplate of righteousness given to you by God. [00:97:52]

The breastplate of righteousness helps us by reminding us of who we are and what we are. This is something to me very wonderful. This is the New Testament way of preaching Holiness. This is the New Testament way of presenting the doctrine of sanctification. Always see it doesn't start with us and say it's got something to give us which will give us Victory or make us happiness. [01:00:03]

The breastplate of righteousness is essential for spiritual warfare, providing protection against the devil's attacks on our emotions and conscience. It is not our own integrity but the righteousness of God through faith in Jesus Christ that shields us. The breastplate of righteousness is crucial in defending against temptation. [01:03:08]

True transformation requires a new nature, which is offered through the gospel of Jesus Christ. Education and moral teaching alone cannot address the spiritual root of sin; only the righteousness of God can. The breastplate of righteousness is essential for spiritual warfare, providing protection against the devil's attacks on our emotions and conscience. [01:06:06]

Chatbot

  • I'm an AI bot trained specifically on the sermon from Feb 15, 2025. Do you have any questions about it?

Transcript
What was the most surprising thing in this sermon?
Were there any personal stories shared?