Deprecated: Function wp_make_content_images_responsive is deprecated since version 5.5.0! Use wp_filter_content_tags() instead. in /home1/rlamars/public_html/wp-includes/functions.php on line 6078

6:14 Stand therefore, having fastened on the belt of truth, and having put on the breastplate of righteousness,

In Ephesians 6:14, Paul again reminds us of the need to stand, and hold our position. Specific pieces that make up the whole armor of God are described, to include the belt and the breastplate.

Beginning with truth, Paul speaks to the standard by which we must rely upon. In ancient time, as well as in modern time, there is an assault on truth. Absolute truth, moral truth, relativism, and beyond result in a debate of action. 

John 3:33 reminds us that God is truth and in John 17:17 we are reminded that His Word is truth. Absolute truth is something that is true everywhere all the time, and God is the embodiment of absolute truth.

Interestingly, Paul uses the Roman soldier’s belt to symbolize this truth. For the Roman soldier, this was a piece of equipment he could not enter into the army with but was given to him, and quickly became his prized possession. History suggests that it was the belt that made the solder identifiable to the world that he was a part of the army.

Additionally the markings on the belt would communicate his rank and position. 
If a soldier was disciplined, or court marshaled, it was the belt that was removed resulting in humiliation.

Bringing that imagery into our understanding the belt of truth, God’s absolutism is the identifying standard for us to follow and pursue. Our truthful conduct should be an identifying mark that the world recognizes that we are followers of Christ. Jesus describes Himself as truth in John 14:6.

Beyond truth, Paul urges the breastplate of righteousness. The breastplate was critical in the protection of vital organs. It could be an ornate piece of metal to identify the army or division the soldier was a part of, but this hardware was the difference in life and death. It could be compared to today’s bulletproof vests. This equipment is required for battle.

When we think of righteousness, we know that Christ’s righteousness has been imputed to us. Romans 3 and 4 describe this in great detail. We have been declared righteous, or justified, through Christ’s blood. 

Putting on this piece of hardware boils down to a matter of understanding and walk in the truth of our identity in Christ. As a Christian, we have been declared righteous, but do we live that way. We should walk in confidence that it is Christ that has redeemed us and we are clothed in His righteousness. This is how we can testify that “we are more than conquerors through Christ” (Romans 8:37).

 

The Holy Bible: English Standard Version. (2016). (Eph 6:14). Wheaton, IL: Crossway Bibles.

 

Livius, XXVII , 13 , 9; Frontinus, Stratagemata I V, I , 26 –27 , 43; Valerius Maximus II , 7 , 9; Plutarch Luc. 15 ; S uet. Octavian 2 4.