Sunday Livestream |

In this sermon, Pastor Josh Strelecki explores the significance of the shield of faith as part of the armor of God described in Ephesians 6. He emphasizes the importance of faith not as an abstract concept, but as a powerful defense and offense in spiritual battles against evil. Strelecki explains that the shield of faith protects believers from the fiery darts of the wicked, representing the confidence and trust placed in God. Drawing parallels between the Roman shield and the spiritual shield, he illustrates how faith in God acts as a comprehensive protection, guarding not just the believer but also other pieces of spiritual armor like truth, righteousness, and peace.

Pastor Strelecki further expounds on the nature of faith, asserting that it is critical because it appropriates and exacts God's provisions against spiritual attacks. He highlights the dependency of faith's strength on the substance in which it is placed—faith in Jesus Christ empowers believers to overcome challenges. He encourages the congregation to immerse themselves in God's Word, understanding the countless thoughts and promises God has for them, which arms their faith to quench all adversarial fiery darts effectively. Concluding with a call to action, Strelecki urges believers to engage actively in their spiritual battles, using their faith to defend against and subdue any thoughts or challenges that contradict the knowledge of God.

The sermon focuses on Ephesians 6, highlighting the necessity of having one's feet shod with the preparation of the gospel of peace, as part of the whole armor of God. This imagery is likened to the Roman soldier's essential footwear, which provided stability and protection on the battlefield, enabling effective combat through challenging terrains. The gospel of peace serves as more than a defensive measure; it also empowers believers with inner strength, transforming fear into courage and reinforcing confidence. This peace ensures believers are anchored in their faith, understanding their secure relationship with God through justification by faith.

In addition to providing inner tranquility, the gospel of peace equips believers to confront spiritual adversities actively and maintains unity within the body of Christ. By embracing this peace, believers are ready and zealous for good works, similar to David's readiness to face Goliath. The message urges believers to remain steadfast, avoiding entanglement with worldly affairs, and to let the peace of God govern their hearts, enabling them to confront life's trials with courage and reflect Christ's love and unity. This preparation encourages believers to meditate on these truths, allowing them to be the cornerstone of their spiritual resilience in the Lord.