Ephesians 6

Christian Households

1 Children, obey your parents in the Lord, because this is the right thing to do.

2 "Honor your father and mother", this is the first commandment that comes with a promise attached to it:

3 "so that it may go well with you and that you may live a long life on the earth."

4 Fathers, do not provoke your children to anger or discourage them. Instead, raise them up with the discipline, instruction, and guidance that comes from the Lord.

5 Servants, obey your earthly masters with respect, sincerity, and a genuine heart, just as you would obey Christ.

6 Do not work hard only when people are watching you so you can impress them. Work as servants of Christ, doing God’s will from your heart.

7 Serve with enthusiasm and a good attitude, as though you are serving the Lord and not merely people.

8 Remember that whatever good anyone does, they will receive a reward from the Lord, whether they are servant or free.

9 And masters, treat those under your authority the same way. Stop using threats and intimidation, knowing that both you and they have the same Master in heaven, and He does not show favoritism.

The Armor of God

10 Finally, my brothers and sisters, be strong in the Lord and in the power of His mighty strength.

11 Put on the full armor of God so you will be able to stand firm against every scheme, trap, and attack of the devil.

12 Because our fight is not against flesh and blood. We are not battling people. We are battling rulers, authorities, powers of darkness, and spiritual forces of evil operating in heavenly places.

13 That is why you need to take up the whole armor of God, so when the evil day comes you will be able to withstand the attack and still be standing when it is all over.

14 Stand firm then, with the belt of truth fastened around your waist and the breastplate of righteousness covering your chest.

15 Put on your feet the readiness that comes from the Gospel of peace.

16 Above everything else, take up the shield of faith. With it you will be able to extinguish all the flaming arrows and attacks of the evil one.

17 Take the helmet of salvation and the sword of the Spirit, which is the Word of God.

18 Pray at all times in the Spirit with every kind of prayer and request. Stay alert, stay watchful, and keep praying for all God’s people.

19 Pray for me too, that whenever I speak, God will give me the right words so I can boldly make known the mystery of the Gospel.

20 I am an ambassador representing Christ, even while wearing chains. Pray that I will speak boldly as I ought to speak.

Final Greetings

21 Tychicus, our beloved brother and faithful servant in the Lord, will let you all know how I am doing and what has been happening with me.

22 That is exactly why I am sending him to you, so you will know how we are doing and so he can encourage your hearts.

23 Peace to the brothers and sisters, along with love and faith from God the Father and the Lord Jesus Christ.

24 Grace be with all those who love our Lord Jesus Christ with an undying and incorruptible love. Amen.