03 - The Breastplate Of Righteousness

Ephesians 6:14-18

September 3, 2023 • Pastor Ronald H. Gann • Ephesians 6:14–18

In our battle against sin (inside us)and Satan (outside us), Paul instructs his readers to put on the breastplate of righteousness as part of their spiritual armor. But what Paul meant by righteousness has some commentators at odds. Some suggest that Pau has in mind the imputed righteousness of Jesus Christ that is credited to us through faith in Jesus Christ (and by which we are justified before God) whereas others believe he is referring to the imparted righteousness that comes from Jesus Christ in producing fruit as believers (and by which we are justified in the eyes of man). Perhaps the answer is that both types of righteousness, combined, make up suitable armor. Another way of saying it is that imputed righteousness (which has to do with our justification, spiritually) and imparted righteousness (which has to do with our sanctification, practically) is the breastplate that Christians are to wear at all times.