What Does "Put on the Whole Armor of God" Mean According to Dr. Martyn Lloyd-Jones?

What is the significance of the order in which Paul presents his instructions in Ephesians 6?

According to Dr. Lloyd-Jones, Paul presents two essential requirements for Christian warfare in a specific order for important reasons. First, he tells believers to "be strong in the Lord and in the power of his might" before instructing them to "put on the whole armor of God." This order reflects the difference between strategy and tactics in warfare - the overall approach must precede specific actions. It also reflects the difference between the positive/offensive aspects of Christian warfare and the defensive measures. Lloyd-Jones emphasizes that "if you enter into this spiritual conflict on the defensive only and have entirely forgotten the offensive and the positive, you're already defeated."

Why is the armor of God necessary even after we've received spiritual strength?

Even though believers receive strength in the Lord, the armor remains essential because we need constant protection against Satan's subtle attacks. Dr. Lloyd-Jones explains: "Though you and I may be very strong, though we may have grown in grace so marvellously and have had great victories, we must never rely upon that." He references 1 Corinthians 10:12: "Let him that thinketh he standeth, take heed, lest he fall." The enemy is powerful, subtle, and constantly watching for moments of slackness. Lloyd-Jones insists there is "never a holiday in the spiritual realm" - we must maintain our defenses at all times.

Why does Paul specify it as the "armor of God" rather than just armor?

The phrase "armor of God" indicates several crucial truths according to Lloyd-Jones: 1. It is armor provided by God - "Everything that you need is provided by God" 2. It can only be used by Christians - "There is only one person who can ever put on and use this armor, and that is the Christian" 3. It consists of understanding and applying gospel truth 4. It cannot be replaced by human wisdom, reasoning, psychology, or willpower Lloyd-Jones states emphatically: "The moment you start taking on the enemy in argument with your own reason and understanding, you're already defeated. He'll beat you every time."

Why does Paul emphasize the "whole" armor of God?

Dr. Lloyd-Jones points out that Paul twice emphasizes putting on the "whole" armor of God, indicating believers cannot pick and choose which parts to use. He explains: "The moment you begin to say, 'Oh, well, of course I need this helmet, but I don't need the breastplate,' you're already defeated." This means Christians must: 1. Take the complete doctrine, not just favorite parts 2. Read the whole Bible, not just select portions 3. Protect every aspect of themselves - mind (helmet), heart (breastplate), and will Lloyd-Jones warns that neglecting any aspect leads to defeat: "Nothing causes such weakness and failure in the christian church as a failure on our part to take on the whole armor of God."

How does the armor of God relate to the complete Christian life?

The armor of God addresses the whole person - intellectually, emotionally, and volitionally. Dr. Lloyd-Jones contrasts this with worldly approaches: "You can have your intellectual societies in the world. They're cold and heartless. You can have your emotional, sentimental interests in the world. They've got nothing for your head." Christianity uniquely "takes in the whole man, that covers the entire personality." The armor imagery shows the beautiful balance of Christianity - concerning both the whole person and every detailed aspect of life and doctrine.