How does Ephesians 6:11 relate to 2 Corinthians 2:11's warning? Setting of 2 Corinthians 2:11 • Paul has urged the Corinthian believers to restore a repentant brother, lest prolonged discipline give “Satan an advantage,” because “we are not unaware of his schemes” (2 Corinthians 2:11). • The immediate scheme is to turn godly discipline into festering bitterness, dividing the church and stifling grace. • The verse reminds believers that the evil one actively plots to exploit unforgiveness and discord. The Call of Ephesians 6:11 • “Put on the full armor of God, so that you can make your stand against the devil’s schemes” (Ephesians 6:11). • The armor is God’s own provision—truth, righteousness, readiness, faith, salvation, and the sword of the Spirit—given to every believer. • The command is continuous; the armor is to stay on, not worn occasionally. Shared Theme: Guarding Against the Same Schemer • 2 Corinthians 2:11 exposes the danger: Satan plots to outwit. • Ephesians 6:11 supplies the defense: God’s armor equips believers to stand when those plots arrive. • Both verses treat Satan’s “schemes” (Greek, methodeia, studied strategies) as real, personal, and aimed at believers. Specific Schemes Highlighted 1. Unforgiveness and resentment (2 Corinthians 2). 2. Deception that twists truth (Genesis 3:1; John 8:44). 3. Accusation and condemnation (Revelation 12:10). 4. Subtle discouragement and fear (1 Peter 5:8-9). 5. Division within the body (James 3:14-16). Armor Pieces Countering Each Scheme • Belt of Truth cuts through deception. • Breastplate of Righteousness silences accusation. • Gospel Shoes promote peace, thwarting division. • Shield of Faith extinguishes fiery doubts and fears. • Helmet of Salvation guards the mind from discouragement. • Sword of the Spirit—God’s Word—confronts every lie with written, infallible truth. Supporting Scriptures • James 4:7 “Submit yourselves therefore to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you.” • 1 Peter 5:8 “Be sober-minded and alert. Your adversary the devil prowls around like a roaring lion, seeking someone to devour.” • 1 John 4:4 “Greater is He who is in you than he who is in the world.” • Psalm 119:11 “I have hidden Your word in my heart that I might not sin against You.” Practical Daily Application • Begin each day affirming the truth of Scripture and consciously “putting on” every armor piece. • Guard relationships with quick, sincere forgiveness, denying Satan a foothold. • Stay alert to thoughts or emotions that contradict God’s Word, and answer them immediately with Scripture. • Maintain fellowship and accountability; lone soldiers are easy targets. • Pray “at all times in the Spirit” (Ephesians 6:18) to keep armor in active use. When believers stay aware of Satan’s tactics (2 Corinthians 2:11) and remain fully armored (Ephesians 6:11), the enemy’s schemes are exposed and defeated, and Christ’s church stands firm. |
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