How does Ezekiel 13:5 connect with Ephesians 6:11-18 on spiritual warfare? Standing in the Breach: Ezekiel 13:5 “You did not go up into the breaches or build a wall around the house of Israel to stand in the battle on the day of the LORD.” - “Breach” = gap in a protective wall, the exact point an enemy targets. - God condemns Israel’s prophets for two failures: • They would not repair the wall (provide truth and warning). • They would not stand in the gap (take personal risk for the people). - Spiritual neglect leaves the whole community exposed (see Ezekiel 22:30; Isaiah 59:16). The Armor of God: Ephesians 6:11-18 “Put on the full armor of God, so that you can make your stand against the devil’s schemes.” (v.11) - Fourfold emphasis on “stand” (vv.11, 13, 13, 14) mirrors Ezekiel’s call. - Armor pieces close every potential breach: • Belt of truth (v.14) • Breastplate of righteousness (v.14) • Shoes of the gospel of peace (v.15) • Shield of faith (v.16) • Helmet of salvation (v.17) • Sword of the Spirit—Word of God (v.17) • Spirit-led, constant prayer (v.18) - Purpose: resist invisible powers behind visible threats (v.12). Bridging the Two Passages - Same crisis: a “day of the LORD” (Ezekiel) / “day of evil” (Ephesians 6:13). - Same mandate: stand in the gap so the people of God are not overrun. - Same materials: truth, righteousness, salvation, faith, peace—likened to both stones in a repaired wall and armor on a soldier (cf. Isaiah 59:17; 1 Thessalonians 5:8). - Ezekiel exposes failure; Paul supplies the remedy. Walking It Out Today - Patch every breach with Scripture’s truth (Psalm 119:9-11). - Guard righteousness in behavior and motive (Proverbs 28:13). - Keep gospel readiness on your feet (Romans 1:16). - Lift the shield of faith amid fiery trials (1 Peter 1:6-7). - Protect your mind with salvation’s certainty (Philippians 4:7). - Counter lies with the Word, as Jesus did (Matthew 4:1-11). - Remain on the wall through persevering prayer for fellow saints (Colossians 4:2). |
    |