What is the meaning of Ephesians 6:15? setting the scene Paul has just urged, “Put on the full armor of God, so that you can make your stand against the devil’s schemes” (Ephesians 6:11). The battle is real, yet victory is certain because the Lord supplies the armor. Verse 15 supplies one essential piece: “and with your feet fitted with the readiness of the gospel of peace.” Without sure footing no soldier can stand. the imagery of fitted feet • Roman soldiers strapped on thick-soled sandals studded with nails, giving traction on every surface. • Scripture often links good news with feet: “How beautiful on the mountains are the feet of those who bring good news, who proclaim peace…” (Isaiah 52:7; echoed in Romans 10:15). • Firm footing means stability: “Be sober-minded and alert” (1 Peter 5:8). Slipping soldiers fall; steady ones advance. the readiness factor Readiness is more than speed; it is prepared resolve. • “Always be prepared to give a defense to everyone who asks you the reason for the hope that is in you” (1 Peter 3:15). • “Preach the word; be prepared in season and out of season” (2 Timothy 4:2). Practical marks of readiness: – A grasp of the gospel’s core truths. – A heart willing to speak at God-given moments. – A disciplined lifestyle that keeps distractions from entangling the feet. the gospel center stage The footwear is not human effort but “the gospel.” • “I am not ashamed of the gospel, because it is the power of God for salvation” (Romans 1:16). • Paul reminds the Corinthians that Christ’s death, burial, and resurrection are “of first importance” (1 Corinthians 15:3-4). The gospel keeps believers from sinking into despair or pride; it steadies every step with God’s power and grace. the peace we carry This gospel is “of peace.” • “Since we have been justified through faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ” (Romans 5:1). • Jesus promised, “Peace I leave with you; My peace I give to you” (John 14:27). • That peace “will guard your hearts and your minds” (Philippians 4:7), just as sandals guard the feet. Because peace with God has been secured through the cross (Colossians 1:20), believers become peacemakers in a hostile world. living it out today • Cultivate daily time in the Word so the gospel remains fresh. • Treasure the Lord’s peace; refuse anything that robs it. • Step into conversations, workplaces, and neighborhoods as a carrier of good news—“Blessed are the peacemakers” (Matthew 5:9). • Pursue peace with others: “If it is possible on your part, live at peace with everyone” (Romans 12:18). • Stay ready for every good work (Titus 3:1-2), treating every circumstance as a divine appointment. summary Ephesians 6:15 calls believers to strap on sturdy, peace-filled gospel footwear. The gospel supplies unshakeable footing; readiness keeps us alert; peace guards our hearts. With sure steps we stand firm against the enemy and move forward, bringing God’s saving peace into a world that desperately needs it. |