Trinity Baptist Church

Shake, Tattle, and Foil: Standing Firm in the Armor of God

Episode Summary

Senior Pastor David Rose unpacks Ephesians 6 and Acts 4, showing how God equips us with His armor to withstand the enemy’s schemes and to share Christ’s peace in a chaotic, anxious world. Like the early church, we’re called to bring hope to the broken, push back against spiritual darkness, and lock shields with fellow believers—standing firm in the victory Christ has already won. Listen in to discover what it means to stand united in faith, empowered by His presence, and ready to proclaim His unshakable truth.

Episode Notes

Key Takeaways

Further Study

 

  1. Paul describes the “shield of faith” as protection against the “flaming arrows of the evil one” (Ephesians 6:16). What are some common “arrows” that believers face today, and how does faith in Christ guard us? Prayerfully consider specific instances where faith in Christ helped you overcome doubt, temptation, or accusation from the enemy. (cf. 1 Peter 5:8-9)
  2. When the early church faced threats, they prayed for boldness rather than for removal of opposition (Acts 4:29-31). Take a minute to read Jesus’ prayer in Matthew 26:52-54. How can praying for boldness, instead of ease, deepen our dependence on God?
  3. Pastor David said that the Gospel “shakes the foundations of our culture.” In Acts 4:23-31, how does the early church’s prayer acknowledge God’s sovereignty over opposition? How does this relate to Jesus’ promise in Matthew 16:18 about building His church, even in hostile environments?
  4. Pastor David made the point that peace isn’t found in the absence of conflict but in His presence. Take a minute to read the account of Paul and Silas worshiping from a prison cell in Acts 16:25-34. Compare this to Philippians 4:6-7. In practical terms, what would this kind of peace look like in your life?

The Gospel

If you have questions about what it means to be a Christian, we would love to talk with you about it.

Reach out

The Gospel is that Christ died for our sins, was buried, and rose again on the third day (1 Corinthians 15:3-4). As Pastor David said, this isn’t “good news” that can become “bad news” based on circumstances – it’s the unchangeable truth that transforms everything.

We all face a battle we can’t win on our own. Sin separates us from God, leaving us spiritually dead and powerless against Satan’s accusations and attacks. But Jesus, through His perfect life, sacrificial death, and triumphant resurrection, has already won the victory. When we trust in Christ, we’re clothed in His righteousness, covered by His truth, and given His peace – not because our circumstances change, but because He is with us.

Just like the Philippian jailer in Acts 16 who went from despair to joy, or Lydia whose heart was opened to receive the truth, God offers new life to anyone who turns from their sin and trusts in Christ. This isn’t about religious performance or perfect circumstances—it’s about Jesus being our peace, our righteousness, and our unshakeable foundation.

Want to know more about following Jesus? Like those early believers who found bold faith in Christ, we’d love to help you discover the peace that comes only through His presence.