Ephesians 6:12

Commentary on Ephesians 6:12

Ephesians 6:12

New King James Version
12 For we do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of [a]the darkness of this age, against spiritual hosts of wickedness in the heavenly places.

Footnotes
Ephesians 6:12 NU this darkness,

Context of Ephesians 6

Ephesians 6 begins with practical exhortations for household relationships—children and parents (6:1–4), bondservants and masters (6:5–9)—and culminates in Paul’s call to spiritual warfare (6:10–20). The shift from earthly duties to a cosmic battle underscores that personal obedience and communal harmony prepare believers to stand firm against unseen adversaries.

The Teaching of Ephesians 6:12

Ephesians 6:12 declares that our real struggle is not against human opponents but against “principalities,” “powers,” “rulers of the darkness of this age,” and “spiritual hosts of wickedness in the heavenly places” (NKJV). The teaching is clear: believers must recognise that life’s conflicts are ultimately spiritual and require divine resources, not mere human effort, to withstand them.

Exegesis of Key Phrases

• “Wrestle not against flesh and blood”: The Greek term for “wrestle” conveys a close, personal struggle. We are urged not to misidentify our true enemies as people or circumstances but to see beyond the visible conflict.
• “Flesh and blood”: A Semitic expression emphasising mere human power and limitation. Paul warns against viewing trials as purely earthly disputes.
• “Principalities” and “powers”: Titles for organised ranks of demonic forces with delegated authority to oppose God’s purposes. These terms hint at a structured hierarchy in the spiritual realm.
• “Rulers of the darkness of this age”: Demonic potentates who hold sway over cultural and moral darkness, shaping ideologies and values contrary to the gospel.
• “Spiritual hosts of wickedness in the heavenly places”: Evil spirits operating in the sphere beyond human sight, orchestrating temptation, deception and discord in the world and church.

Theological Insights

1. Total depravity informs spiritual warfare: Sin has corrupted every aspect of human nature, making us susceptible to demonic influence. Recognising our weakness drives us to rely on God’s sovereign grace rather than our own strength.
2. Christ’s victory and believer’s authority: In union with the ascended Christ, believers share His triumph over “all principalities and powers” (Ephesians 1:21), enabling them to “stand” in spiritual conflict by faith in His finished work.
3. Means of grace as armour: The belt of truth, breastplate of righteousness, shield of faith and other pieces reflect gospel realities applied by the Spirit—Scripture, prayer, faith, holiness—rooted in union with Christ and sustained by God’s covenant promises.

Application to Modern Christian Living

• Cultivate vigilance in prayer: Paul’s injunction to pray “always in the Spirit” (6:18) reminds us that prayer is our lifeline, keeping us alert to the enemy’s schemes and grounded in God’s power.
• Immerse in Scripture daily: The “sword of the Spirit” (6:17) is the Word of God. Regular Bible reading and meditation equip believers to counter lies, discern truth and apply gospel promises in temptation.
• Engage in local church community: Spiritual armour is not worn in isolation. Mutual exhortation, confession, and collective intercession sharpen believers’ resolve and foster accountability.
• Persevere in righteousness: The breastplate of righteousness (6:14) guards our hearts when we pursue holy living empowered by Christ’s imputed and imparted righteousness, resisting moral compromise in work and relationships.