Bulletins - Rooted Church SWMO

Who You Say I Am
Jesus Firm Foundation
You've Already Won
Goodness of God
- - Ephesians 6:14–15NIV2011
- - 2 Timothy 3:14–17NIV2011
Ephesians 6:14, 2 Timothy 3:14-17

Announcements:
The Stage

Intro:
Last week, we opened this series by examining Paul’s call to “stand firm against the schemes of the devil.” Paul makes that bold proclamation, and then, doesn’t stop there—he unpacks this warning by reminding us that “we do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the cosmic powers over this present darkness, against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly places.”

These words demand that we look beyond the physical, that we recognize the spiritual reality all around us .

Believing the Bible means embracing the reality that life extends far beyond what we can see with our eyes. This perspective is essential to understanding Scripture. Yet for many Western Christians, adopting this mindset can feel like an uphill battle—a challenge shaped by the unique cultural and historical context of our time.

In biblical times—and for most of human history—the supernatural was woven into everyday life (just open the NT). This remains true in much of the world today. But here in America, materialism has become the dominant belief system. Our culture tells us that technology is the only magic worth worshiping and that what we can touch, measure, explain, or possess is all that truly exists. And the enemy, has no problem whatsoever with letting us believe that.

What’s interesting though, is that the broader world doesn’t seem as resistant to the idea of the supernatural as we might assume. Just consider what captures the global imagination through the entertainment industry. Almost every blockbuster movie or popular TV shows is centered around the paranormal. Stories of haunted houses, heroes coming from beyond our planet to fight evil and save humanity, and unexplained aerial phenomenons are what are stories our world is eager to buy. Discussions about aliens have entered mainstream conversations like never before. People remain fascinated by spirits, and countless “enthusiasts” are still searching for Bigfoot.

It’s easy to dismiss these fascinations with the paranormal and supernatural as laughable, but doing so would be a grave mistake—especially for the church. These cultural obsessions reveal something profound, not because people are delusional, but because they are desperately searching for answers they haven’t found in the church. The world craves understanding about the unseen, and we, as God’s people, are called not to dismiss the supernatural but to be those who understand it most clearly. We are the ones equipped to shine the light of truth into the shadows that unsettle the world.

Why are people so captivated by the supernatural? What is it about these themes that resonates so deeply?

I believe it’s because, deep within every human soul, there is an innate awareness—a recognition that we are part of something greater than ourselves. Whether they acknowledge it or not, every person senses that there is a reality beyond the physical. Something unseen watches, influences, and interacts with this world. This universal sense of the “beyond” points to the eternal truths Scripture reveals: that God has placed eternity in the human heart (Ecclesiastes 3:11).

Yet here lies the challenge for us as Christians. While the world is intrigued by the supernatural, we often approach it with hesitation—or even outright skepticism. We let our understanding of the material world dilute the mystery and majesty of the spiritual one. We reduce the Bible’s supernatural truths to mere metaphors or distant abstractions because they don’t fit neatly into our modern frameworks.

But the world is searching, even if they’re looking in the wrong places. And we, the church, hold the answers they’re seeking. If we fail to embrace the fullness of Scripture and its revelation of the unseen, we miss our chance to meet that longing. We must reclaim the awe and wonder of the spiritual realities God reveals—not only to deepen our faith but to point others to the One who reigns over both the seen and unseen.

To do this, we must go beyond acknowledgment of the spiritual realm and its impact on our lives. We need to know how to stand firm in the midst of it. This is why Paul emphasizes that because the spiritual realm and its opposition are real, we must be equipped to:

Ephesians 6:14–15 ESV
Stand therefore, having fastened on the belt of truth, and having put on the breastplate of righteousness, and, as shoes for your feet, having put on the readiness given by the gospel of peace.

Remember, Paul writes the book of Ephesians while chained in a prison cell. As he urges the church to stand firm against spiritual opposition, we can imagine the scene: Paul, sitting in the dim light of his confinement, gazing at the armored Roman guard stationed nearby. The Spirit of God uses this vivid image to inspire Paul’s plea, illustrating the spiritual armor believers must wear to stand firm against the schemes of the enemy.

This Roman soldier, clad in heavy armor, would have been a symbol of strength and resilience. Every piece of the soldier’s armor served a specific purpose, ensuring he was ready for battle. From head to toe, he was equipped to face the physical enemies of Rome. Yet Paul uses this image to communicate a deeper truth—one about the unseen spiritual battle in which every Christian is engaged.

Paul’s description begins with the foundational piece of armor:

The Belt of Truth

In regards to this item, I find the KJV to be helpful as it reads:

“Stand therefore, having your loins girt about with truth” - KJV

In Paul’s day, clothing was more than just functional; it reflected the way people approached their daily lives. A man would wear a tunic, essentially an undershirt that resembled a gown, and over that, he’d put on a tunic coat. When life was relaxed—at home or among friends—this clothing was loose and comfortable, flowing freely. But when it was time to work, travel, or prepare for battle, baggy clothing became a hindrance. No one wanted to trip over their tunic while wielding a sword or running into the fray. So, they used a belt.

The belt wasn’t just an accessory; it was essential. It gathered the tunic close to the body, freeing up movement and enabling a person to act without stumbling. This act of preparation became so integral to readiness that it produced a the phrase "gird your loins" which is still used today.
This expression is a call for one to: Prepare yourself! Get ready for action! Be on alert!

Paul isn’t the first one to use this phrase, in fact, it can be found recorded in the book written by Paul’s dear friend Luke. In that book, Luke records Jesus telling believers to be prepared for His return, and in Luke 12:35 (KJV), Jesus commands them using this phrase:

“Let your loins be girded about, and your lights burning.”

The context here is one of vigilance and expectation. Christ is saying, “Stay ready. Be prepared for My return. Don’t let anything slow you down or keep you from the mission I’ve given you.”

Paul picks up this same metaphor in Ephesians 6:14, calling believers to “stand firm” by girding their loins with truth as part of the armor of God.

In the face of spiritual opposition, Paul is saying: Stand ready. Prepare yourself for battle, and anchor yourself with truth.

For the Christian, our belt—the thing that holds everything together—is truth. Not just any truth, but absolute truth: the Word of God, passed down through generations, preserved by the Holy Spirit, and powerful to sustain us in every battle we face, whether flesh or spirit.

In a world filled with competing philosophies and shifting moral landscapes, we don’t deal in subjective opinions or fleeting ideas. We cling to the eternal truth of Scripture. It’s the foundation that strengthens us, keeps us steady, and prevents us from stumbling.

Paul’s encouragement to Timothy is a perfect example of this principle. Timothy, a young leader facing immense challenges, found himself discouraged and overwhelmed by the pressures of ministry. False teachers were leading others astray as they themselves were led astray by the enemy, and Timothy needed to know how to stand firm.

Paul’s advice? “Just stop and take a moment to remember what’s true.”

Paul reminds Timothy to stay the course by holding fast to the Scriptures remembering what he had been taught his whole life. In 2 Timothy 3:14-15 , Paul says:

2 Timothy 3:14–15 ESV
But as for you, continue in what you have learned and have firmly believed, knowing from whom you learned it and how from childhood you have been acquainted with the sacred writings, which are able to make you wise for salvation through faith in Christ Jesus.

Timothy’s foundation in truth began in childhood. His mother, Eunice, and grandmother, Lois, didn’t have access to storybooks or entertaining distractions. Instead, they saturated Timothy’s life with the Word of God. They told him the stories of God’s faithfulness and works, planting seeds of truth in his heart.

They faithfully tilled the soil, planted the seeds, and prayed for God to give life. And at the appointed time, God brought those seeds to fruition by His own power. And now, that same power was what what Timothy would need to stand firm, so he need remember it.

In the midst of spiritual warfare, Paul calls Timothy to remember those truths—because they are the foundation that holds everything else together (kids Sunday School).

In the battle against the forces of evil, everything start with remembering what’s true, it was a failure to remember truth that led to the fall in the garden.

The enemy is a master of deceit. Sometimes he deals in outright lies, but more often, it’s half-truths, deception painted in godly terms.

God loves me no matter what, so I can live how I want and He’ll forgive me.
God loves everyone, so can we really call their preferences sinful?
God is the on righteous judge, so it’s not really for me to speak to my brother about his drinking problem.
God’s everywhere, so church isn’t really a big deal.

I have heard all of these in some form or another. I’ve heard people use “grace” to justify unbiblical divorce, “occasional” drunkeness, profane and vulgar speech, a lack of modesty, and all kinds of other things.

You see, the term “satan” is not actually a name, it’s a title that means “the adversary.” The focus of the adversary is specifically the children of God. he doesn’t need to condemn the world, they stand condemned themselves apart from Christ, but he seeks to condemn and discredit the witness of the church, so his lies always seek to take truth, and manipulate it, to take what’s pure and contaminate it.

Thus, Paul reminds Timothy that we must drink from the only source of pure, undefiled truth. In 2 Timothy 3:16-17 he writes:

2 Timothy 3:16–17 (ESV)
All Scripture is breathed out by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, and for training in righteousness, that the man of God may be complete, equipped for every good work.

Think about these words that Paul writes: the Scriptures are the very breath of God. When we open the Word, God breathes into our lives. Just as breath gives life to words, so the Scriptures give life to our souls. Truth, is what comes directly from God through His word.

Lies are inventions of man and false spirits, but 2 Peter 1:20-21, reminds us that Scripture isn’t a product of invention, but God’s word, written by men that were guided by the Holy Spirit. The word is divine, authoritative, and the source of unchanging truth.

2 Peter 1:20–21 ESV
knowing this first of all, that no prophecy of Scripture comes from someone’s own interpretation. For no prophecy was ever produced by the will of man, but men spoke from God as they were carried along by the Holy Spirit.

The bible is the source of the truths we need to stand firm. And in no way is this more true, than in how it protects our own hearts, which leads us to the:

Breastplate of Righteousness

While Paul likely drew inspiration from the Roman guard, this piece of armor assures us that he was inspired by more than what he could see. Scripture was on his mind and in his heart, for the Word tells us that this remarkable piece of armor was worn by God Himself!

Isaiah 59:17 ESV
He put on righteousness as a breastplate, and a helmet of salvation on his head; he put on garments of vengeance for clothing, and wrapped himself in zeal as a cloak.

When Paul uses Old Testament imagery of Yahweh as the divine warrior and applies it to the church, he is making a profound theological statement. He shows that the church now represents Yahweh in the battle against evil. Through Christ, the church has taken on the character of her God, engaging in spiritual warfare against evil with the same armor worn by the Warrior King Himself.

In putting on this divine armor, we bear His image as His representatives, equipped by Him to wage war against spiritual forces of darkness. And God does not leave us defenseless or unequipped. Instead, He clothes us in His own battle gear!

Now, notice in this text, that Paul exhorts believers to “put on” the breastplate of righteousness. This isn’t merely a metaphorical suggestion—it’s a command. The breastplate is a critical piece of armor for any warrior, for it guards the heart and vital organs. So for Christians, the breastplate of righteousness represents more than a passive protection; it is an active, Spirit-filled pursuit of righteousness in our daily lives.

It’s important to understand here, that Paul isn’t writing about the righteousness imparted to us through Christ. When Christ saves you, His righteousness covers you and you are made holy. That work is done, you are cleansed permanently on the basis of Christ and Christ alone.

However, if that was what Paul was referring to: then there would be no need for Paul to urge us to put it on, for we wear it already. This is a call to action!

When Paul commands us to put on the breastplate of righteousness, he is emphasizing our responsibility as believers to live righteous lives in light of the truth we believe. While God has declared us righteous in Christ, we are called to live in alignment with that reality, and that is our responsibility, that is our fight!

This means we are to pursue righteousness actively and intentionally, inviting the Spirit to shape our hearts and minds to reflect the holiness of God.

So how do we do this?

Well, Paul tell us in Ephesians 6:16 when he writes:

Ephesians 6:16 ESV
In all circumstances take up the shield of faith, with which you can extinguish all the flaming darts of the evil one;

The way the wording is here, the term “all circumstances” is referring to the armor Paul has just written of.
So he’s essentially saying, that each of these pieces, including the breastplate of righteousness, are put on through faith in the one who is our righteousness.

He also makes this point in 1 Thessalonians 5:8-11 when he writes:

1 Thessalonians 5:8–11 (ESV)
But since we belong to the day, let us be sober, having put on the breastplate of faith and love

In the spiritual battles we face, Satan’s primary aim is to hinder us from glorifying God.

He despises God’s glory, and nothing illuminates it more brightly than your salvation. And while he was unsuccessful in preventing our redemption, and he cannot now take it away, he seeks to mar it by derailing our lives of righteousness which are meant to reflect the image of God.

Our pursuit of holiness stands as a visible testimony of God’s character and holiness, and living in light of Him, changes the world around us, and also makes us targets of the adversary.

Because ultimately, spiritual warfare is a battle between two kingdoms, the kingdom of Light and the kingdom of darkness. This is why when Jesus began his earthly ministry, right out of the gate He displayed His unique authority over the demons. In the very first chapter of Mark, Jesus was teaching in the synagogue and people were blown away by His words, when in the middle of teaching them, an evil spirit shows up to find out what in the world is going on, and in Mark 1:24 the demons words are recorded:

Mark 1:24 ESV
“What have you to do with us, Jesus of Nazareth? Have you come to destroy us? I know who you are—the Holy One of God.”

This demon understood rightly what the world did not yet when he asked, *“Have you come to destroy us?”* When Jesus entered the scene, the kingdom of darkness was put on notice. His arrival wasn’t just about teaching or healing—it was a declaration of war against the forces of evil that had long held humanity in bondage. The demon’s question wasn’t one of curiosity but of fear, because it recognized the authority and power of the Son of God. With every word Jesus spoke and every act He performed, the kingdom of light began to advance, signaling that the days of the enemy’s dominion were numbered. Jesus’ presence wasn’t merely disruptive; it was a proclamation that the reign of darkness was being dismantled and that a new era of God’s kingdom was breaking through.

So, just as the forces of darkness would oppose Him at every turn, they now oppose those in whom He dwells. We are called to shine a light, but we are also warned that when we do, we draw the ere of the forces that opposed the kingdom of light.

Closing:

And so, as we close this morning, I want to address the question of: “How does the breastplate of righteousness protect us from these rulers, authorities, cosmic powers, and spiritual forces of evil?”

Paul’s answer is clear: righteousness—both our standing in Christ and our active pursuit of holiness—serves as a vital defense against the enemy’s attacks.

LISTEN TO ME HERE: Unrepentant sin, is the opportunity our adversary is looking for. It becomes a foothold for evil to exert it’s destructive, God-dishonoring influence in our hearts, relationships, homes and even the church.

When believers engage in sinful behavior, they open a door for the devil to influence their lives. Paul warns the church in Ephesians 4:27, “Give no opportunity to the devil.”

Sin hinders God’s work in us. When we choose sin over righteousness, we allow Satan to obstruct our ability to glorify God in every area of life—our ministry, our marriages, our relationships, and our mission. Sin weakens our personal witness, discredits the church, and provides the enemy with an opportunity to slander Christ Himself, as Paul warns in 1 Timothy 5:14.

But here’s the good news: Satan’s power is not absolute. His influence is limited by God’s sovereignty, and he can be resisted by those who submit to God. James 4:7 tells us:

James 4:7 ESV
Submit yourselves therefore to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you.

Friends, I want you to realize something weighty this morning. One of the reasons this righteous breastplate is so important important, is because evil’s desire is not merely for you—it’s for your household, and the generation that comes after you. Evil plays the long game.

Parents, your children’s hearts are precious battlegrounds, and the enemy would love nothing more than to plant seeds of sin in their minds. Protecting your home with intentional prayer is your among your greatest responsibilities as a parent and a spouse . Pray fervently for your children, that God would guard their hearts and draw them to Himself. Pray for wisdom as you lead them, that you would be bold in pointing them to truth and gentle in modeling Christ’s love.

Be vigilant about what enters your home—through screens, conversations, and even your own unchecked habits. The world is eager to fill their minds with messages that contradict God’s truth, but you are their God ordained gatekeeper, and to deny that responsibility, is to invite repercussions that will outlive you.
Take seriously the call to keep sinful influences at bay and to fill your home with what glorifies God. This isn’t about being legalistic; it’s about creating an environment where God’s Word is the foundation and His righteousness is the goal.

Model this righteousness through your marriage by taking seriously the belt of truth:

Outdo one another in showing honor, be quick to say “I was wrong, and I am sorry.”

Provide Godly instruction, and demonstrate mercy that reflects Christ.

Don’t speak against worldly influences, while you yourself are captivated constantly by staring at your phone.

Don’t allow pornography and lustful content into your home, but instead make make biblical sexuality a priority in your marriage, that they enemy might not have a foothold.

Make church a priority, give of your time, talent and treasure as a family, so that you don’t declare with your calendar that the kingdom of the world trumps the kingdom of God.

When we humbly align our lives and our homes with God’s Word, we fortify our families against spiritual attacks, that I promise, are more rampant than you realize.

Pursuing righteousness isn’t about striving in our own strength—it’s about leaning into Christ’s power to transform us and those we love. His righteousness strengthens our faith, equips us to stand firm, and sheds light into darkness, inviting the world, including our children, to the feet of He who saves!

When we sin, we open the door for the enemy to influence not only our lives but also the hearts of those we’re called to protect.
When we pursue righteousness, we close those doors, glorify God through our families, and provide a testimony of faithfulness for the next generation.

The battle is real, and every choice we make—whether to sin or walk in righteousness—carries eternal weight.

So, I urge you this morning, to stand firm. Pray for your family and Pray for our church.

Speak truth to one another!

Shed light into the dark, because the same power that raised Jesus from the grave is at work in you, in your home, and in this church.
Through Him, the victory is already ours, but we must endure!
Let us lean into His strength together this morning, for the good of our families, and glorify God.

Let’s Pray

Communion
- - Ephesians 6:14–15NIV2011
- - 2 Timothy 3:14–15NIV2011
- - 2 Peter 1:20–21NIV2011
- - Isaiah 59:17NIV2011
- - Ephesians 6:16NIV2011
- - Mark 1:24NIV2011
Come Thou Fount
- - 1 Thessalonians 5:23–24NIV2011

Ephesians 6:14–15NIV2011

2 Timothy 3:14–17NIV2011

Ephesians 6:14, 2 Timothy 3:14-17

Announcements:

Intro:

The Belt of Truth

Breastplate of Righteousness

Closing:

Ephesians 6:14–15NIV2011

2 Timothy 3:14–15NIV2011

2 Peter 1:20–21NIV2011

Isaiah 59:17NIV2011

Ephesians 6:16NIV2011

Mark 1:24NIV2011

1 Thessalonians 5:23–24NIV2011