Christian Warfare

¹⁰ Finally, be strengthened by the Lord and by his vast strength.^{(A) 11} Put on^(B) the full armor^(C) of God so that you can stand against the schemes of the devil. ¹² For our struggle is not against flesh^(D) and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities,^(E) against the cosmic powers of this darkness, against evil,^(F) spiritual forces in the heavens.^{(G) 13} For this reason take up the full armor^(H) of God, so that you may be able to resist^(I) in the evil day, and having prepared everything, to take your stand. ¹⁴ Stand,^(J) therefore, with truth^(K) like a belt around your waist, righteousness^(L) like armor on your chest,^{(M) 15} and your feet sandaled with readiness for the gospel of peace. ¹⁶ In every situation take up the shield^(N) of faith^(O) with which you can extinguish all the flaming arrows of the evil one.^{(P) 17} Take the helmet^(Q) of salvation and the sword^(R) of the Spirit^(S)—which is the word of God. ¹⁸ Pray^(T) at all times in the Spirit^(U) with every prayer and request, and stay alert^(V) with all perseverance and intercession for all the saints. ¹⁹ Pray also for me, that the message may be given to me when I open my mouth to make known with boldness^(W) the mystery of the gospel. ²⁰ For this I am an ambassador^(X) in chains. Pray that I might be bold enough to speak about it as I should.

Instructions on Prayer

2 First of all, then, I urge that petitions, prayers, intercessions, and thanksgivings be made for everyone, ² for kings and all those who are in authority,^(A) so that we may lead a tranquil and quiet life in all godliness^(B) and dignity.^{(C) 3} This is good, and it pleases God our Savior,^{(D) 4} who wants everyone^(E) to be saved^(F) and to come to the knowledge of the truth.^(G)

⁵ For there is one God^(H) and one mediator^(I) between God and mankind, the man^(J) Christ Jesus, ⁶ who gave himself as a ransom for all,^(K) a testimony at the proper time.

⁷ For this I was appointed a herald, an apostle^(L) (I am telling the truth;^[a] I am not lying), and a teacher of the Gentiles^(M) in faith and truth.

Instructions to Men and Women

⁸ Therefore, I want the men in every place to pray, lifting up holy hands without anger or argument.^(N)

¹⁶ Therefore, confess your sins to one another and pray for one another, so that you may be healed. The prayer of a righteous person is very powerful in its effect.^(A)