Ephesians 6:16 - Commentary Critical and Explanatory on the Whole Bible

Bible Comments

Above all, taking the shield of faith, wherewith ye shall be able to quench all the fiery darts of the wicked.

Above all, х epi (G1909)]. So A. Delta G 'Over all:' so as to cover all that was put on before. Three integuments are specified-the breastplate, girdle, and shoes; two defenses-the helmet and shield; and two offensive weapons-the sword and the spear (prayer). Ellicott, etc., 'Besides (in addition to) all,' as in Luke 3:20. But if it meant this, it would have come last in the list (cf. Colossians 3:14). But 'Aleph (') B f g, Vulgate read х en (G1722)] 'In all (things).'

Taking, х analabontes (G353)] - 'taking up.'

Shield - the oblong door-like х thureon (G2375), from thura (G2374)] shield of the Romans 4:1-25 feet long by 2 1/2 feet wide; not the small round buckler.

Ye shall be able - not merely 'ye may.' The shield of faith will certainly intercept, and so 'quench all the fire-rapt [pepuromena] darts,' (ancient fire-darts were formed of cane, with tow and combustibles ignited on the head, so as to set fire to wood-work, tents, etc.)

Of the wicked - `of the EVIL ONE.' Faith conquers (1 Peter 5:9) his darts of temptation to, wrath, lust, revenge, despair, etc. It overcomes the world (1 John 5:4), and so the prince of the world (1 John 5:18).

Ephesians 6:16

16 Above all, taking the shield of faith, wherewith ye shall be able to quench all the fiery darts of the wicked.