Daily Devotions
Ephesians
"And having shod your feet with the preparation of the gospel of peace."
Text: Ephesians 6:15
HAVING SHOD YOUR FEET
The word “shod” (“hupodesamenoi”) is most interesting. The Roman soldier was well equipped with a good pair of shoes.
1. Bearing in mind the tactics of enemies
Rome had many enemies. Some of them noted that the strength of the army lay in its infantry. Some tried to resist the Roman might by throwing sharp objects on the ground. Soldiers who did not have good footwear would suffer great pain if they were to step on these sharp objects strewn on the ground.
2. Strong Roman shoes (“caligula”)
Rome knew just how to overcome this method of resistance from their enemies. They created a special kind of footwear for their soldiers.
a) These shoes were strong and made for marching.
b) They were heavily studded with hobnails.
“FEET SHOD WITH THE GOSPEL OF PEACE”
What could have been in Paul’s mind as he wrote these words? Let us consider the following texts.
How then shall they call on Him in whom they have not believed?
And how shall they believe in Him of whom they have not heard?
And how shall they hear without a preacher?
And how shall they preach unless they are sent?
As it is written:
How beautiful are the feet of those who preach
the gospel of peace, who bring glad tidings
of good things!
ROMANS 10:14-15
1. The Gospel of peace
It seems ironic that the gospel of peace is spoken in the same breath as spiritual warfare.
a) Satan will oppose the spread of the Gospel with all his resources.
b) The good Christian soldier must on his part seek to preach the gospel of peace no matter the kind of resistance he will meet along the way.
2. Messengers of the Gospel of Peace
Their work will not be in vain. Many (those who are saved) will bless the very feet of these special messengers of the gospel of peace.