Passage: Ephesians 6:14
Lean In
- When have you discovered that something you believed turned out to be only “half-true”? How did it affect your decisions or relationships?
- What helps you tell the difference between a passing opinion and lasting truth?
Look Up
Read Ephesians 6:10-18 aloud as a group.
Observation — What does the text say?
- What repeated words or phrases stand out (e.g., “stand,” “armor,” “truth,” “righteousness”)?
- Notice the order of the armor pieces. Why might the belt of truth be listed first?
- What images or emotions does the picture of a Roman soldier bring to mind?
Interpretation — What does the text mean?
- What do these verses teach about God’s role and our role in spiritual battle?
- How does “truth” in this passage point to both the person of Jesus (John 14:6) and the content of God’s Word (John 17:17)?
- What is the difference between Christ’s imputed righteousness (our position) and practical righteousness (our daily obedience)?
- Why would Paul connect truth and righteousness so closely—how do they work together?
Application — How should we respond?
- Where are you most tempted to build your identity on something other than God’s truth (performance, approval, possessions, etc.)?
- What lies—about yourself, God, or others—do you sense the Holy Spirit inviting you to replace with Scripture this week?
- Which “heart protectors” (forgiveness, healthy media habits, confession, community) need strengthening in your life right now?
- How can our group help one another stay grounded in truth and walk in righteousness?
- Read through this worksheet which includes Our Identity in Christ.
https://ericbryant.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/the-basics-for-following-jesus-for-pdf.pdf
Further Study
- John 17:14-17 – “Sanctify them by the truth; your word is truth.”
- Proverbs 4:23 – “Above all else, guard your heart…”
- 2 Corinthians 5:21 – Christ’s righteousness credited to us.
- 1 John 2:14 – The Word of God living in us enables victory.
Prayer
Guide the group through these movements:
- Praise – Thank God that His Word is truth and that Jesus’ righteousness covers us.
- Confession – Silently name any lies believed or sins nursed in the heart.
- Petition – Ask the Spirit for courage to stand firm, discern deception, and forgive quickly.
- Intercession – Pray protection and spiritual strength over one another, families, and church.
Step Out
- Tighten the Belt Daily – Commit to at least 10 minutes of Scripture reading each morning; write one truth from your reading to carry through the day.
- Guard the Heart – Choose one “heart check” habit: limit a media feed, reconcile a strained relationship, or practice nightly confession.
Encourage a Fellow Brother/Sister – Text or call someone mid-week with a verse of truth or a short prayer for their protection and courage.