Ephesians 6:15 – “and with your feet fitted with the readiness that comes from the gospel of peace.”

Extended Explanation

This verse is part of Paul’s teaching on the armor of God, describing how believers must be spiritually equipped to stand firm against evil. Here, he focuses on footwear, comparing it to the “readiness that comes from the gospel of peace.”

Shoes are essential for a soldier. Without them, movement is difficult, and rough terrain can cause injury. In the same way, a Christian must have the right foundation to stand strong in the spiritual battle.

Paul describes this foundation as “the gospel of peace.” The gospel (the good news of Jesus Christ) brings peace between God and humanity, giving believers confidence and security. When someone trusts in Christ, they have peace with God, which gives them readiness—the ability to stand firm, move forward, and share this message with others.

The idea here is that Christians must be prepared, stable, and ready to move, just like a soldier who laces up his boots before battle. The gospel provides that firm footing, helping believers stand in faith and take the message of peace to a world that needs it.

Historical Context

Paul likely had a Roman soldier’s armor in mind when writing this passage. Roman soldiers wore sturdy sandals (caligae) with thick soles and spikes or nails underneath, giving them a strong grip on the ground. These shoes helped them stand firm in battle and march long distances without slipping.

This imagery would have been powerful for the Ephesian believers. They lived in a city filled with spiritual warfare, false religions, and persecution. They needed firm footing in their faith to stand against opposition and share the gospel boldly.

Paul’s mention of “peace” would have also been significant. The Roman Empire prided itself on the “Pax Romana” (Roman Peace), a temporary political stability achieved through military force. But Paul points to true peace, which comes only through the gospel. This is not an external, temporary peace, but a deep, spiritual peace with God that brings confidence in any situation.

Theological Implications

This verse highlights several important spiritual truths:

1. The gospel gives stability. Just as a soldier’s shoes provide a firm stance, the gospel gives believers security and confidence. Without it, they are vulnerable to being knocked down by trials and temptations.
2. The gospel brings peace. Before knowing Christ, people are separated from God. But through Jesus, they are reconciled to Him (Romans 5:1). This peace is not just a feeling but a new relationship with God.
3. Christians must be ready. The word “readiness” implies preparation and alertness. Believers should always be ready to stand strong in faith and to share the gospel when opportunities arise (1 Peter 3:15).
4. The Christian life is active, not passive. A soldier does not sit around barefoot—he equips himself for movement. Likewise, believers are called to go and make disciples (Matthew 28:19).

Literary Analysis

Paul’s choice of words is powerful:

• “Feet fitted” – This suggests a deliberate, secure preparation, not a casual approach.
• “Readiness” – This means alertness, preparation, and willingness to move.
• “Gospel of peace” – This emphasizes that true security comes not from human effort, but from the message of salvation through Jesus.

The structure of this verse follows Paul’s pattern of explaining why believers must be prepared (spiritual warfare) and how they can stand firm (by equipping themselves with God’s truth).

Relevant Biblical Cross-References

• Romans 5:1 – “Therefore, since we have been justified through faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ.”
• Isaiah 52:7 – “How beautiful on the mountains are the feet of those who bring good news, who proclaim peace, who bring good tidings, who proclaim salvation.”
• John 14:27 – “Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives.”
• Colossians 3:15 – “Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, since as members of one body you were called to peace.”
• 1 Peter 3:15 – “Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have.”

What This Verse Means for Today’s Christian

This verse reminds believers that they must be spiritually prepared for whatever comes their way.

For today’s Christian, this means:

• Standing firm in faith. Life will bring trials, but those who are grounded in the gospel will not be easily shaken.
• Living in God’s peace. The world offers temporary happiness, but true peace only comes from a restored relationship with God.
• Being ready to share the gospel. Just as a soldier is always prepared for battle, Christians should always be prepared to share the hope they have in Jesus.
• Moving forward in obedience. The Christian life is not about standing still but about advancing God’s kingdom through faith and action.

A believer without firm spiritual footing will struggle when challenges come. But those who are secure in Christ’s peace can stand strong and walk boldly in their faith.

How This Verse Relates to a Loving God

God’s love is seen in this verse because He gives believers the peace and security they need. He does not leave them vulnerable—He provides the gospel as a firm foundation.

This verse also reveals God’s mission for His people. He calls them to be messengers of peace, sharing His love with the world. This shows that God’s desire is not for destruction, but for reconciliation and salvation for all who believe.

How This Verse Connects to Jesus Christ

Jesus is the perfect fulfillment of this verse:

• Jesus is the source of peace. Ephesians 2:14 says, “For he himself is our peace.” He reconciled sinful humanity to God through His sacrifice.
• Jesus gives His followers stability. He said in Matthew 7:24-25 that those who build their lives on His teaching are like a house built on rock—it will not be shaken.
• Jesus sends His followers out. In Matthew 28:19, He commands believers to “Go and make disciples,” spreading the gospel of peace.

Because of Jesus, believers can stand firm, live with peace, and confidently share the good news.

Questions for Reflection and Discussion

1. What does it mean to have your “feet fitted with the readiness” of the gospel?
2. How does the gospel give you stability and peace in daily life?
3. What are some ways the enemy tries to knock believers off their footing?
4. How can you be more prepared to share the gospel with others?
5. How does knowing that Jesus is your peace give you confidence in spiritual battles?

Ephesians 6:15 reminds believers that peace is not just something we feel—it is something we stand on. The gospel is a firm foundation, and with it, Christians can stand strong, live boldly, and be ready to share the good news with the world.