Paul concludes his letter with a strong word of encouragement in which he synthesizes his main themes in a powerful picture the recipients would be reminded of on a daily basis. The scene painted is one of military presence and warfare. It’s a call to arms! Paul leaves his audience with a picture of a Roman soldier – something they would have seen daily. Every time they saw a Roman soldier it would trigger thoughts from this letter.
darkness under a dark lord in a dark realm, but now you are children of light who have been completely transformed by the love, mercy, and grace of God. Soldier up! Stand strong! Stand strong in the power of your position.