The Roman Empire was the big boss on the block for hundreds of years. All that was considered “civilization” was under Roman rule, Roman dominion. Maintaining that position of supremacy and expanding their power took a massive military force. Well-trained, privileged, respected, uniquely organized, expertly led, and outfitted with the most advanced protective gear available, the soldiers of the Roman army were an unstoppable fighting machine. A Roman soldier outfitted in all his gear epitomized power, an undefeatable opponent.

It is as a symbol of universal power that the Ephesians author invokes the militaristic image of putting on “the armor of God.” God as warrior is a familiar Old Testament image. (Isaiah 11:5; 52:7; 57:16). The “strength of his power” is the strength that shored up Dav…