6:11

complete suit of armor: This phrase translates the single Greek word pa·no·pliʹa that refers to the defensive and offensive military equipment used by foot soldiers in combat. Paul likely based his detailed illustration on the Roman soldier. (Eph 6:13-17) Paul could have seen Roman soldiers wearing such armor in various parts of the Empire but certainly in the Praetorian camp, where he was likely taken on his arrival in Rome. (Ac 27:1; 28:16) Christians need a spiritual kind of armor that comes only from God because they are engaged in a spiritual struggle rather than a physical one.​—Eph 6:12; see Glossary, “Armor,” and Media Gallery, “Roman Soldier’s Suit of Armor.”

the crafty acts: Or “the schemes.” The Greek word here rendered “crafty acts” occurs only two times in the Christian Greek Scriptures, both in a negative sense. Here it describes the cunning tricks and tactics that Satan the Devil uses to ensnare Jehovah’s servants. At Eph 4:14, it is rendered “schemes.”