Hats often convey a message. Sometimes that message is written for all to see; other times, it is the style of the hat that speaks. For instance, in my closet are baseball-style caps trumpeting my favorite teams and places I’ve been. And over the years, some hats declare formalness, conformity, non-conformity, and individualism. As Christ-followers, Paul encourages us to “ take the helmet of salvation.” (Ephesians 6:17a, NASB95)
The helmet of salvation, what does that mean? In this instance, the Greek Paul uses indicates a dual purpose or meaning. That dual purpose shouldn’t be surprising since helmets, especially military ones, have a dual purpose of identification and protection. The helmet of salvation is both a statement of being and a message of means. It affirms salvation for the wearer and visibly carries the message of salvation for all to see.
While hats and helmets are generally worn with pride, the helmet of salvation is worn with humility. Salvation reminds us of the past and the path we were saved from through Christ. We are, after all, sinners saved through grace. Paul reminded his readers of that earlier in the letter to the Ephesians. “For by grace you have been saved through faith; and that not of yourselves, it is the gift of God;” (Ephesians 2:8, NASB95)
Hats and helmets are also used to divide friend from foe, but not this one. The helmet of salvation is more like that worn by a medic on the battlefield. After all, “our struggle is not against flesh and blood.” It’s easy to assume that the flesh and blood people attacking us in some way are the enemy. In reality, they’re a victim of Satan’s war on humanity. In Satan’s view, they are nothing but pawns and cannon fodder in his war with God. So, even though they may be “shooting” at us, we are trying to bring them to safety and healing – in other words, salvation in Christ.
But not everyone is going to wear the helmet of salvation in the same. Some will proclaim as evangelists. Others will proclaim through service. Many through prayer. Some through teaching or writing. Others through friendship and caring. Many through giving of time and resources. Some by being peacemakers instead of rabble-rousers. The message of all is the same – Jesus loves you, even though the methods vary. Never look down on anyone carrying the message of salvation. Instead, rejoice that God is using them to reach folks you can’t. “Whatever you do in word or deed, do all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks through Him to God the Father.” (Colossians 3:17, NASB95)
The one part we haven’t spoken of yet is the other side of a helmet’s purpose – to protect the wearer. Salvation protects us because it constantly reminds us who we are in Christ. Yes, we are a sinner saved by grace. And by this salvation, we belong to God; we have been bought with a precious price, we are His sons and daughters, and above all, we are loved. No one can change that.
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