Breastplate of Righteousness

Armor of God

What is a breastplate?

The apostle Paul listed several pieces of armor worn by the Roman soldiers of his day and made an analogy about the spiritual armor needed by Christians. The second piece of armor, the breastplate, is likened to righteousness: “Having put on the breastplate of righteousness” Ephesians 6:14.

The breastplate worn by Roman soldiers was generally made of iron, though some wealthier soldiers may have worn a bronze breastplate.

It consisted of overlapping pieces of metal with connecting front and back sections. There were rounded pieces protecting the shoulders and the breastplate usually rested on the soldier’s hips so the entire weight wasn’t carried on the shoulders.

The overlapping pieces allowed for more flexibility of movement. This piece of armor protected the vital organs of the soldier during battle.

Adam Clarke’s Commentary says the following: “As the breast-plate defends the heart and lungs, and all those vital functionaries that are contained in what is called the region of the thorax; so this righteousness defends everything on which the man’s spiritual existence depends.”

Proverbs 21:3
To do righteousness and justice
is more acceptable to the Lord than sacrifice.

1 Peter 3:14
But even if you should suffer for righteousness’ sake, you will be blessed. Have no fear of them, nor be troubled.

Psalm 34:15
The eyes of the Lord are toward the righteous
and his ears toward their cry.