The Christian life is a battlefield, not a playground. Renowned 17th-century pastor William Gurnall understood this profoundly, and his timeless exposition of Ephesians 6:10-20, The Christian in Complete Armor, remains one of the most comprehensive guides ever written on spiritual warfare. But the language of the Puritans can be challenging for modern readers. This volume, Part #1 of a Modern, Updated Translation makes Gurnall's vital insights accessible without sacrificing theological depth. In these pages, Gurnall lays the foundation for spiritual victory: The Call to Courage: Understand why unwavering courage and determination are essential for every believer and where true strength is found--not in ourselves, but "strong in the Lord, and in the power of his might." Wearing God's Armor: Receive clear guidelines on the necessity, divine origin, and active use of the "whole armor of God." Learn why superficial faith fails and how to cultivate genuine, persevering grace. Understanding the Enemy: Gain critical insight into the "wiles of the devil." Gurnall meticulously exposes Satan's cunning strategies, his power as a spiritual adversary ("principalities and powers"), his methods for tempting believers into both outward sin and subtle spiritual wickedness (like pride in gifts or grace), and his tactics as an accuser. Standing Firm: Discover the reasons why God calls us to arm ourselves--to "withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand"--exploring the nature of affliction, the certainty of battle, and the assurance of final victory through Christ. This first volume equips you to understand the nature of the conflict, identify your true enemy, and embrace the divine resources available for the fight. If you desire to move beyond a superficial faith and engage seriously in the spiritual battles that define the Christian journey, Gurnall's practical, deeply scriptural wisdom--now in clear, modern language--is an indispensable resource. About the Author: William Gurnall (c. 1617-1679) was an English clergyman and author, renowned for his steadfast Puritan convictions and his long tenure as rector of Lavenham, Suffolk. Educated at Emmanuel College, Cambridge, a hub of Puritan thought, Gurnall dedicated his life to pastoral ministry. His enduring legacy rests almost entirely on his monumental work, The Christian in Complete Armor. Originally published in three volumes between 1655 and 1662, this exhaustive exposition of Ephesians 6:10-20 provides a deeply practical and richly illustrated guide to the nature of spiritual warfare, the schemes of the devil, and the divine resources available to the believer. Celebrated for its profound spiritual insight, thoroughness, and powerful application, Gurnall's work has remained influential for centuries, offering timeless wisdom for Christians seeking to stand firm in their faith amidst life's battles.
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