Paul's images are few and vivid. While he was imprisoned in private lodgings, he was surrounded by the military, and could scrutinise the soldiers and their armour closely. The Gospel he preaches is practical, for a life which acknowledges evil as a real force. He uses the image of a soldier to show how it can be resisted actively: but indicates that the equipment for defence is to be found in truth, integrity, peace, faith and in the inspiration of the Holy Spirit, for him a sword, and ironically the symbol of His martyrdom. At the same time prayer, and constant prayer, He says, is essential.

In confronting evil, we are following in the path of Christ. Jesus laments that evil is so near at hand, blinding the hearts of His own people: yet there is a note of hope in His suggestion that even those who reject His message can change, and that the spiritual and the substantial will at last meet in God.