Armor of God - Book of ActsSample

Breastplate of Righteousness

Bible story: Cornelius (Acts 10:9-23)

The next piece of the Armour of God from Ephesians chapter 6 is the breastplate of righteousness. Righteousness is showing godly character, or doing what is right, good and faithful. The act of continually doing what is right before the Lord is what keeps our breastplate in place. God asks us in scripture to be wise and do the right thing. When we do, we can be sure that we have our breastplate on, and that our hearts are fully protected while in battle.

There is something very important about the breastplate, it covers our heart which is a vital organ, but only from the front. When we have it on, we can be wounded but still get up and keep going. However, we need to be facing the battle because the breastplate only covers the front. It won’t protect us if we are turned around, running in retreat.

What is godly character and righteousness? How do we know if we have it? The Bible says that Cornelius was a devout and god-fearing man who gave generously and prayed regularly. The Bible also says that all the Jewish people respected him. Others will know when you are righteous, because with time it is obvious to see.

Cornelius had his breastplate of righteousness on. At that time, it was against the law for Jews to associate with gentiles or even visit them. (Acts 10:28) God sent Peter a vision so that he would go share the gospel with Cornelius. Because Cornelius was a godly man, God sent someone (even against the law) to save him and his whole family!

"I choose to always do the right thing."

Questions:

1. In what situations of your life have you shown that you have the breastplate of righteousness on and in which situations no?

2. Explain how righteousness can be faked.

3. In what situations do you choose to do nothing rather than be embarrassed?

4. Whose house did Peter go to visit? Why was this unusual?

5. In what ways was Cornelius different than other men in the area?