The ‘Breastplate of Righteousness’ in Ephesians 6:14: Imputation or Virtue?

Abstract

This study examines the long-standing disagreement over the nature of the ‘breastplate of righteousness’ in Ephesians 6:14. One position argues that the righteousness is external, consisting of imputed righteousness. The other position argues that the righteousness is internal, consisting of Christian virtues. This study includes a brief survey of Paul’s usage of spiritual armour in other Epistles and an examination of the Isaianic background of spiritual armour. After examining the metaphor of the ‘armour of God’ and the context in Ephesians, it is argued that the breastplate is ethical, consisting of virtues that reflect Christ.