Biblical chapter and verse divisions are useful in referencing various statements or passages. At the same time, they can have the effect of fracturing the text in ways tending to obscure an intended theme or continuity of thought.
Most new believers are soon apprised of Paul's exhortation to "put on the full armor of God" in view of faith's battle with the forces of evil (Eph. 6:11-17). Indeed, in some conservative circles, the passage becomes something of an ongoing motto in the interests of continued viligance and progress.
The apostle does not stop here, however. Spiritual armor is to be accompanied by a viable prayer life wherein one continues in "prayer and petition in the Spirit, and with this in view" becomes active in prayer on behalf of "all the saints" (vs. 18; "all God's people," NEB).
Yet despite a rightful focus on "breastplates of righteousness" and "shields of faith," have we not, by inserting a verse division following verse 17, frequently failed of the injunction to pray for Christ's Body in its larger sense - that Body which, once again, Paul viewed in terms of "all who in every place call on the name of Jesus Christ our Lord, both theirs and ours," and "all those who love our Lord Jesus Christ in sincerity" (I Cor. 1:2; Eph. 6:24)?
God does not see us in terms of our narrowed sectarian cloisters and self focused identities. With Him there is "one Body, one Spirit, one hope of calling, one Lord, one faith, one baptism, one God and Father of all" (Eph. 4:4-6). As members of that Body, we are invited to share our Lord's perspective concerning His sons and daughters.
A good point a which to begin lies in praying for the Body at large - our brothers and sisters in Christ.
Burl Ratzsch
