We are exposed on every side to cultural pressures. Between the two temptations of escapism and conformism, the latter is more common—that is, accommodation to the prevailing culture. We are exposed to cultural pressures incompatible with the Lordship of Jesus Christ, which, nevertheless, are demanding from us a capitulation that we are not prepared to give.

And if we do capitulate to the pressures of society around us, then we compromise our integrity, we blunt our testimony, and we suffocate our spiritual life.

What are the pressures of our culture to which we are forbidden to conform? What are the contemporary trends which threaten to envelop and engulf the church and against which we need to be on guard? I have selected three. I’m sure there are many more we could discuss, but these three are very important.

First there is the challenge of pluralism: the church is called to be a community of truth.

Second there is the challenge of materialism: the church is called to be a community of pilgrimage.

Third there is the challenge of moral relativism: the church is called to be a community of righteousness.

Excerpt from the sermon notes of John Stott. The 
Three Challenges to the Contemporary Church, Page 11-15

Let me add just a few more lines from Ephesians chapter 6:

Stand your Ground

Stand and be strong in the Lord and in the strength of his might

Stand suited in the whole armor of God

Stand, having fastened on the belt of truth

Stand, having put on the breastplate of righteousness

Stand, having put on the readiness given by the gospel of peace, as shoes for your feet,

Stand, in all circumstances take up the shield of faith

Stand, wearing the helmet of salvation

Stand, holding the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God

Stand, praying at all times in the Spirit, with all prayer and supplication

Stand, keeping alert with all perseverance