What illustrations did Paul commonly use from the Roman military?
Paul often used the Roman army and soldier as examples, especially the whole armor of God. The equipment was designed for forward advance only—no retreat or rearguard—so every piece Paul denotes supports a frontal attack, including feet shod with the gospel and the shield of faith.
Les explains that Paul so often used the Roman army or the soldier as an example, or alluded to them for one reason or another. Les points out that all the armor and equipment of the Roman soldier was only for one direction: forward. There was never room for retreat or a rearguard action. Everything Paul denotes in Ephesians 6 was for a frontal attack. Les also notes Paul's mention of feet shod with the preparation of the gospel and the shield of faith.