The breastplate protects the body's vital organs (heart, lungs, liver, kidneys, gut)—which mirror the five-fold ministry roles (Eph 4:11–13). Since humans are unrighteous , this physical protection symbolizes the need for the Breastplate of Righteousness to sustain the Army of God. Because our righteousness is flawed , we receive imputed righteousness through faith in Jesus Christ , whose perfect obedience acts as an eternal "transplant" for our spiritual life.