The concept of “arresting the strong man” is a powerful biblical principle that reveals the strategy for the Church to win the battle against the forces of darkness at all times and every turn. Victory is assured when the Church takes decisive action to arrest Satan, the strong man who seeks to steal, kill, and destroy (John 10:10). This spiritual warfare involves binding and pulling down strongholds, casting out demons, and exercising authority in Jesus’ name.
The Mandate to Arrest the Strong Man
Jesus Himself provided the blueprint for arresting the strong man when He said, “Or again, how can anyone enter a strong man’s house and carry off his possessions unless he first ties up the strong man? Then he can plunder his house” (Matthew 12:29 NIV). This statement emphasizes the necessity of binding the strong man to gain access to his domain and claim victory.
Binding and Pulling Down Strongholds
The Apostle Paul elaborates on the nature of our warfare in 2 Corinthians 10:3-4, stating, “For though we live in the world, we do not wage war as the world does. The weapons we fight with are not the weapons of the world. On the contrary, they have divine power to demolish strongholds.”
Strongholds are deceptive patterns of thinking, belief systems, or demonic influences that hinder people from knowing God and experiencing His freedom. The Church has been given authority to bind these strongholds, breaking their power and freeing captives. Through prayer, fasting, and proclaiming God’s Word, believers can dismantle the enemy’s fortifications and release God’s truth and freedom into people’s lives.
Casting Out Demons in Spiritual Warfare
Jesus commissioned His disciples to cast out demons as part of their ministry (Matthew 10:8). This authority is not limited to the apostolic age but extends to all believers today. Mark 16:17 declares, “And these signs will accompany those who believe: In my name, they will drive out demons; they will speak in new tongues.”
Casting out demons involves recognizing the presence of demonic oppression or possession and exercising authority in Jesus’ name to command these evil spirits to leave. This spiritual warfare releases individuals from bondage, bringing healing, deliverance, and restoration.
Scriptures on Spiritual Warfare
The Bible is filled with scriptures that equip believers for spiritual warfare. Here are some key passages:
Ephesians 6:10-18: This passage describes the whole armor of God, which includes the belt of truth, the breastplate of righteousness, the shoes of the gospel of peace, the shield of faith, the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit. Believers are encouraged to wear this armor to stand firm against the devil’s schemes.
James 4:7: “Submit yourselves, then, to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you.” This scripture emphasizes the importance of submitting to God and actively resisting the devil’s temptations and attacks.
1 Peter 5:8–9: “Be alert and of sober mind. Your enemy, the devil, prowls around like a roaring lion, looking for someone to devour. Resist him, standing firm in the faith.” This passage underscores the need for vigilance and faithfulness in resisting the enemy’s advances.
Luke 10:19: “I have given you authority to trample on snakes and scorpions and to overcome all the power of the enemy; nothing will harm you.” Jesus assures His disciples of their authority over the enemy’s schemes and encourages them to walk in victory.
Victory Assured
Arresting the strong man is not an option but a mandate for the Church. Victory is assured through binding and pulling down strongholds, casting out demons, and engaging in spiritual warfare. Christians can overcome any challenge or obstacle if they obey God’s Word and are filled with the Holy Spirit.
In conclusion, the Church has been given divine authority and spiritual weapons to arrest the strong man, Satan, and win the battle at all times and every turn. By aligning with God’s will, standing firm in faith, and wielding the sword of the Spirit, the Church can experience victory in every area of life and see God’s kingdom advance on earth. Let us rise in faith, unity, and boldness, knowing that greater is He who is in us than in the world (1 John 4:4). Victory is assured through Jesus Christ, our Lord, Savior, and Victor!
