Crushing Strongholds: God’s Word Over the World and Satan
Introduction
In 2 Corinthians 10, the apostle Paul addresses the congregation at Corinth, defending his ministry and authority against accusations of walking in the flesh. Despite being a mere mortal, Paul’s power and authority were derived directly from the risen Lord Jesus. However, Paul did not rely on human strength or the ridiculousness of worldly wisdom in his mission to win souls. He understood that the flesh and the wisdom of men held no power in the spiritual realm, where the battle for souls raged.
The apostle Paul recognized the formidable stronghold of demonic power, which sought to ensnare humanity. Yet, he knew that this spiritual stronghold could be overcome only by the power of the gospel (Romans 1:16) and the truth of God’s Word (Hebrews 4:12). This power is available to all believers, but it requires diligent study of the Scriptures so that we can identify falsehoods, false teaching and the tsunami of deception all around us.
As believers immerse themselves in the Word of God through daily study, prayer, and fellowship with other believers, we become increasingly disobedient to the ways of the world. This disobedience to worldly influences is a testament to our growing obedience to Christ and our commitment to live according to His will. However, it also invites opposition and persecution from those who adhere to the world’s standards.
In the midst of spiritual warfare, believers must remain steadfast in their faith, armed with divine weapons and fortified by the truth of God’s Word. As we engage in this battle, we can be confident that the power of the gospel will prevail, breaking the chains of bondage and setting captives free (1 Corinthians 15:55-58). Beloved the bottom line is we must study the Bible, we must be in the Bible everyday because Satan and his demons never rest. The battle is 24/7.
We are in a Spiritual War
II Corinthians 10:3 – “For though we walk in the flesh, we do not war after the flesh.”
In 2 Corinthians 10:3, the apostle Paul reminds us that our battles as believers are not merely physical but spiritual. Despite living in the physical world, our warfare is waged in the realm of the unseen. In an age marked by rampant deception, Paul’s admonition to the Corinthians and to us today is clear: seek truth in the Word of God.
II Corinthians 10:4 – “(For the weapons of our warfare are not carnal, but mighty through God to the pulling down of strong holds;)”
Verse 4 underscores the nature of our weaponry in this spiritual battle. Our weapons are not of the flesh but are divinely empowered to demolish strongholds. Paul himself exemplified this as he confronted the idolatry and pagan worship of cities like Ephesus, where his proclamation of the gospel caused upheaval among idolaters and stirred opposition from those who profited from the worship of false gods.
II Corinthians 10:5 – ‘casting down arguments and every high thing that exalts itself against the knowledge of God, bringing every thought into captivity to the obedience of Christ,’
Furthermore, in verse 5, Paul urges believers to cast down every lofty idea that opposes the knowledge of God. In a world inundated with competing ideologies and philosophies, we are called to evaluate all things against the truth revealed in Scripture. Our thoughts, too, must be brought into submission to the obedience of Christ (How? By reading His Word, and Who is the Word, Christ Jesus), recognizing that our battles are often waged within the confines of our own minds.
II Corinthians 10:6 – “And having in a readiness to revenge all disobedience, when your obedience is fulfilled.”
Finally, verse 6 highlights the correlation between obedience to God’s Word and resistance to worldly disobedience. As we grow in obedience to Christ, we naturally become more resistant to the temptations and pressures of the world around us. Our readiness to avenge disobedience stems from our commitment to live in accordance with God’s will, even when it runs counter to the prevailing culture.
In conclusion, let us embrace our identity as soldiers (2 Timothy 2:3) in the spiritual battle, armed with divine weapons and fortified by the truth of God’s Word. As we engage in this warfare, may we remain steadfast in our obedience to Christ, knowing that in Him, we have the victory.
Takeaway
“Beloved, let this truth sink deep into your soul: the Bible isn’t just a book—it’s the ultimate weapon in the universe. In these challenging times, we must be rooted in the Word daily. While the world seems to be crumbling apart; covered with deception, confusion, and uncertainty, God has equipped believers with this unparalleled weapon. Those who wield (study) it understand that the world isn’t falling apart; it’s aligning perfectly for the glorious return of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. Praise God! Let’s dive into the Scriptures daily, for within its pages lies the power to overcome worldly strongholds, the wisdom to discern, and the hope to endure.”
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