Power, and authority to destroy the works of the devil

        The Christian life is not a powerless one. When Jesus died on the cross and rose from the dead, He didn’t just secure our salvation—He also gave us power and authority over all the works of the enemy. The devil still roams, seeking whom he may devour (1 Peter 5:8), but the believer has been equipped to stand firm and destroy his schemes.

Understanding Power and Authority

● Power refers to the ability or strength to do something.

● Authority is the legal right to act or command.

        Jesus gives His followers both. In Luke 10:19, Jesus says:

    "Behold, I give unto you power to tread on serpents and scorpions, and over all the power of the enemy: and nothing shall by any means hurt you."

        This verse makes it clear: the enemy has power, but the believer’s power in Christ is greater. Authority makes our use of power legitimate. Without authority, power is dangerous or even ineffective. But in Christ, we have both.

The Purpose of Christ's Coming

        1 John 3:8 says: "For this purpose the Son of God was manifested, that he might destroy the works of the devil."

        Jesus came to undo the chaos the enemy brought into the world—sin, sickness, deception, fear, and death. He didn't just destroy the devil’s work once and for all on the cross; He empowered His followers to continue this mission on earth.

Weapons of Spiritual Warfare

        Believers are engaged in a spiritual war. The Apostle Paul tells us:

    "For the weapons of our warfare are not carnal, but mighty through God to the pulling down of strongholds" (2 Corinthians 10:4).

       Some of these spiritual weapons include:

● The Name of Jesus – Every knee must bow to this name (Philippians 2:10).

● The Blood of Jesus – It overcomes Satan’s accusations (Revelation 12:11).

● The Word of God – The sword of the Spirit (Ephesians 6:17).

● Prayer and Fasting – Brings divine intervention and spiritual strength (Matthew 17:21).

● Faith – Our shield to quench the enemy's fiery darts (Ephesians 6:16).

Biblical Examples of Authority Over Darkness

1. Jesus casting out demons (Mark 1:23-26)

        Jesus spoke with authority, and demons trembled. He didn’t negotiate with them; He commanded them to go.

2. Paul and the spirit of divination (Acts 16:16-18)

        Paul cast out a spirit from a slave girl that brought profit to her masters. He didn't tolerate demonic oppression—he confronted it with authority.

3. Believers doing the same (Mark 16:17)

    "And these signs shall follow them that believe; In my name shall they cast out devils..."

        This isn't limited to apostles or pastors. Every believer has this authority.

Walking in This Authority Today

        To exercise your God-given authority:

● Submit to God: Authority is effective only under divine submission (James 4:7).

● Know Your Identity: You are seated with Christ in heavenly places (Ephesians 2:6).

● Speak with Confidence: Use God’s Word and Jesus’ name boldly.

● Stay in the Spirit: A carnal life weakens spiritual effectiveness.

● Live in Obedience: Sin opens doors to the enemy. Holiness closes them.

Modern-Day Application

        Many Christians today are under attack—spiritually, emotionally, financially—yet unaware that they have the authority to resist the devil. Whether it's cycles of addiction, fear, oppression, or confusion, believers can break free and also help others through intercession and spiritual warfare.

        Satan's goal is to deceive and make us believe we’re powerless. But Jesus says otherwise.

Prayer to Destroy the Works of the Devil

    Heavenly Father, I thank You for the victory that is mine in Christ Jesus. I declare that I am seated with Christ far above all powers and principalities. In the name of Jesus, I cancel every plan, attack, and scheme of the enemy over my life, family, and destiny. I rebuke fear, confusion, sickness, and delay. I speak life, freedom, and divine order. Let every stronghold be pulled down and every evil altar is destroyed. By the blood of Jesus, I am covered and set free. Amen.

        God has not left us defenseless. Rise up in your God-given power and authority. The devil may come, but he cannot prevail. When you resist him in the name of Jesus, he must flee.