One common question in the minds of many Christians is, “Does the devil have power?” Some people say, “Yes, he has.” And others say, “No, he doesn’t.” But what does the Bible teach? Because at the end of the day, it’s not people’s opinions that stand but the truth of God’s Word.
The devil had power. But in our time of life, he doesn’t because Jesus broke his power when He died on the cross and resurrected. How true is this? Let’s delve more into God’s Word.
Why the devil has no power
Several scriptures prove the fact that the devil has no power. Some are Hebrews 2:14, Matthew 28:18 and Colossians 2:15.
Before Jesus died on the cross and resurrected, all the kingdoms of this world were in the hands of the devil. We see satan lay claim to this possession when he came to tempt Jesus (Luke 4:6-7). And Jesus didn’t challenge him because it was a valid argument. So since Jesus knew this would only change after He had died and resurrected, He gave those He sent out to preach the authority to trample over serpents and scorpions and to overcome all the power of the enemy (Luke 10:19, Mark 6:7). Why? Because if He hadn’t done that, the devil would have molested them on the mission field as he did to the seven sons of Sceva in Acts 19:13-15.
Now, Jesus has disarmed all demonic powers and authorities (Colossians 2:15). He has broken the power of the devil – who used to have the power of death (Hebrews 2:14). Hence, the devil has no power as we speak, especially over the children of God. He hasn’t lost his subtle attitude, the ability to cause spiritual blindness (2 Corinthians 4:4), steal, kill and destroy (John 10:10). So it’s up to the children of God to keep ensuring his defeat over their lives.
Walk in Dominion
God predestined you to walk in dominion over the devil, but only in Christ. That is why we believers are of God, but the world lies in wickedness (1 John 5:19).
You have the spiritual authority to cast out demons, lay hands on the sick for them to be healed and ensure the rulership of God over your house. But it’ll be dormant in you until you use it. Decide to follow God, avoiding sin with intentionality in order to prevent giving any chance to the devil (James 4:7).