From the beginning, God never designed man to live under the oppression of darkness. Dominion was God’s original mandate to humanity: “And God blessed them, and God said unto them, Be fruitful, and multiply, and replenish the earth, and subdue it: and have dominion...” (Genesis 1:28). Though Adam’s fall compromised this authority, Christ came as the second Adam to restore it.
Paul boldly declared in Colossians 2:15 that Christ “spoiled principalities and powers, and made a show of them openly, triumphing over them in it.” This victory was not for Christ alone; it was transferred to every believer who identifies with His death and resurrection.
Understanding Our Position in Christ
When we received Christ, we were not just forgiven of sins—we were raised with Him and made to sit together with Him in heavenly places (Ephesians 2:6). This means the believer’s authority is not from human strength but from union with Christ, who is seated far above all principalities and powers (Ephesians 1:21).
Darkness recognizes authority, not noise. The sons of Sceva in Acts 19:13–16 tried to cast out demons by mimicking Paul, but the evil spirit responded, “Jesus I know, and Paul I know; but who are ye?” Authority flows from relationship with Christ and revelation of His Word, not empty religious acts.
Exercising Authority Over Darkness
- Through the Word of God – Jesus defeated Satan in the wilderness by saying, “It is written” (Matthew 4:4). The Word is a weapon in the mouth of the believer.
- Through the Name of Jesus – Philippians 2:10 declares that at the name of Jesus every knee must bow. Demons submit to this name when spoken in faith.
- Through the Blood of Jesus – Revelation 12:11 affirms that believers overcome the accuser by the blood of the Lamb and the word of their testimony.
- Through Persistent Prayer – Prayer enforces the authority of heaven on earth. It is the channel through which we bind and loose according to Matthew 18:18.
- Through a Holy Lifestyle – Authority is compromised when a believer willingly entertains sin. Holiness keeps the believer spiritually bold (Proverbs 28:1).
Living With Boldness
The authority of the believer is not for showmanship but for kingdom advancement. Jesus said in Luke 10:19, “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 promise empowers us to break satanic yokes, liberate captives, and live free from fear.
The devil thrives on intimidation, but his power is broken. The believer must rise daily with this consciousness: “Greater is He that is in me, than he that is in the world” (1 John 4:4). With this revelation, you can confront darkness anywhere—be it in dreams, family battles, or territorial oppression—and enforce Christ’s victory.