Powers of Darkness: Principalities & Powers in Paul's Letters by Clinton E. Arnold

Author:Clinton E. Arnold
Language: eng
Format: epub

How the Powers Influence Believers

Paul was primarily concerned with the health and well-being of his churches. Consequently he spent little time reflecting on the influence of the powers over the world at large. He did not, for instance, explain how the powers of darkness exert their control over the Roman Caesars, the economy or the diplomatic relationships among the various Roman provinces. This does not mean that Paul's teaching on the powers has no relevance for understanding their influence on social, political and economic structures. In fact, his thought has significant implications for understanding and responding to those structures. What has been preserved for us, however, are his letters to churches churches facing various internal struggles and the ongoing effects of sin. Paul warned his churches to be concerned with the world. But their concern should be expressed chiefly through the proclamation of the gospel of Christ.

Paul clearly saw Christians as still susceptible to the deleterious influence of evil spirits. It is not just the temptations of the flesh and the allurement of the world that a person contends with once he or she becomes a Christian. The powerful supernatural work of the devil and his powers sets itself against individual Christians and the church as a whole. The fact that the powers exploit the flesh and exert their influence over the world systems makes the extent of their influence comprehensive.

In addition to drawing the implications of the work of Christ to the powers, Paul's letters are concerned with describing the nature of the influence of the powers on believers. What follows is a discussion of some of the specific ways that the forces of darkness attempt to exercise their control over Christians.

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