Matthew 12:29

Matthew 12:29 Meaning and Explanation

Or else how can one enter into a strong man’s house, and spoil his goods, except he first bind the strong man? and then he will spoil his house.

King James Version (KJV)

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Jesus pictures himself binding the strong man in order to plunder his house.

What Does Matthew 12:29 Mean?

Jesus gives a vivid picture. To enter a strong man's house and carry off his goods, one must first overpower and bind the strong man himself. Only then can the house be plundered. The image explains how he is able to set the oppressed free.

Satan is the strong man, holding captives in his house; Jesus is the stronger One who binds him and releases his prisoners. Every deliverance is a sign that the enemy has been overpowered. Far from serving Satan, Christ has invaded his domain and is leading the captives out. This points toward the cross and resurrection, where the strong man is decisively bound and his power over death and sin is forever broken.

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What does Matthew 12:29 mean?

Jesus pictures himself binding the strong man in order to plunder his house.

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