2 Corinthians 10:4–5

Memory Verse

For our weapons of warfare are not carnal, but inherent ability by God towards the tearing down of strongholds, while tearing down reasoning and every lofty thing that raises itself up against the knowledge of God, and taking captive every conclusion of the mind into obedience of the Christ (2 Corinthians 10:4–5)

The conclusions of the mind stem from the logical processes we apply to information. When reasoning or any form of knowledge elevates itself above the knowledge of God, it constructs a stronghold in our mind that rejects the truth.

Many of these strongholds arise from what we are taught within the world system. Scientism, for instance, asserts that empirical science is the sole valid source of knowledge about reality. As a result, the theory of evolution is presented as fact, even though its own evidence reveals it rests on a flawed premise. Moral relativism, the notion that there is no absolute moral truth and that right and wrong are determined by culture, provides justification for pretending to be something one is not—creating a mental reality contrary to truth. Within the Church, destructive doctrines also creep in, erecting strongholds against the truth: legalism; the prosperity gospel; syncretism (such as yoga or pagan practices like Easter); authoritarianism, which elevates church leaders above the people; and moral compromise, which rationalizes and softens biblical standards to align with societal trends.

In Christ, we possess an inherent ability, granted by God, to overcome these strongholds. This ability flows through the weapons of warfare we wield, which are not fleshly but spiritual in nature. The spiritual realm is intimately tied to the rational, as it underpins a person’s capacity for reasoning. With the new mind we receive in Christ, we can discern spiritual truths. The Holy Spirit compares spiritual things with spiritual words, teaching us how to properly uncover the truth when we function from our new mind. This new mind offers a transformed way of thinking, capable of discerning sound, rational truth because it is rooted in the logic of the spirit rather than fleeting emotions. We are equipped with defenses against our sin nature, Satan, and the world system, enabling us to live the victorious life we have in Christ. Let us learn to wield these weapons effectively, tearing down any logic or lofty reasoning that exalts itself against the knowledge of God. By doing so, we can know the truth and live unhindered by these strongholds, fully embracing the life we have in Christ.