And what is the exceeding greatness of his power to us-ward who believe, according to the working of his mighty power, Which he wrought in Christ, when he raised him from the dead, and set him at his own right hand in the heavenly places, Far above all principality, and power, and might, and dominion, and every name that is named, not only in this world, but also in that which is to come: And hath put all things under his feet, and gave him to be the head over all things to the church, Which is his body, the fulness of him that filleth all in all. (Ephesians 1:19-23)
Do you ever think of the devil as a terrifying figure? A red guy with a pitchfork and a spiked tail, able to conjure fire out of nowhere? Well, that’s more Hollywood than reality. Too many Christians allow themselves to be awed by how evil the devil appears when the truth is he is a defeated enemy with no weapons left in his arsenal; the only way he can succeed in a fight is by persuading believers to turn their own weapons against themselves or each other. In Ephesians 1, Paul described the exceeding greatness of God’s power at work in believers. This is not a lesser version of power or just a small piece of it — it is the same power that raised Christ from the dead! That same resurrection power at work in you means that you have total victory over sin, death, and all the forces of darkness - including the devil himself.
Paul explained that Christ has been raised far above all principalities, powers, might, and dominion. These terms represent the various ranks of spiritual forces, including earthly and demonic authorities. Paul wants us to know that Jesus is not merely above them; He is far above them. And as He is, so we are also. His victory is our victory.
The feet are part of the body; if all things are under His feet, they are also under ours. As the psalmist wrote, “Thou shalt tread upon the lion and adder: the young lion and the dragon shalt thou trample under feet” (Psalm 91:13).
Practical Application
Do not be impressed by the enemy; he is a defeated foe. Refuse fear, and when it tries to come, speak with power and authority, knowing your place in the body of Christ!