The Power of Binding and Loosing in Matthew 16:19 and 18:18
In Matthew 16:19, Jesus says, “And I will give you the keys of the kingdom of heaven, and whatever you bind on earth will be bound in heaven, and whatever you loose on earth will be loosed in heaven.”
He then reiterates this statement in Matthew 18:18 “Assuredly, I say to you, whatever you bind on earth will be bound in heaven, and whatever you loose on earth will be loosed in heaven.”
These verses hold significant importance and provide insight into the authority and power given to believers.
Understanding the Context
Before delving into the significance of these verses, it is essential to understand the context in which Jesus spoke these words. In Matthew 16, Jesus asks His disciples who they believe Him to be. Peter responds, “You are the Christ, the Son of the living God.” Jesus affirms Peter’s confession and declares that on this rock, He will build His church.
It is in this context that Jesus speaks about binding and loosing. He is not referring to physical objects but rather to the authority to make decisions and judgments in matters of faith and conduct within the church.
The Power of Binding
Binding refers to the power to limit or counteract the effects of negative forces like sin, illness, or demonic influence through faith and prayer. It represents the capacity to assert God’s will and implement it in the spiritual realm.
Believers use binding to access the authority Christ has given them, affirming their role as inheritors of His kingdom. This power stems from a deep connection with God and is in harmony with His divine plan. It highlights the duty of believers to partake in spiritual battles and resist the enemy’s plots.
In Matthew 12:29, Jesus uses the metaphor of binding the strong man to illustrate the necessity of overcoming evil forces before plundering his possessions.
This concept aligns with the authority given to believers through binding as mentioned in Matthew 18:18. Just as a thief must first bind the strong man to plunder his house, so too must believers bind the spiritual forces opposing God’s kingdom to bring about His purposes on earth. This implies a proactive engagement in spiritual warfare, where believers exercise their authority to restrain the influence of darkness and release God’s power and blessings.
It underscores the importance of discernment, prayer, and reliance on God’s strength in confronting and overcoming spiritual opposition.
Thus, the act of binding not only symbolizes the authority given to believers but also their role in advancing God’s kingdom and bringing about His victory over evil.
The Power of Loosing
On the other hand, when Jesus speaks of loosing, He is referring to the authority to permit or declare something as allowed or to be set free. Just as binding involves restraining or negating negative spiritual influences, loosing involves unleashing the blessings, freedom, and favor of God into individuals’ lives and situations.
This authority extends beyond merely breaking chains of bondage or releasing individuals from spiritual oppression; it encompasses the declaration and activation of God’s promises and purposes.
Through loosing, believers participate in God’s redemptive work by facilitating healing, restoration, and empowerment in the lives of others. It involves aligning with God’s will and releasing His grace, mercy, and love into every circumstance, thereby manifesting His kingdom on earth as it is in heaven.
Like binding, loosing requires faith, prayer, and a deep connection with God, recognizing His sovereignty and trusting in His provision to bring about transformative change and ultimate victory over darkness.
The Significance and Responsibility
The power of binding and loosing given to the believer is a significant responsibility. It highlights the importance of unity, discernment, and reliance on the guidance of the Holy Spirit. The decisions the believer makes on earth have implications in the heavenly realm.
However, it is crucial to note that this authority is not absolute or independent of God’s will. The believer’s power to bind and loose is derived from their alignment with God’s Word and His purposes. The believer must exercise this authority with humility, seeking wisdom and guidance from the Holy Spirit.
Conclusion
The power of binding and loosing, as mentioned in Matthew 16:19 and 18:18, holds significant importance in the life of the believer. It is only through embracing this authority and utilizing it under the Holy Spirit’s guidance that a believer truly begins to mature in their spiritual journey.
Is it not time that you begin to bond the works of darkness in your life and begin to loose His blessings?