Demolishing Lies

The Taking of Jericho, c. 1896-1902, by James Jacques Joseph Tissot (French, 1836-1902) or follower, gouache on board, 7 1/4 x 5 15/16 in. (18.6 x 15.1 cm), at the Jewish Museum, New York

3 For though we walk in the flesh, we are not waging war according to the flesh. 4 For the weapons of our warfare are not of the flesh but have divine power to destroy strongholds. 5 We destroy arguments and every lofty opinion raised against the knowledge of God, and take every thought captive to obey Christ...—2 Corinthians 10:3-5 (ESV)

Paul’s example of handling accusation from his enemies is one to commend. He didn’t respond as most humans do—with retribution and human tactics and weapons. Rather he understood that his real enemies are the unseen ones (see. Ephesians 6:12). Therefore, he responded with the unseen weapons that the Holy Spirit provides—sound thinking, clear direction and purpose, and truth from God, all validated through the life, death, and resurrection of Christ. Jesus had a clear mission. Any thoughts contrary to that mission are not to be entertained, or negotiated with. They are to be destroyed. Therefore, we must remain humble and respond with the unseen weapons that God gave us. We can respond to our enemies in truth with gentleness, patience, humility, and loving speech and with the firm conviction in our minds that Jesus came to redeem them, just like He came to redeem us when we were His enemies.