Many christians are familiar with these verses in 2 Corinthians, and some are actively involved in practicing them. Yet countless christians lament their ineffectiveness when it comes to seeing results in the area of spiritual warface. Why is that? The commission given to the church requires us to invade new territories--hostile territories. The powers of darkness that have ruled regions for centuries will not give up without a fight. They must be confronted, subdued and driven out. This requires warfare.

Many do not understand the present-day emphasis in the Church on spiritual warfare. Some even oppose the very thought of it. But opposition notwithstanding, there is a growing emphasis today on warfare prayer. Dr C. Peter Wagner of Global Harvest Ministries in Colorado has written some excellent books on warfare prayer called the Prayer Warrior Series, published by Regal Books. l recommend these books highly to every pastor and intercessor who wants a better understanding of this important subject.

Warfare is nothing new. The Bible is filled with warfare. Apostle and apostolic people will be a people of warfare, whether they use the term or not.

PULLING DOWN STRONGHOLDS: ''Warfare'' in 2 Corinthians 10:4 is translated from the Greek word strateia, meaning apostolic, career, military service (as one of hardship and danger). It is related to the Greek word strateuomai, meaning to execute the apostolate (with its arduous duties and functions) and to contend with carnal thoughts. Paul was saying that the weapons of his apostolic ministry were mighty for the pulling down of strongholds.

I am convinced that there are certain strongholds cannot be destroyed without the apostolic anointing. ''Stronghold'' is the Greek word ochuroma, meaning a fortress, a castle, a fortified place. Satan and his demons have fortified themselves from invasion.

They have built strongholds and fortified themselves in every region of the world to resist the advancement of the Kingdom. These strongholds must be dealt with if we are to see the fulfillment of the Great Commission. Apostles have the ability to confront and pull down these strongholds.

What an insight! I use this opportunity to pray 4 every believer to receive d loss Apostolic/Prophetic authority. I decree a release of a new anointing on d church 4 an onslaught against d kingdom of darkness. I decree an Apostolic/Prophetic grace on those who visit this forum, even though they may not be called into these offices. Tank u talkmore, may d grace 4 abundant insight into d issues of God's kingdom be multiplied to u in d Name of Jesus.