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The concept of Strong man in Christianity

The term "strong man" in Christianity primarily refers to Satan, symbolizing formidable evil and the power he holds over humanity. This metaphor illustrates that the strong man’s goods, or souls, can only be taken once he is bound by a stronger force, identified as Christ. The strong man represents sin and the oppression it exerts, which must be conquered for spiritual victory. Overall, it highlights the conflict between good and evil, emphasizing Christ's authority in overcoming Satan.

Synonyms: Powerful man, Fierce man, Mighty man

In Dutch: Sterke man; In Finnish: Vahva mies; In Spanish: Hombre fuerte; In German: Starker Mann; In Malay: Lelaki kuat; In Swedish: Stark man; In French: Homme fort

The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.

Christian concept of 'Strong man'

Christianity Books

Significance in Christianity (general):

From: Expositions of Holy Scripture

(1) This describes a person who possesses both strength and gentleness, and who is much because they love much.[1] (2) This is the personification of the sudden temptation that leaps upon us, and we must have our weapons ready to fight it.[2] (3) This is a metaphor for the devil, and Jesus's actions are portrayed as conquering and taking his house, representing a triumph of good over evil.[3] (4) The strong man is mentioned in the context of the conquest, representing the one who had been bound and whose house was being spoiled, indicating the triumph of good over evil.[4] (5) Strong man made weak is unconscious of his weakness, according to the text, highlighting the sad reality that Christian people may lose their strength and not realize it.[5]

From: A Dictionary of the Bible (Hastings)

(1) A reference to Christ, who possesses the authority to confront and overpower the devil.[6] (2) The text depicts Isaac as gracious and kindly but lacking the firmness and strength of a leader.[7]

From: The Complete Sayings of Jesus

(1) A figure representing power and authority, depicted in the text as someone whose goods are safeguarded until a stronger entity overtakes him.[8] (2) A metaphorical figure representing someone whose house can be spoiled only after he is first bound.[9]

From: Bible cyclopedia, critical and expository

(1) This phrase is used in reference to Satan, and the full revelation of him occurred when a stronger force was revealed, highlighting a conflict.[10] (2) A biblical reference to the power of Satan in relation to humanity and God's design for restoration through Christ.[11]

Significance in Early Christian church and writers:
Early Christianity Books

From: Ante-nicene Fathers

(1) This refers to an individual with great physical strength, and the text advises against them boasting about their strength, because it is a gift from God, not a personal achievement.[12] (2) The strong man is a reference to a parable and is overcome by a stronger man. The strong man is also the prince of the demons.[13] (3) This refers to the one who is against us, and who the Lord, in the weakness of the flesh, came to bind, highlighting His power.[14] (4) A metaphor for Satan or evil, which can only be overcome by a superior power.[15] (5) A metaphorical representation of sin or evil that has dominion over humanity, which must be overcome.[16]

From: Gospel of Thomas Commentary

(1) This is a powerful individual who possesses a house or domain, and the text describes the actions that need to be taken to overcome them and take their possessions.[17] (2) The strong man is mentioned in the text, and there is a question about how someone can enter the strong man's house and plunder his goods without first binding him.[18] (3) A person that is mentioned and may be linked to a parable, whose house is ransacked, and that is found in another saying.[19]

Early Christianity (also known as Early Church) refers to the period starting roughly in the 6th century BC up until 325 A.D. during which year the first council of Nicaea was convened. Popular literature includes the writings by the early Church Fathers which forms the basis of later Christian theology.

Significance in Protestantism (Christian movement emphasizing faith and scripture):
Protestantism Books

From: The Existence and Attributes of God

(1) A metaphorical reference to God's superiority in power over adversaries like the devil, illustrating the control and dominion He maintains.[20]

Protestantism (or simply the protestant church) is a major branch of Christianity originating from the Reformation in the 16th century, led by figures like Martin Luther. It emphasizes salvation by faith alone and the Bible as the ultimate authority. Variants of Protestantism include Lutheranism, Calvinism, Anglicanism, Methodism and Presbyterianism, each with unique practices but generally united by these core principles.

Significance in Global Christian community:
Catholic Church Books

From: The city of God

(1) The strong man refers to the devil, who possesses the power to capture the human race, and whose goods are those held captive by the devil.[21]

The Catholic Church is a global Christian community with over a billion members, rooted in the teachings of Jesus Christ. It is led by the Pope and emphasizes the sacraments, particularly the Eucharist. Catholicism is a denomination centered on the teachings thereof. It has a rich theological and cultural heritage.