What is meant by "I have given you the authority to trample on serpents and scorpions"?

 Question: What is meant by "I have given you the authority to trample on serpents and scorpions"?

I have given you the authority to trample on serpents and scorpions scripture memory songs

See Answer: http://ebible.com/answers/51815?ori=664697

Luke 10:19 (NIV) says:

"I have given you authority to trample on snakes and scorpions and to overcome all the power of the enemy; nothing will harm you."

Luke 10:19 is a powerful verse where Jesus speaks to His disciples about the authority He has given them over spiritual forces of evil. Let’s break it down:

Context

Jesus had sent out seventy-two disciples (Luke 10:1) to preach, heal, and cast out demons. When they returned, they were amazed that even demons submitted to them in His name (Luke 10:17). Jesus then told them that He saw Satan fall like lightning from heaven (Luke 10:18), signifying the defeat of demonic forces through His power. Immediately after, He gives them this promise in verse 19.

Breaking It Down

1. "I have given you authority..."

   • Jesus is the source of this authority. It’s not based on personal strength or merit but on His power given to believers.
   • This authority is over spiritual enemies, not just physical ones.

2. "...to trample on snakes and scorpions..."

   • These are symbolic of demonic forces and the power of Satan.
   • Similar imagery is found in Psalm 91:13: "You will tread on the lion and the adder; the young lion and the serpent you will trample underfoot."
   • This does not mean Christians should handle literal snakes and scorpions to test God's power (as some cults have wrongly practiced). It represents victory over spiritual opposition.

3. "...and to overcome all the power of the enemy..."

   • The "enemy" refers to Satan and his forces.
   • Jesus assures that His followers have power greater than the enemy’s, through Him.
   • This means we can stand firm against temptation, fear, oppression, and spiritual attacks.

4. "...nothing will harm you."

   • This does not mean believers will never face suffering, persecution, or physical danger (as seen in the lives of the apostles).
   • Rather, it means that ultimately, no spiritual attack can truly destroy a believer’s soul or separate them from God’s victory (Romans 8:37-39).

Application for Today

• Spiritual Warfare: We have authority in Jesus' name to resist Satan (James 4:7).
• Faith Over Fear: No attack from the enemy can overpower those who stand in Christ’s victory.
• Eternal Security: While we may face trials, we are ultimately protected in Christ.