New Testament
Mark 3:27
The Clear Bible Translation matches the King James Version, written at a 10th-grade reading level in plain English
At a Glance
In this verse, Jesus uses the metaphor of a strong man to illustrate the power dynamics in spiritual warfare.
- Author
- John Mark
- Written
- Around AD 55-65
- Genre
- Gospel
- Original Audience
- Roman and Gentile Christians
No one can break into a strong man's house and steal his possessions unless he first ties up the strong man. Only then can he ransack the house.
No man can enter into a strong man’s house, and spoil his goods, except he will first bind the strong man; and then he will spoil his house.
Verse Analysis
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, Jesus uses the metaphor of a strong man to illustrate the power dynamics in spiritual warfare. The 'strong man' represents Satan or evil forces that hold people captive. To rescue those held captive, one must first overpower the strong man. This signifies that Jesus, through His authority and power, is able to bind Satan and free individuals from sin and oppression. The act of binding the strong man indicates a necessary step before any rescue can take place. This verse emphasizes the importance of spiritual authority and the necessity of confronting evil directly. It also highlights that Jesus' ministry is about reclaiming what belongs to God, demonstrating His power over evil and His mission to save humanity. The imagery of breaking into a house and stealing possessions illustrates the urgency and necessity of this spiritual battle, showing that liberation from evil requires strength and preparation.
Key themes
Related topics
Related Bible verses
How to apply Mark 3:27 to your life
This verse encourages believers to recognize the reality of spiritual battles in their lives. It reminds us that overcoming challenges requires preparation and reliance on God's strength. We should actively seek to bind the influences of evil in our lives and the lives of others through prayer and faith, trusting in Jesus' authority to bring freedom.
Curated for this public verse page. Mark Summary
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Mark 3:27 mean?
Mark 3:27 illustrates the concept of spiritual warfare, showing that to rescue individuals from evil, one must first confront and overpower the source of that evil, represented by the 'strong man.' This emphasizes Jesus' authority to bind Satan and liberate those held captive.
What is the meaning of 'strong man' in Mark 3:27?
In Mark 3:27, the 'strong man' symbolizes Satan or evil forces that have control over people. The verse conveys that overcoming these forces requires a greater power, which Jesus embodies.
How does Mark 3:27 relate to spiritual warfare?
Mark 3:27 relates to spiritual warfare by illustrating the need to confront and bind evil forces before liberation can occur. It serves as a reminder that spiritual battles require preparation and reliance on God's strength.
What can we learn from Mark 3:27?
From Mark 3:27, we learn the importance of recognizing spiritual battles in our lives and the need for preparation and prayer to confront evil influences. It encourages believers to trust in Jesus' authority for freedom and rescue.

The Book of Mark
Mark 1: John the Baptist and the Beginning of Jesus's Ministry
John the Baptist appears in the wilderness and preaches a baptism of repentance for the forgiveness of sins. People from Judaea and Jerusalem come to him, confess their sins, and are baptized in the river Jordan. John wears camel's hair and a leather belt and eats locusts and wild honey. He announces that someone stronger than he is coming after him and says he is not worthy to stoop down and untie his sandals. He baptizes with water, but the one coming will baptize with the Holy Ghost.
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