A believer who loves the Bible asked me whether the devil has any power. I thought it was a great question, and I could understand her dilemma, as it comes from conflicting or extreme doctrines being preached today.
The simple answer is this: the devil has power, but only over two types of people: (1) those who are unregenerated, meaning they have not been born again and received the life of Christ, and (2) those who are regenerated but lack the truth that is in Christ.
But for those who are born again and have a deep understanding of Christ, they have power over demonic works.
Why? Because the realized authority in Christ is a function of how much truth one has, and not by prayer, fasting, zeal, or petition. The truth vitalizes the finished work of Christ and reinforces our authority as sons of God.
The Scripture says that God desires all men to be saved (receive the life of Christ) and come to the knowledge of the truth (which is in Christ and also is Christ) (1 Timothy 2:4).
