By Gordon M. Swaby
The term “military occupation” is derived from the word “occupy” or “occupied” in its broader sense. The concept of occupation has existed for centuries, and it refers to the act of taking and holding control over a territory, usually by a military force.
The origin of the term can be traced back to Latin roots with the word “occupare” meaning “to seize” or “to take possession of.” In ancient Rome, the term was used to describe the military practise of capturing and controlling enemy territories, and as such, the Roman Empire had a well-established system of military occupation to maintain control over conquered lands.
Considering the spiritual climate that was created after the fall of man, Jesus knew very well what was expected of Him and stated quite boldly: The “Son of Man appeared for this purpose, to destroy the works of the devil.” (1 Jn 3:8) Consequently, it was clear to see that Jesus was in “occupation mode,” as He intimated through His declaration, “My kingdom is not of this world.” (St. John 18:36)
It is therefore left to us to finish the work that Christ started and begin to act as agents of the occupying force of the Kingdom of God, i.e., destroying the works of the devil through the power of God invested in all Believers.
There are some principles of occupation that we should know though as we embark on this journey. Three of them I will share with you in this article, and the remainder the next time we meet.
Principle 1 – Control of Territory
“The occupying military force has complete control over the occupied territory, including its population, resources, and infrastructure.“
This is exemplified through the words expressed by Joshua when he declared that “everywhere your feet shall walk, I have given to you.” (Joshua 1:3)
The message was also emphasised by Jesus, who declared, “As you go, preach, saying the Kingdom of God is at hand.” (Matt 10:7-8)
As an agent of the occupying force, the pursuit must be for territory and the increase of Kingdom influence through strategic engagement with the Holy Spirit in different spheres of human activity.
Principle 2 – Military Presence
The occupying force maintains a military (physical) presence in the occupied territory, usually through the deployment of troops, tanks, and other military equipment.
It is not unusual that when one enters a territory, whether it is one’s workplace or otherwise, one sees opposition and resistance already set up to discourage and minimise the Kingdom’s influence in that area due to your presence. The enemy has already discerned your assignment, even when you have not, and as such, you must engage with knowledge, revelation, and a clear battle plan gleaned from the Most High.
It was in this vein that Jesus declared, “My peace I give not as the world gives it.” (See St. John 14:27), which indicates that the peace Jesus spoke of was that which was to come from the Kingdom and consequently be supported and enforced by the Kingdom.
Furthermore, when sending out His army of disciples, Jesus was also specific with His charge to them as they sought to gain territory for the Kingdom. He stated in Matt 10:12–13, “As you enter the home, greet its occupants. If the home is worthy, let your peace rest on it; but if it is not, let your peace return to you.”
He was indicating that whoever was receptive to the message of the Kingdom, the resources of the Kingdom (including its army) would be made available to support and enforce the peace in that home, which included receiving angelic assistance in the areas most needed.
Principle 3 – Imposition of Laws
The occupying military force imposes its own laws and regulations on the occupied population, often overriding the existing legal system.
This is enshrined in the book of Job, which states, “Decree a thing, and it shall be established.” (Job 22:28) This lays down the basis for a Believer who is a part of the occupying forces to expect and experience supernatural results and to walk in a dimension of power not common to most men. In describing this phenomenon, Jewish writings ask the question:
“Why does G-d give tzaddim (the righteous) the power to change laws of nature?
[It is] So that people should fear them and thereby begin to fear Hashem.”
As agents of the Occupying Force of the Kingdom of God, we must recognise that Jehovah Gibbor has gifted us with supernatural grace to execute His will on the Earth. We are in a war, but we need not be afraid of the enemy, for we already know the outcome.
So, for Heaven’s sake, control the territory around you, set up your military presence, and impose God’s laws in that space. As long as we are willing to be used, God will send the resources to help effect the changes He wants to see.
