Definition: Or else how can one enter into a strong man’s house, and spoil his goods, except he first bind the strong man? and then he will spoil his house.

Explanation: Okay, let's break down this famous Bible verse. It’s a really powerful metaphor! Here’s what it means in simpler terms: The Core Idea: This verse is about leadership and influence. It’s saying that anyone who wants to be a leader – someone who has power or authority over others – needs to work hard and build strong relationships first. Let's unpack the parts: “Matthew 12:29” : This is the verse itself, referencing a story in Matthew’s Gospel. “…Or else how can one enter into a strong man’s house…” : This describes a situation where someone is trying to gain influence or control over another person (like a leader). "...and spoil his goods..." : This means to harm, ruin, or take something valuable from the person. It's about losing their power or position. "...except he first bind the strong man?" : This is the crucial part. It’s not enough to just approach someone; you need to build a relationship with them first. You need to show respect, trust, and understanding. "...and then he will spoil his house." : This means that if you don't build a good relationship, your influence won't last long. The person you’re trying to lead will eventually become frustrated, resistant, or even turn against you – ultimately, the "house" (their power and position) is ruined. In simpler terms: To really make an impact, you need to first earn someone's trust and build a strong connection. The Overall Meaning: Jesus is saying that leadership isn’t about brute force or taking over; it’s about building relationships and showing respect. It's a call for humility and genuine effort. Think of it like this analogy: Imagine trying to climb a mountain. You can't just start climbing; you need to build a path, gain the trust of the people along the way, and eventually reach the summit. Do you want me to: Explain this verse in more detail? Give you some examples of how this principle applies to real-life situations?