Week 1: Introduction — Tearing Down Strongholds

1.Moore defines a stronghold as anything that holds a person in a place of defeat or captivity — a way of thinking, feeling, or behaving that exalts itself against the knowledge of God. How does that definition compare to how you have previously understood the word 'stronghold'? Does it feel too broad, too narrow, or just right?

2.The book's foundational text is 2 Corinthians 10:3–5, where Paul says we demolish arguments and every pretension that sets itself up against the knowledge of God, taking every thought captive. In your own words, what does it mean to 'take a thought captive'? What would that look like on a Tuesday morning?

3.Moore argues that strongholds are fundamentally battles of the mind — and that the antidote is not positive thinking but Scripture prayed with faith. Why do you think the mind is such a primary battlefield in the Christian life? What does this suggest about how you spend your mental energy each day?

4.Moore emphasizes that God's Word is both the sword of the Spirit (Ephesians 6:17) and the means by which our minds are renewed (Romans 12:2). How regularly do you actually pray Scripture — not just read it or quote it, but pray it back to God as a weapon? What has gotten in the way?

5.Moore is transparent in the introduction about her own struggles and the strongholds she has personally fought. How does her willingness to be vulnerable shape the tone and credibility of the book for you? Does it make you more or less willing to be honest about your own battles?

6.The book is organized topically — each chapter targets one specific stronghold. Before reading further, which of the topics listed in the table of contents (unbelief, pride, idolatry, addiction, etc.) do you most need to engage? What feels most urgent in your life right now?

7.Moore draws a clear distinction between the Christian's position in Christ (already free, already victorious) and the Christian's experience (often still in bondage). How do you hold those two realities together without either dismissing the struggle or losing hope in the victory?

8.How does Moore's approach to spiritual warfare compare to other approaches you have encountered — whether in books, sermons, or personal experience? What feels fresh, and what raises questions for you?

9.By the end of this book, Moore wants readers to have a habit of praying God's Word rather than simply reading it. What would it mean for your relationship with God to pray Scripture daily for the next twelve weeks? Spend a moment articulating a specific, honest hope for what this study could produce in you.