The idea that “the gates of hell” will be unable to prevail against our attacks is dramatic but sadly, unscriptural. This applies to forceful entry into the Kingdom as well as attacking the Gates of Hell. Why would we wish to force our way into and beyond the grave? Or force our way “violently” through opposition into the kingdom of heaven, SEAL-style, by being baptized by immersion?
A comparison of Matthew 11:12 and Luke 16:16 makes clear that in responding to the warnings of John the Baptist, crowds of people were pushing forward forcefully to be baptized by John in the River Jordan. Not only were they submitting to his message that they should repent of their sins in preparation for the “near at hand” appearance of their Messiah — they were also pushing into it forcefully!
I have seen shoppers ‘stampede’ through the opening doors of big retail stores in response to signs of “SALE — TODAY ONLY!” Trust me, you should never stand in their way! Likewise, imagine crowds of convicted sinners forcing their way into packed churches in response to signs that read “JESUS SAVES! TODAY IS THE DAY OF SALVATION!”
Those believers who desire to attack “the gates of hell” commando style, and those who would enter God’s kingdom by force, need to take a closer look at these texts — preachers included. In a primary sense, “the gates of hell” refers to graves which in the Resurrection shall not prevail against the Church. This will be when Jesus returns.
There may be secondary applications of Matthew 16:18 — “the powers of the underworld,” as Williams translates it — but I believe that Jesus was referring primarily to the utter inability of death and hell to prevent the inevitable event we know as the Resurrection. It was “not possible” that death could hold the triumphant, invincible Lord Jesus, and neither will it prevent we who believe when the trumpet sounds!
If punching holes in the air with your fists helps you to express your determination better than praying passively — then go for it! But better to hammer your fists downwards, where the risen Jesus has placed demonic powers “under your feet”.
But first, open your punching fists into open-handed palms of praise to God through Jesus Christ! Operation Forceful Entry took place 2000 years ago, when Jesus “spoiled principalities and powers” and rose in triumph to Heaven — taking us with him! Operation Forceful Exit will take place when Jesus returns for his church and the dead in Christ shall rise first, and then the living with them — the triumphant, Ultimate Exit!