Satan exists, and he is our enemy. Until the final hour, all Christians live in a world where Satan operates and influences. He opposes God, you, and everything that is good, promoting everything that is evil. However, Satan doesn’t always work in the same manner.
Sometimes, he is vicious and uses violence. The Bible warns us: “Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil, as a roaring lion, walketh about, seeking whom he may devour.” (1 Peter 5:8 KJV). The devil’s aggression can be overwhelming, as seen in Revelation: “Fear none of those things which thou shalt suffer: behold, the devil shall cast some of you into prison, that ye may be tried; and ye shall have tribulation ten days: be thou faithful unto death, and I will give thee a crown of life.” (Revelation 2:10 KJV).
Many Christians today suffer because of the devil’s viciousness. They are persecuted, imprisoned, tortured, and even martyred. But Satan doesn’t always attack with violence; sometimes, he works with cunning and deceit, where his ferocity isn’t as visible. This was the case with the Corinthian church. “Lest Satan should get an advantage of us: for we are not ignorant of his devices,” (2 Corinthians 2:11 KJV).
Paul warns us to be on guard against Satan’s subtlety and cleverness: “And no marvel; for Satan himself is transformed into an angel of light,” (2 Corinthians 11:14 KJV). In Corinth, false apostles masqueraded as true apostles, deceiving the church. Satan, disguised as something beautiful and appealing, worked through these charismatic leaders.
Martin Luther once famously threw his inkwell at the devil when he saw him, recognizing the devil’s tactics. Once when he saw Christ, what did he do? He threw his inkwell at devil again because he understood the constant need to resist the devil’s influence since he can appear as an angel of light. What would you have done in his place?
The Bible also tells us, “Moreover he must have a good report of them which are without; lest he fall into reproach and the snare of the devil,” (1 Timothy 3:7 KJV). Timothy’s instruction to church leaders emphasizes the importance of living above reproach. The devil is always waiting with a snare to trap those who aren’t vigilant. The danger of a snare is that it’s hidden until it’s too late.
Sometimes, the devil’s work is evident through people who are blatantly evil. For example, “But Elymas the sorcerer (for so is his name by interpretation) withstood them, seeking to turn away the deputy from the faith,” (Acts 13:8 KJV). Elymas, involved in the occult, openly opposed a gospel preacher, trying to lead others away from the Lord. Paul, seeing this, confronted Elymas directly, recognizing him as an enemy.
In every situation, whether through violence, deceit, or open opposition, Satan is at work. As believers, we must be vigilant and wise in our faith, recognizing the enemy’s tactics and standing firm in God’s truth.
Looking to strengthen your understanding of Christian apologetics? In our latest post, we dive into William Lane Craig’s Reasonable Faith, exploring how this influential book offers compelling arguments for the existence of God, the resurrection of Jesus, and the reliability of Scripture. Whether you’re a seasoned apologist or just starting to explore the field, this post provides valuable insights for defending the Christian faith with logic and evidence. Check it out to deepen your knowledge and enhance your ability to engage with skeptics.