In part one, we discussed briefly the fact that all believers are involves in
a holy war and that's why we need the armour of God. This morning we'll look at
our enemy.
It's important to understand the enemy you face in any battle. Knowing the enemy
will help understand the need for the armour. Scripture tells "our struggle is not against flesh and blood but against the powers of this dark
world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms" Ephesians 6:12 NIV
Whole volumes have been written on Satan and those who side with him. We simply
don't have the time or space to cover things in that much depth, but we can look
at such keys facts about Satan and what his agenda is.
Firstly, Satan is very real. I haven't been able to track down the originator
this quote, but it contains a great deal of truth; "the greatest trick the devil
ever did was convincing the world he didn't exist." Jesus knew better, He had
confronted Satan many times (see Satan's temptation of Jesus in Matthew 4:1-11
for one example).
Satan is known by many other names in Scripture. Here are a few, "Accuser of
the brethren" (Revelation 12:10); tempter (Matthew 4:3); father of lies (John
8:44); murderer (John 8:44); the adversary and a roaring lion (1 Peter 5:8}; god
of this age (2 Corinthians 4:4); and more.
Where did Satan come from? He was once chief amongst all of God's angels, but
decided to try and take God's place (Ezekiel 28:15) and was cast from heaven (Isaiah
14:12-14)
Satan does not live in hell (at least not yet). He travels to and fro on the
earth (Job 1:7). Hell is the eventual destination of Satan, and all those who
reject Christ.
Satan's desire is to kill and destroy.
The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy
John 10:10a NIV
Jesus on the other hand came to bring us life.
I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full.
John 10:10b NIV
Satan wants to devour us.
Be self-controlled and alert. Your enemy the devil prowls around like a roaring
lion looking for someone to devour.
1 Peter 5:8 NIV
Satan can disguise himself. Evil doesn't always look evil or dangerous.
For such men are false apostles, deceitful workmen, masquerading as apostles
of Christ. And no wonder, for Satan himself masquerades as an angel of light.
It is not surprising, then, if his servants masquerade as servants of righteousness.
Their end will be what their actions deserve.
2 Corinthians 11:13-15 NIV
We are told to resist Him. The armour equips us to resist.
Resist him, standing firm in the faith, because you know that your brothers throughout
the world are undergoing the same kind of sufferings.
1 Peter 5:9 NIV
Now that we're beginning to understand that the enemy is very real and has less
than good intentions for us, we're ready to begin to look at our weapons.
Until next time, rejoice that our Lord has already defeated Satan.
Hallelu Yah (Praise God)
Be blessed
Kevin
©2001-2006 Gleanings From The Word Ministries International -- All Rights Reserved