Satan’s Devices

Paul warned the Corinthians about falling prey to Satan’s devices, “so that no advantage would be taken of us by Satan, for we are not ignorant of his schemes” (2 Corinthians 2:11.) Satan is powerful enough without our giving him any advantage.

We are also warned that “evil men and impostors will proceed from bad to worse, deceiving, and being deceived” (2 Timothy 3:13). Deceit is one of Satan’s most potent devices. When deceived, even a very good man can be led to do very wicked things. Saul of Tarsus is a case in point. 

Even while killing Christians, and persecuting the Lord’s Church “beyond measure” (Galatians 1:13) Saul did it in all good conscience, Acts 23:1; 26:9. When a person is misinformed and zealous, the more conscientious he is, the more dangerous he is.

Satan is likely more dangerous now than he has ever been. He is highly intelligent and intelligent people learn by experience. He has learned more and more over the ages what will work and what will not work in leading men into sin. 

Never take him lightly, he is powerful and cunning. He is more powerful than we are. But, we have God as our ally, so, we have the undoubted advantage. 

Satan uses many devices. He lures some by the desire to be accepted by their peers. He lures others by the lust of the flesh and leads them to be immoral. He tempts others through their desire to have things, maybe enough to steal, to cheat, and even to murder. He leads some away from the simple worship as found in the New Testament because they like entertainment, pomp and ceremony. Others are tempted by taking the easy way out and avoid anything that is difficult. These touch only the tip of the iceberg. 

His devices are many and varied, so, the modern (and ideally, intelligent) Christian must be on guard at all times. Do not fall victim to Satan or any of his devices.

Written by: Mason MacDonald

Bibliography

New American Standard Bible: 1995 Update (La Habra, CA: The Lockman Foundation, 1995)