The Devil

The above picture is of the Robot Devil from the animated sitcom, Futurama.

His design is the perfect example of the popular image of the Devil: plenty of red, pointed horns, menacing glare, he’s got it all. 

Except for biblical accuracy. 

Never in the whole of the Scriptures is the Devil described like this. In fact, far more is said about his personality than his physical characteristics. 

Who is the Devil?

For starters, the Devil is not God’s equal. He was created (Ezekiel 28v15), meaning he has limitations.

He’s not a fleshly being but a spiritual one (Ezekiel 28v14) who attempted to usurp God’s authority and was cast down as a result (Isaiah 14v12-13).

He then enticed humanity to sin, kicking off the conflict of the entire Bible (Genesis 3), and now wields a certain level of power and authority over the world (Matthew 4v8-9).

Unfortunately, the Devil doesn’t show up and make his intentions as clear as he does here.

Jesus’ work on the Cross inaugurated a process that will end in his ultimate defeat (Colossians 2v15; Revelation 20v1-10), but before that day, the Devil wants to hit God where it hurts.

How does he do this?

By doing what he’s done ever since the dawn of our species - enticing humanity to reject God.

In other words, by engaging in spiritual warfare.

What Does the Devil Do?

Lies are the Devil’s main weapon.

We’ve explored how a disordered World and Flesh contribute to sin and spiritual warfare but how, you might ask, were they primed for such a thing?

Through the lies the Devil has sown.

That’s what most spiritual warfare is - subtle manipulation of our thoughts through the Devil’s lies.

Lies, naturally, distract from the truth. And what is the truth? That Jesus won.

The Devil understands that those who are aware of that victory and live accordingly deal a fatal blow to his bottom line.

As a result, he pushes convincing lies to keep us ignorant.

So, what can be done about that?

Follow the example of Christ - specifically the example of His confrontation with the Devil in the wilderness (Matthew 4v1-11; Mark 1v12-13; Luke 4v1-13).

Here, the Devil comes to tempt a fasting Jesus with offers of satisfaction and power, both earthly and divine.

But what does Jesus do? He rejects them and counters with Scriptural truths.

And that’s what this whole spiritual warfare thing boils down to. When the Devil hits you with lies, you hit him back with the truth.

And what is the truth? Jesus died, rose again, and invites us into His saving Way of life.

Participation in our churches, the spiritual practices, and the everflowing communion of the Trinity keeps us aware of that.

There will be tough days, that’s for sure. But when the Devil is laid bare, his effectiveness tends to shrivel up.

His strategy is good but it pales in comparison to the strategy of the God that we’re saved by.

Choose Truth, and the spiritual battle will be won.

For now, be blessed.

Jon,

Theophilus Newsletter