Posted: 08/16/07

Christianity stands or falls with the reality of Satan and demons. Why? Because Jesus spent his whole ministry fighting them. If they are not real he is reduced to a comic figure.

What is Satan's aim and his strategies?

1. He is the Father of lies. John 8:44

   His nature is falsehood! He only speaks the truth in order to deceive.

2. Therefore, his chief enemy is truth - he opposes God's word. Genesis 3:1-5
3. He casts doubt on God's goodness. Genesis 3:1-5

   He destroys the obedience of faith.
   He opposes the truth reaching and converting people.

4. He hinders missions strategy. 1 Thess. 2:18
5. He distorts and prevents effective Gospel message. Acts 13:8-9
6. He avoids inner need by removing external trouble. 1 John 3:12
7. He uses the fear of death to hold men in bondage. Hebrews 2:15

   It doesn't lead them to God because it leads them to get as many kicks here as possible.

8. He causes people to stumble over bad Christian attitudes. 2 Tim. 2:24-26
9. He blinds the minds of unbelievers. 2 Cor. 4:4
10. He exploits a lack of understanding. Mt. 13:19
11. He suggests ways that don't involve suffering. Mt. 16:23; Mt. 4:1-11
12. He imitates religious roles. 2 Cor. 11:14-15; Mt.13:28,30; Rev. 2:9
13. He misuses Scripture. Mt. 4:6
14. He imitates signs and wonders. 2 Thess. 2:9; Mk. 13:22
15. He offers exotic occult alternatives. Rev. 2:19-24

    He attacks faith to destroy believers:

16. attacks faith. 1 Thess. 3:5; 2 Cor. 11:3
17. brings persecution. Rev. 2:9; 1 Pt. 5:8; Lk. 22:31
18. brings sickness. Job 1:11; 2:5; Lk. 13:16.
19. dissension over doctrine and causes rifts. Rom. 16:17-20
20. sexual allurements. 1 Cor. 7:5; 1 Tim. 5:15
21. unresolved anger. 2 Cor. 2:11; Eph. 4:27
22. pride. 1 Tim. 3:6

We began with liar and end with pride. Connection: the truth is that God is God and we are not. It is humbling. The only way to rebel against the lowliness of creaturehood is to be a liar. Humility under God is the great devil resistance (James 4:6-7).

© Desiring God

By John Piper Click here for bio and archived articles