The battle between good and evil is a repeated theme throughout Scriptures. As we turn to Genesis chapter three, we see the evil serpent tempting Adam and Eve to fall into sin. Satan can’t harm God, so he attacks those who God loves. That is, you and me. If you have ever have had children, you begin to realize that you would give up your life to save theirs.
Satan is called the god of this world. The Apostle Paul writes in 2 Cor. 4:4, “Satan, who is the god of this world, has blinded the minds of those who don’t believe. They are unable to see the glorious light of the Good News. They don’t understand this message about the glory of Christ, who is the exact likeness of God.” [1]
Our heavenly Father sent His Son to die for our sins as part of this cosmic battle to save His children. We read in Hebrews 4:14-15 about how Jesus defeated satan on the cross. 14 Because God’s children are human beings—made of flesh and blood—the Son also became flesh and blood. For only as a human being could he die, and only by dying could he break the power of the devil, who had the power of death. 15 Only in this way could he set free all who have lived their lives as slaves to the fear of dying. [2]
We only have to read the newspaper or turn on the news to realize we are in a spiritual battle. The enemy is doing anything he can to destroy mankind. In John 10:10, we see the contrast between the devil and Jesus. 10 The thief’s purpose is to steal and kill and destroy. My purpose is to give them a rich and satisfying life. [3] Wherever the enemy goes he kills, steals, and destroys. Jesus does just the opposite because He comes to give us a rich and satisfying life. Riches are not worldly riches, but spiritual riches.
The Apostle Paul writes to the church in Thessalonica about the spiritual battle that was going on as he tries to minister to them. 17 Dear brothers and sisters, after we were separated from you for a little while (though our hearts never left you), we tried very hard to come back because of our intense longing to see you again. 18 We wanted very much to come to you, and I, Paul, tried again and again, but satan prevented us. 19 After all, what gives us hope and joy, and what will be our proud reward and crown as we stand before our Lord Jesus when he returns? It is you! 20 Yes, you are our pride and joy. [4] 1 Thess. 2:17-20.
Paul tells us as we enter into this cosmic battle, we need to put on the full armor of God. 10 A final word: Be strong in the Lord and in his mighty power. 11 Put on all of God’s armor so that you will be able to stand firm against all strategies of the devil. 12 For we are not fighting against flesh-and-blood enemies, but against evil rulers and authorities of the unseen world, against mighty powers in this dark world, and against evil spirits in the heavenly places. 13 Therefore, put on every piece of God’s armor so you will be able to resist the enemy in the time of evil. Then after the battle you will still be standing firm. [5] Ephesians 6:10-13.
Take time today to pray and read God’s word; this is how we put on the full armor of God.
To hear more about Paul’s second mission trip, listen here: https://podpoint.com/light-of-christ-church-podcast/series/mission-trip-two-radio-show/the-power-and-hope-of-gods-word
[1, 2, 3, 4, 5] Tyndale House Publishers. (2015). Holy Bible: New Living Translation (2 Co 4:4, Heb. 2:14-15, John 10:10, 1 THess 2:17-20, Eph. 6:10-13). Carol Stream, IL: Tyndale House Publishers.