Resist the devil, and he will flee from you. (James 4:7)
The more real Satan appears in our day, the more precious the victory of Christ will become to those who believe him.
The New Testament teaches that when Christ died and rose again Satan was defeated. A time of limited freedom is granted to him, but his power against God's people is broken and his destruction is sure.
"The Son of God appeared to destroy the works of the devil." (1 John 3:8)
"Christ took on human nature that through death he might destroy him who has the power of death, that is, the devil." (Hebrews 2:14) *"God disarmed the principalities and powers and made a public example of them, triumphing over them in him." (Colossians 2:15)
In other words the decisive blow was struck at Calvary. And one day, when Satan's time of limited freedom is over, Revelation 20:10 says, "The devil . . . [will be] thrown into the lake of fire and brimstone . . . and will be tormented day and night for ever and ever."
What does this mean for those of us who follow Jesus Christ?
"There is therefore now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus." (Romans 8:1)
"Who shall bring any charge against God's elect? It is God who justifies!" (Romans 8:33)
"Neither angels nor principalities nor powers nor anything else shall separate us from the love of God in Jesus Christ." (Romans 8:38)
"He who is in us is stronger than he who is in the world." (1 John 4:4)
"We conquer him by the blood of the Lamb and by the word of our testimony." (Revelation 12:11)
Therefore, "Resist the devil, and he will flee from you!" He has been defeated, and we have been given victory. Our task now is to live in that victory and make Satan know his defeat.
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This devotional is written by John Piper. For more information about Piper's ministry, writing, and books, visit DesiringGod.org.
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