Paul's Belief About Satan
The apostle was not ignorant of Satan, he tells us.
It is not a few that believe Paul was one of the greatest intellects who ever lived; many hold, the greatest. This is also true in the Spiritual realm. This intellectual and Spiritual giant was not taken up with the world's belief in mythology, especially when it came to Satan. Pointed ears, a forked tail, and a pitchfork in hand was more than nonsensical to this scriptural realist.
As Billy Sunday said when asked if he believed in a literal devil, "I sure do, I've done business with him." And so with the old warhorse. Paul was very much aware who it was that God permitted to "buffet" his already weak body. He spoke of Lucifer transforming himself into an angel of light, as he was originally, until his fall. Paul knew it was Satan who hindered his travels, tempted married couples in their relationship with one another, and influenced Christians in the church to commit fornication, etc. He believed the "Wicked One" was active in the lives and ministries of Believers. Do we?
His advice to the saints, "Neither give place to the devil." In other words, don't be gentleman when it comes to Satan, don't give up your seat for that "Old" Serpent. How sad to see so many of God's people and preachers cowering in a corner fearing this bully. Especially when you behold what is lying by their side, within reach: the Whole Armour of God. Equipped with such defensive and offensive armour, these Christians can shout out: "We're more than conquerors through Him that loved us"; and we're always triumphant in Christ." Also, that they overcame Satan by the blood of Jesus and their in faith Him; and have (present tense) the victory through the Lord Jesus Christ!
Rise up, O men of God!
Have done with lesser things.
Give heart and mind and soul and strength
to serve the King of kings.
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He’s quite really and quite defeated by our lord Jesus Christ. His days are numbered.