What Is Humility According to the Bible?
1. Defining Humility:
Humility is the act of recognizing our proper place before God and others. It’s not about devaluing ourselves, but about having an honest view of who we are in light of God’s greatness. Biblically, humility means being willing to serve, to obey, and to submit without arrogance or self-promotion.
Humility is rooted in the understanding of God as Creator and us as His creatures (Genesis 2:7; Psalm 100:3). Because we owe our very existence to Him, pride becomes a form of rebellion.
2. God’s View on Humility and Pride:
The Bible repeatedly shows that God is opposed to pride, but He pours out grace on the humble.
“But he gives us more grace. That is why Scripture says: ‘God opposes the proud but shows favor to the humble.’”
(James 4:6)
“God opposes the proud but shows favor to the humble.”
(1 Peter 5:5b)
This means pride is not a small issue it’s spiritual hostility toward God. Theologically, pride is seen as the root of all sin (Isaiah 14:12–15; Ezekiel 28), and humility is seen as the foundation of righteousness (Micah 6:8).
3. The Gospel Is for the Humble:
Jesus made it clear that the Good News is most effectively received by those who are humble and broken in spirit, not the self-righteous.
“The Spirit of the Sovereign LORD is on me, because the LORD has anointed me to proclaim good news to the poor [some versions say ‘humble’]…”
(Isaiah 61:1)
Jesus Himself quoted this passage in Luke 4:18, affirming that His mission was to heal the brokenhearted and set the oppressed free. Theologically, this reflects the nature of God’s kingdom one that lifts the lowly and resists the exalted (Luke 1:52).
4. Humility in the Kingdom of God:
Jesus redefined greatness. While the world sees status as power over others, Christ taught that true greatness is found in serving others.
“Whoever wants to become great among you must be your servant, and whoever wants to be first must be slave of all.”
(Mark 10:43–44)
This servant-hearted humility is modeled by Jesus Himself:
“For even the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many.”
(Mark 10:45)
This points to the Christological humility described in Philippians 2:5–8, where Jesus, though equal with God, humbled Himself to the point of death.
5. Humility Like a Child:
In the eyes of heaven, childlike humility is the standard.
“Truly I tell you, unless you change and become like little children, you will never enter the kingdom of heaven. Therefore, whoever takes the lowly position of this child is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven.”
(Matthew 18:3–4)
Children represent dependence, trust, and simplicity qualities that reflect how we should relate to God.
6. Humility Leads to Blessing; Pride Leads to Downfall:
The Bible is full of warnings about pride and promises for the humble:
- Proverbs 3:34 “He mocks proud mockers but shows favor to the humble and oppressed.”
- Proverbs 11:2 “When pride comes, then comes disgrace, but with humility comes wisdom.”
- Proverbs 18:12 “Before a downfall the heart is haughty, but humility comes before honor.”
- Psalm 138:6 “Though the LORD is exalted, he looks kindly on the lowly; though lofty, he sees them from afar.”
And Jesus concluded with this powerful principle:
“For all those who exalt themselves will be humbled, and those who humble themselves will be exalted.”
(Luke 14:11)
7. Practicing Humility in Everyday Life:
Humility is not just a posture toward God, but toward all people including parents, coworkers, leaders, and even those who wrong us.
“Remind the people to be subject to rulers and authorities, to be obedient, to be ready to do whatever is good, to slander no one, to be peaceable and considerate, and always to be gentle toward everyone.”
(Titus 3:1–2)
“Submit to one another out of reverence for Christ.”
(Ephesians 5:21)
Biblical humility is more than a personality trait it is a spiritual necessity. It opens the door to grace, salvation, and true greatness in God’s eyes. Pride shuts us off from God’s blessings, but humility prepares us for them.
Let us, therefore, walk in humility before God and others so that we may receive more grace and reflect the very heart of Jesus.
Why Is Jesus Called the Lion of Judah?
In Scripture, Jesus Christ is given many names and titles that reflect His nature and mission—such as the Lamb of God (John 1:29), the Bright Morning Star (Revelation 22:16), Immanuel (Isaiah 7:14), the Root of David (Revelation 5:5), and significantly, the Lion of the tribe of Judah.
Let’s explore the theological meaning and biblical foundation for the title “Lion of Judah.”
1. The Title in Revelation
The phrase “Lion of the tribe of Judah” appears once in the entire Bible, in Revelation 5:5, during a vision given to the Apostle John:
Revelation 5:5 (NIV)
“Then one of the elders said to me, ‘Do not weep! See, the Lion of the tribe of Judah, the Root of David, has triumphed. He is able to open the scroll and its seven seals.’”
Here, Jesus is portrayed not only as the Redeemer but also as the victorious and worthy King—able to execute God’s plan of judgment and redemption.
2. The Prophetic Blessing in Genesis
To understand the origin of this title, we must look back to the Old Testament—specifically to Genesis 49, where Jacob blesses his twelve sons. In blessing Judah, Jacob delivers a messianic prophecy:
Genesis 49:8–10 (NIV)
“Judah, your brothers will praise you; your hand will be on the neck of your enemies; your father’s sons will bow down to you.
You are a lion’s cub, Judah; you return from the prey, my son. Like a lion he crouches and lies down—like a lioness—who dares to rouse him?
The scepter will not depart from Judah, nor the ruler’s staff from between his feet, until he to whom it belongs shall come and the obedience of the nations shall be his.”
This prophecy reveals that a ruler—the Messiah—would come from the tribe of Judah. The imagery of a lion symbolizes majesty, courage, and kingship. The “scepter” implies authority, pointing toward the everlasting reign of Christ.
3. Jesus’ Lineage and Fulfillment of Prophecy
Jesus’ genealogical lineage, as recorded in Matthew 1:1-16 and Luke 3:23-38, traces back to King David and ultimately to Judah. This fulfills the messianic promise that the Messiah would arise from Judah’s tribe and David’s royal line.
Romans 1:3 (NIV)
“…regarding his Son, who as to his earthly life was a descendant of David.”
Hebrews 7:14 (NIV)
“For it is clear that our Lord descended from Judah, and in regard to that tribe Moses said nothing about priests.”
4. The Lion as a Symbol of Power and Judgment
The lion is universally seen as a symbol of strength, authority, and fearlessness. Jesus, as the Lion of Judah, represents divine authority and righteous judgment. Unlike His first coming—marked by humility and sacrifice as the Lamb of God—His second coming will be marked by power and justice.
Revelation 19:11-16 (NIV)
“I saw heaven standing open and there before me was a white horse, whose rider is called Faithful and True. With justice he judges and wages war… On his robe and on his thigh he has this name written: KING OF KINGS AND LORD OF LORDS.”
Psalm 2:9 (NIV)
“You will break them with a rod of iron; you will dash them to pieces like pottery.”
This return will fulfill the prophecies of judgment and rule over the nations.
5. The Urgency of Accepting Christ
Today, Jesus is extending mercy as the Lamb who takes away the sin of the world. But after the rapture, His role will transition to that of the Lion—executing judgment. Scripture warns that a time is coming when grace will no longer be available:
2 Corinthians 6:2 (NIV)
“…I tell you, now is the time of God’s favor, now is the day of salvation.”
Call to Action: Accept the King Today
If you haven’t yet received Jesus as your Savior, now is the time. Believe in Him, repent, and be baptized for the forgiveness of your sins.
Acts 2:38 (NIV)
“Peter replied, ‘Repent and be baptized, every one of you, in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins. And you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit.’”
By doing so, you acknowledge Jesus not just as the Lamb, but as the Lion—your Savior and King.
Maranatha – The Lord is coming!
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THE GRAVES WERE OPENED, AND THE SAINTS WERE RAISED
Greetings to you in the precious name of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. Thank you for joining in this reflection on a remarkable and often overlooked event that occurred during the death and resurrection of Jesus. This event carries deep theological significance and unveils powerful truths about life after death, resurrection, and salvation.
1. The Threefold Ministry of Jesus
The ministry of Jesus can be understood in three phases:
- His earthly ministry — preaching, healing, teaching, and ultimately dying for our sins (John 3:16; Luke 19:10).
- His descent to the realm of the dead (Sheol/Hades) — where He proclaimed victory over death and sin (1 Peter 3:18–20).
- His ascension and heavenly ministry — where He now intercedes for believers (Hebrews 7:25).
While we often emphasize Jesus’ time on earth and His current reign in heaven, many overlook His work in Hades. Yet this part of His mission is crucial to understanding the full scope of salvation and victory over death.
2. The Significance of the Graves Opening
Matthew 27:50–53
“And when Jesus had cried out again in a loud voice, he gave up his spirit. At that moment the curtain of the temple was torn in two from top to bottom. The earth shook, the rocks split and the tombs broke open. The bodies of many holy people who had died were raised to life. They came out of the tombs after Jesus’ resurrection and went into the holy city and appeared to many people.”
This event demonstrates that Jesus’ death wasn’t just symbolic—it had immediate, tangible effects in both the physical and spiritual realms. It fulfilled prophecies like:
- Isaiah 26:19: “But your dead will live, LORD; their bodies will rise—let those who dwell in the dust wake up and shout for joy.”
This moment reveals the inauguration of the resurrection power through Christ—the “firstfruits of those who have fallen asleep” (1 Corinthians 15:20. These saints’ temporary resurrection serves as a foretaste of the general resurrection at Christ’s second coming (1 Thessalonians 4:16).
3. Before Christ: Death as Imprisonment
In the Old Testament understanding, Sheol (or Hades) was a realm where all the dead went—righteous and unrighteous—though their experiences there were not the same (Luke 16:19–31). It was a kind of spiritual waiting room. Even the righteous were not in full communion with God but awaited the Redeemer.
- Hebrews 2:14–15:
“Since the children have flesh and blood, he too shared in their humanity so that by his death he might break the power of him who holds the power of death—that is, the devil—and free those who all their lives were held in slavery by their fear of death.”
Jesus’ descent into Hades is not to suffer but to declare victory and liberate the captives:
- Ephesians 4:8–9“When he ascended on high, he took many captives and gave gifts to his people. (What does ‘he ascended’ mean except that he also descended to the lower, earthly regions?)”.
4. The Resurrection of the Saints: A Sign of Freedom
The saints who rose and appeared to people in Jerusalem were not ghosts. They were real, physical signs that the power of the grave had been broken. Their resurrection occurred after Jesus’ resurrection because Christ is the “firstborn from the dead” (Colossians 1:18, NIV). This confirmed that He alone had the authority to open the graves.
Their appearance shows that believers are no longer imprisoned by death. Christ had won the victory:
- 2 Timothy 1:10
“But it has now been revealed through the appearing of our Savior, Christ Jesus, who has destroyed death and has brought life and immortality to light through the gospel.”
5. What Happens When a Believer Dies Today?
Since Jesus’ resurrection, believers no longer go to a holding place like Sheol. Instead, they go directly to be with the Lord:
- Luke 23:43
“Jesus answered him, ‘Truly I tell you, today you will be with me in paradise.’” - Philippians 1:23
“I desire to depart and be with Christ, which is better by far.”
Paradise is now the dwelling place of the righteous dead, where they await the final resurrection with joy and peace. There, they live in the presence of Jesus.
6. But What About the Unbeliever?
Those who die in sin, without turning to Christ, are not free. They still go to a place of darkness and separation from God—commonly referred to as Hades or Hell.
- Luke 16:23
“In Hades, where he was in torment, he looked up and saw Abraham far away, with Lazarus by his side.”
They await the final judgment, when their fate will be sealed:
- Revelation 20:14–15
“Then death and Hades were thrown into the lake of fire. The lake of fire is the second death. Anyone whose name was not found written in the book of life was thrown into the lake of fire.”
This is a sobering reality. Without Christ, there is no hope beyond the grave.
7. The Urgency of Salvation
Friend, death can come at any moment, and the return of Christ will be without warning. The Bible says:
- Proverbs 27:1
“Do not boast about tomorrow, for you do not know what a day may bring.” - Hebrews 2:3
“How shall we escape if we ignore so great a salvation?”
Today, Jesus still offers the same victory over sin and death. He is calling you to receive the gift of eternal life—freely given through His grace.
8. What Must You Do to Be Saved?
- Repent sincerely (Acts 3:19)
- Believe in Jesus Christ (John 3:16)
- Be baptized for the forgiveness of sins (Acts 2:38)
- Live a holy life, walking in the Spirit (Romans 8:1–4)
This is not religion—it is a relationship with the One who conquered death for you. If you accept Him today, the grave will never have the final word over your life.
May the Lord bless you and give you peace.
What Tribe Did Jesus Belong To?
Have you ever asked yourself, “Which tribe did Jesus come from among the twelve tribes of Israel?” It’s a good question and one that leads us to a deeper understanding of both Jesus’ humanity and divinity.
Understanding Biblical Tribes
In the Bible, a “tribe” refers to a group of people descended from a common patriarch. The twelve tribes of Israel trace their lineage back to Jacob (later named Israel), who had twelve sons. Each son became the father of a tribe (Genesis 49:28). Therefore, anyone considered an Israelite had to belong to one of these twelve tribes.
Jesus’ Birth and Heavenly Origin
When it comes to Jesus, His birth was unique. According to Luke 1:35
“And the angel answered her, ‘The Holy Spirit will come upon you, and the power of the Most High will overshadow you; therefore the child to be born will be called holy the Son of God.’”
Jesus was not born of a human father. He was conceived by the Holy Spirit. This means that in a biological sense, Jesus did not inherit tribal identity through a human male line, as was the custom in Israelite genealogies.
This highlights His divine origin.
As John 1:14
“And the Word became flesh and dwelt among us, and we have seen his glory, glory as of the only Son from the Father, full of grace and truth.”
Jesus was truly God in the flesh. His identity transcended any earthly tribe.
Jesus and the Tribe of Judah
Although Jesus was conceived supernaturally, His legal and prophetic lineage still mattered, especially to fulfill the Old Testament promises about the Messiah.
Jesus’ earthly guardian, Joseph, was from the tribe of Judah and a descendant of King David. This is confirmed in the genealogy recorded in Matthew 1:1-16 and Luke 3:23-38. While the genealogies differ slightly in structure, both affirm Jesus’ connection to David’s royal line through Joseph.
The Messiah had to come from the line of David and the tribe of Judah, as prophesied in:
- Genesis 49:10
“The scepter shall not depart from Judah, nor the ruler’s staff from between his feet, until tribute comes to him…”
- Isaiah 11:1
“There shall come forth a shoot from the stump of Jesse, and a branch from his roots shall bear fruit.”
- 2 Samuel 7:12-13
“I will raise up your offspring after you, who shall come from your body, and I will establish his kingdom.”
Jesus fulfilled all of these promises. That’s why Revelation 5:5 calls Him:
“The Lion of the tribe of Judah, the Root of David, has conquered…”
Even though His true origin is from heaven, legally and prophetically, Jesus was identified with the tribe of Judah to fulfill God’s covenantal promises.
Have you believed in Jesus and received Him as Lord?
Scripture is clear salvation is found in Him alone.
Acts 4:12
“And there is salvation in no one else, for there is no other name under heaven given among men by which we must be saved.”
If you have not yet trusted in Christ, today is the day of salvation.
Repent of your sins, believe in the Lord Jesus, and be baptized in His name, just as the apostles preached:
Acts 2:38
“And Peter said to them, ‘Repent and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins, and you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit.’”
Jesus came to fulfill God’s promises, and through Him, we are invited into God’s eternal family not through bloodline, but through faith (Galatians 3:26).
Did Lord Jesus Marry?
Did Lord Jesus ever marry or have a relationship with any woman?
Answer: No, Lord Jesus did not marry or have any relationships with anyone. He was born and lived a life without marriage in order to fulfill the will of His Father. Jesus’ purpose on Earth was to carry out God’s plan of salvation, and He remained focused on that mission. Above all, He never sinned, not even once — including the sin of lust, as stated in Hebrews 4:15:
“For we do not have a high priest who is unable to empathize with our weaknesses, but we have one who has been tempted in every way, just as we are—yet he did not sin.” (NIV)
In John 8:46, Jesus challenges His accusers:
“Which of you can convict me of sin? And if I tell the truth, why do you not believe me?” (NIV)
This underscores His sinless nature, confirming that He was perfect and without any need for earthly relationships or desires that would lead to sin.
There are some who suggest that Jesus had a relationship with Mary Magdalene.
However, this theory is a false claim. It has been spread by those who wish to distort the truth about Jesus, in an effort to make Him seem like an ordinary man. This is a tactic of the enemy — Satan has always tried to undermine the divine nature of God’s work to make it appear less significant. Theologically, this is a denial of the uniqueness and holiness of Christ. As stated in
1 Peter 1:19:
“But with the precious blood of Christ, a lamb without blemish or defect.” (NIV)
Jesus is not just an ordinary man but the spotless Lamb of God who came to redeem humanity.
Despite these false claims, the truth remains unshaken. The Holy Spirit is the one who works in the hearts of believers, revealing the truth of Christ. It is not about the influence of worldly words or rumors, but about the power of the Holy Spirit leading people to faith. As it is written in John 16:13:
“But when he, the Spirit of truth, comes, he will guide you into all the truth.” (NIV)
So, whether the message of Christ is preached out of deceit or sincerity, God’s plan cannot be thwarted. Those who are destined to believe in Christ will hear the truth and respond in faith, as we see in
Philippians 1:18:
“What then? Only that in every way, whether in pretense or in truth, Christ is preached; and in this I rejoice, yes, and will rejoice.” (NIV)
Theologically, this passage emphasizes the sovereignty of God in using all circumstances for His glory, even if some preach Christ with wrong motives. It is the Holy Spirit that moves in the hearts of those chosen by God.
Those who are destined to believe in the Savior will come to faith, and once they believe, Satan cannot snatch them from Christ’s hands, as stated in
John 10:28-29:
“I give them eternal life, and they shall never perish; no one will snatch them out of my hand. My Father, who has given them to me, is greater than all; no one can snatch them out of my Father’s hand.” (NIV)
To Him, the King of Life, Jesus Christ, be glory forever and ever.
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DON’T LOOK BACK!
Was it really just the simple act of turning around that caused Lot’s wife to lose her life? On the surface, it seems like a small mistake—but the truth is, God does not judge without cause. Her punishment reveals a deeper issue: her heart was still tied to what God was delivering her from.
Today, we’ll explore the spiritual meaning of “looking back,” what Lot’s wife did wrong, and how it serves as a powerful warning for us.
1. What Does It Mean to Look Back?
Let’s begin with Jesus’ words:
Luke 9:61–62
“And another also said, ‘Lord, I will follow You, but let me first go and bid them farewell who are at my house.’
But Jesus said to him, ‘No one, having put his hand to the plow, and looking back, is fit for the kingdom of God.'”
In this passage, Jesus rebukes half-hearted discipleship. “Looking back” doesn’t simply mean glancing over one’s shoulder—it symbolizes a heart that is divided, a life that hesitates between two loyalties. Theologically, this is known as spiritual regression, which contradicts the call to continual sanctification (Hebrews 10:38-39).
2. Lot’s Wife: A Tragic Example
To better understand what went wrong with Lot’s wife, let’s read another warning from Jesus:
Luke 17:28–32
“Likewise as it was also in the days of Lot: They ate, they drank, they bought, they sold, they planted, they built;
but on the day that Lot went out of Sodom it rained fire and brimstone from heaven and destroyed them all.
Even so will it be in the day when the Son of Man is revealed.
In that day, he who is on the housetop, and his goods are in the house, let him not come down to take them away. And likewise the one who is in the field, let him not turn back.
Remember Lot’s wife.“
Jesus issues a powerful one-line warning: “Remember Lot’s wife.” This is the only individual in the entire Bible whom Jesus specifically tells us to remember. Why? Because her story is a sobering symbol of spiritual compromise.
Although she was physically leaving Sodom, her heart remained there. Her turning back was not just a physical act—it was an indication of her attachment to a life God had judged and condemned.
This connects to the biblical theme of idolatry of the heart (Ezekiel 14:3), where even after leaving a sinful environment, the affections of the heart remain entangled with what God detests.
3. The Cost of Looking Back
The judgment that fell on Sodom was not arbitrary. According to:
Deuteronomy 29:23
“The whole land is brimstone, salt, and burning; it is not sown, nor does it bear, nor does any grass grow there…”
Lot’s wife, overtaken by the fire and brimstone meant for Sodom, became “a pillar of salt” (Genesis 19:26). Salt in this context symbolizes preservation as a warning, much like how unfaithfulness in the wilderness left behind bones and stories to caution future generations (1 Corinthians 10:5-11).
She became a living statue of what happens when we cling to the past and ignore God’s call to move forward.
4. A Call to Press On
This message is also for us who have begun the journey of salvation. Scripture is clear: this world is under judgment (2 Peter 3:7). No prayer can stop the prophetic timetable. What remains is our call to separate from the world and cling fully to Christ.
Turning back today could mean:
- Returning to a life of sin
- Re-embracing old habits (e.g., lust, addiction, ungodly speech)
- Letting worldly comforts and vanity replace God in your heart
- Abandoning your calling or spiritual disciplines
The Apostle Paul speaks of this danger in Hebrews 10:38–39:
“Now the just shall live by faith; but if anyone draws back, My soul has no pleasure in him.
But we are not of those who draw back to perdition, but of those who believe to the saving of the soul.”
God is calling us forward. We must press on without turning back (Philippians 3:13–14). The fire is behind us—the only safe direction is forward in Christ.
5. What Must You Do Now?
If you haven’t yet surrendered your life to Jesus, do it today. Confess Him as Lord, repent of your sins, and follow Him wholeheartedly (Romans 10:9-10).
And if you’ve already begun turning back—whether in your heart, behavior, or commitment—stop now. Return to the narrow path before it’s too late. A time may come when repentance is no longer possible. Jesus is returning soon, and the Church must be ready.
“Remember Lot’s wife.” Let her story be your warning, not your legacy.
God bless you.
THE MYSTERIES OF SATAN
Recognizing His Hidden Strategies in the Church
Among the seven churches mentioned in the Book of Revelation, the church in Thyatira stands out in a unique and surprising way. Unlike many of the others, this church received praise from the Lord Jesus for its continual spiritual progress. It was growing in love, faith, service, and patient endurance. Christ Himself said, “I know your works, your love and faith and service and patient endurance, and that your latter works exceed the first” (Revelation 2:19, ESV).
This is a powerful commendation. While other churches were faltering, Thyatira was advancing. However, that very progress attracted the attention of the enemy. Satan did not attack this church through open persecution or moral failure alone. Instead, he used a much more dangerous method: deception through spiritual mystery.
Satan employed hidden traps — subtle and spiritual-looking — to infiltrate the church. He masked his tactics so well that some believers thought they were still serving God, when in fact they were aligning themselves with the enemy. This is what Jesus referred to as “the deep things of Satan” (Revelation 2:24).
Let us, therefore, uncover some of Satan’s spiritual mysteries — deceptive tactics he continues to use today — so that we may stand firm and not fall prey to them.
1. Satan Wants Us to Believe He Cannot Tell the Truth
We often assume that everything Satan says must be a lie. While he is indeed “the father of lies” (John 8:44), he often uses truth deceptively — not to enlighten but to ensnare.
In Acts 16:16–18, when the apostle Paul was ministering in Philippi, a slave girl possessed by a spirit of divination followed him around, crying out, “These men are servants of the Most High God, who proclaim to you the way of salvation.” This statement was true. However, the spirit’s goal was not to support the gospel but to subtly attach itself to Paul’s ministry and disarm his discernment.
Eventually, Paul, “having become greatly annoyed,” discerned the deception and commanded the spirit to leave her in Jesus’ name (Acts 16:18, ESV). The girl was freed, but Paul and Silas were thrown into prison as a result.
Application: Just because something sounds true doesn’t mean it is from God. Not all revelations, visions, or even prophecies that correctly describe your life are of the Holy Spirit. Truth without the right source and fruit can be a trap. “You will recognize them by their fruits” (Matthew 7:16, ESV). Always test the spirits (1 John 4:1).
2. Satan Wants Us to Believe He Cannot Be Present in Church
Many believers falsely assume that Satan only operates outside the church. But Revelation 2:20 exposes this lie. Jesus rebukes the church in Thyatira, saying:
“But I have this against you, that you tolerate that woman Jezebel, who calls herself a prophetess and is teaching and seducing my servants to practice sexual immorality and to eat food sacrificed to idols.” (Revelation 2:20, ESV)
This “Jezebel” was not an outsider — she was inside the church, likely a respected figure. Yet she was introducing false teaching and leading believers astray under the guise of spirituality.
Application: Even sincere, growing believers can be misled if they blindly trust every spiritual leader. Just because someone stands behind a pulpit or has a title doesn’t mean their message aligns with Scripture. Always weigh teaching against the Bible. The Bereans were commended for testing even Paul’s message by the Scriptures (Acts 17:11).
3. Satan Wants Us to Picture Him Only as Frightening or Evil-Looking
In many people’s minds, Satan is imagined as a terrifying figure with horns, red skin, and a pitchfork. But this stereotype is far from reality.
The Bible tells us that Satan “disguises himself as an angel of light” (2 Corinthians 11:14, ESV). Before his fall, he was a beautiful and powerful angel (Ezekiel 28:12–17). He still uses beauty, comfort, and even wealth to deceive.
When Satan tempted Jesus in the wilderness, he didn’t come in terrifying form — he came offering the kingdoms of the world (Matthew 4:8–9).
Application: Not every open door or success is from God. Not every peaceful moment is divine peace. Satan can offer worldly blessings to lure you into spiritual compromise. Discernment is key. Ask not just “Is this good?” but “Is this from God?”
4. Satan Wants Us to Think He Cannot Support God’s Work
Satan will sometimes appear to defend or support God’s agenda — but only as a tactic to infiltrate or derail it.
When Jesus told His disciples about His coming suffering and death, Peter reacted emotionally:
“Far be it from you, Lord! This shall never happen to you.” (Matthew 16:22, ESV)
Peter’s words sounded protective, but Jesus recognized the real source:
“Get behind me, Satan! You are a hindrance to me. For you are not setting your mind on the things of God, but on the things of man.” (Matthew 16:23, ESV)
Satan had momentarily hijacked Peter’s compassion to try and stop Jesus from fulfilling His mission.
Application: Sometimes Satan will “support” your calling, your ministry, your purpose — just enough to steer you off course. That’s why spiritual flattery and even “well-meaning” counsel must be weighed carefully.
5. Satan Wants Us to Believe He Cannot Pretend to Be Weak
Sometimes the enemy gains ground not by opposition, but by pretending to be defeated or submissive.
In Joshua 9, the Gibeonites deceived Israel by pretending to be foreigners seeking peace. Joshua made a covenant with them without seeking God’s counsel, only to discover later that they were local enemies (Joshua 9:14–15).
Application: Satan can flatter you, shrink back in apparent defeat, or act as though he’s not a threat — just to lower your guard. Discernment requires constant reliance on the Holy Spirit and not just your own understanding.
6. Satan Wants Us to Think He Is Ignorant or Unaware
In Genesis 3, Satan approached Eve with a question that sounded innocent:
“Did God actually say, ‘You shall not eat of any tree in the garden’?” (Genesis 3:1, ESV)
He deliberately twisted God’s command, pretending ignorance to provoke Eve into engaging with him. That conversation led to humanity’s fall.
Application: The enemy still uses this tactic today. He may pretend to be naïve, harmless, or in need of explanation — drawing you into a trap. Don’t explain or negotiate with temptation. Cut it off at the root.
A Final Word: Are You Spiritually Awake?
These are the last days. The enemy knows his time is short, and he is working overtime to deceive, distract, and destroy. That is why Paul urges us to “not be outwitted by Satan; for we are not ignorant of his designs” (2 Corinthians 2:11, ESV).
So the question is: Are you saved? If Christ were to return today, would you be taken with Him, or left behind?
Jesus is the only way, truth, and life (John 14:6). No amount of spiritual appearance, religious activity, or church attendance can replace a genuine relationship with Him. If you haven’t repented of your sins and given your life to Christ, today is the day.
Repent. Believe. Follow.
And walk in the light, with eyes wide open to the enemy’s devices.
May the Lord bless you and keep you steadfast in truth.
