Lesson 17

  Portrait of the Serpent

 

Introduction
Even some Christians, when they sin, believe that the devil made them do it. This reveals a misunderstanding of who he actually is and what he can do. In this study we will gain insight into the character of the enemy of our souls. The Bible paints a very clear picture of the devil.

Fallen Angel
Isaiah 14:1-16 reveals that Satan (adversary) was once known as Lucifer (day-star). He was one of the highest angels created by God (Ezekiel 28:13-17).  He chose to rebel against God, and like all rebels, enticed other angels to follow him. He was cast out of Heaven (Luke 10:18). He now delights in trying to destroy everything connected to God. He is the enemy of God, and so the enemy of all who have chosen to trust in Him.

The Old Serpent
In Genesis 3:1 we have our first sight of Satan. He is called “the serpent.” The Hebrew word for serpent is “nachash” and means “shining, upright creature”. So we understand that the serpent was not a snake, but a creature that walked upright. He must have been dazzling to look upon. Satan used this creature as his vehicle to deceive Eve into disobeying God’s word. Revelation also calls him the “old serpent” (12:9, 20:2). From beginning to end he has not changed his ways; he is still the deceiver he always has been.

Father Devil
The Lord Jesus Christ warned the religious leaders of His day (and the warning applies to those of ours) that they were of their “father the devil” (John 8:44). Not only is he the source of all evil, but he is the originator of all religions other than Biblical Christianity. He has his own children or seed (Genesis 3:15). Everyone who chooses not to follow Christ automatically become Satan’s offspring (2 Corinthians 4:3-4). He is also the “father of lies.” The first alternative religion was based on a lie, a lie that appeared to be so attractive and reasonable.

Angel of Light
For obvious reasons Satan can appear as an angel to deceive people (2 Corinthians 11:14-15). Mormonism, Islam and New Age religion are filled with appearances of angelic beings teaching “another gospel” (Galatians 1:8). All these are the ongoing deceitfulness of Satan.

Prince of the Power of the Air
Ephesians 2:1-2 reveals that the devil is very active in his control of those who will not follow Christ. All who will not accept Christ as Saviour are under Satan’s influence. Some are demon possessed, but every one is brainwashed into following his plans and purposes.

Roaring Lion
Especially within witchcraft and Satanism people think that Satan is their friend. He cares nothing for those who worship him. One soul on his side is simply another soul lost to God, and he knows how much this breaks God’s heart (John 3:16). He hates every creature made by God. He hates both believer and unbeliever alike (1 Peter 5:8). He wants to see as many human beings as possible in the lake of Fire (Revelation 20:15).

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