The first group the Bible mentions as the enemies of GOD and our Christian faith is the manipulating and corrupting systems of the World that are enforced by the demonic gods and evil spirits of the kingdom of darkness.
One example of Scriptures that mentioned about those demonic worldly systems of the kingdom of darkness in the heavenly realms that are the causes of spiritual warfare and rebelliousness against GOD, is in the book of Ephesians chapter 6 verses 10 to 13, which records "Now my beloved ones, I have saved these most important truths for last: Be supernaturally infused with strength through your life union with the LORD JESUS. Stand victorious with the force of HIS explosive Power flowing in and through you. Put on GOD’S complete set of armor provided for our lives, so that you will be protected as you fight against the evil strategies of the accuser. Your hand to hand combat is not with human beings, but with the highest principalities and authorities operating in rebellion under the heavenly realms. For they are a powerful class of demon gods and evil spirits that hold this dark World in bondage. Because of this, you must wear all the armor that GOD provides so you’re protected as you confront the slanderer, for you are destined for all things and will rise victorious."
Other examples are the corrupted ways of the Religious systems and World Political systems that the LORD JESUS warned HIS disciples in the book of Mark chapter 8 verse 15 which says "And as they were sailing across the lake, JESUS repeatedly warned them, “Be on your guard against the yeast inside of the Pharisees and the yeast inside of Herod." In the book of Matthew chapter 16 verse 6, it says "JESUS spoke up and said, “Watch out for the yeast of the Pharisees and the Sadducees.” From both Scriptures we see the LORD JESUS mentioning to watch out the yeasts of the Pharisees, Sadducees, and Herod. Why? Because they are corruptive and contain errors that destroy the integrity and truth about GOD.
In the book of Matthew chapter 16 verses 5 to 12, it records "Later, as JESUS and HIS disciples crossed over to the other side of Lake Galilee, the disciples realized they had forgotten to bring any loaves of bread. JESUS spoke up and said, “Watch out for the yeast of the Pharisees and the Sadducees.” Thinking JESUS was scolding them over not bringing bread, they began to discuss it among themselves. Knowing their thoughts, JESUS said to them, “You have such little faith. Why are you arguing with one another about having no bread? Are you so slow to understand? Have you forgotten the miracle of feeding the five thousand families and how each of you ended up with a basket full of fragments? And how seven loaves of bread fed four thousand families with baskets left over? Don’t you understand? I’m not talking about bread, but I’m warning you to avoid the yeast of the Pharisees and the Sadducees.” Then finally they realized HE wasn’t talking about yeast found in bread, but the error of the teachings of the Pharisees and the Sadducees. "
The term leaven is used as a metaphor for influence and growth either for evil or good. In the book of Galatians chapter 5 verse 9 for instance, it says “It takes only a little yeast to make the whole batch of dough rise.” In the book of Matthew chapter 13 verse 33 also says "JESUS told them still another parable: “The Kingdom of Heaven is like yeast that a woman took and mixed into about sixty pounds of flour until it worked all through the dough." And in the book of 1 Corinthians chapter 5 verse 8, it records that "Let us therefore celebrate the festival, not with the old leaven, the leaven of malice and evil, but with the unleavened bread of sincerity and truth."
The people who were offended and opposed to the LORD JESUS' teachings and HIS public ministry that are recorded in the Four Gospels, the Books of Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John, they are known as the "religious leaders" or the "teachers of the law." And in the Bible, they are divided into two main groups: the Pharisees and the Sadducees. They are like between Democratic and Republican of this World, but in religious sects. Neither the Pharisees nor the Sadducees were Priests. They did not take part in the actual running of the Temple, the offering of sacrifices, or the administration of other religious duties. Instead, both the Pharisees and Sadducees were experts in the law, they were experts on the Jewish Scriptures also known as the Old Testament. The Pharisees and Sadducees each held a lot of power and influence over not just the religious lives of the Jewish people, but their finances, their work habits, and their family lives.
The LORD JESUS argued with the Pharisees several times about their habits of putting manmade traditions above the needs of the people. One of the examples of the Bible passages is the Passage of the Seven Woes to the Scribes and Pharisees in the book of Matthew chapter 23 where the LORD JESUS dismissed their extra Biblical traditions.
In the book of Matthew chapter 22 verses 22 to 33, it says that "That same day the Sadducees, who say there is no resurrection, came to HIM with a question. “Teacher,” they said, “Moses told us that if a man dies without having children, his brother must marry the widow and raise up offspring for him. Now there were seven brothers among us. The first one married and died, and since he had no children, he left his wife to his brother. The same thing happened to the second and third brother, right on down to the seventh. Finally, the woman died. Now then, at the resurrection, whose wife will she be of the seven, since all of them were married to her?” JESUS replied, “You are in error because you do not know the Scriptures or the Power Of GOD. At the resurrection people will neither marry nor be given in marriage; they will be like the angels in Heaven. But about the resurrection of the dead, have you not read what GOD said to you, ‘I am the GOD of Abraham, the GOD of Isaac, and the GOD of Jacob’? HE is not The GOD of the dead but of the living.” When the crowds heard this, they were astonished at HIS teaching.
The LORD JESUS warned the disciples about the yeast of Herod so that they wouldn't be ensnared. HE wanted them to keep GOD as their first priority and stand firm in faith for GOD and HIS Righteousness.
But also in the book of Matthew chapter 22 verses 15 to 22, it says "Then the Pharisees went out and laid plans to trap HIM in HIS Words. They sent their disciples to HIM along with the Herodians. “Teacher,” they said, “we know that you are a Man of integrity and that you teach the way of GOD in accordance with the truth. You aren’t swayed by others, because you pay no attention to who they are. Tell us then, what is your opinion? Is it right to pay the imperial tax to Caesar or not?” But JESUS, knowing their evil intent, said, “You hypocrites, why are you trying to trap ME? Show ME the coin used for paying the tax.” They brought HIM a denarius, and HE asked them, “Whose image is this? And whose inscription?” “Caesar’s,” they replied. Then HE said to them, “So give back to Caesar what is Caesar’s, and to GOD what is GOD’S.” When they heard this, they were amazed. So they left HIM and went away."
The definition of “Babel” means confusion. Seeing what humans were trying to do, GOD confused their language so they could not complete the tower and the city they had begun to build in a plain in Shinar.
To understand this woman, we must first understand the language being used. In the book of Revelation chapter 19 verse 7 for instance, it says "Let’s rejoice and be glad and give the glory to HIM, because the marriage of the LAMB has come, and HIS bride has prepared herself." We see here a woman is used symbolically as the Church, the Bride of the LAMB of GOD.
And in the book of Revelation chapter 17 verse 15, it says "The angel also said to Apostle John, “The waters you saw, on which the prostitute is sitting, are nations, peoples, races, and languages." And in verse 18, it ends up saying, “The woman you saw is the great city that rules over the kings of the Earth.”
From the time Apostle John wrote this, and in the centuries that followed, based on Biblical Scholars and history, the city that reigned over the kings of the Earth was Rome. And the Church associated with Rome is the Roman Catholic Church, which is headquartered in Vatican City in Rome.
There was one person that could have brought the Pharisees, Sadducees, Scribes, and Herodians together regardless of their differences, it was the LORD JESUS CHRIST, and it was because HE was a threat to them.
The Scribes were scholars and lawyers who studied and interpreted the Mosaic Law. It was the Scribes who added the manmade traditions that the Pharisees followed carefully. Some Scribes, but not all, were also Pharisees.
King Herod the Great was an ambitious ruler who set himself in opposition to the LORD JESUS CHRIST, Who is The KING of kings and LORD of lords. Scriptures record Herod as the family name of a ruling dynasty in Palestine that has followed the footsteps of their father Herod the Great in opposing CHRIST.
In 41 BC Herod the Great was named governor of Galilee. However, the Jewish Hasmonean dynasty was in conflict with Rome, and Herod supported Rome in the conflict. He was given the title king of the Jews by the Roman Senate and then charged with the responsibility of conquering Judea so that he could rule as a king. After about three years of fighting, Herod was victorious in 37 or 36 BC. As king of Judea, Herod's great primary directive was to carry out the wishes of Rome. He ruled from 37 or 36 BC to 4 BC. He is mentioned in the book of Matthew chapter 2.
The LORD JESUS warned the disciples about the yeast of Herod so that they wouldn't be ensnared. HE wanted them to keep GOD as their first priority and stand firm in faith for GOD and HIS Righteousness.
In the book of Mark chapter 3 verse 6, Scripture says "At once the Pharisees went away and met with the supporters of Herod to plot how to kill JESUS." In another Bible translations it records, "Then the Pharisees went out and immediately began conspiring with the Herodians [to plot] against HIM, as to how they might [fabricate some legal grounds to] put HIM to death."
Bible Scholars believe that they were a political party "Herod's Political Party" that supported king Herod Antipas, the Roman Empire’s ruler over much of the land of the Jews from 4 B.C. to A.D. 39. They also believe that the Herodians looked to Herod as a messiah, a savior of sorts who would put the Jewish Land in favor with the Roman Empire and bring blessings to them. Therefore the LORD JESUS’ presentation of Himself as the True Messiah was a threat to the Herodians' attempt to make Herod the influential political power in the land.
World Political systems usually are corrupted. They are based on deception, lies, and manipulation. Those who are working in ruling positions of the governmental and places of authorities, must not rely on the World Political systems as solutions but rely on GOD'S kind of solutions. They must remain close to GOD so that they don't compromise on GOD'S truth and HIS Righteous ways of doing things.
Another example of the corrupted systems of this World is the Babylonian system of this World.
In the book of Genesis chapter 10 verses 6 to 12, it records that "The sons of Ham; Cush, Egypt, Libya and Canaan, were the ancestors of the peoples who bear their names. The descendants of Cush were the people of Seba, Havilah, Sabtah, Raamah, and Sabteca. The descendants of Raamah were the people of Sheba and Dedan. Cush had a son named Nimrod, who became the World's first great conqueror. By the LORD'S help he was a great hunter, and that is why people say, “May the LORD make you as great a hunter as Nimrod.” At first his kingdom included Babylon, Erech, and Accad, all three of them in Babylonia. From that land he went to Assyria and built the cities of Nineveh, Rehoboth Ir, Calah, and Resen, which is between Nineveh and the great city of Calah."
Babel (in Hebrew), or Babylon (in Greek), was one of the cities of an ancient kingdom established by Nimrod early in mankind’s history. In the book of Genesis chapter 10 verse 10, it says "At first his kingdom included Babylon, Erech, and Accad, all three of them in Babylonia."
Another Bible passage that mentions about Babylon is the Story of the Tower of Babel. In the book of Genesis chapter 11 verses 1 to 9, it records that "Now the whole World had one language and a common speech. As people moved eastward, they found a plain in Shinar and settled there. They said to each other, “Come, let’s make bricks and bake them thoroughly.” They used brick instead of stone, and tar for mortar. Then they said, “Come, let us build ourselves a city, with a tower that reaches to the Heavens, so that we may make a name for ourselves; otherwise we will be scattered over the face of the whole Earth.” But the LORD came down to see the city and the tower the people were building. The LORD said, “If as one people speaking the same language they have begun to do this, then nothing they plan to do will be impossible for them. Come, let us go down and confuse their language so they will not understand each other.” So the LORD scattered them from there over all the Earth, and they stopped building the city. That is why it was called Babel, because there the LORD confused the language of the whole World. From there the LORD scattered them over the face of the whole Earth."
Another Bible passage that mentions about Babylon is the Story of the Tower of Babel. In the book of Genesis chapter 11 verses 1 to 9, it records that "Now the whole World had one language and a common speech. As people moved eastward, they found a plain in Shinar and settled there. They said to each other, “Come, let’s make bricks and bake them thoroughly.” They used brick instead of stone, and tar for mortar. Then they said, “Come, let us build ourselves a city, with a tower that reaches to the Heavens, so that we may make a name for ourselves; otherwise we will be scattered over the face of the whole Earth.” But the LORD came down to see the city and the tower the people were building. The LORD said, “If as one people speaking the same language they have begun to do this, then nothing they plan to do will be impossible for them. Come, let us go down and confuse their language so they will not understand each other.” So the LORD scattered them from there over all the Earth, and they stopped building the city. That is why it was called Babel, because there the LORD confused the language of the whole World. From there the LORD scattered them over the face of the whole Earth."
Another place it mentions Babylon is in the book of Isaiah chapter 21 verses 5 to 10, it records "In the vision a banquet is ready; rugs are spread for the guests to sit on. They are eating and drinking. Suddenly the command rings out: “Officers. Prepare your shields.” Then the LORD said to me, “Go and post a sentry, and tell him to report what he sees. If he sees riders coming on horseback, two by two, and riders on donkeys and camels, he is to observe them carefully.” The sentry calls out, “Sir, I have been standing guard at my post day and night.” Suddenly, here they come. Riders on horseback, two by two. The sentry gives the news, “Babylon has fallen. All the idols they worshiped lie shattered on the ground.” My people Israel, you have been threshed like wheat, but now I have announced to you the good news that I have heard from the LORD ALMIGHTY, THE GOD of Israel."
Many years later, this same city called Babylonian city is mentioned in the book of Isaiah, and was prophesied to be judged by GOD because of its idolatrous worship of its demonic gods, Babylonian gods.
And as we read the Bible, for example in the book of Revelation, we see the continuation of rebellion and of exalting humanity and demonic gods above GOD ALMIGHTY continuing to be spread by the Babylonian systems.
In the book of Revelation chapter 17 and chapter 18, we see another form of Babylonian system. This time, the Bible described and compared it to as a great city, and a famous prostitute.
In the book of Revelation chapter 17 verses 1 to 5, it says that "Then one of the seven angels who had the seven bowls came to me and said, “Come, and I will show you how the famous prostitute is to be punished, that great city that is built near many rivers. The kings of the Earth practiced sexual immorality with her, and the people of the World became drunk from drinking the wine of her immorality.” The Spirit took control of me, and the angel carried me to a desert. There I saw a woman sitting on a red beast that had names insulting to GOD written all over it; the beast had seven heads and ten horns. The woman was dressed in purple and scarlet, and covered with gold ornaments, precious stones, and pearls. In her hand she held a gold cup full of obscene and filthy things, the result of her immorality. On her forehead was written a name that has a secret meaning: “Great Babylon, the mother of all the prostitutes and perverts in the World.”
According to Biblical Scholars, this famous prostitute woman in the book of Revelation chapter 17 is said to be a Church, but not the Church that was established by the LORD JESUS CHRIST. In fact this Church has been responsible for the martyrdom of many true followers of the LORD JESUS CHRIST and those who obey GOD ALMIGHTY. In the book of Revelation chapter 17 verse 6 it says that "And I saw that the woman was drunk with the blood of GOD'S people and the blood of those who were killed because they had been loyal to JESUS. When I saw her, I was completely amazed."
From the time Apostle John wrote this, and in the centuries that followed, based on Biblical Scholars and history, the city that reigned over the kings of the Earth was Rome. And the Church associated with Rome is the Roman Catholic Church, which is headquartered in Vatican City in Rome.
If you continue to the next chapter, in the last verse of the book of Revelation chapter 18, in verse 24, it says "Babylon was punished because the blood of Prophets and of GOD'S people was found in the city, yes, the blood of all those who have been killed on Earth."
The Bible has said a lot to warn our lives about the corrupted systems and things of this World.
In the book of 1 John chapter 2 verses 15 to 17, Apostle John said “Do not love this World nor the things it offers you, for when you love the World, you do not have the love of The FATHER in you. For the World offers only a craving for physical pleasure, a craving for everything we see, and pride in our achievements and possessions. These are not from The FATHER, but are from this World. And this World is fading away, along with everything that people crave. But anyone who does what pleases GOD will live forever.”
Another translation of this same Bible passage says “Do not love the World or the things in the World. If anyone loves the World, the love of The FATHER is not in him. For all that is in the World—the lust of the flesh, the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life—is not of The FATHER but is of the World. And the World is passing away, and the lust of it; but he who does the Will of GOD abides forever.”
Then if you read the Book of James chapter 4 verses 1 to 8, Apostle James said “What is causing the quarrels and fights among you? Don’t they come from the evil desires at war within you? You want what you don’t have, so you scheme and kill to get it. You are jealous of what others have, but you can’t get it, so you fight and wage war to take it away from them. Yet you don’t have what you want because you don’t ask GOD for it. And even when you ask, you don’t get it because your motives are all wrong—you want only what will give you pleasure. You adulterers. Don’t you realize that friendship with the World makes you an enemy of GOD? I say it again: If you want to be a friend of the World, you make yourself an enemy of GOD. Do you think the Scriptures have no meaning? They say that GOD is passionate that the Spirit HE has placed within our lives should be faithful to HIM. And HE gives grace generously. As the Scriptures say, “GOD opposes the proud but gives grace to the humble.” So humble yourselves before GOD. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you. Come close to GOD, and GOD will come close to you. Wash your hands, you sinners; purify your hearts, for your loyalty is divided between GOD and the World.”
The World corrupted systems and their ways of doing things are not good for the children of GOD. Why? Because they only draw the hearts of the believers away from The LORD Their GOD. Because they go against godly Principles of GOD and GOD’S ways of doing things. They don’t honor GOD and their Creator that's why GOD abhors and group them as wickedness in HIS Sight. Most of these worldly ways of doing things support sinful and wicked lifestyles.
In the book of John chapter 15 verses 18 to 23, the LORD JESUS said “If the World hates you, remember that it hated Me first. The World would love you as one of its own if you belonged to it, but you are no longer part of the World. I chose you to come out of the World, so it hates you. Do you remember what I told you? ‘A slave is not greater than the master.’ Since they persecuted Me, naturally they will persecute you. And if they had listened to Me, they would listen to you. They will do all this to you because of Me, for they have rejected the One Who sent Me. They would not be guilty if I had not come and spoken to them. But now they have no excuse for their sin. Anyone who hates Me also hates My FATHER.”
The LORD JESUS said even though we are still living in the World, as believers and born again Christians we are no longer of the World. That doesn’t mean we should not love others, our friends and family members, our neighbors, and everyone. In fact we should love everyone enough even to be concerned about their Salvation. The LORD JESUS basically said that because of our faith in HIM, the World will hate you and me. Because of you and me choosing to live godly and live according GOD’S ways of doing things, we will be persecuted. Before we became born again Christians, we were like them, but things have changed for you and me, after we have accepted to follow GOD in our lives. We no longer belong to the devil, we belong to GOD now. We have decided to live a godly life, a lifestyle that is pleasing to GOD. We have decided to resist the devil and his temptations. We don’t want to live according to our flesh anymore. We are led and guided by GOD’S SPIRIT.
The Book of Colossians chapter 1 verse 12 to 13 records that “Always thanking the FATHER. HE has enabled you to share in the inheritance that belongs to HIS people, who live in the Light. For HE has rescued our lives from the kingdom of darkness and transferred our lives into the Kingdom of HIS dear SON, Who purchased our freedom and forgave our sins.”
When we became born again Christians we changed kingdoms, we moved from the kingdom of darkness and its ways of doing things to the Kingdom of GOD or the Kingdom of Heaven citizenship and its ways of doing things. Though we still live in the World, we belong to the Kingdom of Heaven. On this Earth we have become ambassadors of the Kingdom of Heaven, because we have become Citizens of Heaven, and we are living following the ways of GOD based on HIS Righteousness.
The Kingdom of GOD for example, has it's own protocols and operating ways of even in obtaining things. The LORD JESUS said in the book of Matthew chapter 6 verse 33, “But first and most importantly seek (aim at, strive after) HIS Kingdom and HIS righteousness [His way of doing and being right, the attitude and character of GOD], and all these things will be given to you also.”
When we seek first GOD, His Kingdom and Righteousness, and HIS ways of doing things, we make HIM first priority in everything and above everyone in our lives. And when we make GOD and HIS Ways of doing things first priority, all the things we need and want will be given to you and me. We don’t need to chase them, they will be added into our lives.
When we make GOD our first priority and make HIM the center of our lives we escape the corrupted systems of the World.
In the Book of Romans chapter 8 verse 28, it says “And we know [with great confidence] that GOD [Who is deeply concerned about out lives] causes all things to work together [as a plan] for good for those who love GOD, to those who are called according to HIS plan and purpose.”
The second group the Bible mentions as the enemy of our Christian faith is the flesh or sinful nature.
In Scriptures, the flesh is most often referred to as that natural sinful part of man that loves to please itself. So we are not talking here the flesh as the physical body or the manifestation of something into a tangible thing. We are talking about this rebellious and stubborn part of our inner being. It is that part of you and me that does not want to be told what to do, that refuses correction, and does not want to have a thing to do with GOD. The flesh usually hates to be under authority or to have to yield to anything other than its own wishes and desires.
Let’s look at this flesh that is an enemy of GOD and our Christian faith. Some of the Bible translations call it the sinful nature.
In the book of Galatians chapter 5 verses 16 to 26, it says that “So I say, let the HOLY SPIRIT guide your lives. Then you won’t be doing what your sinful nature craves. The sinful nature wants to do evil, which is just the opposite of what the Spirit wants. And the Spirit gives you and me desires that are the opposite of what the sinful nature desires. These two forces are constantly fighting each other, so you are not free to carry out your good intentions. But when you are directed by the Spirit, you are not under obligation to the law of Moses. When you follow the desires of your sinful nature, the results are very clear: sexual immorality, impurity, lustful pleasures, idolatry, sorcery, hostility, quarreling, jealousy, outbursts of anger, selfish ambition, dissension, division, envy, drunkenness, wild parties, and other sins like these. Let me tell you again, as I have before, that anyone living that sort of life will not inherit the Kingdom of GOD. But the HOLY SPIRIT produces this kind of fruit in our lives: love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self control. There is no law against these things. Those who belong to CHRIST JESUS have nailed the passions and desires of their sinful nature to HIS cross and crucified them there. Since we are living by the Spirit, let us follow the Spirit’s leading in every part of our lives. Let us not become conceited, or provoke one another, or be jealous of one another.”
There is only one way to overcome the sinful desires of the flesh which is to walk in the Spirit. Meaning that we are to follow the leading of the HOLY SPIRIT as HE leads our lives along in the truths of the Scriptures, GOD’S WORD, or GOD’S Wisdom, Instructions, and Precepts. When we yield to the leading and guidance of the HOLY SPIRIT OF GOD, because of HIS Power and empowerment over our lives, we are able to overcome our sinful fleshly desires.
You will know that you are living by your flesh when you see the works of its fruits in your life. Apostle Paul said when you follow the desires of your sinful nature, the results are very clear: sexual immorality, impurity, lustful pleasures, idolatry, sorcery, hostility, quarreling, jealousy, outbursts of anger, selfish ambition, dissension, division, envy, drunkenness, wild parties, and other sins like these.
Even Apostle Paul shared his struggle with the sinful nature in the book of Romans chapter 7 verses 14 to 25 which says “So the trouble is not with the law, for it is spiritual and good. The trouble is with me, for I am all too human, a slave to sin. I don’t really understand myself, for I want to do what is right, but I don’t do it. Instead, I do what I hate. But if I know that what I am doing is wrong, this shows that I agree that the law is good. So I am not the one doing wrong; it is sin living in me that does it. And I know that nothing good lives in me, that is, in my sinful nature. I want to do what is right, but I can’t. I want to do what is good, but I don’t. I don’t want to do what is wrong, but I do it anyway. But if I do what I don’t want to do, I am not really the one doing wrong; it is sin living in me that does it. I have discovered this principle of life that when I want to do what is right, I inevitably do what is wrong. I love GOD’S law with all my heart. But there is another power within me that is at war with my mind. This power makes me a slave to the sin that is still within me. Oh, what a miserable person I am. Who will free me from this life that is dominated by sin and death? Thank GOD. The answer is in JESUS CHRIST our LORD. So you see how it is: In my mind I really want to obey GOD’S law, but because of my sinful nature I am a slave to sin.”
Apostle Paul also went on saying in Romans chapter 8 verses 1 to 17 that “So now there is no condemnation for those who belong to CHRIST JESUS. And because you belong to HIM, the Power of the Life Giving SPIRIT has freed you from the power of sin that leads to death. The law of Moses was unable to save our lives because of the weakness of our sinful nature. So GOD did what the law could not do. HE sent HIS own SON in a body like the bodies we sinners have. And in that body GOD declared an end to sin’s control over our lives by giving HIS SON as a sacrifice for our sins. HE did this so that the just requirement of the law would be fully satisfied for our lives, who no longer follow our sinful nature but instead follow the Spirit. Those who are dominated by the sinful nature think about sinful things, but those who are controlled by the HOLY SPIRIT think about things that please the Spirit. So letting your sinful nature control your mind leads to death. But letting the Spirit control your mind leads to life and peace. For the sinful nature is always hostile to GOD. It never did obey GOD’S laws, and it never will. That’s why those who are still under the control of their sinful nature can never please GOD. But you are not controlled by your sinful nature. You are controlled by the Spirit if you have the SPIRIT Of GOD living in you. (And remember that those who do not have the SPIRIT of CHRIST living in them do not belong to HIM at all). And CHRIST lives within you, so even though your body will die because of sin, the Spirit gives you life because you have been made right with GOD. The SPIRIT Of GOD, who raised JESUS from the dead, lives in you. And just as GOD raised CHRIST JESUS from the dead, HE will give life to your mortal bodies by this same Spirit living within you. Therefore, dear brothers and sisters, you have no obligation to do what your sinful nature urges you to do. For if you live by its dictates, you will die. But if through the Power of the Spirit you put to death the deeds of your sinful nature, you will live. For all who are led by the SPIRIT of GOD are children of GOD. So you have not received a spirit that makes you fearful slaves. Instead, you received GOD’S SPIRIT when HE adopted you as HIS own children. Now we call HIM, “ABBA, FATHER.” For HIS SPIRIT joins with our spirit to affirm that we are GOD’S children. And since we are HIS children, we are HIS heirs. In fact, together with CHRIST we are heirs of GOD’S Glory. But if we are to share HIS Glory, we must also share HIS suffering.”
There are no other ways to overcome the flesh or sinful nature but through the LORD JESUS our SAVIOR. The fleshy in fact stands for all the LORD is against. That’s why it is the enemy of GOD and is our enemy to our Christian walk as children of GOD.
The third group the Bible mentions as the enemy of our Christian faith is all the sum total of evil powers that threaten men both heavenly and earthly. This includes the Devil or Satan, the antiCHRIST, and all the rulers, evil spirits, and demonic gods of the kingdom of darkness that are mentioned in the Bible.
The Bible has lots of Scriptures concerning these rulers of darkness, powers and evil forces that control this World. Apostle Paul exposed them in the book of Ephesians chapter 6 verse 12, and said "For we do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this age, against spiritual hosts of wickedness in the heavenly places." In another Bible translations it says, "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."
In the Book of 2 Thessalonians chapter 2 verses 1 to 12, Apostle Paul revealed what has to happen in the future event prior to the LORD’S second coming. And Scripture says “Now in regard to the coming of our LORD JESUS CHRIST and our gathering together to meet HIM, we ask you, brothers and sisters, not to be quickly unsettled or alarmed either by a [so called prophetic revelation of a] Spirit or a message or a letter [alleged to be] from us, to the effect that the day of the LORD has [already] come. Let no one in any way deceive or entrap you, for that day will not come unless the apostasy comes first [that is, the great rebellion, the abandonment of the faith by professed Christians], and the man of lawlessness is revealed, the son of destruction [the Antichrist, the one who is destined to be destroyed], who opposes and exalts himself [so proudly and so insolently] above every so called god or object of worship, so that he [actually enters and] takes his seat in the temple of GOD, publicly proclaiming that he himself is GOD. Do you not remember that when I was still with you, I was telling you these things? And you know what restrains him now [from being revealed]; it is so that he will be revealed at his own [appointed] time. For the mystery of lawlessness [rebellion against divine authority and the coming reign of lawlessness] is already at work; [but it is restrained] only until he who now restrains it is taken out of the way. Then the lawless one [the Antichrist] will be revealed and the LORD JESUS will slay him with the breath of HIS mouth and bring him to an end by the appearance of HIS coming. The coming of the [Antichrist, the lawless] one is through the activity of Satan, [attended] with great power [all kinds of counterfeit miracles] and [deceptive] signs and false wonders [all of them lies], and by unlimited seduction to evil and with all the deception of wickedness for those who are perishing, because they did not welcome the love of the truth [of the Gospel] so as to be saved [they were spiritually blind, and rejected the truth that would have saved them]. Because of this GOD will send upon them a misleading influence, [an activity of error and deception] so they will believe the lie, in order that all may be judged and condemned who did not believe the truth [about their sin, and the need for salvation through CHRIST], but instead took pleasure in unrighteousness.”
There was also an interesting conversation between the LORD JESUS and some of the Jews that were Abraham descendants in those days. And the LORD JESUS was explaining to them that if GOD is their FATHER, then they would behave like children of GOD. In the book of John chapter 8 verses 37 to 47 the Bible records this conversation, and it says “I know that you are Abraham’s descendants; yet you plan to kill Me, because My Word has no place [to grow] in you [and it makes no change in your heart]. I tell the things that I have seen at My FATHER’S side [in HIS Very Presence]; so you also do the things that you heard from your father.” They answered, “Abraham is our father.” JESUS said to them, “If you are [truly] Abraham’s children, then do the works of Abraham and follow his example. But as it is, you want to kill Me, a Man who has told you the truth, which I heard from GOD. This is not the way Abraham acted. You are doing the works of your [own] father.” They said to Him, “We are not illegitimate children; we have One [Spiritual] FATHER: GOD.” JESUS said to them, “If GOD were your FATHER [but HE is not], you would love and recognize Me, for I came from GOD [out of HIS Very Presence] and have arrived here. For I have not even come on My own initiative [as self appointed], but HE [is the ONE WHO] sent Me. Why do you misunderstand what I am saying? It is because [your spiritual ears are deaf and] you are unable to hear [the truth of] My Word. You are of your father the devil, and it is your will to practice the desires [which are characteristic] of your father. He was a murderer from the beginning, and does not stand in the truth because there is no truth in him. When he lies, he speaks what is natural to him, for he is a liar and the father of lies and half truths. But because I speak the truth, you do not believe Me [and continue in your unbelief]. Which one of you [has proof and] convicts Me of sin? If I speak truth, why do you not believe Me? Whoever is of GOD and belongs to HIM hears [the truth of] GOD’S Words; for this reason you do not hear them: because you are not of GOD and you are not in fellowship with HIM.”
In the Book of John chapter 10 verses 7 to 15 it records that “So JESUS said again, “I assure you and most solemnly say to you, I am the Door for the sheep [leading to life]. All who came before Me [as false messiahs and self appointed leaders] are thieves and robbers, but the [true] sheep did not hear them. I am the Door; anyone who enters through Me will be saved [and will live forever], and will go in and out [freely], and find pasture (spiritual security). The thief comes only in order to steal and kill and destroy. I came that they may have and enjoy life, and have it in abundance [to the full, till it overflows]. I am the Good Shepherd. The Good Shepherd lays down His [own] life for the sheep. But the hired man [who merely serves for wages], who is neither the shepherd nor the owner of the sheep, when he sees the wolf coming, deserts the flock and runs away; and the wolf snatches the sheep and scatters them. The man runs because he is a hired hand [who serves only for wages] and is not concerned about the [safety of the] sheep. I am the Good Shepherd, and I know [without any doubt those who are] My own and My own know Me [and have a deep, personal relationship with Me] even as the FATHER knows Me and I know the FATHER and I lay down My [very own] life [sacrificing it] for the benefit of the sheep.”
If there is a Good Shepherd then there is a bad shepherd. And the LORD JESUS explained the difference between the Good Shepherd and bad shepherd.
The Good Shepherd is the owner of the sheep, He lays down His life for the benefit of His Own sheep, is concerned about the safety and protection of the sheep, and knows His sheep, and His sheep hears His voice. He wants the sheep to have and enjoy life, and have it in abundance [to the full, till it overflows].
And the bad shepherd is like a thief, he doesn’t care for the sheep, because they do not belong to him, and that’s why is not concerned for them, instead of keeping them safe, he is concerned about stealing from them, and if cannot succeed, then destroying and killing them.
The LORD JESUS called the devil the ruler of this World. In the Book of John chapter 12 verses 27 to 33, HE said “Now My soul is troubled and deeply distressed; what shall I say? ‘FATHER, save Me from this hour [of trial and agony]’? But it is for this [very] purpose that I have come to this hour [this time and place]. [Rather, I will say,] ‘FATHER, glorify (honor, extol) YOUR NAME.’” Then a voice came from Heaven saying, “I have both glorified it, and will glorify it again.” The crowd of people who stood nearby and heard the voice said that it had thundered; others said, “An angel has spoken to HIM.” JESUS answered, “This voice has come for your sake, not for Mine. Now judgment is upon this World [the sentence is being passed]. Now the ruler of this World (Satan) will be cast out. And I, if and when I am lifted up from the Earth [on the cross], will draw all people to Myself [Gentiles, as well as Jews].” HE said this to indicate the kind of death by which HE was to die.”
Those are about a few Scriptures that show the LORD JESUS Himself said the devil exists. In fact in the very beginning in the book of Genesis chapter 3, the Bible mentions that the devil in the form of a serpent tested Eve at the Garden of Aden. It is the same devil who tested the LORD JESUS when HE was fasting for forty days in the wilderness as recorded in the Book of Matthew chapter 4 verses 1 to 11.
These powers and forces of darkness, evil spirits and demonic gods, may not be seen in the natural, but it doesn't mean that they don't exist.
As it says in the book of Ephesians chapter 6 verses 10 to 20, we fight and wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this World. These evil forces and powers exist in the spiritual realm, they use people as their representatives to do evil and wickedness. Just as GOD can use you and me to represent HIM on this Earth to do good and godly deeds and preach the Gospel. The devil also can use people to do his work.
May we never be used by the enemies of GOD and the enemies of our lives to do evil on their behalf. May our family members never be used by the enemies of GOD and the enemies of their lives to do evil on their behalf. May GOD gives you and me and all our loved ones HIS Grace to overcome these three kinds of enemies that only comes to steal, kill, or destroy our lives. May GOD help you and me and all our loved ones to come out of the great babylonian city and its corruption. May we escape and be protected from the yeasts of Pharisees, Sadducees, Scribes, and Herodians. May we walk and be led by the SPIRIT OF GOD, and be protected from the rulers of the kingdom of darkness, evil spirits, and forces of evil. I plead the Blood of the LAMB OF GOD over our lives and our family members. In the Mighty NAME OF JESUS I pray. Amen.
The Bible has said a lot to warn our lives about the corrupted systems and things of this World.
In the book of 1 John chapter 2 verses 15 to 17, Apostle John said “Do not love this World nor the things it offers you, for when you love the World, you do not have the love of The FATHER in you. For the World offers only a craving for physical pleasure, a craving for everything we see, and pride in our achievements and possessions. These are not from The FATHER, but are from this World. And this World is fading away, along with everything that people crave. But anyone who does what pleases GOD will live forever.”
Another translation of this same Bible passage says “Do not love the World or the things in the World. If anyone loves the World, the love of The FATHER is not in him. For all that is in the World—the lust of the flesh, the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life—is not of The FATHER but is of the World. And the World is passing away, and the lust of it; but he who does the Will of GOD abides forever.”
Then if you read the Book of James chapter 4 verses 1 to 8, Apostle James said “What is causing the quarrels and fights among you? Don’t they come from the evil desires at war within you? You want what you don’t have, so you scheme and kill to get it. You are jealous of what others have, but you can’t get it, so you fight and wage war to take it away from them. Yet you don’t have what you want because you don’t ask GOD for it. And even when you ask, you don’t get it because your motives are all wrong—you want only what will give you pleasure. You adulterers. Don’t you realize that friendship with the World makes you an enemy of GOD? I say it again: If you want to be a friend of the World, you make yourself an enemy of GOD. Do you think the Scriptures have no meaning? They say that GOD is passionate that the Spirit HE has placed within our lives should be faithful to HIM. And HE gives grace generously. As the Scriptures say, “GOD opposes the proud but gives grace to the humble.” So humble yourselves before GOD. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you. Come close to GOD, and GOD will come close to you. Wash your hands, you sinners; purify your hearts, for your loyalty is divided between GOD and the World.”
The World corrupted systems and their ways of doing things are not good for the children of GOD. Why? Because they only draw the hearts of the believers away from The LORD Their GOD. Because they go against godly Principles of GOD and GOD’S ways of doing things. They don’t honor GOD and their Creator that's why GOD abhors and group them as wickedness in HIS Sight. Most of these worldly ways of doing things support sinful and wicked lifestyles.
In the book of John chapter 15 verses 18 to 23, the LORD JESUS said “If the World hates you, remember that it hated Me first. The World would love you as one of its own if you belonged to it, but you are no longer part of the World. I chose you to come out of the World, so it hates you. Do you remember what I told you? ‘A slave is not greater than the master.’ Since they persecuted Me, naturally they will persecute you. And if they had listened to Me, they would listen to you. They will do all this to you because of Me, for they have rejected the One Who sent Me. They would not be guilty if I had not come and spoken to them. But now they have no excuse for their sin. Anyone who hates Me also hates My FATHER.”
The LORD JESUS said even though we are still living in the World, as believers and born again Christians we are no longer of the World. That doesn’t mean we should not love others, our friends and family members, our neighbors, and everyone. In fact we should love everyone enough even to be concerned about their Salvation. The LORD JESUS basically said that because of our faith in HIM, the World will hate you and me. Because of you and me choosing to live godly and live according GOD’S ways of doing things, we will be persecuted. Before we became born again Christians, we were like them, but things have changed for you and me, after we have accepted to follow GOD in our lives. We no longer belong to the devil, we belong to GOD now. We have decided to live a godly life, a lifestyle that is pleasing to GOD. We have decided to resist the devil and his temptations. We don’t want to live according to our flesh anymore. We are led and guided by GOD’S SPIRIT.
The Book of Colossians chapter 1 verse 12 to 13 records that “Always thanking the FATHER. HE has enabled you to share in the inheritance that belongs to HIS people, who live in the Light. For HE has rescued our lives from the kingdom of darkness and transferred our lives into the Kingdom of HIS dear SON, Who purchased our freedom and forgave our sins.”
When we became born again Christians we changed kingdoms, we moved from the kingdom of darkness and its ways of doing things to the Kingdom of GOD or the Kingdom of Heaven citizenship and its ways of doing things. Though we still live in the World, we belong to the Kingdom of Heaven. On this Earth we have become ambassadors of the Kingdom of Heaven, because we have become Citizens of Heaven, and we are living following the ways of GOD based on HIS Righteousness.
The Kingdom of GOD for example, has it's own protocols and operating ways of even in obtaining things. The LORD JESUS said in the book of Matthew chapter 6 verse 33, “But first and most importantly seek (aim at, strive after) HIS Kingdom and HIS righteousness [His way of doing and being right, the attitude and character of GOD], and all these things will be given to you also.”
When we seek first GOD, His Kingdom and Righteousness, and HIS ways of doing things, we make HIM first priority in everything and above everyone in our lives. And when we make GOD and HIS Ways of doing things first priority, all the things we need and want will be given to you and me. We don’t need to chase them, they will be added into our lives.
When we make GOD our first priority and make HIM the center of our lives we escape the corrupted systems of the World.
In the Book of Romans chapter 8 verse 28, it says “And we know [with great confidence] that GOD [Who is deeply concerned about out lives] causes all things to work together [as a plan] for good for those who love GOD, to those who are called according to HIS plan and purpose.”
The second group the Bible mentions as the enemy of our Christian faith is the flesh or sinful nature.
In Scriptures, the flesh is most often referred to as that natural sinful part of man that loves to please itself. So we are not talking here the flesh as the physical body or the manifestation of something into a tangible thing. We are talking about this rebellious and stubborn part of our inner being. It is that part of you and me that does not want to be told what to do, that refuses correction, and does not want to have a thing to do with GOD. The flesh usually hates to be under authority or to have to yield to anything other than its own wishes and desires.
Let’s look at this flesh that is an enemy of GOD and our Christian faith. Some of the Bible translations call it the sinful nature.
In the book of Galatians chapter 5 verses 16 to 26, it says that “So I say, let the HOLY SPIRIT guide your lives. Then you won’t be doing what your sinful nature craves. The sinful nature wants to do evil, which is just the opposite of what the Spirit wants. And the Spirit gives you and me desires that are the opposite of what the sinful nature desires. These two forces are constantly fighting each other, so you are not free to carry out your good intentions. But when you are directed by the Spirit, you are not under obligation to the law of Moses. When you follow the desires of your sinful nature, the results are very clear: sexual immorality, impurity, lustful pleasures, idolatry, sorcery, hostility, quarreling, jealousy, outbursts of anger, selfish ambition, dissension, division, envy, drunkenness, wild parties, and other sins like these. Let me tell you again, as I have before, that anyone living that sort of life will not inherit the Kingdom of GOD. But the HOLY SPIRIT produces this kind of fruit in our lives: love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self control. There is no law against these things. Those who belong to CHRIST JESUS have nailed the passions and desires of their sinful nature to HIS cross and crucified them there. Since we are living by the Spirit, let us follow the Spirit’s leading in every part of our lives. Let us not become conceited, or provoke one another, or be jealous of one another.”
There is only one way to overcome the sinful desires of the flesh which is to walk in the Spirit. Meaning that we are to follow the leading of the HOLY SPIRIT as HE leads our lives along in the truths of the Scriptures, GOD’S WORD, or GOD’S Wisdom, Instructions, and Precepts. When we yield to the leading and guidance of the HOLY SPIRIT OF GOD, because of HIS Power and empowerment over our lives, we are able to overcome our sinful fleshly desires.
You will know that you are living by your flesh when you see the works of its fruits in your life. Apostle Paul said when you follow the desires of your sinful nature, the results are very clear: sexual immorality, impurity, lustful pleasures, idolatry, sorcery, hostility, quarreling, jealousy, outbursts of anger, selfish ambition, dissension, division, envy, drunkenness, wild parties, and other sins like these.
Even Apostle Paul shared his struggle with the sinful nature in the book of Romans chapter 7 verses 14 to 25 which says “So the trouble is not with the law, for it is spiritual and good. The trouble is with me, for I am all too human, a slave to sin. I don’t really understand myself, for I want to do what is right, but I don’t do it. Instead, I do what I hate. But if I know that what I am doing is wrong, this shows that I agree that the law is good. So I am not the one doing wrong; it is sin living in me that does it. And I know that nothing good lives in me, that is, in my sinful nature. I want to do what is right, but I can’t. I want to do what is good, but I don’t. I don’t want to do what is wrong, but I do it anyway. But if I do what I don’t want to do, I am not really the one doing wrong; it is sin living in me that does it. I have discovered this principle of life that when I want to do what is right, I inevitably do what is wrong. I love GOD’S law with all my heart. But there is another power within me that is at war with my mind. This power makes me a slave to the sin that is still within me. Oh, what a miserable person I am. Who will free me from this life that is dominated by sin and death? Thank GOD. The answer is in JESUS CHRIST our LORD. So you see how it is: In my mind I really want to obey GOD’S law, but because of my sinful nature I am a slave to sin.”
Apostle Paul also went on saying in Romans chapter 8 verses 1 to 17 that “So now there is no condemnation for those who belong to CHRIST JESUS. And because you belong to HIM, the Power of the Life Giving SPIRIT has freed you from the power of sin that leads to death. The law of Moses was unable to save our lives because of the weakness of our sinful nature. So GOD did what the law could not do. HE sent HIS own SON in a body like the bodies we sinners have. And in that body GOD declared an end to sin’s control over our lives by giving HIS SON as a sacrifice for our sins. HE did this so that the just requirement of the law would be fully satisfied for our lives, who no longer follow our sinful nature but instead follow the Spirit. Those who are dominated by the sinful nature think about sinful things, but those who are controlled by the HOLY SPIRIT think about things that please the Spirit. So letting your sinful nature control your mind leads to death. But letting the Spirit control your mind leads to life and peace. For the sinful nature is always hostile to GOD. It never did obey GOD’S laws, and it never will. That’s why those who are still under the control of their sinful nature can never please GOD. But you are not controlled by your sinful nature. You are controlled by the Spirit if you have the SPIRIT Of GOD living in you. (And remember that those who do not have the SPIRIT of CHRIST living in them do not belong to HIM at all). And CHRIST lives within you, so even though your body will die because of sin, the Spirit gives you life because you have been made right with GOD. The SPIRIT Of GOD, who raised JESUS from the dead, lives in you. And just as GOD raised CHRIST JESUS from the dead, HE will give life to your mortal bodies by this same Spirit living within you. Therefore, dear brothers and sisters, you have no obligation to do what your sinful nature urges you to do. For if you live by its dictates, you will die. But if through the Power of the Spirit you put to death the deeds of your sinful nature, you will live. For all who are led by the SPIRIT of GOD are children of GOD. So you have not received a spirit that makes you fearful slaves. Instead, you received GOD’S SPIRIT when HE adopted you as HIS own children. Now we call HIM, “ABBA, FATHER.” For HIS SPIRIT joins with our spirit to affirm that we are GOD’S children. And since we are HIS children, we are HIS heirs. In fact, together with CHRIST we are heirs of GOD’S Glory. But if we are to share HIS Glory, we must also share HIS suffering.”
There are no other ways to overcome the flesh or sinful nature but through the LORD JESUS our SAVIOR. The fleshy in fact stands for all the LORD is against. That’s why it is the enemy of GOD and is our enemy to our Christian walk as children of GOD.
The third group the Bible mentions as the enemy of our Christian faith is all the sum total of evil powers that threaten men both heavenly and earthly. This includes the Devil or Satan, the antiCHRIST, and all the rulers, evil spirits, and demonic gods of the kingdom of darkness that are mentioned in the Bible.
The Bible has lots of Scriptures concerning these rulers of darkness, powers and evil forces that control this World. Apostle Paul exposed them in the book of Ephesians chapter 6 verse 12, and said "For we do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this age, against spiritual hosts of wickedness in the heavenly places." In another Bible translations it says, "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."
There are so many to list from the book of Genesis to the book of Revelation in the Bible, but lets look at some Scriptures to show that the devil and all these other rulers of kingdom of darkness do exist.
In the Book of 2 Thessalonians chapter 2 verses 1 to 12, Apostle Paul revealed what has to happen in the future event prior to the LORD’S second coming. And Scripture says “Now in regard to the coming of our LORD JESUS CHRIST and our gathering together to meet HIM, we ask you, brothers and sisters, not to be quickly unsettled or alarmed either by a [so called prophetic revelation of a] Spirit or a message or a letter [alleged to be] from us, to the effect that the day of the LORD has [already] come. Let no one in any way deceive or entrap you, for that day will not come unless the apostasy comes first [that is, the great rebellion, the abandonment of the faith by professed Christians], and the man of lawlessness is revealed, the son of destruction [the Antichrist, the one who is destined to be destroyed], who opposes and exalts himself [so proudly and so insolently] above every so called god or object of worship, so that he [actually enters and] takes his seat in the temple of GOD, publicly proclaiming that he himself is GOD. Do you not remember that when I was still with you, I was telling you these things? And you know what restrains him now [from being revealed]; it is so that he will be revealed at his own [appointed] time. For the mystery of lawlessness [rebellion against divine authority and the coming reign of lawlessness] is already at work; [but it is restrained] only until he who now restrains it is taken out of the way. Then the lawless one [the Antichrist] will be revealed and the LORD JESUS will slay him with the breath of HIS mouth and bring him to an end by the appearance of HIS coming. The coming of the [Antichrist, the lawless] one is through the activity of Satan, [attended] with great power [all kinds of counterfeit miracles] and [deceptive] signs and false wonders [all of them lies], and by unlimited seduction to evil and with all the deception of wickedness for those who are perishing, because they did not welcome the love of the truth [of the Gospel] so as to be saved [they were spiritually blind, and rejected the truth that would have saved them]. Because of this GOD will send upon them a misleading influence, [an activity of error and deception] so they will believe the lie, in order that all may be judged and condemned who did not believe the truth [about their sin, and the need for salvation through CHRIST], but instead took pleasure in unrighteousness.”
There was also an interesting conversation between the LORD JESUS and some of the Jews that were Abraham descendants in those days. And the LORD JESUS was explaining to them that if GOD is their FATHER, then they would behave like children of GOD. In the book of John chapter 8 verses 37 to 47 the Bible records this conversation, and it says “I know that you are Abraham’s descendants; yet you plan to kill Me, because My Word has no place [to grow] in you [and it makes no change in your heart]. I tell the things that I have seen at My FATHER’S side [in HIS Very Presence]; so you also do the things that you heard from your father.” They answered, “Abraham is our father.” JESUS said to them, “If you are [truly] Abraham’s children, then do the works of Abraham and follow his example. But as it is, you want to kill Me, a Man who has told you the truth, which I heard from GOD. This is not the way Abraham acted. You are doing the works of your [own] father.” They said to Him, “We are not illegitimate children; we have One [Spiritual] FATHER: GOD.” JESUS said to them, “If GOD were your FATHER [but HE is not], you would love and recognize Me, for I came from GOD [out of HIS Very Presence] and have arrived here. For I have not even come on My own initiative [as self appointed], but HE [is the ONE WHO] sent Me. Why do you misunderstand what I am saying? It is because [your spiritual ears are deaf and] you are unable to hear [the truth of] My Word. You are of your father the devil, and it is your will to practice the desires [which are characteristic] of your father. He was a murderer from the beginning, and does not stand in the truth because there is no truth in him. When he lies, he speaks what is natural to him, for he is a liar and the father of lies and half truths. But because I speak the truth, you do not believe Me [and continue in your unbelief]. Which one of you [has proof and] convicts Me of sin? If I speak truth, why do you not believe Me? Whoever is of GOD and belongs to HIM hears [the truth of] GOD’S Words; for this reason you do not hear them: because you are not of GOD and you are not in fellowship with HIM.”
In the Book of John chapter 10 verses 7 to 15 it records that “So JESUS said again, “I assure you and most solemnly say to you, I am the Door for the sheep [leading to life]. All who came before Me [as false messiahs and self appointed leaders] are thieves and robbers, but the [true] sheep did not hear them. I am the Door; anyone who enters through Me will be saved [and will live forever], and will go in and out [freely], and find pasture (spiritual security). The thief comes only in order to steal and kill and destroy. I came that they may have and enjoy life, and have it in abundance [to the full, till it overflows]. I am the Good Shepherd. The Good Shepherd lays down His [own] life for the sheep. But the hired man [who merely serves for wages], who is neither the shepherd nor the owner of the sheep, when he sees the wolf coming, deserts the flock and runs away; and the wolf snatches the sheep and scatters them. The man runs because he is a hired hand [who serves only for wages] and is not concerned about the [safety of the] sheep. I am the Good Shepherd, and I know [without any doubt those who are] My own and My own know Me [and have a deep, personal relationship with Me] even as the FATHER knows Me and I know the FATHER and I lay down My [very own] life [sacrificing it] for the benefit of the sheep.”
If there is a Good Shepherd then there is a bad shepherd. And the LORD JESUS explained the difference between the Good Shepherd and bad shepherd.
The Good Shepherd is the owner of the sheep, He lays down His life for the benefit of His Own sheep, is concerned about the safety and protection of the sheep, and knows His sheep, and His sheep hears His voice. He wants the sheep to have and enjoy life, and have it in abundance [to the full, till it overflows].
And the bad shepherd is like a thief, he doesn’t care for the sheep, because they do not belong to him, and that’s why is not concerned for them, instead of keeping them safe, he is concerned about stealing from them, and if cannot succeed, then destroying and killing them.
The LORD JESUS called the devil the ruler of this World. In the Book of John chapter 12 verses 27 to 33, HE said “Now My soul is troubled and deeply distressed; what shall I say? ‘FATHER, save Me from this hour [of trial and agony]’? But it is for this [very] purpose that I have come to this hour [this time and place]. [Rather, I will say,] ‘FATHER, glorify (honor, extol) YOUR NAME.’” Then a voice came from Heaven saying, “I have both glorified it, and will glorify it again.” The crowd of people who stood nearby and heard the voice said that it had thundered; others said, “An angel has spoken to HIM.” JESUS answered, “This voice has come for your sake, not for Mine. Now judgment is upon this World [the sentence is being passed]. Now the ruler of this World (Satan) will be cast out. And I, if and when I am lifted up from the Earth [on the cross], will draw all people to Myself [Gentiles, as well as Jews].” HE said this to indicate the kind of death by which HE was to die.”
Those are about a few Scriptures that show the LORD JESUS Himself said the devil exists. In fact in the very beginning in the book of Genesis chapter 3, the Bible mentions that the devil in the form of a serpent tested Eve at the Garden of Aden. It is the same devil who tested the LORD JESUS when HE was fasting for forty days in the wilderness as recorded in the Book of Matthew chapter 4 verses 1 to 11.
These powers and forces of darkness, evil spirits and demonic gods, may not be seen in the natural, but it doesn't mean that they don't exist.
As it says in the book of Ephesians chapter 6 verses 10 to 20, we fight and wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this World. These evil forces and powers exist in the spiritual realm, they use people as their representatives to do evil and wickedness. Just as GOD can use you and me to represent HIM on this Earth to do good and godly deeds and preach the Gospel. The devil also can use people to do his work.
May we never be used by the enemies of GOD and the enemies of our lives to do evil on their behalf. May our family members never be used by the enemies of GOD and the enemies of their lives to do evil on their behalf. May GOD gives you and me and all our loved ones HIS Grace to overcome these three kinds of enemies that only comes to steal, kill, or destroy our lives. May GOD help you and me and all our loved ones to come out of the great babylonian city and its corruption. May we escape and be protected from the yeasts of Pharisees, Sadducees, Scribes, and Herodians. May we walk and be led by the SPIRIT OF GOD, and be protected from the rulers of the kingdom of darkness, evil spirits, and forces of evil. I plead the Blood of the LAMB OF GOD over our lives and our family members. In the Mighty NAME OF JESUS I pray. Amen.
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