Shining the Light of Jesus on Darkness: Exposing 25 Works of the Devil
An unseen battle rages between the forces of good and evil, a war that transcends the physical world and delves into the depths of the human soul. Many people, even some among the Christian community, remain unaware of the intricate and malevolent schemes orchestrated by the devil, who seeks to keep all away from the path of righteousness. The Bible provides invaluable insight into these schemes, offering guidance on how to recognize, confront, and overcome the works of the devil, as followers of Jesus Christ.
Ephesians 6:12 reminds us that, "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." As Christians, we are called to be vigilant and aware of the physical and spiritual warfare that endures as long as Jesus tarries, and to exercise our dominion and authority in Jesus Christ over all the works of the evil one.
This article will shed light on the devil's sinister activities, unveiling 25 of his works, as documented in the Bible. By understanding and exposing these dark deeds, we aim to empower believers to 1) recognize the adversary, 2) resist the temptations of the adversary, 3) shine the light of Jesus, and 4) stand strong against the forces of darkness by exercising Christian authority. It is a reminder that in our faith, we wage a spiritual war against principalities and powers, and with the full armor of God, we emerge victorious over the devil's schemes.
In no particular order, here are 25 works of the devil, found in the Scriptures:
Sin and Rebellion (Genesis 3:2, 1 Corinthians 11:3) The devil's first act was to seduce Adam and Eve into rebellion against God. Christians are called to avoid disobedience and remain steadfast in their faith.
Works of Darkness and Moral Seduction (Ephesians 5:11, Ephesians 6:12) The devil often lures people into moral corruption and darkness. It is crucial for believers to shine the light of truth and righteousness in a world rife with temptation.
Works of Wickedness (Colossians 1:21) The devil is the source of wickedness, leading people away from the path of righteousness. Christians are called to resist evil and pursue holiness, without which it is impossible to see God.
Spiritual Blindness (2 Corinthians 4:4) The devil seeks to blind people to the truth of the Gospel. Christians are commanded to share the light of Christ to dispel this spiritual darkness.
Stealing the Word of God (Matthew 13:19) The devil seeks to steal God's Word from people's hearts. Believers must guard their faith and immerse themselves in the Word of God.
Deceptions and False Religions (2 Corinthians 11:14, 1 Timothy 4, Revelation 12:9) The devil promotes deception and false religions. Christians should be discerning and recognize the true teachings of Christ.
To Kill and Destroy (John 10:10) The devil's ultimate goal is to destroy lives. Believers must protect themselves and others from the devil's destructive influence, and they have the power to do so as given by Jesus, who holds all power and authority in Heaven and earth (Matthew 28:18).
Sowing Tares, Tempting, Sifting Saints like Wheat (Matthew 4:3, Matthew 13:25, Luke 22:31) The devil tempts and tests believers. Christians must remain steadfast in their faith and trust in God.
Promoting Counterfeit Worship and Miracles (2 Thessalonians 2:8-12, 1 Corinthians 10:20) The devil can counterfeit worship and miracles. Discernment is key for believers to recognize genuine acts of God.
Causing Storms (Job 1:18-19, Ephesians 2:2) The devil can incite chaos and turmoil, in addition to literal storms, as the prince of the air. Christians are called to be peacemakers and trust in God's protection at all times, and use the authority of Jesus to speak to these literal and figurative storms.
Ruling Nations Pre-Millennium Reign (Matthew 4:8-9, Daniel 10) The devil can influence nations and governments. Believers should pray for and exemplify godly leadership and righteousness in society.
Executing Death (Hebrews 2:14-15) The devil brings destruction and his ultimate goal is death, but through Christ, believers have the promise of eternal life.
Accusing Brethren (Revelation 12:10) The devil accuses and seeks to divide. Christians should promote unity and forgiveness among believers.
Hindering Prayers (Daniel 10:12-21) The devil can hinder prayers, but persistence in prayer and righteous living will easily overcome these obstacles.
Opposing the Gospel (Ephesians 6:1-18) The devil opposes the spread of the Gospel. Christians are to be warriors of faith, defending the truth, and spreading the Gospel to the ends of the earth with the power of God.
Supervising Demons (John 12:31) The devil supervises demons, but Christians have the authority to rebuke and cast them out in Jesus' name.
Causing Sickness and Disease (Matthew 4:22-23, Matthew 9:32-33, Matthew 15:22, Acts 10:38) The devil can cause illness, but Jesus is the ultimate healer, and Christians are called to pray for healing and deliverance.
Causing Infirmities (Matthew 8:17, Luke 13:16, John 10:10, Acts 10:38) The devil can bring about infirmities, but believers can pray for healing and resist these attacks by remaining in Jesus.
Causing Lunacy and Mania (Matthew 4:23-24, Matthew 17:14-21, Mark 5:1-18) The devil can induce mental illness, but Christians are given power and authority through Jesus to intervene and break every yoke of bondage from the devil.
Urging Suicides (Matthew 17:15, John 10:10) The devil will give people self-destructive thoughts, but Christians have hope that is found in Jesus, and share this hope with those in despair.
Agitating Lusts (John 8:44, Ephesians 2:1-3) The devil agitates lustful desires. Followers of Jesus are called to maintain purity and self-control.
Lying and False Prophecy (1 Kings 22, Matthew 24:11, 24, 2 Corinthians 11:13-15) The devil is the father of lies. Christians must study the Scriptures and be discerning of false prophets and teachings, with the help of the Holy Spirit.
Propagating False Teachings (1 Timothy 4, 2 Timothy 4, 2 Thessalonians 2, Revelation 13) The devil seeks to spread false doctrines. Believers must remain grounded in sound biblical teaching, always looking to Scripture as the final word on a matter.
Oppressing People (Acts 10:33) The devil oppresses people, but Christians have comfort, support, and freedom in Christ.
Persecuting Christians and Warring on Saints (Ephesians 6:10-18, 1 Peter 5:8-9) The devil persecutes and attacks Christians, but with the armor of God, true believers stand firm in their faith.
If any of these occurrences happen today, Christians can easily recognize their origin: the adversary. Remember, the adversary prowls around like a roaring lion seeking whom he may devour (1 Peter 5:8). Christians are called to be vigilant and watch for these works in order to bring hope, light, and the life of Jesus to the situation and help others overcome the adversary’s schemes, and surrender to Christ. Christians are already more than conquerors through Jesus Christ, our Lord. Stay strong in the faith and assurance of hope through our Risen Savior, who is coming back at any moment for His glorious Church.
Given that the rapture is upon us, be mindful to remain steadfast in the faith. The Word tells us to test ourselves to be sure that we are in the faith, so as not to fail the test (2 Corinthians 13:5). Remain in Christ and He will remain in you. Never deny the faith, hope, and salvation you have received since you have believed in the finished work of Christ on the Cross. May unwaiveing faith carry all the brothers and sisters in the Lord to full perseverance until His second coming. Amen.
“When the Son of Man comes, will He find faith on the earth?”
- Luke 18:8