Don't Judge a Book By its Cover

He was created, he is a fallen angel and  a liar. Satan is indeed an enemy of God , not equal , but still an enemy.

He tempted Eve in Genesis .He tempted Christ in Matthew .He perverted the Word in Matthew .He opposed God's work in Zechariah 3. He hindered God's servants in1 Thessalonians 2.He hinders the gospel, Matthew 13,2 Corinthians 4.He ensnares the wicked , 2 Timothy 2.He deceives the nations,1 Kings 22 and Revelation 16 and 20.He accomplishes the entrance of sin and the fall of the race, Genesis 3.He appears before God, Job 1.He walks about as a roaring lion,1 Peter 5.He is the accuser of the brethren, Revelation 12.He has the power of death, Hebrews 2.And the whole world lies in his lap,1 John 5.

As we can see, he is a very active agent in doing whatever he can to war against God . But the last thing about the Devil I would like to touch on is the fact that he appears as an angel of light .

[14] And no wonder, for even Satan disguises himself as an angel of light. [15] So it is no surprise if his servants, also, disguise themselves as servants of righteousness. Their end will correspond to their deeds.(2 Corinthians 11:14-15 ESV)


Satan utilizes this strategy by first allowing the gross and evil to be seen . By this I mean there are many activities that most would say that is of Satan or just plan evil . Take for example those who openly embrace evil , they go over the top blaspheming God and mocking Jesus. Its pretty easy to see. But this sets up what Satan really wants us to see , good morals , good behavior and getting man to think he is a good person. Take the push for family values . I believe this whole movement has an the "angel of light" behind it because it removes the need of the gospel. 

Include in that , all the self empowerment movement backed by Oprah. Books like The Secret , books by Eckhart Tolle ,  anything that baths itself in you are your own savior. It appeals to men and women because it feeds our depraved natures . Telling us we don't need a God to save us , all the while saying things like be generous,be good and reach your inner potential.
We need to test all movements according to scripture like Bereans , even if it appears Christian, examine it . Satan is crafty and the best way to seduce us away from the gospel of Christ , is to obscure the cross and resurrection. 

If you want to read an excellent book that shows how Satan uses his wiles to deceive , check out C.S Lewis classic The Screwtape Letters.

Last ,remember Satan is defeated , the cross of Jesus and His resurrection  triumphed over sin and death and broke the bonds of the Devil. So rise up , put on the armor of God and stand firm. The Devil ,his demons and all who will not repent will be cast into the lake of fire by the Lord at the end of days .