(Clip) Children of the Devil Oppose The Work of God
Warren Wiersbe explains how the Apostle Paul faced opposition from 'children of the devil' who sought to thwart God's work, emphasizing the need for discernment against spiritual deception.
This sermon delves into the experiences of the Apostle Paul as he faced opposition and dangers while spreading the Gospel. It emphasizes the presence of adversaries who oppose the work of God, highlighting the importance of discernment in recognizing the tactics of the enemy. Paul's endurance through various perils serves as a testament to the enabling power of the Lord amidst trials and challenges.
Full Transcript
Paul says in verse 10, you who are full of all deceit and fraud, you son of the devil, you enemy of all righteousness. God picks up Paul, plants him in Cyprus, the devil says I'll match that, and along comes a child of the devil to oppose the work of God. The Apostle Paul makes an interesting statement in 2nd Corinthians chapter 11.
We're going to look at this chapter several times tonight in passing. Chapter 11 of 2nd Corinthians in verse 26, he's listing some of the experiences as he had as an Apostle. He's not doing it to boast or to brag, he's simply saying this is what the Lord has enabled me to endure.
I have been on frequent journeys, now that's enough for me right there, in dangers from rivers, dangers from robbers, dangers from my countrymen, dangers from the Gentiles, dangers in the city, dangers in the wilderness, dangers on the sea, dangers among false brethren. Wherever Paul went, the children of the devil showed up to oppose the work of God. I think it's important that we keep in mind that Satan is a counterfeiter, and because he is a counterfeiter, we have to have discernment.
I said a few minutes ago there are people who...
Sermon Outline
-
I. The Reality of Opposition
- Paul faced enemies wherever he went
- Opposition came from various sources including false brethren
- Children of the devil actively oppose God's work
-
II. The Nature of the Enemy
- Satan is a counterfeiter
- Opponents use deceit and fraud
- Discernment is necessary to identify spiritual attacks
-
III. The Apostle’s Endurance
- Paul endured many dangers and hardships
- His endurance was enabled by the Lord
- Suffering is part of the Christian journey
Key Quotes
“God picks up Paul, plants him in Cyprus, the devil says I'll match that, and along comes a child of the devil to oppose the work of God.” — Warren Wiersbe
“Wherever Paul went, the children of the devil showed up to oppose the work of God.” — Warren Wiersbe
“Satan is a counterfeiter, and because he is a counterfeiter, we have to have discernment.” — Warren Wiersbe
Application Points
- Stay alert to spiritual opposition and recognize that it is part of the Christian experience.
- Develop discernment through prayer and Scripture to identify and resist deception.
- Trust in God's strength to endure hardships and continue advancing His work.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who are the 'children of the devil' mentioned in the sermon?
They are those who oppose God's work through deceit and opposition, acting as spiritual adversaries.
Why does Paul mention his hardships in 2 Corinthians 11?
Paul lists his hardships not to boast but to show what the Lord enabled him to endure for the gospel.
What does it mean that Satan is a counterfeiter?
It means Satan imitates and distorts God's truth to deceive believers and hinder God's work.
How can believers protect themselves from spiritual deception?
Believers must exercise discernment and rely on the Holy Spirit to recognize and resist falsehood.