Enemies

1 Peter 5

Even apart from the end-times suffering that the church will experience, believers must face three great enemies—the world, the flesh, and the devil.

“So I exhort the elders among you, as a fellow elder and a witness of the sufferings of Christ, as well as a partaker in the glory that is going to be revealed: 2 shepherd the flock of God that is among you, exercising oversight, not under compulsion, but willingly, as God would have you; not for shameful gain, but eagerly; 3 not domineering over those in your charge, but being examples to the flock. 4 And when the chief Shepherd appears, you will receive the unfading crown of glory.“ 1 Peter 5:1–4 (ESV)

Often Christian leaders are tempted to act like the world and “lord it over” God’s people. But leaders are shepherds, and sheep must be led, not driven. Our service must be willing and humble; we must be eager to pray and help others.

Dr. Harold Wilmington writes, “Being himself an elder, Peter urged elders to serve willingly and with pure motives. They should be role models, not directors. They should have shepherds’ hearts, looking to Christ the Chief Shepherd as their own role model and the one who will reward them.”

“Likewise, you who are younger, be subject to the elders. Clothe yourselves, all of you, with humility toward one another, for “God opposes the proud but gives grace to the humble.” 6 Humble yourselves, therefore, under the mighty hand of God so that at the proper time he may exalt you, 7 casting all your anxieties on him, because he cares for you.” 1 Peter 5:5-7 (ESV)

Warren Wiersbe writes, “By nature, we do not want to submit to others. The phrase “clothed with humility” reminds us of our Savior when He wore a towel and washed Peter’s feet (John 13:1–11). If we are submitted to the Lord, we will submit to His people. Humility leads to honor; pride leads to shame.”

As Christians, we should humbly submit to each other, knowing that God rewards humility with his grace. We should be reminded that can take all our cares and concerns to God at all times, knowing that He loves and cares for us.

“Be sober-minded; be watchful. Your adversary the devil prowls around like a roaring lion, seeking someone to devour. 9 Resist him, firm in your faith, knowing that the same kinds of suffering are being experienced by your brotherhood throughout the world. 10 And after you have suffered a little while, the God of all grace, who has called you to his eternal glory in Christ, will himself restore, confirm, strengthen, and establish you. 11 To him be the dominion forever and ever. Amen. 12 By Silvanus, a faithful brother as I regard him, I have written briefly to you, exhorting and declaring that this is the true grace of God. Stand firm in it. 13 She who is at Babylon, who is likewise chosen, sends you greetings, and so does Mark, my son. 14 Greet one another with the kiss of love. Peace to all of you who are in Christ.” 1 Peter 5:8–14 (ESV)

The devil is an adversary, not a friend; he is a roaring lion, not a playful pet. He wants to devour you and me, and we had better be on guard. Peter thought he was well able to defeat the enemy, so he did not heed the Lord’s warning. The results were failure and shame.

Dr. Tony Evans writes, “When you transferred out of Satan’s realm and into Christ’s kingdom, you became a target. The devil prowls like a roaring lion looking for food. He wants to keep you from advancing God’s kingdom on earth, and don’t think you can fly under his radar. He wants to destroy you. So be firm in the faith. Remember that you can conquer Satan, but only through your faith in and obedience to Jesus Christ.”

“Simon, Simon, behold, Satan demanded to have you, that he might sift you like wheat, 32 but I have prayed for you that your faith may not fail. And when you have turned again, strengthen your brothers.” 33 Peter said to him, “Lord, I am ready to go with you both to prison and to death.” 34 Jesus said, “I tell you, Peter, the rooster will not crow this day, until you deny three times that you know me.” Luke 22:31–34 (ESV)

Jesus predicted Peter’s denial, and when Peter protested, he gave specific details as to how and when it would happen. The devil had asked permission to test Peter, just as he had with Job. Peter may have had this incident in mind when later he wrote vividly concerning the devil. Just as Jesus had prayed for Peter, he still prays for all believers.

Know today that you can resist Satan by faith if you are wearing the armor and trusting the Spirit.

“Finally, be strong in the Lord and in the strength of his might. 11 Put on the whole armor of God, that you may be able to stand against the schemes of the devil. 12 For we do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the cosmic powers over this present darkness, against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly places. 13 Therefore take up the whole armor of God, that you may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand firm. 14 Stand therefore, having fastened on the belt of truth, and having put on the breastplate of righteousness, 15 and, as shoes for your feet, having put on the readiness given by the gospel of peace. 16 In all circumstances take up the shield of faith, with which you can extinguish all the flaming darts of the evil one; 17 and take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God, 18 praying at all times in the Spirit, with all prayer and supplication. To that end, keep alert with all perseverance, making supplication for all the saints, 19 and also for me, that words may be given to me in opening my mouth boldly to proclaim the mystery of the gospel, 20 for which I am an ambassador in chains, that I may declare it boldly, as I ought to speak.” Eph. 6:10–20 (ESV)

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