Satan's Temptations and the Necessity of Resisting Them
E. Brackenbury, B. A. 2 Corinthians 2:11 Lest Satan should get an advantage of us: for we are not ignorant of his devices. I. Now the first trait in the character of Satan is DECEIT. It is evident sin originated in deceit (Genesis 3:13; Revelation 12:9). Hence arise those frequent monitions in the Word of God not to be deceived if we would not sin. II. The next device which the tempter exercises for the seduction of mankind is ENTICEMENT OR THE ENTANGLEMENT OF THE AFFECTIONS. No sooner is the mind drawn aside from the path of duty than the affections are instantly assailed and enticed to sin. Like the bait with which a fish is taken on the hook, so does Satan seek to allure men to their destruction. The days of this captivity will be heightened when he can insidiously prevail upon the imagination to entertain vain thoughts with secret complacency and delight. III. A third stratagem which the great seducer employs to get an advantage over us IS TO EXTENUATE THE GUILT OF SIN. IV. LET US INQUIRE HOW THIS DANGER IS TO BE AVOIDED, AND POINT OUT THE NECESSITY OF RESISTING THE CRAFTS AND ASSAULTS OF THE DEVIL. 1. In the whole course of your obedience attend minutely to the wisdom of Solomon, and "keep thy heart with all diligence." 2. Let this consideration animate us at all times to resist steadfastly in the faith, "knowing that greater is He that is in us than he that is in the world." 3. For this purpose let us always bear in mind the example and sufferings of the blessed Jesus. 4. Let us, then, rejoice that we are called to serve under so good a leader, so solicitous for our success, so careful to promote it, and so ready "to help in time of need." 5. Finally, let us remember that in all our encounters with sin, the world, and the devil, we are but following the footsteps of the Captain of our salvation, and travelling to the attainment of the same glory, through the same rugged paths of sorrow and temptation. (E. Brackenbury, B. A.) Parallel Verses KJV: Lest Satan should get an advantage of us: for we are not ignorant of his devices. WEB: that no advantage may be gained over us by Satan; for we are not ignorant of his schemes.