Is the Devil Real?

One of you faithful and obviously very observant members came to me before the service and said, well, I guess we're in for a short sermon today.

I looked quizzically at the statement and he said, well, it's a yes or no question.

My response was, are you new here? Listen now for God's word from the letter to the Ephesians.

Finally, be strong in the Lord and in the strength of his power.

Put on the whole armor of God so that you may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil.

For our struggle is not against enemies of blood and flesh, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the cosmic powers of this present darkness, against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly places.

Therefore, take up the whole armor of God so that you may be able to withstand on that evil day.

And having done everything to stand firm, Stand, therefore, and fasten the belt of truth around your waist and put on the breastplate of righteousness.

As shoes for your feet, put on whatever will make you ready to proclaim the gospel of peace.

With all these, take the shield of faith with which you will be able to quench all the flaming arrows of the evil one.

Take the helmet of salvation.

and the sword of the Spirit, which is the Word of God.

Pray in the Spirit at all times, in every prayer and supplication.

To that end, keep alert and always persevere in supplication for all the saints.

Friends, this is the Word of the Lord.