Satan's secret approach

The Reformation Movement of the 16th century brought about a renewed respect for Scripture. Like nearly all acts of reform, it meant some old customs had to go away, and some stricter enforcements were instituted.

Strict adherence to the commands of God is important, however, done with poor motives or done too hasty can prove to be counter-productive. An example of this was in New England during that same time in Salem, MA.

The Salem witch trials in 1692 became instantly famous, so many people’s attention were focused on the series of hearings and prosecutions of the people accused of witchcraft. The trials resulted in the executions of twenty people, fourteen of them women, and all but one by hanging.

We can look into many situations similar before or after those events and see people taking extreme and unwise approaches to stamp out the impact of Satan. However, many times what results is an attitude that plays right into his hands – hate, favoritism, hypocrisy, etc.

Paul warns us in Galatians 6:1, “Brothers, if anyone is caught in any transgression, you who are spiritual should restore him in a spirit of gentleness. Keep watch on yourself, lest you too be tempted.” The right spirit or attitude is an important element in keeping us from falling into a temptation as well.

It takes wisdom to respond to the evils around us in a way that won’t lead to further ungodliness. Satan has interwoven his philosophies so deep into our culture that it requires us to have discernment on how to approach those who are caught up in ungodly behavior.

Hebrews 5:14, “Solid food is for the mature, for those who have their powers of discernment trained by constant practice to distinguish good from evil.”

In a culture that seems more intrigued by Satan’s presence, we have the sensitive balance of being stern against acts of unrighteousness, without shutting the door on the very ones held captive by Satan in their choices and lifestyles. Consider these words in Jude 18-23, “In the last time there will be scoffers, following their own ungodly passions. It is these who cause divisions, worldly people, devoid of the Spirit. But you, beloved, build yourselves up in your most holy faith; pray in the Holy Spirit; keep yourselves in the love of God, waiting for the mercy of our Lord Jesus Christ that leads to eternal life. And have mercy on those who doubt; save others by snatching them out of the fire; to others show mercy with fear, hating even the garment stained by the flesh.