Tim Maas Supporter Retired Quality Assurance Specialist with the U.S. Army

The work of the devil is sin, or disobedience to God, in all its many forms. 

Sin had the effect of separating humanity from a holy God, and causing temporal death and eternal separation from God to enter into the world and affect everyone.

Jesus destroyed the consequences of sin through His own sinless life, atoning death, and resurrection from the dead. Although sin is still present in the world, and although we all must still die temporally (unless we are alive when Jesus returns), those who place their faith in Christ can now have their sin forgiven on the basis of that faith, and be assured of living eternally in God's presence. And when Christ returns at the close of the present age, sin and death themselves (not just their consequences) will be done away with completely for those whom Christ has redeemed.

September 06 2015 • 2 responses • Vote Up • Share • Report

Jeffrey Johnson Supporter

What are the works of the devil, and how are they destroyed?

Two Questions and Two Answers:

Question 1: What are the works of the devil? 

The works of the devil, according to 1 John 3:8, are defined as sin and disobedience, encompassing murder, lying, deception, addiction, sickness, and spiritual oppression designed to separate humanity from God. These works are destroyed through Jesus Christ's sacrificial death and resurrection, which paid the penalty for sin and broke Satan's power over humanity.

Works of the Devil (Synonyms/Examples)

Deception & Lies: Spreading falsehoods, false doctrines, cults, and atheism.

Accusation & Shame: Causing people to feel unworthy, unforgiven, or despairing.

Sin & Rebellion: Any practice that entails disobeying God's commandments.

Division: Stirring up hatred, racism, family, and church conflict.

Bondage: Addiction, fear, and bondage to the fear of death.

Destruction/Loss: Stealing, killing, destroying, and promoting spiritual or physical ruin.

Question 2: How are the devils' works Destroyed?

Jesus' death dealt a death blow to the power of sin and death.

The Resurrection: Jesus' resurrection solidified victory over Satan.

Truth & Word of God: Jesus used scripture to resist temptation, demonstrating that knowing and obeying God's Word destroys deception.

Faith & Repentance: Believers destroy the works of the devil by confessing sin, walking in righteousness, and resisting temptation.

Authority in Jesus' Name: Christians are empowered to command the works of the devil—such as disease and demonic oppression—to cease in Jesus' name.

Active Ministry/Gospel Proclamation: Proclaiming the truth breaks the "blindness" of the world and sets captives free.

The Bible states, "The Son of God appeared for this purpose: to destroy the works of the devil." Read 1 John 3:8: "To this end was the Son of God manifested, that he might destroy the works of the devil."

Jesus undid this work of the devil by giving his life as a ransom. Thus, he provided a basis for humankind's release from condemnation to sin and death and opened the way to eternal life.​

5 days ago • 2 responses • Vote Up • Share • Report