The Works of the Devil Destroyed (1 John 3:8)

“The reason the Son of God appeared was to destroy the works of the devil.” (1 John 3:8)

The works of the devil continually abound, assaulting us both day and night. The devil is a liar, leading us to think hard thoughts about God and our brothers. The devil is an accuser, prosecuting us in the court of conscience with past sins and present struggles. The devil held the power of death, who through the fear of death has subjected us to life long slavery. He prowls, he pounces, he pursues us through this life because we are children of God.

Our Father does not sit idly by as His children are harassed. His love moves him to a jealous defense of His own against the wiles of such an enemy. Who will be God’s champion? God’s Christ? As the late hymn once sang:

Who is this who comes in glory, trumpets sound with jubilee?

Lord of battles, God of armies, He has gained the victory.

He who on the cross did suffer, He who from the grave arose,

He has conquered sin and Satan, He by death has beat his foes!”

Jesus Christ came as a conquering King; and by His cross, he has disarmed the devil (Col. 2:14-15). By His ascension, He has led captivity captive to the sound of jubilee (Eph. 4:8). Now, the instrument of His death has become our defense, the source of His sorrow has become our safety. In his victory, the children of God are no more to fear the works of the devil than a toothless tiger. Satan may rant and rave, but he will no longer destroy. What a mighty work has been accomplished by Christ! What rest and solace we have in our champion, in our Christ Jesus. With his banner of love flying over our head, Satan will be crushed under our feet (Rom. 16:20).