1. 1 Peter 5:6-9 “Therefore humble yourselves under the mighty hand of God, that He may exalt you in due time, casting all your care upon Him, for He cares for you. Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil walks about like a roaring lion, seeking whom he may devour. Resist him, steadfast in the faith, knowing that the same sufferings are experienced by your brotherhood in the world” (NKJV).

2. The Power of Satan We know that Satan is our “adversary” seeking to devour us. Satan means “adversary.” What we do not know is exactly what power he has to do this.

3. The Power of Satan I. Descriptions of Satan. “Devil” means one “prone to slander” (Thayer). He slandered Job (Job 1:8-11). He is the “accuser” of God’s people (Rev. 12:10-11). He does so “day and night.” He is a liar and the father of lies (John 8:44).

4. The Power of Satan I. Descriptions of Satan. He is the “ruler of this world” (John 12:31; 14:30; 16:11) whom Christ overcame. He is the “prince of the power of the air”—his spirit works in the disobedient (Eph. 2:1-3). The sinner is “of the devil” (1 John 3:7-8)—following him.

5. The Power of Satan II. How He Has Worked. He tempted Jesus with Scripture, comfort, and glory (Matt. 4:3-11). He was “cunning” with Eve, using “craftiness” deceiving her with half truths (Gen. 3:1- 5; 2 Cor. 11:3). He deceives “the whole world” (Rev. 12:9).

6. The Power of Satan II. How He Has Worked. He moved David to sin against God by pride in the power of man (1 Chron. 21:1-2). He distorted Peter’s priorities (Matt. 16:21-23). He worked to hinder good work (1 Thess. 2:17-18).

7. The Power of Satan III. What He Seeks. He wants God’s people (Luke 22:31-32). He wants to take them captive that they might do his will (2 Tim. 2:24-24). He robs people of the word (Luke 8:12). He wants to take advantage of us (2 Cor. 2:9-11).

8. The Power of Satan IV. He Wins When... We fall to temptation We live like the world We grow discouraged We forget that he is the enemy We fight among ourselves We stop doing good We stop trying to help others We believe his lies

9. The Power of Satan What Can We Do? Refuse to cooperate with him(Acts 5:3-4). Resist him (Jas. 4:7-8)—refuse to give him the victory! Refuse to give him “place” in our lives (Eph. 4:26-27). Stand against his “wiles” (Eph. 6:11).