Ephesians 4:27 Neither give place to the devil. I. THE DEVIL STRIVES TO GAIN THE MASTERY OVER MAN. He comes into actual contact with us, even against our will. He studies our character. When Napoleon entered fresh territory, he spread a map upon the ground, and upon his knees he pondered it until he made himself familiar with all its features; he knew the rivers with their bridges and fords, the villages and their position in relation to adjacent towns: he then planned his modes of attack. Our dread spiritual adversary has his wiles and stratagems. He watches his victim, acquaints himself with his constitutional infirmities, his temper, appetites, propensities; then constructs his assaults accordingly. In this collision of foeship he sternly resolves to conquer. II. MAN IS TO SUCCESSFULLY RESIST THE DEVIL. He has the intercession of Christ, and the help of the Holy Spirit — two mighty forces. III. THE ISSUE OF THE CONFLICT. 1. If the devil gain the day, it means ruin to the soul. 2. Think of the importance of the strife, and strain every nerve for conquest. (J. D. Tetley.) Parallel Verses KJV: Neither give place to the devil. |
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