Topical Bible: Satanism

◄ Satanism ►

Topical Encyclopedia

Satanism, in its broadest sense, refers to the worship or veneration of Satan, the adversary of God as depicted in the Bible. It encompasses a range of beliefs and practices that are often in direct opposition to Christian teachings. The Bible portrays Satan as a fallen angel who rebelled against God and now seeks to lead humanity astray.

Biblical Background

Satan, originally known as Lucifer, is described in the Bible as a being of great beauty and power who fell from grace due to pride and rebellion against God. Isaiah 14:12-15 speaks of this fall: "How you have fallen from heaven, O day star, son of the dawn! You have been cut down to the ground, O destroyer of nations. You said in your heart, 'I will ascend to the heavens; I will raise my throne above the stars of God; I will sit on the mount of assembly, in the far reaches of the north. I will ascend above the tops of the clouds; I will make myself like the Most High.' But you will be brought down to Sheol, to the far reaches of the Pit."

In the New Testament, Satan is depicted as the tempter and deceiver. In Matthew 4:1-11 , Satan tempts Jesus in the wilderness, attempting to divert Him from His divine mission. Jesus resists, quoting Scripture to counter Satan's lies. This passage highlights Satan's role as the adversary who seeks to undermine God's plan.

Satanism in Practice

Satanism, as a modern religious or philosophical movement, can vary widely in its beliefs and practices. Some forms of Satanism are atheistic, viewing Satan as a symbol of individualism and personal freedom rather than a literal being. Others may engage in rituals and practices that are explicitly anti-Christian, seeking to invert or mock Christian symbols and sacraments.

The Bible warns against engaging in practices associated with Satan and the occult. Deuteronomy 18:10-12 states, "Let no one be found among you who sacrifices his son or daughter in the fire, practices divination or conjury, interprets omens, practices sorcery, casts spells, consults a medium or spiritist, or inquires of the dead. For whoever does these things is detestable to the LORD, and because of these detestable things the LORD your God is driving out the nations before you."

Spiritual Warfare

The Bible emphasizes the reality of spiritual warfare, where believers are called to stand firm against the schemes of the devil. Ephesians 6:11-12 instructs, "Put on the full armor of God, so that you can make your stand against the devil’s schemes. For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this world’s darkness, and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms."

Christians are encouraged to resist Satan by submitting to God and standing firm in their faith. James 4:7 advises, "Submit yourselves, then, to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you."

Conclusion

While Satanism may present itself in various forms, the Bible consistently portrays Satan as the enemy of God and humanity. Believers are called to remain vigilant, grounded in Scripture, and reliant on the power of God to resist the influence of Satan and his works.

Topical Bible Verses

John 8:44
You are of your father the devil, and the lusts of your father you will do. He was a murderer from the beginning, and stayed not in the truth, because there is no truth in him. When he speaks a lie, he speaks of his own: for he is a liar, and the father of it.
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Leviticus 20:6
And the soul that turns after such as have familiar spirits, and after wizards, to go a whoring after them, I will even set my face against that soul, and will cut him off from among his people.
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Leviticus 19:31
Regard not them that have familiar spirits, neither seek after wizards, to be defiled by them: I am the LORD your God.
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Revelation 22:15
For without are dogs, and sorcerers, and fornicators, and murderers, and idolaters, and whoever loves and makes a lie.
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