Topical Encyclopedia The term "Children of the Devil" is a biblical designation used to describe individuals who embody characteristics contrary to the nature and will of God, aligning themselves instead with the adversary, Satan. This term is deeply rooted in the biblical narrative and is used to highlight the moral and spiritual opposition between the followers of God and those who follow the ways of evil.Biblical References: 1. John 8:44 : In a confrontation with the Pharisees, Jesus explicitly uses this term, saying, "You belong to your father, the devil, and you want to carry out your father’s desires. He was a murderer from the beginning, refusing to uphold the truth, because there is no truth in him. When he lies, he speaks his native language, because he is a liar and the father of lies." Here, Jesus identifies the Pharisees' rejection of His message and their deceitful nature as aligning with the devil, thus calling them his children. 2. 1 John 3:10 : The apostle John provides a clear distinction between the children of God and the children of the devil: "By this the children of God and the children of the devil are distinguished: Anyone who does not practice righteousness is not of God, nor is anyone who does not love his brother." This passage emphasizes moral conduct and love as key indicators of one's spiritual lineage. 3. Acts 13:10 : The apostle Paul, addressing Elymas the sorcerer, says, "You are a child of the devil and an enemy of all righteousness. You are full of all kinds of deceit and trickery. Will you never stop perverting the straight ways of the Lord?" This rebuke highlights Elymas's opposition to the gospel and his deceitful actions as characteristics of being a child of the devil. Theological Implications: The designation "Children of the Devil" serves as a stark warning against living in opposition to God's commandments and embracing deceit, hatred, and unrighteousness. It underscores the spiritual battle between good and evil, where allegiance to God is marked by truth, love, and righteousness, while allegiance to the devil is marked by lies, hatred, and wickedness. Moral and Ethical Considerations: From a moral standpoint, the term calls believers to self-examination and repentance, urging them to align their lives with the teachings of Christ. It serves as a reminder of the importance of living a life that reflects the character of God, characterized by love, truth, and righteousness. Historical Context: In the historical context of the New Testament, the term was particularly poignant as it addressed the religious leaders and individuals who opposed Jesus and His apostles. It was a direct challenge to those who claimed to be righteous yet acted in ways that were contrary to God's will. Conclusion: The term "Children of the Devil" is a powerful biblical expression that delineates the spiritual lineage of those who reject God's truth and embrace evil. It serves as a call to discernment and a reminder of the spiritual realities that underpin moral and ethical choices. Torrey's Topical Textbook Acts 13:10And said, O full of all subtlety and all mischief, you child of the devil, you enemy of all righteousness, will you not cease to pervert the right ways of the Lord? Torrey's Topical Textbook 1 John 3:10 Library They Shall be Called the Children of God The Doctrine of Satan. Psalm LXXXIII. Homilies on the Gospel of John. Book ii. Jerome Answers the Second, Third, and Fourth Propositions ... Epistles to the Seven Churches. Antichrist. The Psalms and Hymns of Isaac Watts The Lord's Supper "In the Volume of the Book it is Written of Me" (Heb. . . Resources What are the names of Satan? | GotQuestions.orgWhat is a spiritual father? | GotQuestions.org Is God male or female? | GotQuestions.org Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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