“…that through death He might destroy him who had the power of death, that is, the devil…” (Hebrews 2:14).
In the Bible, names are important, especially to God. Often they are given because of a person’s character or the work God intends for someone to carry out. For example, Joseph was told, “you shall call His name Jesus, for He will save His people form their sins” (Matthew 1:21).
The word “devil” (diabolos) means “slanderer”.
How appropriate it is for the one who incessantly slanders God. Beginning with Eve (Genesis 3:1-5), this enemy/adversary (i.e., “Satan”) of God and humanity has always been a liar and is the father of lies (John 8:44).
Armed with a host of schemes (Ephesians 6:11), this slanderer cunningly sets snares (1Timothy 3:7; 2 Timothy 2:26) and prowls about like a hungry lion seeking someone to devour (1 Peter 5:8).
Jesus came for the express purpose of destroying this rebellious spiritual reprobate (1 John 3:8). Through His death and victorious resurrection, the final, eternal doom and punishment of the devil is certain (Revelation 12:12; 20:2, 10).
Therefore, resisting the devil is imperative (James 4:7; 1 Peter 5:9). Wearing the whole armor of God you have the capacity to stand your ground whenever the devil and his evil day come (Ephesians 6:13).
The help Jesus came to provide all humanity is nothing less than absolute spiritual victory over the devil and his angels.
