Enemy Or Friend? (2 Corinthians 11:13-15)

As he was about to be executed, he spoke his last stirring words. “I only regret that I have but one life to lose for my country.”

Most Americans recognize the stirring words of Nathan Hale. He was an American soldier during the Revolutionary War who was caught spying on the British and subsequently executed for espionage. Hale, along with many other patriots of the Revolutionary War, are justifiably honored by historians for their ultimate sacrifice to guarantee our nascent liberties were preserved. 

Hale sacrificed his life to ensure that the new country of the United States would survive. Hale was a warrior, involved in a desperate struggle against a powerful oppressor. Throughout history, millions have made the ultimate sacrifice in wars against similar oppressors. However, the Revolutionary War was different. Nearly all American colonists were related to the British and/or emigrated from Great Britain. Our enemy was our neighbor, relative, and friend. It was difficult to know who the enemy was and who was our friend. 

I say this because some ungodly people have wormed their way into your churches, saying that God’s marvelous grace allows us to live immoral lives. The condemnation of such people was recorded long ago, for they have denied our only Master and Lord, Jesus Christ. 

Jude 1:4 (NLT)

In the same way, these people—who claim authority from their dreams—live immoral lives, defy authority, and scoff at supernatural beings. 

Jude 1:8 (NLT)

All Christian believers are in a continual war against a powerful oppressor. Satan has waged war against us since Adam and Eve were created. The world may scoff at the idea of a devil and spiritual warfare, labeling it a medieval superstition. No one believes in a man dressed in red with horns and a pitchfork! I agree. No one should believe this. Satan and his demons are not comical caricatures. They are real. They are our neighbors, our relatives, our friends, and even our pastors. He is us.

These people are false apostles. They are deceitful workers who disguise themselves as apostles of Christ. But I am not surprised! Even Satan disguises himself as an angel of light. So it is no wonder that his servants also disguise themselves as servants of righteousness. In the end they will get the punishment their wicked deeds deserve. 

2 Corinthians 11:13-15 (NLT)

Like the enemy that Nathan Hale faced, we are in a spiritual war with an enemy that looks and acts like us. Only through the guiding light of the Holy Spirit who lives in all believers of Jesus Christ will we be able to withstand the relentless attacks of an enemy who is determined to destroy us.

Love and trust in the Lord; seek His will in your life.