The Power of Death and Satan’s Darker Schemes

Introduction

Welcome back to Session 16 in our series on Spiritual Warfare. By now, you’ve likely begun to grasp how active and strategic Satan is in opposing God’s work and deceiving humanity. Today’s session explores one of his most devastating schemes: the power of death, and we will trace its roots, impact, and Christ’s ultimate victory. We will also examine additional tactics: how Satan infiltrates hearts, sifts leaders, hinders ministry, and lies as his native language.

Satan’s Weapon: The Power of Death

Hebrews 2:14 (WEB):

“Since the children have flesh and blood, he also shared in the same, that through death he might bring to nothing him who had the power of death, that is, the devil.”

What does it mean that the devil has the power of death? He does not possess divine authority to decide death, but he introduced sin, and through sin came death (Romans 5:12). Satan wields death as a weapon—inflicting fear, bondage, and spiritual paralysis. But Jesus, by entering our mortality and dying for us, broke Satan’s power over death.

Romans 5:12 (WEB):

“Therefore, as sin entered into the world through one man, and death through sin, so death passed to all men because all sinned.”

The Garden and the Fall:

In Genesis 3, Satan sowed doubt and rebellion. Eve was deceived, and Adam sinned. Spiritual and physical death followed. Fear, shame, and hiding replaced communion with God. Yet God pursued them, covering their shame with animal skins—foreshadowing atonement through blood.

Jesus: Victor Over Death

Jesus became human to destroy death’s grip. Through His crucifixion and resurrection, He shattered the fear of death (Hebrews 2:15).

Romans 8:1:

“There is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus.”

In Christ, death loses its sting. Satan’s grip is loosened. Fear no longer defines the believer’s life.

Satan Injects Evil Purposes

John 13:2:

“The devil had already prompted Judas, the son of Simon Iscariot, to betray Jesus.”

Even in close fellowship with Christ, Judas was vulnerable. Satan injected betrayal into his heart. Jesus, showing unmatched humility, still washed Judas’s feet. This teaches us:

• Satan influences even insiders.

• Evil can be planted subtly.

• Spiritual awareness is essential for leaders.

Hypocrisy and Deception: Ananias and Sapphira

Acts 5:3:

“Ananias, why has Satan filled your heart to lie to the Holy Spirit?”

This couple lied about their giving to gain admiration. Satan filled their hearts with deception. The result? Judgment and death. This passage warns leaders: Hypocrisy invites destruction.

Satan Enters and Controls

John 13:27:

“As soon as Judas took the bread, Satan entered into him.”

Open doors—such as greed or betrayal—can give Satan access. While true believers cannot be possessed, persistent sin can open pathways to influence. The devil operates through these cracks in the soul.

Sifting and Tormenting Believers

Luke 22:31:

“Simon, Simon, Satan has asked to sift all of you like wheat.”

Sifting = violent shaking. Satan wants to shake your faith until it collapses. Leaders especially face spiritual torment, pressure, and opposition. Your influence makes you a target.

Satan Hinders Ministry

1 Thessalonians 2:18:

“We wanted to come to you… but Satan blocked our way.”

Satan can obstruct progress, stall ministry, and bring discouragement. Not every delay is satanic—but discernment and perseverance are needed.

The Native Language of Lies

John 8:44:

“When he lies, he speaks his native language, for he is a liar and the father of lies.”

Lies are Satan’s go-to weapon:

• Lies about God.

• Lies about your identity.

• Lies that divide churches and fuel conflict.

• Lies that normalize deceit in society and politics.

When lies flourish, the enemy is active.

Conclusion: Be Watchful, Stand Firm

Satan:

• Uses death to enslave.

• Injects wickedness into hearts.

• Fills the church with deception.

• Sifts believers through trials.

• Hinders ministry.

• Lies relentlessly.

But Jesus has already won the victory.

1 John 4:4:

“Greater is He who is in you than he who is in the world.”

Ephesians 6:11:

“Put on the whole armor of God, that you may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil.”

Stay grounded. Stay alert. The battle is real—but so is your authority in Christ.