The Great Controversy The Great Controversy | Page 508

The same enmity is manifested toward Christ’s followers as was
manifested toward their Master. Whoever sees the repulsive character of
sin, and in strength from above resists temptation, will assuredly arouse
the wrath of Satan and his subjects. Hatred of the pure principles of
truth, and reproach and persecution of its advocates, will exist as long as
sin and sinners remain. The followers of Christ and the servants of Satan
cannot harmonize. The offense of the cross has not ceased. “All that will
live godly in Christ Jesus shall suffer persecution.” 2 Timothy 3:12.
Satan’s agents are constantly working under his direction to establish
his authority and build up his kingdom in opposition to the government
of God. To this end they seek to deceive Christ’s followers and allure
them from their allegiance. Like their leader, they misconstrue and
pervert the Scriptures to accomplish their object. As Satan endeavored to
cast reproach upon God, so do his agents seek to malign God’s people.
The spirit which put Christ to death moves the wicked to destroy His
followers. All this is foreshadowed in that first prophecy: “I will put
enmity between thee and the woman, and between thy seed and her
seed.” And this will continue to the close of time.
Satan summons all his forces and throws his whole power into the
combat. Why is it that he meets with no greater resistance? Why are the
soldiers of Christ so sleepy and indifferent? Because they have so little
real connection with Christ; because they are so destitute of His Spirit.
Sin is not to them repulsive and abhorrent, as it was to their Master. They
do not meet it, as did Christ, with decisive and determined resistance.
They do not realize the exceeding evil and malignity of sin, and they are
blinded both to the character and the power of the prince of darkness.
There is little enmity against Satan and his works, because there is so
great ignorance concerning his power and malice, and the vast extent of
his warfare against Christ and His church. Multitudes are deluded here.
They do not know that their enemy is a mighty general who controls the
minds of evil angels,

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