From Splendor to Shadow

How Satan Works

Satan's accusations against those who seek the Lord are not prompted by displeasure at their sins. He exults in their defective characters, for he knows that only through their transgression of God's law can he obtain power over them. His accusations arise solely from enmity to Christ. As he beholds the evidences of Christ's supremacy, he works to wrest from Him those who have accepted salvation. He leads men to lose confidence in God and separate from His love. He tempts them to break the law and then claims them as his captives, contesting Christ's right to take them from him. SS 302.1

Satan knows that those who ask for pardon will obtain it; therefore he presents their sins before them to discourage them. Even their best service he seeks to make appear corrupt. By countless devices, subtle and cruel, he endeavors to secure their condemnation. SS 302.2

In his own strength, man cannot meet the charges of the enemy. But Jesus our Advocate presents an effectual plea in behalf of all who by repentance and faith commit their souls to Him. By the mighty arguments of Calvary He vanquishes their accuser. His perfect obedience to God's law has given Him all power in heaven and earth, and to the accuser of His people He declares: “The Lord rebuke thee, O Satan. These are the purchase of My blood, brands plucked from the burning.” See Zechariah 3:2. And to those who rely on Him in faith He gives the assurance: “I have caused thine iniquity to pass from thee, and I will clothe thee with change of raiment.” Verse 4. SS 302.3

All who have put on the robe of Christ's righteousness will stand faithful and true. The promise given to Joshua is given to all: “If you will ... keep My charge, ... I will give you the right of access among those who are standing here.” Verse 7, RSV. Angels will walk on either side of them even in this world, and they will stand at last among the angels that surround the throne of God. SS 302.4

Zechariah's vision applies with peculiar force to God's people in the closing scenes of the great day of atonement. The remnant will then be brought into great distress. Those who keep the commandments of God and the faith of Jesus will feel the ire of the dragon and his hosts. Here is a little company resisting his supremacy. If he could blot them from the earth, his triumph would be complete. In the near future he will stir up the wicked powers of earth to destroy the people of God. SS 303.1

Those who are true to God will be denounced and proscribed. They will be “betrayed both by parents, and brethren, and kinsfolks, and friends,” even unto death. Luke 21:16. As Joshua pleaded before the Angel, so the remnant church, with brokenness of heart and unfaltering faith, will plead for pardon and deliverance through Jesus their Advocate. They are fully conscious of their sinfulness and unworthiness, and they are ready to despair. SS 303.2