Why the Devil?

Updated: June 11, 2025

The Bible describes the existence of an enemy who operates mostly outside of the visible realm, manipulating unwitting humanity into committing all kinds of evil, and himself committing great evil. This enemy is referred to in the Bible by the names Satan, devil, evil or unclean spirit, and demon. The Bible tells of instances when they possessed both man and beast.

There is great confusion – even among God’s people – about the relationship between God and the devil. God created the beings now known as demons, but He did not create the devil’s version of evil. In other words, God does not contradict or work against Himself by condoning evil. Jesus did not confer with — or in any way accept — the devil or his work. Instead, He cast out demons wherever he found them. So should we! (See Why Spiritual Warfare?).
(Mark 5:11-13, James 1:13-18, 2 Corinthians 2:11, 1 Peter 5:8, Matthew 25:41, Mark 16:17, Ephesians 2:2, Revelation 20:10)