Beware Of Masquerades

Satan himself transforms himself into an angel of light.

2 Corinthians 11:14

Masquerade balls gained prominence in Europe as early as the fourteenth century and have been popular ever since, spreading to America and South America via celebrations such as Mardi Gras and Carnival. But ancient Greek actors also wore masks to create a facial impression consistent with their characters.

Masquerades are fine when it comes to fun but can be dangerous in the spiritual world. Paul warns the Corinthian church against Satan masquerading as an “angel of light” (2 Corinthians 11:14)—pretending to be one of God’s good angels. In the same way, he could empower “false apostles” to transform themselves into “apostles of Christ” (2 Corinthians 11:13). Indeed, Paul suggests that his “thorn in the flesh” was a “messenger of Satan.” The word messenger in Greek is angelos, or “angel” (2 Corinthians 12:7). Was his thorn a false apostle who was empowered by Satan, acting as an “angel of light”? It takes discernment to see an impostor.

There are good angels and evil angels in the world. It pays to be on guard against the evil (1 Peter 5:8), while giving thanks for the ministry of the good (Hebrews 1:14).

Satan does far more harm as an angel of light than as a roaring lion.

VANCE HAVNER