Can the devil be in two places at the same time?

Sincerely,
Double Vision

Dear Double Vision,

There is absolutely no way to know the answer to that question because God has never revealed those specific details about the devil.  We know that the devil has finite power (i.e. he doesn't know everything like God does), but the specific extent of his powers and abilities are never revealed to us in the Scriptures.  The Scriptures describe Satan as a powerful lion (1 Pet 5:8).  The safest thing to do is to be ever-vigilant because you never know when the lion is lurking just around the corner.

Why do people want to be satanic?  What exactly does it mean to be satanic?  About what percentage/number of people are satanic?

Sincerely,
Weirded Out

Dear Weirded Out,

It is an infinitesimally small percentage of Americans that specifically refer to themselves as “Satan worshippers”… less than one percent.  Satanic cults have existed in small pockets around the globe for years and have varying practices and beliefs that differ widely.  Satanic practitioners hold one common belief – an admiration for rebellious and anti-establishment religious figures.  Obviously, this religion is totally wrong and destructive to those who practice it.  Satan is not a hero; he is the great villain and adversary of mankind – the word ‘satan’ actually means ‘adversary’.  The Bible describes him as a “roaring lion seeking whom he may devour” (1 Pet 5:8).

What was the first sin that was committed?

Sincerely,
Back To The Beginning

Dear Back To The Beginning,

The first sin was committed by Adam and Eve.  The word ‘sin’ means ‘to miss the intended mark’.  Whenever someone does something that differs from God’s commands, they commit a sin.  When God placed Adam and Eve in the Garden of Eden, He commanded them to never eat from the tree of the knowledge of good and evil (Gen 2:16-17).  The devil deceitfully tempted Eve, and eventually Adam, to eat from the tree (Gen 3:1-6).  Adam and Eve’s behavior introduced sin into a perfect world – that sin corrupted them, and the curse of sin corrupted the entire creation (1 Cor 15:22).

God created humans after animals, and before Adam and Eve ate the apple, they never hurt a fly.  And then Adam and Eve committed sins.  So then we were told to sacrifice animals for forgiveness.  Why did God change His plan?

Sincerely,
Save The Beasts

Dear Save The Beasts,

God didn’t bring death into our world – sin did.  In the Garden of Eden, all life was blessed, and everything was perfect (Gen 1:31).  It was only after mankind sinned that death and suffering were introduced (Gen 2:17).  All of creation was affected by sin (Gen 3:17-18).  The devil would have us blame God for our suffering, but he is the one that created all the chaos and hurt (Gen 3:13).

Animal sacrifice was necessary for God to teach mankind how horrible sin is.  God changed His plan because He interceded to save us from our own sins (Jhn 3:16).

How can I say, “No” to sin?

Sincerely,
Temptation Tried

Dear Temptation Tried,

There is no single answer to how we can defeat sin.  God describes our struggle with sin as a war, and all good warriors wear lots of armor to protect them for the battle ahead.  Ephesians 6 describes the various pieces of armor that God has provided to protect us against the temptations of sin (Eph 6:13).

1. Gird yourself with truth (Eph 6:14).  The truth is the most basic tool that we have against sin.  The devil uses lies to deceive us and tempt us (Jhn 8:44).  If you know the Bible truth about what is right and wrong, you will be prepared to identify Satan’s traps (Heb 5:14).
2. Protect your heart by living righteously (Eph 6:14).  One of the simplest ways to avoid sin is to pursue righteousness (1 Pet 3:11).  Fill the days of your life with good behavior, and there will be no room for bad behavior (Matt 12:43-45).
3. Seek to live a peaceful life and dwell in harmony with others (Eph 6:15).  When we love our fellow man and seek what is in his best interest, we avoid a great deal of opportunities for anger, sin, and division.  Never compromise your morals, but as much as it depends on you, be at peace with all men (Rom 12:18).
4. Carry the shield of faith (Eph 6:16).  Faith is the act of trusting God and following the Word of God (Rom 10:17).  Faith is an act of loyalty to the Lord (Matt 22:37).  It is often hard to do the right thing, especially when a simple lie or sin would prevent discomfort.  Have faith in Him who is able to save your soul.  He can cause all things to work together for good (Rom 8:28).
5. Remember your salvation in Jesus (Eph 6:17).  It is the hope of salvation that drives us forward, renews our zeal, and reminds us of what we are fighting for.  Hope whets our appetites for better things to come and makes it easier to purify ourselves from sin (1 Jn 3:3).
6. Know your Bible (Eph 6:17).  The Bible is described as a sword (Heb 4:12), and it is able to both defend and fight back against evil.  There is no greater tool in your arsenal against the wiles of the devil than your Bible.  Learn it, read it, fill your mind and heart with it, and return to it constantly for renewed strength.  When your Bible becomes your close friend, you are ready for anything.
7. Pray without ceasing (Eph 6:18).  Prayer gives us strength to stand strong, and it gives you direct access to the Creator of all.  God is great; ask Him for help and courage.