“The Evil One’s great scheme is to convince us that the root problem is not with the Evil One but exclusively with ourselves, our circumstances, or our neighbors.”- Rich Villodas
“For in [Christ] all things were created: things in heaven and on earth, visible and invisible, whether thrones or powers or rulers or authorities; all things have been created through him and for him.”- Colossians 1:16 (NIV)
As Rich Villodas moves on in Chapter 2 of Good and Beautiful and Kind, he offers his definition of powers and principalities. He writes:
“Powers and principalities are spiritual forces that become hostile, taking root in individuals, ideologies, and institutions, with the goal of deception, division, and depersonalization.”
However, Rich notes, it’s important to state that these powers aren’t exclusively evil. Because God created them to old life together in obedience to Him. And one day God will fully subject these powers to His intention for all things. But in the meantime, Pastor Villodas counsels, these powers act in a rebellious manner. Therefore, it’s necessary to disarm them. Our task as Christians remains to continue to witness and live out this reality. That Christ already disarmed the powers.
Consequently, the author explains:
“All the powers . . . are not bad per se. But for various reasons, usually brought on by human idolatry (including the idolatrous lust for power and money), the powers become twisted and capable of taking over the lives of everyday people. . . . The powers, in the possessed state, influence those directly within their orbit, severely compromising even those who might be regarded as moral people. . . ”
In conclusion, Rich observes, this lapse causes this deficit in the Christian’s life. Christians fail to live up to Christ’s conquering victory over the forces of the world. As a result, those powers remain unchecked in our lives, cultures, organizations, and nations. Above all, the author cautions, the powers love to hide under our human radar. As we debate the existence of the Evil One!
Today’s question: Do you take seriously the great scheme of the Evil One? Please share.
Tomorrow’s blog: “Grounded in reality, nurtured in unity”
