The Bible records the ages-long contest between Satan and Christ. Satan controls the world system as god of this world. First John 2:16 describes the spirit of this world: "For all that is in the world—the lust of the flesh, the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life—is not of the Father but is of the world."
"Many jokes are made about the devil, but the devil is no joke," says Billy Graham. "Students today want to know about the devil, about witchcraft, about the occult. Many people do not know they are turning to Satan. They are being deluded because, according to Jesus Christ, Satan is the father of lies and the greatest liar of all times. He is called the deceiver. In order to accomplish his purposes, the devil blinds people to their need of Christ. Two forces are at work in the world, the forces of Christ and the forces of evil. You are asked to choose between them."
Helping Strategy For the Non-Christian:
It is rare for a nonbeliever to ask questions concerning the devil; however, someone may ask why Christians are so preoccupied, negative, or even angry about the devil. It could be someone seeking justification for a very worldly lifestyle. You may also be approached by someone who will challenge the existence of Satan. In such cases proceed as follows:
1. The Bible teaches that there is a personality behind all the evil in the world: His name is Satan. Share facts about Satan from the "Background."
2. Try to guide the conversation around to Christ's victory over Satan: While Satan is a defeated foe and will someday be cast into the lake of fire, Jesus Christ will reign as King of kings and Lord of lords (Revelation 17:14).
3. Ask the inquirer if he or she has ever received Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior. Share "Steps to Peace with God," page 11. Mention that part of Satan's work is to "[blind] the minds of those who do not believe" (see 2 Corinthians 4:4, PHILLIPS).
4. If a commitment to Christ is made, encourage the new believer to take a positive stand for Christ, start reading and studying God's Word, pray every day, and get involved with a dynamic group of Christians for fellowship, worship, and service.