1 Thessalonians 3:5 (ESV) – For this reason, when I could bear it no longer, I sent to learn about your faith, for fear that somehow the tempter had tempted you and our labor would be in vain.

The Scriptures give many names for Satan. He is called the Deceiver. In other places he’s called Lucifer or the Devil. He is called a liar, accuser of the brethren, and more. These names give you an indicator of the nature and character of this being. He was made by God as an angel, but rebelled and actively fights against God and His will. He also targets those who belong to Christ.

Our passage today gives us another name of Satan. We read Paul’s words to the church in Thessalonica. He says, “For this reason, when I could bear it no longer, I sent to learn about your faith, for fear that somehow the tempter had tempted you and our labor would be in vain.”  

Paul writes to the saints in this church. He had gone there with the gospel but was run out of town by people who did not want the gospel message preached there. He says that he couldn’t wait any longer to find out how their faith was holding up. His concern for the church led him to write to them about the faith. He lays out theology and practice to them so they can live faithfully to Christ in every aspect of their lives. 

One aspect he wants them to be aware of is the Tempter. Satan is an enemy of the faith and the faithful. He knew Satan would seek to destroy them when they were most vulnerable. Satan doesn’t play nice or fair. Paul calls him the Tempter because he tempts to lure people away from faithful obedience to Christ. Paul feared his labors to preach the gospel to them may have been in vain if Satan devoured them. 

We need to remember that there is a Tempter that seeks to devour us. He comes when we are vulnerable. His aim is the destruction of our faith. Seek Christ for help today and ask Him to give you discernment to see Satan’s schemes. 

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Reflection & Journal: 
- Why does Paul call Satan the Tempter?
- What are examples of ways Satan tempts believers to walk away from Christ?
- How can believers strive against the schemes of the Tempter?

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