The Devil's Dread: Why Evil Cries Out Against Christ

When Jesus confronted the demon-possessed man at Gadara, the unclean spirit cried out, "What have I to do with Thee, Jesus, Thou Son of the Most High God?" (Mark 5:7). This outburst reveals the nature of evil's opposition to Christ.

The demon's antagonism stems from five sources: First, Christ's nature is irreconcilably contrary to Satan's, making conflict inevitable. Second, the devil has nothing to hope for from Jesus and dreads His arrival. Third, evil prefers thoughtlessness and stagnation—conditions where it can operate unchecked. Fourth, the demon knows its powerlessness against the Son of the Most High God. Fifth, Satan fears the torment of witnessing good accomplished and evil overcome.

This same pattern appears when sinners under the gospel's influence cry out against it. Conscience disturbs their peace. Change threatens their cherished sins and pleasures. They demand the "liberty" to remain unquestioned by God or man. They argue the gospel cannot bless them—they are too poor, ignorant, busy, sinful, or weak. They view Jesus as a tormentor who will rob them of pleasure and sting their consciences.

Voltaire, pressed in his final moments to acknowledge Christ's Divinity, turned away saying, "For the love of God, don't mention that Man; let me die in peace!" The gospel is history's greatest disturber of sinful peace. Its arrival creates commotion wherever it goes, exposing the true character of those who encounter it.