God: "I looked for someone to take a stand for me, and stand in the gap" (Ezekiel 22:30)
Yet what the Bible teaches is that the evil one uses all things for his disposal as well. His schemes are subtle and well-disguised (2 Cor. 2:11). He “disguises himself as an angel of light” (2 Cor. 11:14). He is “the father of lies” (Jn. 8:44), and his influence over unbelievers to accomplish his purposes is powerful (Eph. 6:12). Throughout history he has proven very effective to take every medium as a channel for his deceptive purposes. And with our nation glued to the various forms of media, we’d have to be very naïve to believe he doesn’t have his slimy arms all around this incredible opportunity as well. Therefore, perhaps especially as it pertains to media, we need to “stand firm” (Eph. 6:13), relying upon our spiritual armor in particular the “Word of God” (Eph. 6:17) and “prayer” (Eph. 6:18). The call is to be vigilant and “alert” (Eph. 6:18).
The justification of the sinner, it is true, is by faith in Christ and not by works of his own; but the hidden root of faith must bring forth the visible fruit of good works. This fruit is expected by Christ, for it brings glory to the Father and is evidence to the world of the dynamic reality of divine grace. And it is especially in the bearing of much fruit that the Father is glorified (Jn. 15:8).
