1 Peter 5:8 - Meaning and Application

Here the apostle teaches three things.

First, he shows them the danger they face from an enemy far more cruel and restless than even the worst human enemy. He describes this enemy by his names and character. He is “your adversary,” not an ordinary opponent, but one who brings a case against you and attacks your very soul. He is “the devil,” the great accuser of all believers. The name carries the idea of someone who strikes through or stabs, because he seeks to drive evil into our nature and poison our souls. If he can stir up passion and complaining in suffering, he may lead people into apostasy, that is, turning away from the faith, and into ruin. He is also a roaring lion, hungry, fierce, strong, and cruel, always hunting souls.

Second, the apostle shows Satan’s purpose. He walks around seeking whom he may devour. His whole goal is to destroy souls. He is tireless in his evil efforts, always moving about night and day, planning and searching for those he can trap for eternal ruin.

From this, the apostle draws their duty. They must be sober, meaning they must keep both outward behavior and inward desires under control by temperance, modesty, and self-denial. They must also be vigilant, not careless or at ease, but alert to the constant danger from this spiritual enemy. With that danger in mind, they must be watchful and diligent so they do not fall into his traps. They must resist him, standing firm in the faith.

It was their faith Satan aimed at. If he could shake their faith and lead them into apostasy, he knew he would win and destroy their souls. So, to break their faith, he stirred up harsh persecution and set the great powers of the world against them. They must therefore stand firm, grounded, and resolute in the faith.

To encourage them, the apostle reminds them that their suffering was not unique. They knew that the same kinds of troubles were being suffered by their brothers and sisters all over the world. All God’s people were fellow soldiers in the same battle.

We learn, first, that all the great persecutions in the world have been stirred up and directed by the devil. He is the chief persecutor, as well as the deceiver and accuser, of believers. Men may be willing tools in his hands, but he is the main enemy who wars against Christ and his people (Genesis 3:15; Revelation 12:12).

Second, Satan’s purpose in raising persecution against faithful servants of God is to push them into apostasy through suffering, and so destroy their souls.

Third, sobriety and watchfulness are needed at all times, but especially in seasons of suffering and persecution. If you let your heart cling too much to worldly things, Satan will soon overpower you.

Fourth, if you want to overcome Satan as a tempter, an accuser, or a persecutor, you must resist him firm in the faith. If your faith gives way, you are lost. So above all, take up the shield of faith (Ephesians 6:16).

Fifth, thinking about what others suffer is a good way to strengthen us to bear our own burdens. The same sufferings are being shared by your brothers and sisters.