The Counterfeiter

Exodus 7. The first six chapters of Exodus show our need for redemption. The next several chapters (specifically chapters 7-14) show God's ability to perform that redemption. This section begins with the first of the ten plagues: the water turned to blood.

Egyptian religion was full of idolatry, which is connected with demonism (1 Cor.10:20). "Magic", i.e., "demonic miracle" was the only language the Egyptians understood in the realm of religion. Moses and Aaron would have to communicate with Pharaoh in a language that he understood. Pharaoh's two magicians are named for us in the New Testament. The Apostle Paul gave us their names and would use them to teach an important truth: in the last days, Satan will attack God's truth and God's people by imitating the works of God (2 Tim.3:8). As Jesus taught in the parable of the tares (Matt.13:24-30, 36-43), Satan is a counterfeiter who "plants" imitation Christians in this world. Satan has an imitation gospel (Gal.1:6-9), a counterfeit righteousness (Rom.10:1-3), and even counterfeit ministers who spread his lies (2 Cor.11:13-15). And Satan will one day produce a false Christ who will deceive the whole world (2 Thess.2:1-12).

In these last days we need to be alert to Satan's devices and tactics. We need to put on the whole armor of God (Eph.6:11-18) and stay close to God (James 4:7-8). There, in James 4, James tells us to resist the devil, not assist him. Are you resisting him or assisting him?