“Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil walks about like a roaring lion, seeking whom he may devour” (1 Peter 5:8).
Our text from 1 Peter 5:8 contains another familiar portion of this epistle. Much like a military briefing that outlines the objectives of an enemy, this passage alerts us to the tactics employed by our spiritual adversary. For this reason, we will set aside some time to begin a brief mini-series that will allow us to explore this verse in greater detail.
We can start by recognizing that this passage offers more than just some useful information. This portion of Scripture also offers a means of counteracting the enemy’s objectives for those who listen and act upon this verse. The first counteraction involves a sober mindset, a quality that describes someone who is composed and clearheaded.
Just as a hidden trap may readily ensnare an unsuspecting victim, the easiest way to fall prey to an enemy involves underestimating the presence of a threat. To borrow a phrase from the famous author C.S. Lewis, those who underestimate the danger posed by the devil will likely embark on a quiet and comfortable journey to his eternal destination. (1)
This explains why 1 Peter 5:8 exhorts us to be serious and self-controlled. These characteristics involve the qualities of watchfulness, seriousness, and self-discipline. This marked a notable transformation in Peter’s attitude, especially when we consider the fact that he had earlier fallen asleep at two pivotal moments in Jesus’ life.
The next quality is vigilance. This attribute embodies the characteristics of watchfulness and attention. If we fail to remain spiritually vigilant, we may fall victim to the dangerous enemy described in this passage. Peter has continually stressed the importance of this quality at various points throughout this letter, and it aligns with the teachings given to us in several other New Testament epistles…
“A further reason for forgiveness is to keep from being outsmarted by Satan, for we know what he is trying to do” (2 Corinthians 2:11 TLB).
“So humble yourselves before God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you” (James 4:7 NLT).
“If you get angry, do not sin; do not allow the sun to go down on your anger and do not give an opportunity to the devil” (Ephesians 4:26-27 Mounce).
“But you be watchful in all things, endure afflictions, do the work of an evangelist, fulfill your ministry” (2 Timothy 4:5).
“So then, let us not be like others, who are asleep, but let us be awake and sober” (1 Thessalonians 5:6 NIV).
“Be on your guard; stand firm in the faith; be courageous; be strong” (1 Corinthians 16:13 NIV).
(1) See C.S. Lewis, The Screwtape Letters, Copyright© MCMXC by Barbour and Company, Inc. [pg. 57]