Captain Thunderbolt

Satan himself transforms himself into an angel of light. — 2 Corinthians 11:14

When an English robber called Captain Thunderbolt escaped the law and moved to the eastern US in 1818, he began practicing medicine. He took on the name Dr. John Wilson. Often he wore three suits of clothes to escape recognition by making himself look larger and covering up a deformed leg.

Just before the man died, he asked his friends to bury him without removing his clothes. But to prepare his body for proper burial, that request could not be honored. The mortician was surprised to find scars from wounds and a withered leg. A search of “Dr. Wilson’s” house revealed a stash of watches, jewelry, and diamonds. The sheriff learned that the doctor was in fact Thunderbolt, a thief in disguise. They had been fooled!

Satan and his followers have disguises too. It says in 2 Corinthians 11:15. “[Satan’s] ministers also transform themselves into ministers of righteousness.” But how? One way is through false doctrine. Ever since Paul’s day, false teachers have taught that good deeds can earn salvation.

Paul warned us not to be deceived by the devil’s craftiness (v. 3). The truth is: “By grace you have been saved through faith . . . ; it is the gift of God, not of works” (Eph. 2:8-9). Don’t be fooled. — Anne Cetas

The powers of darkness have blinded the race,

Closing our eyes to the glories of grace;

But faith in the Savior brings healing and sight —

He floods our soul with His truth and His light. — DJD

READ: 2 Cor. 11:3-4, 12-15

Satan has many tools, but deception is the handle that fits them all.

The Bible in one year:

• 1 Chronicles 13-15

• Proverbs 27:1-14