"Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil walks about like a roaring lion, seeking whom he may devour."—1 Peter 5:8
Yep. 1 Pet 5:8 is a great verse. How do we reconcile Colossians 2:9-15 and 1 Pet 5:8?
1 Peter 5:10 NLT - "In his kindness God called you to share in his eternal glory by means of Christ Jesus. So after you have suffered a little while, he will restore, support, and strengthen you, and he will place you on a firm foundation."
If we're "placed onto a firm foundation" does this mean that we're safe? Does it mean that we're on a path with Rich Soil, plenty of Water, and Holy Nutrient so that we don't wither and die?
1 John 4:1 NIV - "Dear friends, do not believe every spirit, but test the spirits to see whether they are from God, because many false prophets have gone out into the world."
Do you think that Peter was testing those that he was writing to? Or, do you think that [HE BELIEVED] that all whom he wrote to were in fact, "Saved?"
Do you think that, perhaps, Peter was qualifying the "leaders" of the establishment prior to verse 8? Certainly, he insinuates good leadership from bad leadership, evident by the fact that the good leaders will receive a "crown."
1 Peter 5:3-4 NLT - "Don't lord it over the people assigned to your care, but lead them by your own good example. 4 And when the Great Shepherd appears, you will receive a crown of never-ending glory and honor."
Is it possible that those who are susceptible to the Devil are those who haven't received the Circumcision of Christ?
If the Devil isn't defeated in a Saved person's life, I don't know why Christ would say the following:
Luke 10:17-20 NLT - "When the seventy-two disciples returned, they joyfully reported to him, "Lord, even the demons obey us when we use your name!" 18 "Yes," he told them, "I saw Satan fall from heaven like lightning! 19 Look, I have given you authority over all the power of the enemy, and you can walk among snakes and scorpions and crush them. Nothing will injure you. 20 But don't rejoice because evil spirits obey you; rejoice because your names are registered in heaven."
Being "Registered in Heaven" is the result and Holy Effect of the Circumcision of Christ. And more, this is the Holy Purpose of Christ.