ESCAPING THE TRAPS OF THE ENEMY
By Rev. Samuel Arimoro
Main Text: Matthew 2:1-23
Key Verse: “And being warned of God in a dream that they should not return to Herod, they departed into their own country another way.” (Matthew 2:12)
Supporting Texts: Psalm 124:7, Ephesians 6:11, 2 Corinthians 2:11, Proverbs 3:5-6, 1 Peter 5:8-9
Description: This study reveals how God protects His people from the traps of the enemy and teaches believers how to walk in spiritual discernment and victory.
INTRODUCTION
Matthew chapter 2 reveals several dangerous traps orchestrated by the enemy through King Herod. Herod pretended to desire worship while secretly planning destruction. His deception was designed to trap both the wise men and the child Jesus.
However, God intervened through divine warnings, guidance, and supernatural direction. The wise men escaped the trap by obeying God’s instruction, and Joseph preserved Jesus by responding quickly to divine guidance.
Believers today must understand that the enemy still sets traps through deception, temptation, fear, compromise, distraction, and spiritual attacks. Yet God is faithful to reveal dangers and provide wisdom, discernment, and protection for His people.
1. THE ENEMY USES DECEPTION AS A TRAP
Satan often hides evil intentions behind false appearances.
a) Herod pretended to seek worship (Matthew 2:7-8)
Though his words sounded respectful and spiritual, his true intention was to destroy Jesus.
b) Satan disguises himself deceptively (2 Corinthians 11:14)
The enemy often appears harmless while secretly working against God’s purpose.
c) Not every opportunity or voice is from God (1 John 4:1)
Believers must test every spirit and remain spiritually discerning.
d) Discernment protects believers from deception (Hebrews 5:14)
Spiritual maturity helps believers recognise hidden dangers and ungodly influences.
Biblical Example:
Delilah deceived Samson repeatedly until she eventually trapped him and weakened his destiny (Judges 16:15-21).
2. GOD WARNS HIS PEOPLE ABOUT HIDDEN DANGERS
God does not leave His children without direction.
a) The wise men were warned in a dream (Matthew 2:12)
God revealed Herod’s evil intentions and redirected them to safety.
b) Joseph received divine instruction (Matthew 2:13)
God guided Joseph clearly concerning how to protect Jesus from danger.
c) God reveals dangers to preserve His people (Amos 3:7)
The Lord communicates guidance to those who remain sensitive to Him.
d) Prayer increases spiritual sensitivity (Jeremiah 33:3)
Those who stay connected to God are more likely to recognise divine warnings.
Biblical Example:
Paul was repeatedly warned spiritually about dangers awaiting him in Jerusalem (Acts 20:22-23).
3. OBEDIENCE IS NECESSARY TO ESCAPE SATANIC TRAPS
Divine guidance only benefits those who obey.
a) The wise men obeyed immediately (Matthew 2:12)
Their obedience protected them from becoming instruments in Herod’s wicked plan.
b) Joseph acted without delay (Matthew 2:14)
Immediate obedience preserved the destiny of Jesus Christ.
c) Delayed obedience creates vulnerability (Jonah 1:1-3)
Ignoring divine instruction often exposes people to unnecessary struggles and dangers.
d) God’s direction leads to safety (Proverbs 3:5-6)
Trusting and following God’s guidance positions believers under His protection.
Biblical Example:
Noah obeyed God’s warning and escaped destruction through the ark (Hebrews 11:7).
4. GOD GIVES BELIEVERS VICTORY OVER THE ENEMY’S TRAPS
Through Christ, believers can overcome every satanic strategy.
a) God delivers His people from snares (Psalm 91:3)
The Lord rescues believers from hidden traps and destructive schemes.
b) Spiritual armour is necessary (Ephesians 6:11)
Believers must remain spiritually equipped against the enemy’s devices.
c) Vigilance is essential (1 Peter 5:8-9)
The enemy seeks opportunities to attack careless and spiritually weak believers.
d) Christ has already overcome the enemy (Colossians 2:15)
Jesus defeated the powers of darkness, giving believers victory and authority.
Biblical Example:
Daniel escaped the trap of his enemies because God preserved him in the lions’ den (Daniel 6:20-22).
CONCLUSION
Matthew 2 teaches believers that the enemy sets traps, but God provides wisdom, warning, and protection for His people. The wise men and Joseph escaped danger because they listened to God and obeyed His direction.
Believers today must remain spiritually alert, prayerful, discerning, and obedient. No trap of the enemy can succeed against a life guided and preserved by God.
PRAYER POINTS
1. Lord, deliver me from every trap of the enemy in Jesus name
2. Father, give me spiritual discernment in Jesus name
3. Lord, expose every hidden danger around my life in Jesus name
4. Father, help me to hear and obey Your voice promptly in Jesus name
5. Lord, preserve my destiny from deception and destruction in Jesus name
6. Father, frustrate every satanic strategy against my life in Jesus name
7. Lord, strengthen me spiritually against temptation and compromise in Jesus name
8. Father, surround me with Your divine protection in Jesus name
9. Lord, help me to walk in wisdom and vigilance in Jesus name
10. Father, let every trap set against me backfire in Jesus name
PROPHETIC DECLARATIONS
1. Every trap of the enemy against your life shall fail!
2. God shall preserve you from deception and destruction!
3. You shall walk in divine wisdom and discernment!
4. Every hidden danger around you is exposed!
5. God shall guide your steps continually!
6. You shall not become a victim of satanic manipulation!
7. The Lord shall deliver you from every snare of the enemy!
8. Your destiny shall remain protected by God’s power!
9. You shall walk in victory over every satanic strategy!
10. The hand of God shall preserve you and your household continually!
