James

Q. 25. Wherein consists the sinfulness of that estate whereinto man fell?

A. The sinfulness of that estate whereinto man fell, consists in the guilt of Adam’s first sin, the want of that righteousness wherein he was created, and the corruption of his nature, whereby he is utterly indisposed, disabled, and made opposite unto all that is spiritually good, and wholly inclined to all evil, and that continually; which is commonly called original sin, and from which do proceed all actual transgressions.

But each one is tempted when he is carried away and enticed by his own lust. Then when lust has conceived, it gives birth to sin; and when sin is accomplished, it brings forth death.

—James 1:14–15

Adam and Eve lived in Eden, the only truly pristine environment ever known. Not only was the environment pristine, but the inhabitants as well. Perfect and pure, they lived in unspoiled health and happiness, and so they would have dwelt forever, but for the interference of an outsider. The first family fell to the temptation of an intruder, and having once fallen, were changed forever.

At this point, Satan could have retired, and the world still would have filled with wickedness. Mankind no longer needed an outside influence to sin, because now the sin was within. “The devil made me do it” would never be an excuse, because every sin is conceived in the heart of the sinner. Everything we do is a demonstration of “[our] own lust.” Whatever we want, that is what we do.

That is not to say that Satan is not active enemy. He certainly does do what he can to place temptation in our paths. But those temptations cannot tempt us without a corresponding internal desire to entice and carry us away. So if your prayers involve “binding Satan,” you may be fighting the wrong battle. Your worst enemy is not Satan; your worst enemy is you. Pray instead that God will continue sanctifying you, conforming you to the image of his Son (Romans 8:29, cf. Philippians 1:6).

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