Hi, John.
In re-reading the opening paragraph of Wednesday night’s reading (7/3/2024), the phrase stating that Satan was “a stern and obedient servant” of God made me think of Paul (Saul) before his conversion on the road to Damascus.
Saul was a son of the Accuser during his persecution of followers of Jesus. He obediently followed the orders of the priests and Pharisees who “believed themselves to be acting on God’s behalf.”
As you pointed out, “When tares occupy positions of authority over God’s people, they often reflect the merciless spirit of Satan.” Young Paul was like that. He also believed that God would not treat him the way he treated followers of Jesus.
As you point out in your new paragraph, a new birth is required to change. The new birth is required to even have a chance to not be a tare.
Allison
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