While the Bible doesn't explicitly state "the devil can infiltrate religion" in those exact words, several passages warn about deception, false teachers, and the presence of evil influences within religious contexts. Here are some key examples and how they relate to the idea:
* 2 Corinthians 11:14-15: "And no wonder, for even Satan disguises himself as an angel of light. So it is no great surprise if his servants also disguise themselves as servants of righteousness. Their end will correspond to their deeds."
* Explanation: This passage directly addresses the idea of deception. Satan, the ultimate source of evil, is depicted as capable of disguising himself as something good and holy (an "angel of light"). Similarly, his "servants" (followers, agents) can appear to be righteous and virtuous, while secretly serving evil purposes. This implies that people within religious contexts could be influenced by or even working for Satan, while outwardly appearing to be devout.
* Matthew 7:15-20: "Beware of false prophets, who come to you in sheep’s clothing but inwardly are ravenous wolves. You will recognize them by their fruits. Are grapes gathered from thornbushes, or figs from thistles? So, every healthy tree bears good fruit, but the diseased tree bears bad fruit. A healthy tree cannot bear bad fruit, nor can a diseased tree bear good fruit. Every tree that does not bear good fruit is cut down and thrown into the fire. Thus you will recognize them by their fruits."
* Explanation: Jesus warns his followers about "false prophets." These individuals appear harmless ("sheep's clothing") but are actually dangerous ("ravenous wolves"). The warning suggests that those seeking to corrupt or mislead others could infiltrate religious groups, taking advantage of people's faith and trust. Their "fruits" (actions, teachings, and the consequences thereof) will eventually reveal their true nature.
* Galatians 1:6-9: "I am astonished that you are so quickly deserting him who called you in the grace of Christ and are turning to a different gospel— not that there is another one, but there are some who trouble you and want to distort the gospel of Christ. But even if we or an angel from heaven should preach to you a gospel contrary to the one we preached to you, let him be accursed. As we have said before, so now I say again: If anyone is preaching to you a gospel contrary to the one you received, let him be accursed."
* Explanation: Paul expresses concern that the Galatians are being led astray by those who are distorting the true gospel. Even if these deceivers are authoritative figures ("an angel from heaven"), their false teachings should be rejected. This highlights the vulnerability of religious communities to manipulation and the importance of discerning true doctrine from false doctrine.
* 2 Peter 2:1-3: "But false prophets also arose among the people, just as there will be false teachers among you, who will secretly bring in destructive heresies, even denying the Master who bought them, bringing upon themselves swift destruction. And many will follow their sensuality, and because of them the way of truth will be blasphemed. And in their greed they will exploit you with false words. Their condemnation from long ago is not idle, and their destruction is not asleep."
* Explanation: Peter warns that "false teachers" will infiltrate the church, introducing "destructive heresies." They will exploit believers with deceptive words and lead them astray. This passage emphasizes the idea that individuals driven by selfish motives (greed, sensuality) will attempt to manipulate and control religious communities for their own benefit.
In Summary:
While there's no single verse stating "the devil can infiltrate religion," these passages collectively convey the following:
* Deception is a key tactic of Satan and his followers: They can disguise themselves as good and righteous.
* False teachers and prophets will arise: They will spread lies and distort the truth.
* Religious communities are vulnerable to infiltration: People seeking to exploit or corrupt others can take advantage of faith and trust.
* Discernment is crucial: Believers must be able to distinguish between true and false teachings, judging people by their "fruits" (actions and consequences).
These biblical warnings encourage believers to be vigilant, discerning, and grounded in the truth, so they are not led astray by evil influences that may infiltrate religious contexts.