The After School Satan Club
Just when it appears things cannot get any stranger, along comes a news story about an after-school program taught by Satanists. Upon first hearing of this effort, I thought it was parody; however, after a brief Internet search, it became quite evident the effort is real. Sponsored by the Satanic Temple, the following description of the program is given on its website:
EDUCATIN’ WITH SATAN
The After School Satan Clubs meet at select public schools where Good News Clubs also operate. Trained educators provide activities and learning opportunities, which students are free to engage in, or they may opt to explore other interests that may be aided by available resources. The environment is open and parents are welcome to participate. While the classes are designed to promote intellectual and emotional development in accordance with TST’s tenets, no proselytization or religious instruction takes place.
Interestingly, the organization is upfront in stating that its purpose is to combat “Good News Clubs”. These clubs, sponsored by Child Evangelism Fellowship, state that their purpose is that “children learn biblical principles, moral values, character qualities and respect for authority.” It is also interesting that the Satanic Temple twice states on its website that its purpose is not to proselytize. Herein lies a problem.
From the time of Adam and Eve forward, the choice has always been between God and Satan. In his first recorded words, Satan seeks to convince the human that God is not the worthy choice. He states that if disobedience to God is given, “You will not surely die” (Genesis 3:4). He goes on to cast doubt on God’s integrity: “For God knows that when you eat of it your eyes will be opened, and you will be like God, knowing good and evil” (vs. 5). Starkly, the Bible reveals this choice in very black and white terms. The apostle John made this abundantly clear when he wrote, “By this it is evident who are the children of God, and who are the children of the devil: whoever does not practice righteousness is not of God, nor is the one who does not love his brother” (I John 3:10). To choose God is to deny Satan and vice versa. Any attempt to recruit someone from the other side is an attempt to proselytize, no matter what a pagan website may deny.
Despite its name, members of the Satanic Temple claim that it is simply an atheist organization with no real belief in a literal Satan. Sadly, this fits well with its namesake’s main goal: deception. Jesus noted this when He stated, “You are of your father the devil, and your will is to do your father’s desires. He was a murderer from the beginning, and does not stand in the truth, because there is no truth in him. When he lies, he speaks out of his own character, for he is a liar and the father of lies” (John 8:44). The organization’s deceived members believe that real truth and understanding are found in self-empowerment and not in a loving relationship with God.
With the above stated, I am not concerned about this organization. It is unlikely that they will make a large national showing in after-school programs and, where they do, most parents will steer clear. However, it is a good reminder that the enemy is no respecter of age. Both this organization and the “Good News Clubs” realize that children are highly impressionable and will sometimes formulate ideas in youth that will last a lifetime. Therefore, it is of extreme importance for faithful parents to be proactive in training children in the ways of godliness. The apostle Paul encouraged fathers to bring up children “in the discipline and instruction of the Lord” (Ephesians 6:4). He also admonished older women to teach younger women how to love their children (Titus 2:4). Loving instruction comes in teaching children what it means to be a child of God. Ironically, there is one statement on the Satanist’s website with which I wholeheartedly agree: “We prefer to give children an appreciation of the natural wonders surrounding them, not a fear of everlasting other-worldly horrors.” So do I! Teaching children about the wonders of God’s creation prepares them to see not only His power, but also His love of beauty. It teaches them to understand that God created humanity not to punish, but to share in a loving partnership with Him in the creation. Children who have such teachings instilled in youth can grow stronger in their love of a God who wants to be with them.
Whether young or old, all need to be fully cognizant of the choice that will be made and the consequences that will follow. May each child of God seek to not only influence others to see and appreciate the good God of Heaven but also grow daily in his or her relationship with Him.
