1 Samuel 28:16

Thine enemy. These words identify their author. The statement made here and in the following verses illustrates a characteristic device of the devil. Ever since his fall, Satan has endeavored to paint the character of God in false colors. He represents God as a revengeful tyrant, plunging into hell all those who do not fear Him (see GC 534). He lures men into sin and then presents their case as utterly hopeless. He represents God as unwilling to forgive the sinner as long as there is the least excuse for not receiving him. Thus he depicts God to men as their enemy. This concept lies at the basis of the heathen religions that teach the necessity of sacrifices to appease an angry God. How utterly contrary is such a doctrine to the teachings of the Scriptures, which represent God as exercising love to all, and willing to make a supreme sacrifice to save the guilty (John 3:16; 2 Peter 3:9).