Rev. Cyril A. Stevens – Sermon 0242A recorded on November 2, 1980 teaching from Matthew 6:1-13; Romans 12:17-21 – Deliver Us From Evil.
Pastor Cyril A. Stevens explores the petition “deliver us from evil” by connecting the teachings of Matthew 6 with the ethical mandates of Romans 12. He argues that contemporary believers often ignore this prayer because they feel safe in their prosperity, yet he warns that every generation remains susceptible to a cyclical return to sin, much like a dog returning to its vomit. Stevens highlights how a preoccupation with earthly treasures, such as material possessions and financial security, creates a divided heart and a mind clouded by darkness, ultimately making it impossible to serve both God and worldly gain. To find true freedom, he urges his listeners to maintain a singleness of eye focused on Christ, trading “fire insurance” Christianity for a life of abundant righteousness and active spiritual warfare. Ultimately, Pastor Stevens calls us to humble confession, encouraging believers to seek the Father’s deliverance from the subtle, everyday evils that stagnate the soul and distract from the Kingdom of God.