Vatican City, May 1, 2019 / 03:19 am
Pope Francis Wednesday reminded those who think belief in the devil is antiquated or outdated that Satan really exists and that Jesus himself experienced his temptations and overcame them.
"So began the public life of Jesus, with the temptation that comes from Satan. Satan was present," the pope said May 1.
"Many people say: 'But why talk about the devil, which is an ancient thing? The devil does not exist.' But look at what the Gospel teaches you," Francis emphasized. "Jesus confronted the devil, he was tempted by Satan. But Jesus rejects every temptation and comes out victorious."
He advised people to remember in their own moments of temptation that "Jesus has already fought this temptation for us."