01/20/2023
Who is Satan?
In John 13:2, we read that “the devil had already put it into the heart of Judas, Simon Iscariot’s son, to betray him [Jesus].” And later in the chapter, during supper, “After Judas ate the piece of bread, Satan entered him” (13:27).
Who is this devil, also called Satan? What do we know of his motives and strategies? What is his end? The Bible reveals him to us progressively as Scripture unfolds from Genesis to Revelation and is very clear that he is our supernatural opponent. What is your understanding of Satan? How has he been described to you?
In the New Testament, many supernatural adversaries are called demons (daimon). They are corrupt and hostile to God, dedicated to thwarting his will, sometimes causing death or anguish (Mark 5:2–13), and overpowering people physically and mentally (Matthew 17:18). Second Peter 2:4 and Jude 6 describe them as beings cast out of heaven and awaiting their final judgment.
Their leader is called Satan, a Hebrew title meaning “adversary” or “accuser.” Two prophets give us more background on Satan. Read Ezekiel 28:1–19 and Isaiah 14:12–15.
These passages are laments, primarily about human kings (Tyre and Babylon). But many scholars believe the prophets are comparing these tyrants to a divine rebel—the evil being who spoke through the serpent in Eden, tempting Eve to disobey God.
Putting all the texts together, we conclude that the serpent of Eden is the same devil that tempted Jesus and the one who influence Judas to betray his Lord. He is the one we fight against even now, as the apostle Paul encourages us in Ephesians 6:11–12, “Put on the full armor of God so that you can stand against the schemes of the devil. For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the cosmic powers of this darkness, against evil, spiritual forces in the heavens.”
Thinking too much about the devil can scare some people. How do you deal with thoughts and discussions about supernatural evil? In what ways has your perception of Satan changed since you became a Christian?
While he is a tempter, deceiver, accuser, and adversary, Satan will not win. He will be defeated once and for all and evil will reign no more. Revelation 12:9 says, “The great dragon was hurled down—that ancient serpent called the devil, or Satan, who leads the whole world astray. He was hurled to the earth, and his angels with him.”
We do have a spiritual opponent, but God is greater than he is. We don’t have to worry about Satan or his demons because we have been saved by the sovereign God who holds our life and hope in his hands. What can you do to balance the tension of the reality of Satan’s presence in the world today with the knowledge that Christ is superior to him in every way? How does knowing that Jesus has already planned out Satan’s defeat give you hope for today?
We respect and honor our leaders because of their presence, their accomplishments, and their position. But true leaders humble themselves as servants, giving their lives for the benefit of others. Jesus did not come as a stereotypical CEO or power broker; he came as a loving servant.
Love is not glamorous—in fact, it is hard work. But love, real love, is a requirement for all Christians. Our God is a self-giving Lord, and all disciples mimic their master. As Dr. Evans put it, “Fake Christian or plastic saint? We’ll know by the love you show.”
