Satan, also called the devil, is the chief adversary of God and man. He is a real spiritual being with intelligence, purpose, and a long history of rebellion. His name means “adversary,” and his work is to oppose God, accuse the brethren, and lead the world into deception and destruction.
His origin is described in Ezekiel 28:14–15:
“You were the anointed cherub who covers; I established you; you were on the holy mountain of God… You were perfect in your ways from the day you were created, till iniquity was found in you.”
Satan is also called the devil and is the chief adversary of God and mankind. His name first appears first in Job 1, where he presents himself before God and challenges the integrity of Job. Job 1:7 records:
“And the Lord said to Satan, ‘From where do you come?’ So Satan answered the Lord and said, ‘From going to and fro on the earth, and from walking back and forth on it.’”
Satan is not a myth or symbol of evil; he is a real spiritual being with intellect, will, and purpose. His primary goal is to oppose God’s plans, deceive mankind, and destroy lives. Jesus said in John 8:44:
“He was a murderer from the beginning, and does not stand in the truth, because there is no truth in him… he is a liar and the father of it.”
He appears in Genesis 3 as the serpent who deceives Eve, and he continues throughout Scripture to accuse, tempt, and resist God’s people. Revelation 12:9 identifies him as:
“The great dragon… that serpent of old, called the Devil and Satan, who deceives the whole world.”
Satan is called “the god of this world” (2 Corinthians 4:4), meaning he has influence over worldly systems and values, blinding unbelievers to the Gospel. However, he is not equal to God, nor is he omnipresent or all-powerful. His power is limited by God’s sovereignty.
Christ defeated Satan through His death and resurrection. Hebrews 2:14 says:
“That through death He might destroy him who had the power of death, that is, the devil.”
Ultimately, Satan’s final judgment is guaranteed. Revelation 20:10 declares:
“The devil, who deceived them, was cast into the lake of fire and brimstone… and they will be tormented day and night forever and ever.”
For believers, resistance against Satan comes through submission to God, reliance on Scripture, and faith in Jesus Christ. James 4:7 gives the principle:
“Therefore submit to God. Resist the devil and he will flee from you.”
