When Scripture Speaks of Satan’s Influence
The Bible presents Satan as having real influence over the world. In some translations, he is even called the “god” of this world. This is not a statement of equality with Elohim, but a recognition of the power he exerts over those who reject God.
2 Corinthians 4:4
“In whom the god of this world hath blinded the minds of them which believe not, lest the light of the glorious gospel of Christ, who is the image of God, should shine unto them.”
Here, Paul calls Satan the god of this world, showing that he blinds the minds of unbelievers and works to distort truth. The phrase speaks to Satan’s ability to shape the spiritual and moral atmosphere of the world, opposing God’s kingdom wherever he can.
John 12:31
“Now is the judgment of this world: now shall the prince of this world be cast out.”
Jesus calls Satan the prince of this world, highlighting his temporary authority and influence before the ultimate victory of the cross. His statement foreshadows the defeat that would come through Yeshua’s death and resurrection.
John 14:30
“Hereafter I will not talk much with you: for the prince of this world cometh, and hath nothing in me.”
Even as Satan operates in the world, he has no dominion over Yeshua Himself. The contrast reminds us that Satan may have influence, but he does not have ultimate power.
Ephesians 2:2
“Wherein in time past ye walked according to the course of this world, according to the prince of the power of the air, the spirit that now works in the children of disobedience.”
Paul describes Satan as the prince of the power of the air, showing his pervasive spiritual influence, especially over those living in disobedience.
These verses teach us that while Satan holds sway over worldly systems and moral corruption, his authority is limited, temporary, and subordinate to the will of Elohim.
Emet אֱמֶת Truth
Where Adonai Uses Satan
It may seem paradoxical, but the Bible shows that God sometimes allows Satan to act as part of His sovereign plan. Even when evil is intended, God can bring about good. These passages illustrate this mystery.
Job 1:6-12
In the heavenly court, Satan challenges Job’s righteousness, claiming that Job serves God only because of his blessings. YHWH permits Satan to test Job, but within strict limits:
“And the Lord said unto Satan, Behold, all that he hath is in thy power; only upon himself put not forth thine hand. So Satan went forth from the presence of the Lord.”
Satan’s actions are therefore under God’s control. God allows trials, but He also sets boundaries. Job’s faith is tested, but the purpose is to glorify God and refine Job.
Job 2:1-7
In a second encounter, Satan afflicts Job physically:
“And the Lord said unto Satan, Behold, he is in thine hand; but save his life.”
Again, the limit is set by God, showing that even when evil occurs, it is within the framework of God’s authority.
1 Samuel 16:14
After Saul’s disobedience, the Spirit of YHWH departs from him, and God sends a harmful spirit to torment Saul:
“But the Spirit of the Lord departed from Saul, and an evil spirit from the Lord troubled him.”
This demonstrates that God can use spiritual forces, even those that seem evil, to accomplish judgment and correction.
2 Corinthians 12:7
Paul speaks of a “thorn in the flesh” described as a messenger of Satan, allowed by God to humble him:
“And lest I should be exalted above measure through the abundance of the revelations, there was given to me a thorn in the flesh, the messenger of Satan to buffet me, lest I should be exalted above measure.”
Here we see that God permits Satan to act, but for a purpose that ultimately glorifies God and strengthens the believer.
Luke 22:31-32
Jesus warns Peter that Satan wants to sift him as wheat, yet He prays for him:
“And the Lord said, Simon, Simon, behold, Satan hath desired to have you, that he may sift you as wheat: But I have prayed for thee, that thy faith fail not: and when thou art converted, strengthen thy brethren.”
Even here, Satan’s intentions are harmful, but God’s sovereign use of the trial strengthens Peter and equips him for ministry.
Shalom שָׁלוֹם Peace
The Ultimate Defeat of Satan
The book of Revelation describes the final judgment and defeat of Satan. Even in his last acts, God uses Satan’s rebellion to bring about His purposes:
Revelation 20:7-10
“And when the thousand years are expired, Satan shall be loosed out of his prison, and shall go out to deceive the nations which are in the four quarters of the earth, Gog and Magog, to gather them together to battle…”
Although Satan is released to deceive and gather for rebellion, God orchestrates the event to bring judgment and redemption, culminating in eternal victory.
Kadosh קָדוֹשׁ Holy
The Sovereignty of Adonai
These passages teach a profound truth: Satan may act, but he is always under God’s authority. Trials, temptation, and even affliction orchestrated by evil intentions are within the scope of God’s sovereign plan. YHWH’s ultimate aim is good, refining faith, accomplishing justice, and bringing glory to His name.
Even when the adversary seems to oppose God’s people, God remains firmly in control. His purposes are never thwarted. This is the paradox of Scripture: Satan is real, powerful, and dangerous, yet God is stronger, eternal, and all-knowing.
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Closing Reflection
We need to remember, as believers, that YHWH is our refuge and strength. Adversity, temptation, and trials are never outside His oversight. Even when the enemy acts, the hand of God works to teach, refine, and guide us toward greater faithfulness. Trusting in God’s sovereign power allows us to face the schemes of the world and the enemy without fear, knowing that ultimate victory belongs to Elohim and His Son, Yeshua Meshiach.
Shalom שָׁלוֹם Peace
I hope this teaching blesses you, strengthens your understanding of the spiritual battle, and encourages your walk with the Almighty. If it has touched your heart, please leave a comment, and share how YHWH is working in your life.