Introduction
There
are
many
persons
who
are
deeply
troubled
by
the
increasing
intensity
of
turmoil
that
is
occurring
globally
between
nations,
and
within
our
local
communities.
The
daily
bombardment
of
negative
news
has
required
some
to
cope
by
becoming
“numb”
to
the
constant
deluge
of
unimaginable
behavior
that
has
caused
destruction
and
death.
In
addition,
we
have
also
grown
accustomed
to
the
overwhelming
frequency
of
lies
and
half-truths,
as
it
becomes
more
difficult
to
determine
absolute
truths.
What’s
more,
those
who
are
in
political
power
either
embrace
the
darkness,
or
are
unable
to
do anything about it.
There
is
a
reason
(and
source)
for
all
of
the
chaos.
It
is
caused
by
a
delusional
and
influential
angelic
being
who
attempted
to
overthrow
God
from
His
throne,
and
was
cast
to
earth
as
punishment
for
his
crime
(along
with
other
angels
who joined him in the failed rebellion).
Crime and Punishment
When
a
human
is
convicted
of
a
crime
they
are
usually
punished
in
some
manner.
The
type
of
punishment
is
based
upon
the
seriousness
of
their
crime.
For
example,
for
lower-level
misdeeds,
the
punishment
may
consist
of
a
financial
fine.
Higher-level
offences
may
result
in
a
fine
and
some
jail
time.
Severe
wrongdoings
are
often
punished
by
extended
periods
in
prison.
And
the
worst
crimes
receive
the
most
extreme
type
of
punishment:
execution.
Those
who
are
destined
for
punishment
by
death
usually
wait
for
their
demise
behind
impenetrable
walls.
In
addition,
what
they
can
and cannot do is significantly limited by the policies of the warden and enforced by guards.
For
those
who
have
been
imprisoned,
their
description
of
what
it
is
like
and
what
goes
on
inside
the
walls
defines
some
of
the
worst
possible
experiences
a
person
can
have
on
earth.
For
this
is
where
fallen
angels
and
demons
have
the
greatest
opportunity
to
become
lord
and
master
over
the
sinful
nature
of
the
incarcerated.
The
loss
of
freedom,
combined
with
anger
and
hatred,
opens
hearts
to
influence
and
possession
by
evil
forces.
This
is
where
darkness
magnifies
darkness;
and
where
unfathomable
human
depravity
exists.
But
what’s
more,
this
dark
reality
depicts
the
existence of Satan as he awaits his final punishment for his attempted insurrection.
When
you
consider
all
of
the
various
types
of
crimes
humans
commit
every
day—from
a
spiritual
perspective—they
are
pale
in
comparison
to
the
crime
Satan
committed:
he
attempted
to
overthrow
God
and
take
His
throne.
Satan’s
rebellious
actions—combined
with
1/3
of
the
angels
in
Heaven
who
joined
him—are
now
experiencing
the
first
component
of
their
punishment:
incarceration
on
earth
(Satan’s
prison).
His
freedom
is
limited
by
the
physical
properties
of
earth
(impenetrable
prison
walls),
and
what
he
can
and
cannot
do
is
constrained
by
the
Holy
Spirit
and
archangels
(warden
and
prison
guards).
The
ultimate
punishment
and
final
demise
for
his
rebellion
is
an
eternal
execution
within
the
lake
of
fire—which
will
occur
at
the
end
of
the
millennial
reign
of
Jesus
Christ.
It’s
important
to
note
that
Satan’s
execution for his crimes will last forever—because spirits do not die.
As
such,
when
you
consider
the
aforementioned,
we
are
living
inside
Satan’s
prison.
And,
although
Satan
was
cast
down
to
earth
as
punishment,
God
has
limited
his
influential
powers
upon
earth.
However,
his
powers
will
be
unconstrained during the last days so that he can deceive and destroy those who are destined to share in his fate.
It
becomes
more
evident
we
are
living
within
Satan’s
prison
when
you
consider
the
amount
of
chaos
and
destruction
that
exists
today,
and
throughout
time.
When
you
take
time
to
thoughtfully
evaluate
the
amount
of
sin
and
darkness
that
permeates
all
corners
of
the
globe—the
influence
of
Satan’s
lies—the
one
who
deceives
the
world—become
evident.
For
every
war,
every
battle,
every
conflict,
every
argument,
every
caustic
word,
and
every
sin…began
as
a
lie
and
declared as truth by those who are manipulated by the power of darkness.
Historical and Future Timeline
This table lists key sequential events. Each event is discussed in this lesson in sequential order (left to right).
Before Adam
Ezekiel
28:12-19
and
Isaiah
14:12-15
reveals
Satan
was
once
an
anointed
cherub
angel
who
served
God
in
Heaven.
However,
he
became
filled
with
sin;
developed
a
delusional
desire
to
become
God;
and
attempted
to
overthrow
God
from
His
throne
by
a
violent
rebellion.
Satan
and
a
third
of
the
angels
who
joined
him
were
defeated
by
Michael
(a
warrior archangel) and his angels, and were cast to earth as punishment for their heavenly crimes.
“And
war
broke
out
in
heaven:
Michael
and
his
angels
fought
with
the
dragon;
and
the
dragon
and
his
angels
fought,
but
they
did
not
prevail,
nor
was
a
place
found
for
them
in
heaven
any
longer.
So
the
great
dragon
was
cast
out,
that
serpent
of
old,
called
the
Devil
and
Satan,
who
deceives
the
whole
world
;
he
was
cast
to
the
earth,
and
his
angels
were cast out with him.” Revelation 12:7-9
Note
the
above
scripture
declares
the
source
of
deception
in
the
world.
Once
imprisoned
upon
earth,
Satan
first
deceived
Eve
and
then
Adam
to
sin
against
God—and
he
has
not
changed
throughout
time.
What’s
more,
those
who
have
no
place
within
their
heart
for
God’s
word
(has
no
desire,
does
not
seek
Him,
and
rejects
His
truth),
opens
their
hearts to Satan’s deceptional lies and the multi-faceted consequences of sin.
Jesus
was
approached
by
the
Pharisees
who
had
an
intent
of
finding
a
means
to
justify
killing
Him.
Jesus
said,
“I
know
that
you
are
Abraham’s
descendants,
but
you
seek
to
kill
Me,
because
My
word
has
no
place
in
you.
You
are
of
your
father
the
devil,
and
the
desires
of
your
father
you
want
to
do.
He
was
a
murderer
from
the
beginning,
and
does
not
stand
in
the
truth,
because
there
is
no
truth
in
him.
When
he
speaks
a
lie,
he
speaks
from
his
own
resources,
for
he
is
a
liar and the father of it.” John 8:37, 44
However,
we
who
once
lived
in
darkness
and
now
live
in
the
light
of
Jesus
Christ—can
see
the
darkness,
delusional
lies,
destruction and spiritual death propagated by the one who deceives the whole world from God’s truths.
•
“For this purpose the Son of God was manifested, that He might destroy the works of the devil.” 1 John 3:8
•
Jesus
declared
His
desire:
“To
open
their
eyes,
in
order
to
turn
them
from
darkness
to
light,
and
from
the
power
of
Satan
to
God,
that
they
may
receive
forgiveness
of
sins
and
an
inheritance
among
those
who
are
sanctified
by
faith
in Me.” Acts 26:18
•
“We know that we are of God, and the whole world lies under the sway of the wicked one.” 1 John 5:19
•
“For
we
do
not
wrestle
against
flesh
and
blood,
but
against
principalities,
against
powers,
against
the
rulers
of
the
darkness of this age, against spiritual hosts of wickedness in the heavenly places.” Ephesians 6:12
•
“You
once
walked
according
to
the
course
of
this
world,
according
to
the
prince
of
the
power
of
the
air,
the
spirit
who
now works in the sons of disobedience.” Ephesians 2:2
•
Jesus
said,
“I
am
the
light
of
the
world.
He
who
follows
Me
shall
not
walk
in
darkness,
but
have
the
light
of
life.”
John 8:12
Humans Populate the Earth
All
humans
(except
Jesus)
are
born
with
a
sinful
nature.
This
is
because
of
the
sinful
nature
of
Adam—who
introduced
sin and spiritual death into the world—which has been passed on from generation to generation.
•
“Therefore,
just
as
through
one
man
sin
entered
the
world,
and
death
through
sin,
and
thus
death
spread
to
all
men,
because all sinned.” Romans 5:12
•
“For all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God.” Romans 3:23
It
is
important
to
note
that
Jesus
Christ
was
conceived
by
the
Holy
Spirit
(and
not
by
His
earthly
father,
Joseph).
As
such,
Jesus
did
not
receive
the
nature
passed
from
Adam.
This
is
why
He
never
sinned,
and
why
He
was
the
perfect
sacrificial
Lamb
for
our
sins.
“You
were
not
redeemed
with
corruptible
things,
like
silver
or
gold…but
with
the
precious
blood of Christ, as of a lamb without blemish and without spot.” 1 Peter 1:18-19
What
began
with
2
persons
(Adam
and
Eve),
as
of
November,
2022,
the
population
on
earth
has
grown
to
more
than
eight billion persons. Source (United Nations):
https://www.un.org/en/global-issues/population#
Now
think
about
the
following…when
you
consider
all
of
recorded
human
history,
it
is
difficult
to
find
a
period
of
time
when
there
was
global
peace.
In
ancient
times,
peaceful
societies
would
be
attacked
by
warlike
neighbors.
In
recent
times,
we
have
had
multiple
world
wars.
And
today
there
are
ongoing
battles
across
the
globe.
Throughout
time
peace
has been unsustainable because of delusional lies—from the one
who deceives the whole world.
Here is an overview of the ongoing armed conflicts:
There
are
presently
57
wars,
conflicts,
skirmishes
and
clashes
across
the
globe—which
have
resulted
in
thousands
of
deaths
each
year.
This
is
all
due
to
the
influential
power
of
Satan
(aka
the
prince
of
the
power
of
the
air;
the
spirit
who
works
in
the
sons
of
disobedience;
and
the
one
who
continually
seeks
whom
he
may
destroy).
Source:
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_ongoing_armed_conflicts
Satan
is
able
to
move
about
within
the
confines
of
his
earthly
prison—as
he
actively
searches
for
hearts
who
have
no
room
for
God’s
word,
and
do
not
desire
nor
seek
His
righteousness.
“Be
sober,
be
vigilant;
because
your
adversary
the
devil walks about like a roaring lion, seeking whom he may devour.” 1 Peter 5:8
Although
we
may
perceive
Satan’s
influential
power
upon
earth
is
significant,
his
power
will
become
increasingly
unfettered
as
the
Holy
Spirit
relinquishes
His
restraints.
“He
who
now
restrains
will
do
so
until
He
is
taken
out
of
the
way.”
(2
Thessalonians
2:7)
Satan’s
ability
to
fulfill
his
darkest
desires
to
deceive
and
destroy
will
occur
as
we
enter
into
the
last
days
and
during
the
7-year
Tribulation.
To
gain
a
glimpse
into
the
darkness
of
Satan’s
future
actions,
consider
the
past
violence
and
carnage
that
has
occurred
within
prisons
when
guards
lose
their
control
over
inmates,
and
they
are able to act upon their own will in venting their hatred and anger.
7-Year Tribulation
Satan’s
vain
desire
is
to
be
considered
God.
Given
his
banishment
upon
earth,
his
delusional
mind
perceives
the
only
place
that
is
worthy
to
make
his
blasphemous
declaration
to
the
world
is
in
the
Temple
God
once
inhabited—but
was
destroyed
almost
2,000
years
ago.
The
Temple
is
known
today
as
the
Temple
Mount,
which
is
located
in
Jerusalem,
and is presently the center of great controversy and strife between Jews and Muslims.
As
such,
to
fulfill
his
desire,
the
Temple
must
be
rebuilt.
He
will
accomplish
this
task
via
the
beast
who
will
enter
into
a
covenant
that
will
enable
the
Israelites
to
resume
sacrifices
and
offerings
(which
requires
the
rebuilding
of
the
Jewish
Temple).
It
is
important
to
note
this
covenant
agreement
will
require
masterful
negotiations
between
Israel
and
Israel’s
enemies.
However,
it
will
be
comprised
of
a
false
covenant
from
the
one
who
is
the
father
of
lies—because
after
the
Temple
is
rebuilt
the
covenant
will
be
broken.
“Then
he
shall
confirm
a
covenant
with
many
for
one
week;
but
in
the
middle of the week He shall bring an end to sacrifice and offering.” Daniel 9:27
After
3
½
years
have
passed
(which
is
sufficient
time
to
rebuild
the
Temple),
Satan
(the
abomination
of
desolation
who
will
indwell
within
the
beast)
will
stand
in
the
Temple
(the
holy
place)
and
declare
he
is
God.
His
delusional
declaration
will
begin
the
second
half
of
the
7-year
Tribulation—which
is
referred
to
as
the
Great
Tribulation.
This
is
when
Satan’s
power will be fully released; and this is when Jesus warns Israelites to flee.
Jesus
warned,
“Therefore
when
you
see
the
‘abomination
of
desolation,’
spoken
of
by
Daniel
the
prophet,
standing
in
the
holy
place”
(whoever
reads,
let
him
understand)
,
“then
let
those
who
are
in
Judea
flee
to
the
mountains.
Let
him
who
is
on
the
housetop
not
go
down
to
take
anything
out
of
his
house.
And
let
him
who
is
in
the
field
not
go
back
to
get
his
clothes.
But
woe
to
those
who
are
pregnant
and
to
those
who
are
nursing
babies
in
those
days!
And
pray
that
your
flight
may
not
be
in
winter
or
on
the
Sabbath.
For
then
there
will
be
great
tribulation,
such
as
has
not
been
since
the
beginning
of
the
world
until
this
time,
no,
nor
ever
shall
be.
And
unless
those
days
were
shortened,
no
flesh
would
be
saved; but for the elect’s sake those days will be shortened.” Matthew 25:15-22
Satan
will
be
unconstrained
to
wreak
havoc
within
his
prison
via
the
“lawless
one”
(the
beast).
What’s
more,
the
degree
of
devastation
will
only
be
a
prelude
to
God’s
wrath
that
He
will
pour
out
upon
earth
during
the
final
days.
The
global
destruction
and
death
during
this
time
is
intended
for
those
who
reject
God’s
Son,
Jesus
Christ,
because
of
their
preference for sin—for their delusion will cause them to believe and justify the lies propagated by Satan.
For
the
mystery
of
lawlessness
is
already
at
work;
only
He
who
now
restrains
will
do
so
until
He
is
taken
out
of
the
way.
And
then
the
lawless
one
will
be
revealed,
whom
the
Lord
will
consume
with
the
breath
of
His
mouth
and
destroy
with
the
brightness
of
His
coming.
The
coming
of
the
lawless
one
is
according
to
the
working
of
Satan,
with
all
power,
signs,
and
lying
wonders,
and
with
all
unrighteous
deception
among
those
who
perish,
because
they
did
not
receive
the
love
of
the
truth,
that
they
might
be
saved.
And
for
this
reason
God
will
send
them
strong
delusion,
that
they
should
believe
the
lie,
that
they
all
may
be
condemned
who
did
not
believe
the
truth
but
had
pleasure
in
unrighteousness.”
2
Thessalonians 2:7-12
The
above
scripture
declares
Jesus
will
consume
the
lawless
one
(the
beast
in
whom
Satan
will
dwell)
with
the
breath
of
His
mouth,
and
will
destroy
him
by
the
brightness
of
His
coming.
God’s
word
below
reinforces
the
true
intent
of
Satan’s
covenant
to
resume
sacrifices
and
offerings;
and
also
reveals
the
return
of
Jesus
Christ
will
occur
sometime
after
he
sits
in the Temple declaring he is God.
“Now, brethren, concerning the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ and our gathering together to Him, we ask you, not to be
soon
shaken
in
mind
or
troubled,
either
by
spirit
or
by
word
or
by
letter,
as
if
from
us,
as
though
the
day
of
Christ
had
come.
Let
no
one
deceive
you
by
any
means;
for
that
Day
will
not
come
unless
the
falling
away
comes
first,
and
the
man
of
sin
is
revealed,
the
son
of
perdition,
who
opposes
and
exalts
himself
above
all
that
is
called
God
or
that
is
worshiped, so that he sits as God in the temple of God, showing himself that he is God.” 2 Thessalonians 2:1-4
Millennial Reign of Christ
Jesus
Christ
will
return
to
destroy
Israel’s
enemies,
sit
on
His
earthly
throne,
and
fulfill
all
of
God’s
covenants.
His
reign
will
last
for
1,000
years.
But
what’s
more,
during
this
period
of
time
Satan
will
be
chained
and
cast
into
the
Abyss
(or
bottomless pit).
Within
most
human
prisons
is
an
area
designed
for
the
worst
of
the
worst:
a
prison
within
a
prison
designed
for
complete
control
over
behavior.
Commonly
referred
to
as
the
“hole”
by
inmates,
those
who
are
restrained
in
this
specialized
area
of
punishment
suffer
from
solitary
confinement.
For
example,
many
prisons
will
keep
the
inmate
locked
in
their
cell;
will
not
allow
communication
with
other
inmates;
and
are
only
allowed
limited
outdoor
exercise
and
showers.
In
a
similar
manner
to
Satan’s
earthy
prison,
there
is
also
a
prison
within
a
prison
within
the
earth
for
spiritual
beings:
the
bottomless
pit
or
Abyss.
This
is
where
Satan
will
be
bound
and
locked
up
during
the
millennial
reign
of
Christ,
and
will
be
unable
to
deceive the nations with his lies.
“Then
I
saw
an
angel
coming
down
from
heaven,
having
the
key
to
the
bottomless
pit
and
a
great
chain
in
his
hand.
He
laid
hold
of
the
dragon,
that
serpent
of
old,
who
is
the
Devil
and
Satan,
and
bound
him
for
a
thousand
years;
and
he
cast
him
into
the
bottomless
pit,
and
shut
him
up,
and
set
a
seal
on
him,
so
that
he
should
deceive
the
nations
no
more
till
the
thousand years were finished. But after these things he must be released for a little while.” Revelation 20:1-3
Prison
inmates
know
of
the
hole,
and
the
torment
it
represents.
As
such,
the
threat
of
trauma
due
to
solitary
confinement
serves
as
a
behavioral
motivator.
In
a
similar
manner,
evil
spiritual
beings
are
aware
of
the
Abyss
and
the
torture
it
represents.
For
example,
when
Jesus
Christ
confronted
a
legion
of
demons,
“They
begged
Him
that
He
would
not command them to go out into the abyss.” Luke 8:31
During
the
millennial
reign
of
Jesus
Christ
is
when
the
inhabitants
on
earth
will
finally
experience
life
based
upon
truth,
and peace will exist because the deceptional lies of Satan will have no influence.
Short Period of Time
However, at the end of the 1,000 years Satan will be released from the Abyss to deceive for a short period of time.
The
first
thing
Satan
will
do
is
deceive
nations
to
battle—his
same
method
of
operation
and
the
same
results
we
see
today. However, this is God’s last allowance of Satan’s lies to influence those who do not seek truth.
“Now
when
the
thousand
years
have
expired,
Satan
will
be
released
from
his
prison
and
will
go
out
to
deceive
the
nations
which
are
in
the
four
corners
of
the
earth,
Gog
and
Magog,
to
gather
them
together
to
battle,
whose
number
is
as
the
sand
of
the
sea.
They
went
up
on
the
breadth
of
the
earth
and
surrounded
the
camp
of
the
saints
and
the
beloved city. And fire came down from God out of heaven and devoured them.” Revelation 20:7-9
Satan’s Final Demise
Thereafter,
Satan
will
receive
his
eternal
punishment.
He
will
be
thrown
into
the
lake
of
fire
along
with
the
beast
and
the
false prophet (who were cast earlier into the lake of fire when Jesus returned).
“The
devil,
who
deceived
them,
was
cast
into
the
lake
of
fire
and
brimstone
where
the
beast
and
the
false
prophet
are.
And they will be tormented day and night forever and ever.” Revelation 20:10
Winnowing His Chosen
By
now
you
may
have
thought
about
the
following
relevant
and
appropriate
question:
Why
would
God
place
us
within
Satan’s prison, and make us susceptible to Satan’s influence?
God
uses
Satan,
fallen
angels
and
demons
as
a
means
to
separate
us
from
the
world,
and
to
fulfill
His
desire
for
us:
to
love
Him
as
He
loves
us.
These
words
may
initially
create
conflicting
thoughts
within
your
mind,
such
as…How
is
it
possible
for
the
existence
of
evil
upon
the
earth
to
create
a
compelling
desire
within
our
hearts
to
turn
our
lives
towards
God
and
love
Him?
For
the
remainder
of
this
lesson,
I
will
reference
scripture
to
explain.
For
as
it
is
written,
“Your
word
is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path.” Psalms 119:105.
God created everything.
•
“All things were made through Him, and without Him nothing was made that was made.” John 1:3
•
“You
are
worthy,
O
Lord,
to
receive
glory
and
honor
and
power;
for
You
created
all
things,
and
by
Your
will
they
exist
and were created.” Revelation 4:11
•
“For
by
Him
all
things
were
created
that
are
in
heaven
and
that
are
on
earth,
visible
and
invisible,
whether
thrones
or
dominions
or
principalities
or
powers.
All
things
were
created
through
Him
and
for
Him.”
Colossians
1:16
Note:
Thrones, dominions, principalities and powers refer to the invisible realm of spiritual beings (both good and bad).
God
keeps
Satan
in
darkness.
Although
Satan
has
powers
and
perceptive
awareness,
God
has
hidden
spiritual
truths
from him. Satan was unaware of God’s plan and purpose for sending His Son to live and die within Satan’s prison.
•
“For
God
so
loved
the
world
that
He
gave
His
only
begotten
Son,
that
whoever
believes
in
Him
should
not
perish
but
have
everlasting
life.
For
God
did
not
send
His
Son
into
the
world
to
condemn
the
world,
but
that
the
world
through
Him might be saved.” John 3:16
•
“And
this
is
the
will
of
Him
who
sent
Me,
that
everyone
who
sees
the
Son
and
believes
in
Him
may
have
everlasting
life; and I will raise him up at the last day.” John 6:40
•
After
Jesus
died
and
rose
from
the
dead,
He
spoke
to
His
disciples
and
declared,
“All
authority
has
been
given
to
Me
and on earth.” Matthew 28:18
Satan
was
clueless
about
Jesus.
For
example,
Satan
offered
his
prison
to
Jesus
if
He
would
worship
him.
His
unending
motivation and delusion caused him to vainly barter a useless object to the King of kings and Lord of lords.
•
“The
devil
took
Him
up
on
an
exceedingly
high
mountain,
and
showed
Him
all
the
kingdoms
of
the
world
and
their
glory. And he said to Him, ‘All these things I will give You if You will fall down and worship me.’” Matthew 4:8-9
•
“Let
this
mind
be
in
you
which
was
also
in
Christ
Jesus,
who,
being
in
the
form
of
God,
did
not
consider
it
robbery
to
be
equal
with
God,
but
made
Himself
of
no
reputation,
taking
the
form
of
a
bondservant,
and
coming
in
the
likeness
of
men.
And
being
found
in
appearance
as
a
man,
He
humbled
Himself
and
became
obedient
to
the
point
of
death,
even
the
death
of
the
cross.
Therefore
God
also
has
highly
exalted
Him
and
given
Him
the
name
which
is
above
every
name,
that
at
the
name
of
Jesus
every
knee
should
bow,
of
those
in
heaven,
and
of
those
on
earth,
and
of
those
under
the
earth,
and
that
every
tongue
should
confess
that
Jesus
Christ
is
Lord,
to
the
glory
of
God
the
Father.” Philippians 2: 5-11
•
“He
worked
in
Christ
when
He
raised
Him
from
the
dead
and
seated
Him
at
His
right
hand
in
the
heavenly
places,
far
above
all
principality
and
power
and
might
and
dominion,
and
every
name
that
is
named,
not
only
in
this
age
but
also
in that which is to come.” Ephesians 1:20-21
Question…If Satan knew who Jesus was and His purpose on earth…do you think he would have crucified Him?
God Manipulates Satan
To
accomplish
His
purpose
on
earth,
God
maintains
control
over
Satan’s
influential,
deceptive
and
destructive
power.
God’s
oversight
is
revealed
in
the
Book
of
Job.
Satan
approached
God
and
requested
approval
to
destroy
God’s
servant,
Job.
Satan’s
justification
was
to
prove
Job’s
faith
was
based
upon
the
blessings
God
bestowed
upon
Job—and
not
upon
Job’s
love
for
God.
Satan
was
convinced
by
destroying
all
of
Job’s
blessings
(including
his
health,
the
death
of
his
children,
and
all
of
his
possessions),
Job
would
curse
God.
God
permitted
Satan’s
request,
but
was
not
allowed
to
kill
Job.
The
unimaginable
events
that
occurred
to
Job—and
how
he
maintained
his
faith
and
trust
in
God—provides
us
with
a
worst-case
example
of
how
we
should
respond
to
trials
and
tribulations
in
life—because
Job
lost
everything.
After
Satan was proven wrong, God blessed Job with twice as much as he had before.
When
Jesus
was
being
tried
for
a
crime
He
did
not
commit,
He
provided
spiritual
insight
into
who
controls
Satan.
“Then
Pilate
said
to
Him,
‘Are
You
not
speaking
to
me?
Do
You
not
know
that
I
have
power
to
crucify
You,
and
power
to
release
You?’
Jesus
answered,
‘You
could
have
no
power
at
all
against
Me
unless
it
had
been
given
you
from
above.’”
John 19:10-11
The
Apostle
Paul
revealed
God’s
omnipresence
and
oversight
of
our
lives—including
temptations
we
encounter—for
He
will
not
allow
us
to
be
tempted
beyond
what
we
are
able
to
overcome,
and
will
also
provide
a
means
to
escape
(if
we
listen
and
obey).
“No
temptation
has
overtaken
you
except
such
as
is
common
to
man;
but
God
is
faithful,
who
will
not
allow
you
to
be
tempted
beyond
what
you
are
able,
but
with
the
temptation
will
also
make
the
way
of
escape,
that
you
may be able to bear it.” 1 Corinthians 10:13
The
following
scripture
reveals
(1)
Satan
is
restrained,
and
(2)
God
will
release
His
restraints
upon
Satan
during
the
last
days.
For
as
these
days
come
to
an
end,
God
will
permit
Satan
to
use
his
powers
to
deceive,
and
cause
eternal
condemnation
for
those
who
prefer
lies
and
sin
over
truth
and
righteousness.
“Do
you
not
remember
that
when
I
was
still
with
you
I
told
you
these
things?
And
now
you
know
what
is
restraining
,
that
he
may
be
revealed
in
his
own
time.
For
the
mystery
of
lawlessness
is
already
at
work;
only
He
who
now
restrains
will
do
so
until
He
is
taken
out
of
the
way
.
And
then
the
lawless
one
will
be
revealed,
whom
the
Lord
will
consume
with
the
breath
of
His
mouth
and
destroy
with
the
brightness
of
His
coming.
The
coming
of
the
lawless
one
is
according
to
the
working
of
Satan,
with
all
power,
signs,
and
lying
wonders,
and
with
all
unrighteous
deception
among
those
who
perish,
because
they
did
not
receive
the
love
of
the
truth,
that
they
might
be
saved.
And
for
this
reason
God
will
send
them
strong
delusion,
that
they
should
believe
the
lie,
that
they
all
may
be
condemned
who
did
not
believe
the
truth
but
had
pleasure in unrighteousness
.” 2 Thess 2:5-12
God’s
planned
use
of
Satan
is
revealed
in
the
following
scripture.
Note
how
Satan
(via
the
beast)
will
(1)
be
“given”
a
mouth
to
speak,
(2)
“given”
authority
for
a
period
of
time,
(3)
“granted”
to
make
war
with
the
saints
and
overcome
them,
and (4) “given” global authority.
“And
he
was
given
a
mouth
speaking
great
things
and
blasphemies,
and
he
was
given
authority
to
continue
for
forty-
two
months.
Then
he
opened
his
mouth
in
blasphemy
against
God,
to
blaspheme
His
name,
His
tabernacle,
and
those
who
dwell
in
heaven.
It
was
granted
to
him
to
make
war
with
the
saints
and
to
overcome
them.
And
authority
was
given
him over every tribe, tongue, and nation. All who dwell on the earth will worship him, whose names have not been
written in the Book of Life of the Lamb slain from the foundation of the world.” Revelation 13:5-8
God uses Satan to deceive the lost, and transform the hearts of those who seek Him.
Winnowing
is
a
threshing
process
that
separates
wheat
from
the
chaff.
In
a
similar
man
ner,
Satan’s
prison
is
like
a
threshing floor that facilitates separation of the lost, and sanctification of the saved.
Chaff
is
the
indigestible
protective
casing
of
a
grain
(such
as
wheat).
The
chaff
is
removed
from
the
grain
via
a
threshing
process.
In
biblical
times,
grain
was
threshed
(or
crushed
via
various
means),
to
cause
the
chaff
to
separate
from
the
grain.
The
chaff
and
wheat
would
then
be
tossed
into
the
wind.
Since
the
chaff
is
lighter
than
the
grain,
the
chaff
floats
away,
and
the
grain
falls
nearby.
As
such,
the
chaff
is
analogous
to
the
wicked,
ungodly,
faithless, and unbelieving who will be separated from the righteous and cast aside.
John
the
Baptist—God’s
messenger
who
prepared
the
way
for
Jesus—was
asked
if
he
was
the
Christ.
“John
answered,
saying
to
all,
‘I
indeed
baptize
you
with
water;
but
One
mightier
than
I
is
coming,
whose
sandal
strap
I
am
not
worthy
to
loose.
He
will
baptize
you
with
the
Holy
Spirit
and
fire.
His
winnowing
fan
is
in
His
hand,
and
He
will
thoroughly
clean
out
His
threshing
floor,
and
gather
the
wheat
into
His
barn;
but
the
chaff
He
will
burn
with
unquenchable fire.’” Luke 3:16-17
“Blessed
is
the
man
who
walks
not
in
the
counsel
of
the
ungodly,
nor
stands
in
the
path
of
sinners,
nor
sits
in
the
seat
of
the
scornful;
but
his
delight
is
in
the
law
of
the
Lord,
and
in
His
law
he
meditates
day
and
night.
He
shall
be
like
a
tree
planted
by
the
rivers
of
water,
that
brings
forth
its
fruit
in
its
season,
whose
leaf
also
shall
not
wither;
and
whatever
he
does
shall
prosper.
The
ungodly
are
not
so,
but
are
like
the
chaff
which
the
wind
drives
away.
Therefore
the
ungodly
shall
not
stand
in
the
judgment,
nor
sinners
in
the
congregation
of
the
righteous.
For
the
Lord
knows
the
way
of
the
righteous, but the way of the ungodly shall perish.” Psalms 1:1-6
Trials and Tribulations
Our
transformational
(sanctification)
process
is
facilitated
by
the
various
challenges
(trials
and
tribulations)
we
experience
while
living
in
Satan’s
prison.
The
consequences
of
living
in
an
imperfect
world
often
seems
like
a
punch
to
our
gut,
or
a
blow
to
our
spiritual
wellbeing—resulting
in
a
shock
to
the
foundations
of
our
faith
and
our
commitment
to
God
(similar
to
Job).
But
in
truth,
there
are
spiritual
purposes
and
benefits
derived
from
these
types
of
undesirable
life
events.
“In
this
you
greatly
rejoice,
though
now
for
a
little
while,
if
need
be,
you
have
been
grieved
by
various
trials,
that
the
genuineness
of
your
faith,
being
much
more
precious
than
gold
that
perishes,
though
it
is
tested
by
fire,
may
be
found
to
praise,
honor,
and
glory
at
the
revelation
of
Jesus
Christ,
whom
having
not
seen
you
love.
Though
now
you
do
not
see
Him,
yet
believing,
you
rejoice
with
joy
inexpressible
and
full
of
glory,
receiving
the
end
of
your
faith—the
salvation
of
your souls.” 1 Peter 1:6-9
Every
time
we
go
through
a
trial
or
tribulation
a
little
less
of
ourselves
remain,
and
we
become
more
like
Jesus.
This
transformational process is similar to the removal of the chaff (or undesirable component) of the grain.
Here
is
a
thought
to
consider…If
everything
in
life
is
perfect
and
we
have
no
need
to
depend
upon
and
trust
God…would
our
faith
be
magnified
and
would
we
change
from
within?
As
such,
living
within
Satan’s
prison
is
preparing
our
hearts
for
an eternity of absolute freedom, joy and continual worship of the only One who is worthy.
New Heaven and Earth
Although
the
earth’s
wonderous
beauty
amazes
us,
it
will
be
destroyed
and
replaced
by
a
new
Heaven
and
a
new
earth
after
Satan
is
thrown
into
the
lake
of
fire.
God
has
a
much
better
plan—than
to
cause
those
who
love
Him
to
live
within
Satan’s penitentiary.
“Eye
has
not
seen,
nor
ear
heard,
nor
have
entered
into
the
heart
of
man
the
things
which
God
has
prepared
for
those
who love Him.” 1 Corinthians 2:9
“Now
I
saw
a
new
heaven
and
a
new
earth,
for
the
first
heaven
and
the
first
earth
had
passed
away.
Also
there
was
no
more
sea.
Then
I,
John,
saw
the
holy
city,
New
Jerusalem,
coming
down
out
of
heaven
from
God,
prepared
as
a
bride
adorned
for
her
husband.
And
I
heard
a
loud
voice
from
heaven
saying,
‘Behold,
the
tabernacle
of
God
is
with
men,
and
He
will
dwell
with
them,
and
they
shall
be
His
people.
God
Himself
will
be
with
them
and
be
their
God.
And
God
will
wipe
away
every
tear
from
their
eyes;
there
shall
be
no
more
death,
nor
sorrow,
nor
crying.
There
sha
ll
be
no
more
pain,
for the former things have passed away.” Revelation 21:1-4
Conclusion
Satan’s
sin
caused
him
to
be
cast
into
darkness
and
incarceration
upon
earth.
Those
who
are
perishing;
those
who
prefer
sin
over
righteousness;
and
those
who
are
blinded
by
the
god
of
this
age
are
experiencing
the
same
spiritual
delusion,
spiritual
darkness,
spiritual
captivity,
and
spiritual
bondage to their sin.
“But
even
if
our
gospel
is
veiled,
it
is
veiled
to
those
who
are
perishing,
whose
minds
the
god
of
this
age
has
blinded,
who
do
not
believe,
lest
the
light
of
the
gospel
of
the
glory
of
Christ,
who
is
the image of God, should shine on them.” 2 Corinthians 4:3-4
However,
those
who
prefer
righteousness
over
sin,
Jesus
Christ—the
light
of
the
world—paid
the
price
for
our
sins
and
for our freedom. Jesus declared:
•
“Most
assuredly,
I
say
to
you,
whoever
commits
sin
is
a
slave
of
sin.
Therefore
if
the
Son
makes
you
free,
you
shall
be free indeed.” John 8:34, 36
•
“The
thief
does
not
come
except
to
steal,
and
to
kill,
and
to
destroy.
I
have
come
that
they
may
have
life,
and
that
they may have it more abundantly.” John 10:10
It
is
God’s
grace
and
forgiveness
for
our
sins
that
changes
the
desires
of
our
heart—from
seeking
to
fulfill
the
desires
of
our flesh, to seeking to please the One who loves us.
You
are
of
God,
little
children,
and
have
overcome
them,
because
He
who
is
in
you
is
greater
than
he
who
is
in
the
world.
They
are
of
the
world.
Therefore
they
speak
as
of
the
world,
and
the
world
hears
them.
We
are
of
God.
He
who
knows
God
hears
us;
he
who
is
not
of
God
does
not
hear
us.
By
this
we
know
the
spirit
of
truth
and
the
spirit
of
error.”
1
John 4:4-6
All for His Glory—For He Alone is Worthy!
Harold D. Thomas
Bible Study Thought-Provoking Questions
The
purpose
of
the
thought-provoking
questions
is
to
facilitate
a
deeper
understanding
of
the
Bible,
this
Bible
study
topic,
and
ourselves.
The
questions
may
be
answered
by
each
reader,
or
used
by
a
Bible
study
group
leader
or
church
pastor. The following questions should be answered or discussed after reading “Satan’s Prison.”
The following questions are answered based upon individual opinions. As such, no answers are provided.
The lesson stated every war, battle, conflict, argument, caustic word spoken, and every sin began as a lie.
•
Do you agree or disagree? Explain.
•
Identify and explain at least 3 recent events in the news:
o
That began as a lie.
o
If possible, identify the means of justification that perpetuate the lie (which are lies to justify lie).
o
What are the consequences of the lies?
Daniel
9:27
reveals
a
covenant
will
be
made
to
resume
sacrifices
and
offerings
that
will
begin
the
7-year
Tribulation.
Given
the
present
conflict
between
Jews
and
Muslims
as
to
who
has
the
rights
to
the
Temple
Mount
in
Jerusalem—and
including
the
nations
in
the
region
that
despise
Israel—how
do
you
think
the
beast
will
achieve
an
agreement
that
will
allow the Israelites to rebuild the Temple on the Temple Mount?
The
lesson
stated
God
uses
Satan
to
deceive
the
lost,
and
transform
the
hearts
of
those
who
seek
Him.
Do
you
agree
or disagree? Explain.
John
the
Baptist
was
asked
if
he
was
the
Christ.
“John
answered,
saying
to
all,
‘I
indeed
baptize
you
with
water;
but
One
mightier
than
I
is
coming,
whose
sandal
strap
I
am
not
worthy
to
loose.
He
will
baptize
you
with
the
Holy
Spirit
and
fire.
His
winnowing
fan
is
in
His
hand,
and
He
will
thoroughly
clean
out
His
threshing
floor,
and
gather
the
wheat
into
His
barn; but the chaff He will burn with unquenchable fire.’” Luke 3:16-17
John
used
prophetic
allegories
(parables,
metaphors,
symbols)
that
the
listener
could
relate
to
in
order
to
understand
what Jesus would do when He arrived. Explain the spiritual relevance and truth of each allegory.
•
He will baptize you with the Holy Spirit and fire.
•
His winnowing fan is in His hand, and He will thoroughly clean out His threshing floor.
•
He will gather the wheat into His barn.
•
He will burn the chaff with unquenchable fire.
Is
there
a
spiritual
correlation
between
winnowing
(removing
unwanted
components
from
the
grain
via
a
thrashing
process), and:
•
The trials and tribulations we experience in life? Explain.
•
God’s grace and love…which magnifies our internal pain of guilt, remorse and shame when we sin? Explain.
Can you identify at least one new thing you learned from this lesson?
You may download a PDF version of the questions by clicking on this button.
Can you think of someone who may benefit from this lesson? If yes,
CLICK HERE
for more information.
The words of Jesus Christ are in
red text.
The words of Jesus
are in red text.
Introduction
There
are
many
persons
who
are
deeply
troubled
by
the
increasing
intensity
of
turmoil
that
is
occurring
globally
between
nations,
and
within
our
local
communities.
The
daily
bombardment
of
negative
news
has
required
some
to
cope
by
becoming
“numb”
to
the
constant
deluge
of
unimaginable
behavior
that
has
caused
destruction
and
death.
In
addition,
we
have
also
grown
accustomed
to
the
overwhelming
frequency
of
lies
and
half-truths,
as
it
becomes
more
difficult
to
determine
absolute
truths.
What’s
more,
those
who
are
in
political
power
either
embrace
the
darkness,
or
are
unable
to
do
anything
about it.
There
is
a
reason
(and
source)
for
all
of
the
chaos.
It
is
caused
by
a
delusional
and
influential
angelic
being
who
attempted
to
overthrow
God
from
His
throne,
and
was
cast
to
earth
as
punishment
for
his
crime
(along
with
other angels who joined him in the failed rebellion).
Crime and Punishment
When
a
human
is
convicted
of
a
crime
they
are
usually
punished
in
some
manner.
The
type
of
punishment
is
based
upon
the
seriousness
of
their
crime.
For
example,
for
lower-level
misdeeds,
the
punishment
may
consist
of
a
financial
fine.
Higher-level
offences
may
result
in
a
fine
and
some
jail
time.
Severe
wrongdoings
are
often
punished
by
extended
periods
in
prison.
And
the
worst
crimes
receive
the
most
extreme
type
of
punishment:
execution.
Those
who
are
destined
for
punishment
by
death
usually
wait
for
their
demise
behind
impenetrable
walls.
In
addition,
what
they
can
and
cannot
do
is
significantly
limited
by
the
policies
of
the warden and enforced by guards.
For
those
who
have
been
imprisoned,
their
description
of
what
it
is
like
and
what
goes
on
inside
the
walls
defines
some
of
the
worst
possible
experiences
a
person
can
have
on
earth.
For
this
is
where
fallen
angels
and
demons
have
the
greatest
opportunity
to
become
lord
and
master
over
the
sinful
nature
of
the
incarcerated.
The
loss
of
freedom,
combined
with
anger
and
hatred,
opens
hearts
to
influence
and
possession
by
evil
forces.
This
is
where
darkness
magnifies
darkness;
and
where
unfathomable
human
depravity
exists.
But
what’s
more,
this
dark
reality
depicts
the
existence
of
Satan
as
he
awaits
his
final
punishment for his attempted insurrection.
When
you
consider
all
of
the
various
types
of
crimes
humans
commit
every
day—from
a
spiritual
perspective—they
are
pale
in
comparison
to
the
crime
Satan
committed:
he
attempted
to
overthrow
God
and
take
His
throne.
Satan’s
rebellious
actions—combined
with
1/3
of
the
angels
in
Heaven
who
joined
him—are
now
experiencing
the
first
component
of
their
punishment:
incarceration
on
earth
(Satan’s
prison).
His
freedom
is
limited
by
the
physical
properties
of
earth
(impenetrable
prison
walls),
and
what
he
can
and
cannot
do
is
constrained
by
the
Holy
Spirit
and
archangels
(warden
and
prison
guards).
The
ultimate
punishment
and
final
demise
for
his
rebellion
is
an
eternal
execution
within
the
lake
of
fire—which
will
occur
at
the
end
of
the
millennial
reign
of
Jesus
Christ.
It’s
important
to
note
that
Satan’s
execution
for
his
crimes
will
last
forever—because spirits do not die.
As
such,
when
you
consider
the
aforementioned,
we
are
living
inside
Satan’s
prison.
And,
although
Satan
was
cast
down
to
earth
as
punishment,
God
has
limited
his
influential
powers
upon
earth.
However,
his
powers
will
be
unconstrained
during
the
last
days
so
that
he
can
deceive
and
destroy
those
who
are
destined
to
share
in
his fate.
It
becomes
more
evident
we
are
living
within
Satan’s
prison
when
you
consider
the
amount
of
chaos
and
destruction
that
exists
today,
and
throughout
time.
When
you
take
time
to
thoughtfully
evaluate
the
amount
of
sin
and
darkness
that
permeates
all
corners
of
the
globe—the
influence
of
Satan’s
lies—the
one
who
deceives
the
world—become
evident.
For
every
war,
every
battle,
every
conflict,
every
argument,
every
caustic
word,
and
every
sin…began
as
a
lie
and
declared
as
truth
by
those
who
are
manipulated
by
the
power of darkness.
Historical and Future Timeline
This
table
lists
key
sequential
events.
Each
event
is
discussed in this lesson in sequential order (left to right).
Before Adam
Ezekiel
28:12-19
and
Isaiah
14:12-15
reveals
Satan
was
once
an
anointed
cherub
angel
who
served
God
in
Heaven.
However,
he
became
filled
with
sin;
developed
a
delusional
desire
to
become
God;
and
attempted
to
overthrow
God
from
His
throne
by
a
violent
rebellion.
Satan
and
a
third
of
the
angels
who
joined
him
were
defeated
by
Michael
(a
warrior
archangel)
and
his
angels,
and
were
cast
to
earth
as
punishment
for
their
heavenly crimes.
“And
war
broke
out
in
heaven:
Michael
and
his
angels
fought
with
the
dragon;
and
the
dragon
and
his
angels
fought,
but
they
did
not
prevail,
nor
was
a
place
found
for
them
in
heaven
any
longer.
So
the
great
dragon
was
cast
out,
that
serpent
of
old,
called
the
Devil
and
Satan,
who
deceives
the
whole
world
;
he
was
cast
to
the
earth,
and
his
angels
were
cast
out
with
him.”
Revelation 12:7-9
Note
the
above
scripture
declares
the
source
of
deception
in
the
world.
Once
imprisoned
upon
earth,
Satan
first
deceived
Eve
and
then
Adam
to
sin
against
God—and
he
has
not
changed
throughout
time.
What’s
more,
those
who
have
no
place
within
their
heart
for
God’s
word
(has
no
desire,
does
not
seek
Him,
and
rejects
His
truth),
opens
their
hearts
to
Satan’s
deceptional
lies
and
the
multi-faceted
consequences
of
sin.
Jesus
was
approached
by
the
Pharisees
who
had
an
intent
of
finding
a
means
to
justify
killing
Him.
Jesus
said,
“I
know
that
you
are
Abraham’s
descendants,
but
you
seek
to
kill
Me,
because
My
word
has
no
place
in
you.
You
are
of
your
father
the
devil,
and
the
desires
of
your
father
you
want
to
do.
He
was
a
murderer
from
the
beginning,
and
does
not
stand
in
the
truth,
because
there
is
no
truth
in
him.
When
he
speaks
a
lie,
he
speaks
from
his
own
resources,
for
he
is
a
liar
and
the
father of it.” John 8:37, 44
However,
we
who
once
lived
in
darkness
and
now
live
in
the
light
of
Jesus
Christ—can
see
the
darkness,
delusional
lies,
destruction
and
spiritual
death
propagated
by
the
one
who
deceives
the
whole
world
from God’s truths.
•
“For
this
purpose
the
Son
of
God
was
manifested,
that
He
might
destroy
the
works
of
the
devil.”
1
John
3:8
•
Jesus
declared
His
desire:
“To
open
their
eyes,
in
order
to
turn
them
from
darkness
to
light,
and
from
the
power
of
Satan
to
God,
that
they
may
receive
forgiveness
of
sins
and
an
inheritance
among
those
who are sanctified by faith in Me.” Acts 26:18
•
“We
know
that
we
are
of
God,
and
the
whole
world
lies under the sway of the wicked one.” 1 John 5:19
•
“For
we
do
not
wrestle
against
flesh
and
blood,
but
against
principalities,
against
powers,
against
the
rulers
of
the
darkness
of
this
age,
against
spiritual
hosts
of
wickedness
in
the
heavenly
places.”
Ephesians 6:12
•
“You
once
walked
according
to
the
course
of
this
world,
according
to
the
prince
of
the
power
of
the
air,
the
spirit
who
now
works
in
the
sons
of
disobedience.” Ephesians 2:2
•
Jesus
said,
“I
am
the
light
of
the
world.
He
who
follows
Me
shall
not
walk
in
darkness,
but
have
the
light of life.” John 8:12
Humans Populate the Earth
All
humans
(except
Jesus)
are
born
with
a
sinful
nature.
This
is
because
of
the
sinful
nature
of
Adam—who
introduced
sin
and
spiritual
death
into
the
world—which
has been passed on from generation to generation.
•
“Therefore,
just
as
through
one
man
sin
entered
the
world,
and
death
through
sin,
and
thus
death
spread
to all men, because all sinned.” Romans 5:12
•
“For
all
have
sinned
and
fall
short
of
the
glory
of
God.” Romans 3:23
It
is
important
to
note
that
Jesus
Christ
was
conceived
by
the
Holy
Spirit
(and
not
by
His
earthly
father,
Joseph).
As
such,
Jesus
did
not
receive
the
nature
passed
from
Adam.
This
is
why
He
never
sinned,
and
why
He
was
the
perfect
sacrificial
Lamb
for
our
sins.
“You
were
not
redeemed
with
corruptible
things,
like
silver
or
gold…but
with
the
precious
blood
of
Christ,
as
of
a
lamb
without
blemish and without spot.” 1 Peter 1:18-19
What
began
with
2
persons
(Adam
and
Eve),
as
of
November,
2022,
the
population
on
earth
has
grown
to
more
than
eight
billion
persons.
Source
(United
Nations):
https://www.un.org/en/global-
issues/population#
Now
think
about
the
following…when
you
consider
all
of
recorded
human
history,
it
is
difficult
to
find
a
period
of
time
when
there
was
global
peace.
In
ancient
times,
peaceful
societies
would
be
attacked
by
warlike
neighbors.
In
recent
times,
we
have
had
multiple
world
wars.
And
today
there
are
ongoing
battles
across
the
globe.
Throughout
time
peace
has
been
unsustainable
because
of
delusional
lies—from
the
one
who
deceives
the whole world.
H
ere is an overview of the ongoing armed conflicts:
Source:
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_ongoing_armed_conflicts
There
are
presently
57
wars,
conflicts,
skirmishes
and
clashes
across
the
globe—which
have
resulted
in
thousands
of
deaths
each
year.
This
is
all
due
to
the
influential
power
of
Satan
(aka
the
prince
of
the
power
of
the
air;
the
spirit
who
works
in
the
sons
of
disobedience;
and
the
one
who
continually
seeks
whom
he
may
destroy).
Satan
is
able
to
move
about
within
the
confines
of
his
earthly
prison—as
he
actively
searches
for
hearts
who
have
no
room
for
God’s
word,
and
do
not
desire
nor
seek
His
righteousness.
“Be
sober,
be
vigilant;
because
your
adversary
the
devil
walks
about
like
a
roaring
lion,
seeking whom he may devour.” 1 Peter 5:8
Although
we
may
perceive
Satan’s
influential
power
upon
earth
is
significant,
his
power
will
become
increasingly
unfettered
as
the
Holy
Spirit
relinquishes
His
restraints.
“He
who
now
restrains
will
do
so
until
He
is
taken
out
of
the
way.”
(2
Thessalonians
2:7)
Satan’s
ability
to
fulfill
his
darkest
desires
to
deceive
and
destroy
will
occur
as
we
enter
into
the
last
days
and
during
the
7-year
Tribulation.
To
gain
a
glimpse
into
the
darkness
of
Satan’s
future
actions,
consider
the
past
violence
and
carnage
that
has
occurred
within
prisons
when
guards
lose
their
control
over
inmates,
and
they
are
able
to
act
upon their own will in venting their hatred and anger.
7-Year Tribulation
Satan’s
vain
desire
is
to
be
considered
God.
Given
his
banishment
upon
earth,
his
delusional
mind
perceives
the
only
place
that
is
worthy
to
make
his
blasphemous
declaration
to
the
world
is
in
the
Temple
God
once
inhabited—but
was
destroyed
almost
2,000
years
ago.
The
Temple
is
known
today
as
the
Temple
Mount,
which
is
located
in
Jerusalem,
and
is
presently
the
center
of
great controversy and strife between Jews and Muslims.
As
such,
to
fulfill
his
desire,
the
Temple
must
be
rebuilt.
He
will
accomplish
this
task
via
the
beast
who
will
enter
into
a
covenant
that
will
enable
the
Israelites
to
resume
sacrifices
and
offerings
(which
requires
the
rebuilding
of
the
Jewish
Temple).
It
is
important
to
note
this
covenant
agreement
will
require
masterful
negotiations
between
Israel
and
Israel’s
enemies.
However,
it
will
be
comprised
of
a
false
covenant
from
the
one
who
is
the
father
of
lies—because
after
the
Temple
is
rebuilt
the
covenant
will
be
broken.
“Then
he
shall
confirm
a
covenant
with
many
for
one
week;
but
in
the
middle
of
the
week
He
shall
bring
an
end
to
sacrifice
and
offering.”
Daniel 9:27
After
3
½
years
have
passed
(which
is
sufficient
time
to
rebuild
the
Temple),
Satan
(the
abomination
of
desolation
who
will
indwell
within
the
beast)
will
stand
in
the
Temple
(the
holy
place)
and
declare
he
is
God.
His
delusional
declaration
will
begin
the
second
half
of
the
7-
year
Tribulation—which
is
referred
to
as
the
Great
Tribulation.
This
is
when
Satan’s
power
will
be
fully
released; and this is when Jesus warns Israelites to flee.
Jesus
warned,
“Therefore
when
you
see
the
‘abomination
of
desolation,’
spoken
of
by
Daniel
the
prophet,
standing
in
the
holy
place”
(whoever
reads,
let
him
understand)
,
“then
let
those
who
are
in
Judea
flee
to
the
mountains.
Let
him
who
is
on
the
housetop
not
go
down
to
take
anything
out
of
his
house.
And
let
him
who
is
in
the
field
not
go
back
to
get
his
clothes.
But
woe
to
those
who
are
pregnant
and
to
those
who
are
nursing
babies
in
those
days!
And
pray
that
your
flight
may
not
be
in
winter
or
on
the
Sabbath.
For
then
there
will
be
great
tribulation,
such
as
has
not
been
since
the
beginning
of
the
world
until
this
time,
no,
nor
ever
shall
be.
And
unless
those
days
were
shortened,
no
flesh
would
be
saved;
but
for
the
elect’s
sake
those
days
will
be shortened.” Matthew 25:15-22
Satan
will
be
unconstrained
to
wreak
havoc
within
his
prison
via
the
“lawless
one”
(the
beast).
What’s
more,
the
degree
of
devastation
will
only
be
a
prelude
to
God’s
wrath
that
He
will
pour
out
upon
earth
during
the
final
days.
The
global
destruction
and
death
during
this
time
is
intended
for
those
who
reject
God’s
Son,
Jesus
Christ,
because
of
their
preference
for
sin—for
their
delusion
will
cause
them
to
believe
and
justify
the
lies
propagated
by Satan.
For
the
mystery
of
lawlessness
is
already
at
work;
only
He
who
now
restrains
will
do
so
until
He
is
taken
out
of
the
way.
And
then
the
lawless
one
will
be
revealed,
whom
the
Lord
will
consume
with
the
breath
of
His
mouth
and
destroy
with
the
brightness
of
His
coming.
The
coming
of
the
lawless
one
is
according
to
the
working
of
Satan,
with
all
power,
signs,
and
lying
wonders,
and
with
all
unrighteous
deception
among
those
who
perish,
because
they
did
not
receive
the
love
of
the
truth,
that
they
might
be
saved.
And
for
this
reason
God
will
send
them
strong
delusion,
that
they
should
believe
the
lie,
that
they
all
may
be
condemned
who
did
not
believe
the
truth
but
had
pleasure
in
unrighteousness.” 2 Thessalonians 2:7-12
The
above
scripture
declares
Jesus
will
consume
the
lawless
one
(the
beast
in
whom
Satan
will
dwell)
with
the
breath
of
His
mouth,
and
will
destroy
him
by
the
brightness
of
His
coming.
God’s
word
below
reinforces
the
true
intent
of
Satan’s
covenant
to
resume
sacrifices
and
offerings;
and
also
reveals
the
return
of
Jesus
Christ
will
occur
sometime
after
he
sits
in
the
Temple
declaring
he is God.
“Now,
brethren,
concerning
the
coming
of
our
Lord
Jesus
Christ
and
our
gathering
together
to
Him,
we
ask
you,
not
to
be
soon
shaken
in
mind
or
troubled,
either
by
spirit
or
by
word
or
by
letter,
as
if
from
us,
as
though
the
day
of
Christ
had
come.
Let
no
one
deceive
you
by
any
means;
for
that
Day
will
not
come
unless
the
falling
away
comes
first,
and
the
man
of
sin
is
revealed,
the
son
of
perdition,
who
opposes
and
exalts
himself
above
all
that
is
called
God
or
that
is
worshiped,
so
that
he
sits
as
God
in
the
temple
of
God,
showing
himself
that
he
is
God.” 2 Thessalonians 2:1-4
Millennial Reign of Christ
Jesus
Christ
will
return
to
destroy
Israel’s
enemies,
sit
on
His
earthly
throne,
and
fulfill
all
of
God’s
covenants.
His
reign
will
last
for
1,000
years.
But
what’s
more,
during
this
period
of
time
Satan
will
be
chained
and
cast
into the Abyss (or bottomless pit).
Within
most
human
prisons
is
an
area
designed
for
the
worst
of
the
worst:
a
prison
within
a
prison
designed
for
complete
control
over
behavior.
Commonly
referred
to
as
the
“hole”
by
inmates,
those
who
are
restrained
in
this
specialized
area
of
punishment
suffer
from
solitary
confinement.
For
example,
many
prisons
will
keep
the
inmate
locked
in
their
cell;
will
not
allow
communication
with
other
inmates;
and
are
only
allowed
limited
outdoor
exercise
and
showers.
In
a
similar
manner
to
Satan’s
earthy
prison,
there
is
also
a
prison
within
a
prison
within
the
earth
for
spiritual
beings:
the
bottomless
pit
or
Abyss.
This
is
where
Satan
will
be
bound
and
locked
up
during
the
millennial
reign
of
Christ,
and
will
be
unable
to
deceive the nations with his lies.
“Then
I
saw
an
angel
coming
down
from
heaven,
having
the
key
to
the
bottomless
pit
and
a
great
chain
in
his
hand.
He
laid
hold
of
the
dragon,
that
serpent
of
old,
who
is
the
Devil
and
Satan,
and
bound
him
for
a
thousand
years;
and
he
cast
him
into
the
bottomless
pit,
and
shut
him
up,
and
set
a
seal
on
him,
so
that
he
should
deceive
the
nations
no
more
till
the
thousand
years
were
finished.
But
after
these
things
he
must
be
released for a little while.” Revelation 20:1-3
Prison
inmates
know
of
the
hole,
and
the
torment
it
represents.
As
such,
the
threat
of
trauma
due
to
solitary
confinement
serves
as
a
behavioral
motivator.
In
a
similar
manner,
evil
spiritual
beings
are
aware
of
the
Abyss
and
the
torture
it
represents.
For
example,
when
Jesus
Christ
confronted
a
legion
of
demons,
“They
begged
Him
that
He
would
not
command
them
to
go
out
into the abyss.” Luke 8:31
During
the
millennial
reign
of
Jesus
Christ
is
when
the
inhabitants
on
earth
will
finally
experience
life
based
upon
truth,
and
peace
will
exist
because
the
deceptional
lies of Satan will have no influence.
Short Period of Time
However,
at
the
end
of
the
1,000
years
Satan
will
be
released
from
the
Abyss
to
deceive
for
a
short
period
of
time.
The
first
thing
Satan
will
do
is
deceive
nations
to
battle—his
same
method
of
operation
and
the
same
results
we
see
today.
However,
this
is
God’s
last
allowance
of
Satan’s
lies
to
influence
those
who
do
not
seek truth.
“Now
when
the
thousand
years
have
expired,
Satan
will
be
released
from
his
prison
and
will
go
out
to
deceive
the
nations
which
are
in
the
four
corners
of
the
earth,
Gog
and
Magog,
to
gather
them
together
to
battle,
whose
number
is
as
the
sand
of
the
sea.
They
went
up
on
the
breadth
of
the
earth
and
surrounded
the
camp
of
the
saints
and
the
beloved
city.
And
fire
came
down
from
God
out
of
heaven
and
devoured
them.”
Revelation 20:7-9
Satan’s Final Demise
Thereafter,
Satan
will
receive
his
eternal
punishment.
He
will
be
thrown
into
the
lake
of
fire
along
with
the
beast
and
the
false
prophet
(who
were
cast
earlier
into
the lake of fire when Jesus returned).
“The
devil,
who
deceived
them,
was
cast
into
the
lake
of
fire
and
brimstone
where
the
beast
and
the
false
prophet
are.
And
they
will
be
tormented
day
and
night
forever
and ever.” Revelation 20:10
Winnowing His Chosen
By
now
you
may
have
thought
about
the
following
relevant
and
appropriate
question:
Why
would
God
place
us
within
Satan’s
prison,
and
make
us
susceptible
to Satan’s influence?
God
uses
Satan,
fallen
angels
and
demons
as
a
means
to
separate
us
from
the
world,
and
to
fulfill
His
desire
for
us:
to
love
Him
as
He
loves
us.
These
words
may
initially
create
conflicting
thoughts
within
your
mind,
such
as…How
is
it
possible
for
the
existence
of
evil
upon
the
earth
to
create
a
compelling
desire
within
our
hearts
to
turn
our
lives
towards
God
and
love
Him?
For
the
remainder
of
this
lesson,
I
will
reference
scripture
to
explain.
For
as
it
is
written,
“Your
word
is
a
lamp
to
my
feet and a light to my path.” Psalms 119:105.
God created everything.
•
“All
things
were
made
through
Him,
and
without
Him
nothing was made that was made.” John 1:3
•
“You
are
worthy,
O
Lord,
to
receive
glory
and
honor
and
power;
for
You
created
all
things,
and
by
Your
will
they exist and were created.” Revelation 4:11
•
“For
by
Him
all
things
were
created
that
are
in
heaven
and
that
are
on
earth,
visible
and
invisible,
whether
thrones
or
dominions
or
principalities
or
powers.
All
things
were
created
through
Him
and
for
Him.”
Colossians
1:16
Note:
Thrones,
dominions,
principalities
and
powers
refer
to
the
invisible
realm
of
spiritual beings (both good and bad).
God
keeps
Satan
in
darkness.
Although
Satan
has
powers
and
perceptive
awareness,
God
has
hidden
spiritual
truths
from
him.
Satan
was
unaware
of
God’s
plan
and
purpose
for
sending
His
Son
to
live
and
die
within Satan’s prison.
•
“For
God
so
loved
the
world
that
He
gave
His
only
begotten
Son,
that
whoever
believes
in
Him
should
not
perish
but
have
everlasting
life.
For
God
did
not
send
His
Son
into
the
world
to
condemn
the
world,
but
that
the
world
through
Him
might
be
saved.”
John
3:16
•
“And
this
is
the
will
of
Him
who
sent
Me,
that
everyone
who
sees
the
Son
and
believes
in
Him
may
have
everlasting
life;
and
I
will
raise
him
up
at
the
last
day.” John 6:40
•
After
Jesus
died
and
rose
from
the
dead,
He
spoke
to
His
disciples
and
declared,
“All
authority
has
been
given to Me and on earth.” Matthew 28:18
Satan
was
clueless
about
Jesus.
For
example,
Satan
offered
his
prison
to
Jesus
if
He
would
worship
him.
His
unending
motivation
and
delusion
caused
him
to
vainly
barter
a
useless
object
to
the
King
of
kings
and
Lord
of
lords.
•
“The
devil
took
Him
up
on
an
exceedingly
high
mountain,
and
showed
Him
all
the
kingdoms
of
the
world
and
their
glory.
And
he
said
to
Him,
‘All
these
things
I
will
give
You
if
You
will
fall
down
and
worship
me.’” Matthew 4:8-9
•
“Let
this
mind
be
in
you
which
was
also
in
Christ
Jesus,
who,
being
in
the
form
of
God,
did
not
consider
it
robbery
to
be
equal
with
God,
but
made
Himself
of
no
reputation,
taking
the
form
of
a
bondservant,
and
coming
in
the
likeness
of
men.
And
being
found
in
appearance
as
a
man,
He
humbled
Himself
and
became
obedient
to
the
point
of
death,
even
the
death
of
the
cross.
Therefore
God
also
has
highly
exalted
Him
and
given
Him
the
name
which
is
above
every
name,
that
at
the
name
of
Jesus
every
knee
should
bow,
of
those
in
heaven,
and
of
those
on
earth,
and
of
those
under
the
earth,
and
that
every
tongue
should
confess
that
Jesus
Christ
is
Lord,
to
the glory of God the Father.” Philippians 2: 5-11
•
“He
worked
in
Christ
when
He
raised
Him
from
the
dead
and
seated
Him
at
His
right
hand
in
the
heavenly
places,
far
above
all
principality
and
power
and
might
and
dominion,
and
every
name
that
is
named,
not
only
in
this
age
but
also
in
that
which
is
to
come.” Ephesians 1:20-21
Question…If
Satan
knew
who
Jesus
was
and
His
purpose
on
earth…do
you
think
he
would
have
crucified
Him?
God Manipulates Satan
To
accomplish
His
purpose
on
earth,
God
maintains
control
over
Satan’s
influential,
deceptive
and
destructive
power.
God’s
oversight
is
revealed
in
the
Book
of
Job.
Satan
approached
God
and
requested
approval
to
destroy
God’s
servant,
Job.
Satan’s
justification
was
to
prove
Job’s
faith
was
based
upon
the
blessings
God
bestowed
upon
Job—and
not
upon
Job’s
love
for
God.
Satan
was
convinced
by
destroying
all
of
Job’s
blessings
(including
his
health,
the
death
of
his
children,
and
all
of
his
possessions),
Job
would
curse
God.
God
permitted
Satan’s
request,
but
was
not
allowed
to
kill
Job.
The
unimaginable
events
that
occurred
to
Job—and
how
he
maintained
his
faith
and
trust
in
God—provides
us
with
a
worst-case
example
of
how
we
should
respond
to
trials
and
tribulations
in
life—because
Job
lost
everything.
After
Satan
was
proven
wrong,
God
blessed
Job
with
twice
as
much
as
he had before.
When
Jesus
was
being
tried
for
a
crime
He
did
not
commit,
He
provided
spiritual
insight
into
who
controls
Satan.
“Then
Pilate
said
to
Him,
‘Are
You
not
speaking
to
me?
Do
You
not
know
that
I
have
power
to
crucify
You,
and
power
to
release
You?’
Jesus
answered,
‘You
could
have
no
power
at
all
against
Me
unless
it
had
been given you from above.’” John 19:10-11
The
Apostle
Paul
revealed
God’s
omnipresence
and
oversight
of
our
lives—including
temptations
we
encounter—for
He
will
not
allow
us
to
be
tempted
beyond
what
we
are
able
to
overcome,
and
will
also
provide
a
means
to
escape
(if
we
listen
and
obey).
“No
temptation
has
overtaken
you
except
such
as
is
common
to
man;
but
God
is
faithful,
who
will
not
allow
you
to
be
tempted
beyond
what
you
are
able,
but
with
the
temptation
will
also
make
the
way
of
escape,
that
you may be able to bear it.” 1 Corinthians 10:13
The
following
scripture
reveals
(1)
Satan
is
restrained,
and
(2)
God
will
release
His
restraints
upon
Satan
during
the
last
days.
For
as
these
days
come
to
an
end,
God
will
permit
Satan
to
use
his
powers
to
deceive,
and
cause
eternal
condemnation
for
those
who
prefer
lies
and
sin
over
truth
and
righteousness.
“Do
you
not
remember
that
when
I
was
still
with
you
I
told
you
these
things?
And
now
you
know
what
is
restraining
,
that
he
may
be
revealed
in
his
own
time.
For
the
mystery
of
lawlessness
is
already
at
work;
only
He
who
now
restrains
will
do
so
until
He
is
taken
out
of
the
way
.
And
then
the
lawless
one
will
be
revealed,
whom
the
Lord
will
consume
with
the
breath
of
His
mouth
and
destroy
with
the
brightness
of
His
coming.
The
coming
of
the
lawless
one
is
according
to
the
working
of
Satan,
with
all
power,
signs,
and
lying
wonders,
and
with
all
unrighteous
deception
among
those
who
perish,
because
they
did
not
receive
the
love
of
the
truth,
that
they
might
be
saved.
And
for
this
reason
God
will
send
them
strong
delusion,
that
they
should
believe
the
lie,
that
they
all
may
be
condemned
who
did
not
believe
the
truth
but
had
pleasure in unrighteousness
.” 2 Thess 2:5-12
God’s
planned
use
of
Satan
is
revealed
in
the
following
scripture.
Note
how
Satan
(via
the
beast)
will
(1)
be
“given”
a
mouth
to
speak,
(2)
“given”
authority
for
a
period
of
time,
(3)
“granted”
to
make
war
with
the
saints
and overcome them, and (4) “given” global authority.
“And
he
was
given
a
mouth
speaking
great
things
and
blasphemies,
and
he
was
given
authority
to
continue
for
forty-two
months.
Then
he
opened
his
mouth
in
blasphemy
against
God,
to
blaspheme
His
name,
His
tabernacle,
and
those
who
dwell
in
heaven.
It
was
granted
to
him
to
make
war
with
the
saints
and
to
overcome
them.
And
authority
was
given
him
over
every
tribe,
tongue,
and
nation.
All
who
dwell
on
the
earth
will
worship
him,
whose
names
have
not
been
written
in
the
Book
of
Life
of
the
Lamb
slain
from
the
foundation of the world.” Revelation 13:5-8
God
uses
Satan
to
deceive
the
lost,
and
transform
th
e hearts of those who seek Him.
Winnowing
is
a
threshing
process
that
separates
wheat
from
the
chaff.
In
a
similar
manner,
Satan’s
prison
is
like
a
threshing
floor
that
facilitates
separation
of
the
lost,
and
sanctification
of
the
saved.
Chaff
is
the
indigestible
protective
casing
of
a
grain
(such
as
wheat).
The
chaff
is
removed
from
the
grain
via
a
threshing
process.
In
biblical
times,
grain
was
threshed
(or
crushed
via
various
means),
to
cause
the
chaff
to
separate
from
the
grain.
The
chaff
and
wheat
would
then
be
tossed
into
the
wind.
Since
the
chaff
is
lighter
than
the
grain,
the
chaff
floats
away,
and
the
grain
falls
nearby.
As
such,
the
chaff
is
analogous
to
the
wicked,
ungodly,
faithless,
and
unbelieving
who
will
be separated from the righteous and cast aside.
John
the
Baptist—God’s
messenger
who
prepared
the
way
for
Jesus—was
asked
if
he
was
the
Christ.
“John
answered,
saying
to
all,
‘I
indeed
baptize
you
with
water;
but
One
mightier
than
I
is
coming,
whose
sandal
strap
I
am
not
worthy
to
loose.
He
will
baptize
you
with
the
Holy
Spirit
and
fire.
His
winnowing
fan
is
in
His
hand,
and
He
will
thoroughly
clean
out
His
threshing
floor,
and
gather
the
wheat
into
His
barn;
but
the
chaff
He
will
burn
with unquenchable fire.’” Luke 3:16-17
“Blessed
is
the
man
who
walks
not
in
the
counsel
of
the
ungodly,
nor
stands
in
the
path
of
sinners,
nor
sits
in
the
seat
of
the
scornful;
but
his
delight
is
in
the
law
of
the
Lord,
and
in
His
law
he
meditates
day
and
night.
He
shall
be
like
a
tree
planted
by
the
rivers
of
water,
that
brings
forth
its
fruit
in
its
season,
whose
leaf
also
shall
not
wither;
and
whatever
he
does
shall
prosper.
The
ungodly
are
not
so,
but
are
like
the
chaff
which
the
wind
drives
away.
Therefore
the
ungodly
shall
not
stand
in
the
judgment,
nor
sinners
in
the
congregation
of
the
righteous.
For
the
Lord
knows
the
way
of
the
righteous,
but the way of the ungodly shall perish.” Psalms 1:1-6
Trials and Tribulations
Our
transformational
(sanctification)
process
is
facilitated
by
the
various
challenges
(trials
and
tribulations)
we
experience
while
living
in
Satan’s
prison.
The
consequences
of
living
in
an
imperfect
world
often
seems
like
a
punch
to
our
gut,
or
a
blow
to
our
spiritual
wellbeing—resulting
in
a
shock
to
the
foundations
of
our
faith
and
our
commitment
to
God
(similar
to
Job).
But
in
truth,
there
are
spiritual
purposes
and
benefits
derived
from these types of undesirable life events.
“In
this
you
greatly
rejoice,
though
now
for
a
little
while,
if
need
be,
you
have
been
grieved
by
various
trials,
that
the
genuineness
of
your
faith,
being
much
more
precious
than
gold
that
perishes,
though
it
is
tested
by
fire,
may
be
found
to
praise,
honor,
and
glory
at
the
revelation
of
Jesus
Christ,
whom
having
not
seen
you
love.
Though
now
you
do
not
see
Him,
yet
believing,
you
rejoice
with
joy
inexpressible
and
full
of
glory,
receiving
the
end
of
your
faith—the
salvation
of
your
souls.” 1 Peter 1:6-9
Every
time
we
go
through
a
trial
or
tribulation
a
little
less
of
ourselves
remain,
and
we
become
more
like
Jesus.
This
transformational
process
is
similar
to
the
removal
of
the chaff (or undesirable component) of the grain.
Here
is
a
thought
to
consider…If
everything
in
life
is
perfect
and
we
have
no
need
to
depend
upon
and
trust
God…would
our
faith
be
magnified
and
would
we
change
from
within?
As
such,
living
within
Satan’s
prison
is
preparing
our
hearts
for
an
eternity
of
absolute
freedom,
joy
and
continual
worship
of
the
only
One
who
is worthy.
New Heaven and Earth
Although
the
earth’s
wonderous
beauty
amazes
us,
it
will
be
destroyed
and
replaced
by
a
new
Heaven
and
a
new
earth
after
Satan
is
thrown
into
the
lake
of
fire.
God
has
a
much
better
plan—than
to
cause
those
who
love
Him to live within Satan’s penitentiary.
“Eye
has
not
seen,
nor
ear
heard,
nor
have
entered
into
the
heart
of
man
the
things
which
God
has
prepared
for
those who love Him.” 1 Corinthians 2:9
“Now
I
saw
a
new
heaven
and
a
new
earth,
for
the
first
heaven
and
the
first
earth
had
passed
away.
Also
there
was
no
more
sea.
Then
I,
John,
saw
the
holy
city,
New
Jerusalem,
coming
down
out
of
heaven
from
God,
prepared
as
a
bride
adorned
for
her
husband.
And
I
heard
a
loud
voice
from
heaven
saying,
‘Behold,
the
tabernacle
of
God
is
with
men,
and
He
will
dwell
with
them,
and
they
shall
be
His
people.
God
Himself
will
be
with
them
and
be
their
God.
And
God
will
wipe
away
every
tear
from
their
eyes;
there
shall
be
no
more
death,
nor
sorrow,
nor
crying.
There
shall
be
no
more
pain,
for
the former things have passed away.” Revelation 21:1-4
C
onclusion
Satan’s
sin
caused
him
to
be
cast
into
darkness
and
incarceration
upon
earth.
Those
who
are
perishing;
those
who
prefer
sin
over
righteousness;
and
those
who
are
blinded
by
the
god
of
this
age
are
experiencing
the
same
spiritual
delusion,
spiritual
darkness,
spiritual
captivity, and spiritual bondage to sin.
“But
even
if
our
gospel
is
veiled,
it
is
veiled
to
those
who
are
perishing,
whose
minds
the
god
of
this
age
has
blinded,
who
do
not
believe,
lest
the
light
of
the
gospel
of
the
glory
of
Christ,
who
is
the
image
of
God,
should
shine on them.” 2 Corinthians 4:3-4
However,
those
who
prefer
righteousness
over
sin,
Jesus
Christ—the
light
of
the
world—paid
the
price
for
our sins and for our freedom. Jesus declared:
•
“Most
assuredly,
I
say
to
you,
whoever
commits
sin
is
a
slave
of
sin.
Therefore
if
the
Son
makes
you
free,
you shall be free indeed.” John 8:34, 36
•
“The
thief
does
not
come
except
to
steal,
and
to
kill,
and
to
destroy.
I
have
come
that
they
may
have
life,
and
that
they
may
have
it
more
abundantly.”
John
10:10
It
is
God’s
grace
and
forgiveness
for
our
sins
that
changes
the
desires
of
our
heart—from
seeking
to
fulfill
the
desires
of
our
flesh,
to
seeking
to
please
the
One
who loves us.
You
are
of
God,
little
children,
and
have
overcome
them,
because
He
who
is
in
you
is
greater
than
he