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, PASS IT ON!
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 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. Questions 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, PASS IT ON!