I. The devil is a fallen angel who has rebelled against God and lost.

    1. Isa. 14:12-15 (also Ezek 28:11-19).

        A. Some have almost made the devil to be God's equal. Angels ARE NOT equal in power with God so Satan cannot be.

    2. Because he hates God and man is created in God's image (Gen. 1:26). He therefore hates man. This is especially true of the born again Christian (2 Cor. 5:17; Rom. 8:28-29).

        A. This is why he is known as our enemy - Matt. 13:39; 1 Pet. 5:8.

II. The devil's helpers

    1. When Satan fell, those who followed him in rebellion fell with him. These are the principalities and powers of the air and those who torment others.

        A. Eph. 6:10-18; Ps. 78:49

    2. The desire of demons is to possess a human body.

        A. Matt. 8:16; 17:18; Luke 4:35-41; 9:38-42

    3. They will all be judged with Satan

        A. Matt. 25:41

III. Our Authority over the devil and demons.

    1. We have been given authority over him.

        A. Luke 10:17-20; Mk 16:15-20.

    2. Realize your position in Christ and exercise your authority (Eph. 1:18-23, 2:4-6).

        A. This is why you have the power to tread on serpents and scorpions, because they are all under your feet.

        B. We must by faith claim this position. It belongs to us. We are not subject to Satan, he is subject to us (Rom. 16:20).

IV. Most commonly asked questions concerning the devil.

    1. Is there any salvation for the devil?

        A. Many Bible scholars believe that there could be thousands of years between Gen. 1:1-2. During this time Satan had ample opportunity to repent. One who willingly hardens their heart towards God's grace have no salvationbecause they have no ability to repent (1 Tim. 4:2; Matt. 12:31-35; Heb. 6:4-6; 10:26-27).

    2. Why did God create the devil?

        A. God DID NOT create the devil. He created a beautiful angel and an anointed cherub and named him Lucifer which means “light bearer”. Lucifer by his own choice and actions became the devil (accuser) and Satan (adversary).

    3. Why doesn't God just destroy the devil and get it over with?

        A. We could ask the same thing about humans. Thank God He doesn't just destroy us. As evil as Satan is, God is still fair and just and will not take advantage of him. Satan's day is coming (Matt. 25:41; Rev 20:2-10). In the meantime God will leave him around to prove His love and grace through us. He uses satan to show all eternal creatures the results of evil.
 

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