Who Is Satan?

Hebrew word that means “adversary” (שָׂטָן). It also means to oppose, obstruct, or accuse.

Contemporary words associated with characteristics of Satan.

Gk. “Drakon” - Draconian - ruthless, cruel

Gk. “Diabolos” - Diabolical - demonic, evil

Scripture also refers to Satan as

“the devil” (Matt 4:1, 5; Lk 4:2, 3; Eph 6:11),

“the serpent” (Gen 3:1; 2 Cor 11:3; Rev 20:2)

“the great dragon” (Rev 12:9)

“the prince of the power of the air” (Eph 2:2),

“the god of this age” (2 Cor 4:4),

“the evil one” (Matt 13:19, 38; Jn 17:15; Eph 6:16),

“the prince of demons” (Matt 9:34; 12:24; Mk 3:22; Lk 11:15),

“the accuser” (Rev 12:10),

“the tempter” (Matt 4:3; 1 Thess 3:5).

Like the other angels and demons, Satan is an invisible being who is highly intelligent and very powerful.

What is the objective of Satan?

To tempt (Matt. 4:3; 1 Thess. 3:5)

The New King James Version Chapter 4

Now when the tempter came to Him, he said, “If You are the Son of God, command that these stones become bread.”

The New King James Version Chapter 3

For this reason, when I could no longer endure it, I sent to know your faith, lest by some means the tempter had tempted you, and our labor might be in vain.

To deceive/trap

Satan Chapter VI: Satan’s Motive

“And the great dragon was cast out, that old serpent, which is the Devil, and Satan, which deceiveth the whole world” (Rev. 12:9).

b. The ultimate aim is to destroy the lives of everyone including God’s people.

Where Is Satan Right Now?

Not in Hell

He lives and works in the world.

Jesus says he is the “prince of this world” John 14:30

Paul says he is “now at work” Eph. 2:2

Roaming the earth seeking people to deceive, tempt and separate from God.

Job 2:1-2

I Pet. 5:8

Why did God give permission to Satan to harm Job?

To show Job’s faithfulness

Satan is limited to what he can do to us.

To show that the Father watches over his children regardless of what they are going through

Understanding God’s timetable is crucial to our patience

How do we know when one is of the devil?

If a person is not a child of God, he is by default a child of Satan John 8:44; Acts 13:10

1 John 3:10 and James 4:4 tells us how to know the difference.