Satan’s Authority
If one were to review the most popular theological blogs or walk the halls of the modern seminary, one would find very little, if any, talk of Satan. In theological circles, he is not really viewed as a major figure in the drama of redemption or even active in today’s world. To the theologian, Satan just does not carry that much theological weight and gospel preaching has more to do with philosophizing about God’s attributes or just being a “nice Christian guy.” Satan, however, is indeed a major player, not only in the drama of Christ’s mission to redeem mankind, but also in how that drama plays out in the world today.
Acts 26:18 recounts a portion of Jesus’s commission to Paul. In that verse Paul recounts that Jesus appointed him a minister of the gospel in order to
open their eyes, that they may turn from darkness to light, and from the power of Satan unto God, that they may receive remission of sins and an inheritance among them that are sanctified by faith in me.
As Jesus’s word, “power,” means “the right to control or govern over,” He expressly states that all unregenerate men are under the control and jurisdiction of Satan. This provocative statement is consistent with Ephesians 2:2-3 which states that unregenerate man is actually energized by Satan, the “authority of the air.” In 2 Corinthians 12:7, Paul states that Satan personally dispatched a messenger to “buffet” him for his preaching of the gospel. Paul’s long testimony of the buffeting includes shipwrecks, a stoning, attacks by animals, and riots. Contrary to modern theological thinking, Satan continues his role as a major figure in this drama as he proactively seeks to protect what is under his control and jurisdiction.
In future blogs, we will explore how Satan gained this “authority†and what it means to the average guy on the street.