Dictionary of Bible Themes » 4000 Creation » 4100 Supernatural beings » 4120 Satan » 4124 Satan, kingdom of
Satan is depicted as the prince of this world, having power over demons and over godless people. He is, however, subject to God's sovereignty and therefore his power is limited and his rule temporary.
Satan's power
He has power in the world
1 John 5:19 See also John 7:7; John 8:44; John 14:17; John 15:18-19; John 16:20; John 17:14; Acts 26:18; 2 Corinthians 4:4; Ephesians 2:2; Colossians 1:13; 1 John 2:15-16; John 4:4-5; Revelation 13:12
He claims power over this world
Matthew 4:8-9 pp Luke 4:6
He is called the “prince” or the “god” of this world
John 12:31
These titles indicate the temporary nature of Satan's rule:
John 14:30; John 16:11; 2 Corinthians 4:4
He is responsible for some illnesses
Luke 13:16 See also Job 2:7; Acts 10:38; 2 Corinthians 12:7 Paul's “thorn in the flesh” may or may not have been a physical illness.
He is responsible for death
Hebrews 2:14
Satan's kingdom
He has a kingdom
Matthew 12:26 pp Luke 11:18 Colossians 1:13 See also Acts 26:18; Ephesians 2:2
He has a throne
Revelation 2:13
He is the prince of demons
Matthew 9:34 The name Beelzebub is used elsewhere to name the prince of the demons. This name was used also to identify Satan. See also Matthew 12:24 pp Mark 3:22 pp Luke 11:15
Satan's authority is limited
He cannot do more than God allows
Job 1:12 See also Job 2:6; 1 Corinthians 10:13; Revelation 12:12; Revelation 20:3
His rule is temporary
Romans 16:20; Revelation 20:10
See also
1130 God, sovereignty 2345 Christ, kingdom of 2375 kingdom of God 4025 world, the 5347 injustice 5459 prince
