Satanology: Understanding Satan and Demons

Who is Satan and what is he? There are various views on this. Some believe Satan is the personification of evil but not an actual person or being. However, Scripture teaches Satan is not just an invisible evil power, nor a personification of it. He is an actual being (cf. Job 1:6-12, Matt 4:1-11, Rev 20:1-3, 7-10). In fact, outside of God, Satan apparently is the most powerful being in the world (cf. Jude 1:9). His name means opposer, enemy, or adversary. He is the chief of the fallen angels and constantly works to oppose God and his will (cf. Rev 12:7-12). Because he opposes God, he opposes God’s people and seeks to keep unbelievers from coming to God. Since he is our enemy, we must understand him and his tactics if we are to defeat him. In 1 Peter 5:8-9, Peter says, "Be alert and of sober mind. Your enemy the devil prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour. Resist him, standing firm in the faith..." If we are unaware of our enemy, not knowledgeable of him, or simply unconcerned, the consequences may be devastating. In Satanology, we will consider our enemy, Satan and his demons, so that we may stand strong in the faith when attacked, defeat him, and rescue others from his grasps. James 4:7 says, "So submit to God. But resist the devil and he will flee from you." Let’s learn about Satan together with the Bible Teacher’s Guide.