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Hebrews 2:14–18
“Inasmuch then as the children have partaken of flesh and blood, He Himself likewise shared in the same, that through death He might destroy him who had the power of death, that is, the devil” (Heb. 2:14).
How did Jesus’ death on the cross represent a triumph over Satan? The name Satan means “adversary,” and the name is apt, for he stands against God. However, because God is unassailable, Satan goes after God’s people, displaying the “enmity” God decreed in Genesis 3. First, he devotes himself to inducing people to violate God’s commands. In a world of fallen human beings, he finds this to be a simple matter, for they themselves are in rebellion against God. For this reason, Scripture refers to him as “the ruler of this world” and “the god of this age.” When people do violate the law, Satan points out their sins to God; thus, he also is known as diabolos, “the devil” or “the accuser.” When he brings accusations, he demands that God apply His stated penalty for sin—death. By doing so, he hopes to harm God’s people, thereby bringing grief to the Father.
However, God’s promise to send a Redeemer always has been a death sentence hanging over Satan’s head; he knew that if God were to send a substitute to bear the penalty for people’s sins, he would have no basis on which to accuse them. Therefore, Christ’s coming was an act of war. It was essential for Satan to thwart Jesus’ redemptive purpose, and he pulled out all the stops to do so.
First, Satan himself came to tempt Jesus, but Jesus withstood him and he withdrew until “an opportune time” (Luke 4:1–13). Later he induced Peter to question Jesus’ plans (Matt. 16:22–23), though he wanted to do more to the apostle (Luke 22:31). Satan actually entered Judas to effect his betrayal (John 13:27). But all his efforts were in vain. Before going to Calvary, Jesus said, “ ‘Now the ruler of this world will be cast out’ ” (John 12:31). He then took the Father’s wrath, paying the penalty for the sins of His people. Rising from the dead, He declared, “ ‘All authority has been given to Me in heaven and on earth’ ” (Matt. 28:18). He then ascended to heaven for His coronation (Eph. 1:20–21) and now sits at God’s right hand, interceding for His people in the face of Satan’s accusations. And Scripture says, “He must reign till He has put all enemies under His feet” (1 Cor. 15:25).
Those enemies include Satan (Rev. 20:10). Though he still exists and does much evil (Eph. 2:2), his power has been broken and his doom is sure. Jesus crushed Satan’s head, just as God promised.
Coram Deo Living before the face of God
There is much interest in Satan among evangelicals today, as well as many false ideas. We should be aware that he is our enemy and that he is powerful and cunning, but we should never forget that he is a creature and is not God’s equal. We should respect him but not fear him. Ask God to give you a Biblical view of your adversary.
For Further Study
- Matthew 4:10
- 2 Corinthians 2:11
- 2 Corinthians 4:4
- 2 Corinthians 11:14
- Ephesians 6:16
- 1 John 5:19