Wednesday: The (Temporary) Ruler of This World
Daily Lesson for Wednesday 5th of March 2025
We have seen in previous lessons that, within the cosmic conflict, Satan and his cohorts are temporarily granted significant jurisdiction in this world, limited according to some kind of rules of engagement.
These rules of engagement limit not only the actions of the enemy—the devil and his cohorts—but they also limit God’s action to eliminate or mitigate the evil that (temporarily) falls within the jurisdiction of the enemy. Because the Lord will never break His promises, to the extent He has agreed to the rules of engagement—thus affording some limited and temporary rulership to the devil—God has morally limited His future course of action (without lessening His raw power).
Read John 12:31, John 14:30, John 16:11, 2 Corinthians 4:4, and Luke 4:6. What do these texts teach about the rulership of the enemy in this world?
Image © Rolf Jansson from GoodSalt.com
The New Testament sets forth a clash of kingdoms, the kingdoms of light and darkness, with the darkness coming from Satan and his rebellion. Part of Christ’s mission was to defeat the kingdom of Satan: “For this purpose the Son of God was manifested, that He might destroy the works of the devil” (1 John 3:8, NKJV).
Nevertheless, there are “rules” that limit what God can do while remaining true to the principles behind His government. These limits include at least (1) the granting of free will to creatures and (2) the covenantal rules of engagement, which we are not privy to, at least now. Such impediments and limitations on divine action have significant implications for God’s moral ability to reduce and/or immediately eliminate evil in this world. Thus, we see continued evil and suffering, which can indeed cause many people to question either God’s existence or His goodness. However, once the background of the great controversy is understood, and the limits God has placed on how He will deal with evil, we can to some degree better understand why things are as they are—at least until the final triumph of God over evil.
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How does the fact that Jesus calls Satan the “ruler” of this world help, at least somewhat, our understanding of the evil that exists in the world now? How comforting to know that it is, indeed, only a temporal rule! |
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God consulted with Satan on rules of engagement? I’m sure I’m getting this wrong!
You are, indeed, "getting this wrong."
The lesson says nothing about God consulting with Satan.
The lesson author does suggest "rules of engagement," just as there are "rules for life," aka the Law of God.
As humans, we are not privy to the exact rules, but we can surmise about some of them from what we know of God's character revealed in Scripture and the life of Christ.
In the 2nd paragraph with whom did God “agree to the rules of engagement”?
Okay, that may not be the best wording, but I don't think the author meant that God bargained with Satan.
I would see it more as the members of the Godhead revealing the "rules of engagement" to the universe. But perhaps the "rules" are self-evident in the principles of God's Law and didn't need any other "revelation."
God wants a relationship of love with His creation. Love is only possible with free choice. And truly free choice is based on complete information. Adam and Eve had no idea of what evil was/would be like. (However, experiencing the love of God should have moved them to trust Him.) Adam and Eve found out. So did the whole universe. And the people living at the end-time will see the difference between God's rule and Satan's rule and can thus make an informed choice.
Thus, back to the "rules of engagement."
1. God's created beings must be allowed to choose freely. 2. They must be able to see the difference between God's rule and Satan's rule. In His love, God might want to prevent His people from experiencing evil, but that would prevent Rule
2. God must allow Satan to demonstrate His evil character and government. And that's why we have evil in this world, even though we have a good God.
That may be a too simplistic explanation, but that's about the way I see it.
Your comments on Wed.really clarified some ?'s in my mind 4 many years; "Why God allows evil 2 continue. How long will He allow it 2 do so is another matter which I have decided is His business and I am resolved to mind my own business. There is still much joy in serving Jesus in my 77th year I am still a happy camper in His vineyard. His vineyard still has lots of thorns but He hugs my pain & that's all I need now!
Thanks Inge for your answer which has cleared up some of the confusion in my mind re ‘rules of engagement’. Is this even a biblical concept? Or is it a theological construct? What is the engagement for which there are these rules? Is it the engagement of spiritual warfare? Are there scripture references that show there are agreed rules of engagement. Maybe l am uncomfortable with the actual phrase.
I believe your explanation sums it up rather well.
If you want an example of temporary rulership you only have to look at democracy. (I am not going anywhere near American politics) In Australia we have to have elections before mid-May this year. There was some talk of an earlier election but a big cyclone is threatening to strike Brisbane at the moment so the powers that be have decided to put off the announcement until after the cyclone. You might gather that national elections in Australia are not "big theatre" like some nations. A 4-week election campaign is a lot less intrusive than what we see elsewhere. But having said that, the current incumbent government is recognising the temporary nature of their tenure of power. In the last few weeks of power, they have panicked and passed dozens of pieces of legislature to cement their place in history, if not their position of power in the next term. They have also upped the ante in promising all sorts of wonderful things when they are returned to power.
Although the rulership of this world is not a democracy, the "change of government" scenario is playing out now. Satan is ensuring that chaos is muddying the water between good and evil in such a way that he is confusing even those who have had a long-standing relationship with Jesus. Perhaps the greatest deception of all is that there is no change of government coming.
It is important to remember that while we live in a kingdom ruled by Evil, we are citizens of another Kingdom and have a different loyalty. The Kingdom of Heaven is "not of this world" but it is in this world, and we have a responsibility to share that good news with others.
Re: federal election. We, in Western Australia, are having a state election on 8th March so it was deemed not ideal, apparently, to have two elections so close together.
Re: “rules of engagement”. We can see some “rules” in the book of Job. Satan was allowed into the meeting in heaven, he was allowed to comment on Job, he was allowed to do his worst but not to harm Job, at first. Then he was allowed to come back to second meeting, he was allowed to have his say about Job again, and this time he was allowed to bring sickness on Job but wasn’t allowed to kill him.
What about Noah & the Ark? God wanted Noah to build the Ark because there was so much evil in the world. He waited 120 years before bringing the flood upon the world & Noah preached during the whole of that time but only Noah & his family were saved (& the animals). What if God didn’t tell Noah to build the Ark? What would the world be like now if that hadn’t happened? Would we even be here? God must curb evil sometimes, saying “this far & no further”. There are many other events in the Bible where God has done similar things. He even told Joseph in a dream to take his family, Mary & baby Jesus, to Egypt to escape the slaughter of the babies due to Herod’s command.
Correct me if I’m wrong, please, but when Jesus died on the cross & then rose again, conquering death & sin, Satan was no longer allowed into heaven. Doesn’t it say that in the Bible or did Ellen White write about it?
Excellent question that you pose, Maureen. In the context of John 12 where Jesus is speaking of the type of death he is soon to experience, Jesus says that the result of it would be the expulsion of (John 12:31) Satan from heaven and confined to this earth. In other words Satan would no longer have access to the heavenly courts. A secondary implication is that Satan's dominion over earth would be broken by Christ being lifted up on the cross. I can see no greater juxtaposition of power demonstrated than at Calvary. The love and cruelty of power versus the power of love were on full display. Until Calvary some angels were still undecided regarding the "Great Controversy." After Calvary all doubt among unfallen angels was vanquished and any remaining sympathy for Lucifer (Satan) was lost.
I believe that Ellen White wrote specifically on the subject but am unable to locate the reference. Perhaps someone else knows where it is located.
Read the chapter 'It Is Finished" in the Desire of Ages
Thank you Charles.
Yes the battle between Satan and Christ was won. Paragraph 1 of chapter 79. Yet the controversy still goes on and it is now to see how many Satan can keep from Christ. Our hope is found in Christ, dependent on a relationship with Christ for our salvation. Hold on my friends. Hold on for our redemption draweth nigh. Be anchored in the haven of rest.
It is now to see how many can be won to Christ
Thank you very much Tim for your reply & clarification.
It is indeed reflective to note that Jesus seemed to acknowledge the power of Satan (the devil) by referring to him as the ruler or prince of this world (John 12:31, John 14:30, and John 16:11). This title (ruler or prince) reflects the true picture of the intensity of the great conflict between good and evil, and the great influence that the devil has over the affairs and systems of this world. The devil’s dominion over the fallen world is very evident in every aspect of this world (politics, economics, social, religion, and nature (Job 1:12-19, Matthew 8:23-27, Luke 4:5-7, 2 Corinthians 4:4).
“Therefore, rejoice, O heavens! And you who live in the heavens, rejoice! But terror will come on the earth and the sea, for the devil has come down to you in great anger,
knowing that he has little time.” – Revelation 12:12 (NLT).
However, temporarily, the devil’s power and influence, the havoc and terror he has caused are immense. Jesus came to destroy the powers of the evil one. However, God has allowed him to reign over the evil world for a while. Ultimately, Jesus will establish His Kingdom where evil will never rise again (Revelation 21:1-4). This is our hope and ultimate comfort as we even suffer a little longer. As we continue to face the frightening foe, we have effective tools to counter his power and influence.
1. Surrender and fully dependence on God – Our protection and defence only lie in the power of God. We have no match on our own against this old serpent. He is a formidable foe, but thanks God who has given victory through Jesus Christ our Lord and Saviour (Ephesians 6:10-18).
2. Faith in God – We can only resist the devil through faith. Jesus resisted the devil’s temptations and won. We too can do so through faith. The death and resurrection of our Lord Jesus Christ is our victory over the evil. Faith is the victory that overcomes the world (James 4:7).
3. Power of prayer – Jesus Himself used prayer to resist the devil. In the Lord’s prayer, it says, “deliver us from evil” (Matthew 6:13). Prayer invites God’s power into our lives.
4. In the name of Jesus – Jesus has disarmed all the dark powers. His name in faith is dynamic to annihilate satanic forces (Luke 10:17-20, Acts 16:18, Mark 16:17, Philippians 2:9-1, Revelation 12:10-11). The name of Jesus has got dynamic power over satanic forces and its influence.
5. Holy Spirit – Our loving Saviour knew we are vulnerable as sheep among wolves, He sent us a Helper to guide, protect and strengthen us in our spiritual battles (John 14:26)
6. The Word of God – The Word of God is dynamic and powerful against satanic forces. It is the "sword of the Spirit” (Ephesians 6:17) and it is “living and active (Hebrews 4:12).
While the devil seems to have an upper hand, we are not powerless. We have been promised and assured victory in the Mighty name of Jesus.
“I have told you all this so that you may have peace in me. Here on earth you will have many trials and sorrows. But take heart, because I have overcome the world.” – John 16:33 (NLT).
Thank you for your post on Wed.'s lesson - "The Temporary Ruler of this World". I made a memory tool from it 4 SS kids. Use the 2 following words to WIP The ENEMY. Clue: Remove the vowels from the 2nd word.
The 2 words R:
WIP &; FASHON
WIP With Intercessory Prayer (1st Tim. 2:1) &; (James 5:16)
F= With Faith (James 4:7)
S= With Surrender (Eph 6:10-18)
H= With the Holy Spirit (John 14:26)
N= With the Name of Jesus (JC24/7....Jesus Christ all day)
(Luke 10:17-20), (Acts 17:18) (Phil 2:9) (Rev 12:10,11)
Good and evil will never agree; that's a fact. God will never make a deal with Satan. The cross crushed Satan and Jesus, but Jesus prevailed. There is not a third choice, only two. Why wouldn't we choose the winner's side once we know who that is?
In the story of Job, Satan accused Job of being loyal to God because God was blessing him. He (Satan) challenged God to strike Job and Job would curse God. God said no I'm not going to strike Job, you do it. After Job lost everything, even his children and yet was loyal to God. Once again God was bragging on his "boy" Job. Once again Satan challenged God. God gave permission to Satan to physically afflict Job but wasn't allowed to kill him. You know the rest of the story.
Satan obviously has limits placed upon him, though at times there seems not to be. There are obviously certain "rules of engagement." One of which is probably that neither side can violate, or bypass the human freedom of choice. In other words, God will not force his way into your life and neither can Satan.
We choose who will be our "master." In the Bible, Romans 6:16 says, "Know ye not that to whomever ye yield yourselves as servants to obey, his servants ye become whom ye obey". This means that you are a slave to whatever, or more appropriately, whomever you choose to obey, whether it is sin (Satan) or righteousness (God).
In the Bible, the term "slave" is used to illustrate that we are controlled by a "master," and we can choose to serve either sin or righteousness. By our sinful human nature, we are slaves of sin.
By grace, we are slaves of God.
We are absolutely free to choose our master and they are limited by our decisions.
We are born free, but our decisions to sin make us slaves to sin.
We will continue to live lives of volunteer slavery to sin if we don't resist it, or opt out of it through the power of Jesus Christ.
We should obey righteousness instead of our sinful desires. God cannot and will not make our choice for us, but when we choose Him and His Righteousness then we receive power through grace to obey.
This is why if we walk (live) in (connection to) the spirit, we will not satisfy the desires of the flesh and vice versa.
At the heart, Job’s story about remaining faithful to God in spite of circumstances reflects the struggle all of humanity faces. Having much material goods to lose and wanting to protect them, provides God's adversary many occasions to prey on us.
Accumulating and securing material goods diverts our intentions of loving God with all our heart, and shifting it toward loving and protecting our possessions more. When loving God above all else at all times, means to be spiritually protected from all dangers – Matt.16:26.
Throughout Scripture we read about the importance to reserve our love and singularly focus on our relationship with our heavenly Father. Only as we 'have our life in Him - being/living/existing in Him' - do we avoid the snares His adversary has laid out for us.
Only in His Love are we safely secured to the point were nothing in this world can separate us from the all permeating, all conquering, all creating and recreating, powerful Love of God. The adversary knows this, as all his aims are to separate us from loving our heavenly Father exclusively - Rom.8:31-39.
When Satan was cast to earth after losing the war in heaven, why was he even allowed to come back to a meeting in heaven? I'm sure God knew what he wanted (to cause trouble for Job so that he would blame God)
Hello Glenn.
As earlier mention by Inge, there was no physical meeting in heaven. After all, Satan had lost it all in heaven and never to go back there.
The illustration is a word picture to show the intensity of conflict between good and evil. That in our daily businesses in as much God walks with us, the devil is around us and within our reach.
The encouragement is in 1Corithians 10:13 ".......And God is faithful; he will not let you be tempted beyond what you can bear. But when you are tempted, he will also provide a way out so that you can endure it". So God will give the strength to endure.
Mathew 28:20, God assures us of His abiding in us-....."And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age". Until the forces of evil eradicated.