Is Satan Defeated Today

While trying to dodge the pots and pans being thrown around on the end time threads I saw this question come up. As such I thought I would open up a thread on it. Hopefully this question will have relevance for our walk with Christ. The question...is Satan defeated today.

Here are some verses to open up the discussion. And please let us keep the pots and pans in the kitchen. :-)

Starting with a verses in Revelation 12:7-10

And there was war in heaven, Michael and his angels waging War with the dragon. The dragon and his angels waged war, and they were not strong enough, and there was no longer a place found for them in heaven. And the great dragon was thrown down. The serpent of old who is called the devil and Satan, who deceives the whole world he was thrown down to the earth, and his angels were thrown down with him.

A question for discussion would be when did this happen? Did it happen or is it yet to hapoen? The following verses should be helpful for discussion.

Hebrews 4:15-16

Therefore since the children share in flesh and blood, He Himself likewise also partook of the same, that through death He might render powerless him who had the power of death, that is the devil, and might free those who through fear of death were subject to slavery all their lives.

1 John 3:8

The Son of God appeared for this purpose, to destroy the works of the devil.

Col. 2:15

When He had disarmed the rulers and authorities, He made a public display of them having triumphed over them through Him.

Romans 16:20

The God of Peace will soon Crush Satan under your feet.

I pray this thread will generate some good discussion and application for our walk with Christ. I ask the SI guidelines be observed. Let us keep the pots and pans in the kitchen. And also let's please keep the church fathers out of this discussion. As well as commentaries and our favorite authors. Let us look to the Holy Spirit and His Word for instruction.

I open up this thread not to provoke controversy or have needless theological discussion. For we are in a spiritual war with the evil one. To know whether or not he is defeated or is fallen, will certainly encourage us in a victorious walk with Christ.

Posted by Brother Blaine.

yes.

Bear,

that's good brother. And as I said in the other thread to Frank, I agree with what Doc said. His ultimate power was "broken" at Calvary, but the full manifestation isn't "played out" yet. That's done after he is loosed with great fury knowing his time is short, & then once & for all "crushed under our feet" & "thrown into the Lake of Fire." Otherwise, why are warned by the apostle Peter to be sober & alert because he is "a roaring lion roaming around seeking whom he may devour"? It's kinda like how we WERE saved by the lamb who WAS slain from before the foundations of the earth, we ARE BEING saved, & we ultimately WILL BE SAVED at the final resurrection, judgement & end of all things.

Romans 16:20

The God of Peace will soon Crush Satan under your feet.

God bLess,
Jeff

In the OT we do not read records of casting out devils. In the NT they could be cast out because they were defeated.
I believe Satan was defeated and the Kingdom of God came the same time: When Jesus came in the flesh.
Matthew 12:28
28But if I cast out devils by the Spirit of God, then the kingdom of God is come unto you.

Zsuzsanna

So far, Neil has the most concise answer. Jeff, I am saved, I am not being saved. Do you think you have confused Sanctification with justification? Either a man is justified or he is not, you cant be kinda saved. Either we have power over Satan or we do not. Can you see how you have allowed your pre-conceived notions to influence your thinking on what should have been a fairly simple answer that Neil scored 10 out of ten on. This is exactly what almost all theology does, it complicates simple concepts. My prof in College wrote a 327 page paper on Matt 24. He offered it to his students. I declined. My thinking was, if God tells me great truths in one chapter and has given me the Holy Spirit to lead me into all truth, why would I read over 100 chapters from a man on the same subject. He was a premillennialist.

And he said unto them, I beheld Satan as lightning fall from heaven. Behold, I give unto you power to tread on serpents and scorpions, and over all the power of the enemy: and nothing shall by any means hurt you.
(Luk 10:18-19)

Was Jesus lying to his Disciples Jeff or have you misunderstood what it means to be careful of our enemy? ......bro Frank

Bro David writes...........

"28But if I cast out devils by the Spirit of God, then the kingdom of God is come unto you./ Absolutely!

Amen brother, the Kingdom of God has already came unto us. Now, that is something worth pondering on, no matter what side of any theological debate anyone stands on. But this reality does have ramifications for the theories of men. Lets hope no one tries to " spiritulize." away the reality of what you have just confirmed............bro Frank

Frank,
God Bless you friend. I don't disagree with you, but it feels like you're attempting to "pin me" down in my words. I understand salvation brother. I am simply drawing on Biblical concepts of justification, sanctification & glorification to show a parallel analogy how the Devil was defeated, is being defeated & will at the end be finally cast into the lake of fire forever (the final once and for all defeat). I don't like answering these type questions cause you want a one word answer & then I feel a "gotcha" coming. If I go on (the Bible is a big book brother where compare scripture with scripture for the full sum of God's Words to rightly divide the Word of truth), not just a short collection of one liners). I don't like it when people pull out their microscope to microanalyze ones words & "trap them" to make "their point". I'm not accusing you or saying that's your intent, just telling you that's how it felt. I don't know everything brother, but Indo know & study the scriptures & I'm drawing from them altogether, not just preconceived notions, one sided arguments, etc. Doesn't mean I can't be wrong by degrees in an area, but I understand salvation friend. If the enemy roars around like a lion, but is chained up in the abyss, there's a deeper truth than your trying to oversimplify it too. And Parts of Revelation are future concerning His final defeat. We can agree to disagree & that's fine.

Saved in Three Tenses
””Have been saved, are being saved, shall be saved

This lesson may seem to be a statement of the obvious. However what is obvious to some is not obvious to others.

””Three Times of Salvation

The Scriptures speak of being saved in three tenses and senses. In one place the scriptures say that we "have been saved" (past). In another place they say that we "are being saved" (present). In yet another place they say that we "shall be saved" (future). All these statements are true. An understanding of how we are saved in three senses and tenses, helps to avoid wrong ideas about salvation, whilst helping us gain a true assurance of salvation.

1 We Have Been Saved (2Timothy 1:9)

Our Past Salvation

There is a sense in which God has already saved each and every Christian. In this sense salvation is equated with the forgiveness of sins.

Ananias said to Paul, "Arise and be baptized and wash away your sins" (Acts 22:16). So Paul, as soon as he obeyed, had his sins washed away. He was saved.
Paul said to the Corinthians, "You were washed, you were sanctified, you were justified..." (1Corinthians 6:11) They were saved.
Paul says of God our Saviour, "he saved us..." (Titus 3:4-5). That's past tense, isn't it?.
A little earlier there in Titus, Paul says, "The grace of God has appeared bringing salvation to all men" (Titus 2:11)
2 We Are Being Saved (1Corinthians 1:18)

Our Present Salvation

There is a sense in which God is still saving each and every Christian. In this sense salvation is equated with the Christian's growth and perseverance.

Paul spoke to the Corinthians of "those who are being saved" (2Corinthians 2:15). Here we do not have past tense. We have the word "saved" used in a present and ongoing sense.
Paul tells the Philippians, "work out your own salvation with fear and trembling, for it is God who is at work in you..." (Philippians 2:12-13). Here we see salvation presented as something being worked for by us in synergy with God. It is not all over and done with.
Note the implication of this question, "How shall we escape if we neglect so great salvation?" (Hebrews 2:1-3).
Another telling statement, "be all the more diligent to make your calling and election sure..." (2Peter 1:10)
John says that "the blood of Christ cleanses us..." (1John 1:7). Past sins were forgiven when we became Christians, but further sins since then need to be forgiven too. Forgiveness and salvation continue as we walk in the light.
3 We Shall Be Saved (Romans 5:9-10)

Our Promised Salvation

There is a sense in which salvation is a future event. In this sense salvation is equated with the second coming of Christ.

Jesus said, "these (wicked) shall go away into eternal punishment, but the righteous into eternal life" (Matthew 25:46). This is a future event.
As we saw at the introduction to this lesson, Paul twice says, "We shall be saved..." (Romans 5:9-10). This is neither past nor present, but future, isn't it?
Paul makes an interesting statement, "Our salvation is now nearer than when we first believed" (Romans 13:11).
The Holy Spirit is given "as a guarantee of our inheritance until the redemption of the purchased possession..." (Ephesians 1:14). Here redemption and the eternal inheritance is something in view, something yet future.
Paul speaks of "the hope of salvation" (1Thessalonians 5:8). A hope of salvation implies a future salvation. If our salvation were altogether finished, then we would have no need any more to hold it as our hope.

David writes......

"But there's no problem here. I was just respondinjg to her statement appolus yet I understood what you meant."

I amened you brother...........bro Frank

Bro Jeff,

If it is possible to oversimplify things, is it not possible to overcomplicate things? When the Scriptures were written, were they written for theologians? Does one have to have a doctorate to understand or was it written for everyone? I have assurance of salvation and by the power of God Satan cannot harm me according to Jesus. If I follow the Lord and abide in Him then I will walk in freedom. Of course I can walk away from Him, that is a whole different matter.....bro Frank

Then said Jesus to those Jews which believed on him, If ye continue in my word, then are ye my disciples indeed; And ye shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free.
(Joh 8:31-32)

my two dear brothers, this portion of Scripture is very dear to my heart, and how I TRY to"walk" in Jesus:

"At that time the disciples came to Jesus, saying, "Who is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven?” And calling to him a child, he put him in the midst of them and said, "Truly, I say to you, unless you turn and become like children, you will never enter the kingdom of heaven."

or as in black folk meetings, the congregation will exhort the preacher with cries of "make it plain! make it plain!!"

in Jesus' love, neil

Amen Neil, truly when you read the red letters in the NT, you see something very simple and straightforward.......bro Frank

Jeff quoted this verse related to the question: is Satan defeated today.
Romans 16:20
The God of Peace will soon Crush Satan under your feet.
He implied that "soon" will be in an escatological event.

But this verse referred to our fight against the powers that are defeated, and our victory is guaranteed, if we remain in Christ.
This was an encouragement to the disciples that since Satan is already defeated his attempts to corrupt the true gospel will be put out by God promptly if they are obedient to the truth. This was clearly not a reference to an escatological event, but showed how useless Satans efforts are, if he tries to deceive, because soon he will be exposed and crushed by God.
Here is the whole context: Romans 16:17-20
"17Now I beseech you, brethren, mark them which cause divisions and offences contrary to the doctrine which ye have learned; and avoid them.18For they that are such serve not our Lord Jesus Christ, but their own belly; and by good words and fair speeches deceive the hearts of the simple.19For your obedience is come abroad unto all men. I am glad therefore on your behalf: but yet I would have you wise unto that which is good, and simple concerning evil. 20 And the God of peace shall bruise Satan under your feet shortly. The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with you. Amen."

Zsuzsanna

(Edited to correct spelling)

Of course it's possible, but that's not a carte Blanche blanket statement that covers everything either. The foundations in Hebrews & elsewhere are called "milk". We are implored by scripture to "move on to meat", to "study to show thyself approved, workmen who need not be ashamed, but rightly dividing the Word of Truth", etc. & understanding the basic simple Tennants of the Gospel is easy day 1 of regeneration (though it expands as our walk & knowledge do), but the "deep mysteries" of God, & the prophetic truths of scripture are "mined". Surely you're not implying eschatology is as "simple" & obvious day 1 as "justification by faith"? That's not logical, true, or Biblical. So we are all hopefully trying to attain to the knowledge of the truth in these things, & anything can always be oversimplified or over complicated yes. I'm just sharing what I see in my study of the scriptures & walking with God. I can do no other.

Romans 16 was written FAR after the ascension. So the soon either ultimately refers to at the end, or they weren't saved at the time is was written (to fit the previous contextual usage of the verse - which the original use of it wasn't mine, but Frank's if you will go back and read it), or you believe this happened in 70 AD (Preterism)? It must be one of those three or it makes no sense.

Thank you for this thread brother Blaine, I pray this will be very helpful to believers.

Yes, satan was defeated and disarmed at the cross, but many believers still believe that he has power over them. This is either because of a wrong understanding or because they have opened themselves up (through disobedience) to the enemies attack and in a sense, the Lord has "removed the hedge".

Also Paul is very clear in Ephesians that although satan was defeated on the cross he still has power to attack the saints. But in Christ those attacks come to nothing. Paul teaches us the way to withstand and overcome satans attacks...by putting on the full armor of God (putting on Christ) and through unceasing prayer.

In my case, because I lived a double life of sin for many years, I was very weak, prayerless, armorless and the enemy gained easy access into my life and family and was able to steal, kill and destroy us on many levels. Because I was not submitted to God I was unable to resist and overcome him. But thanks be unto God the Lord delivered me out of my sinful bondage, restored my soul and brought me back to Himself.

The result was that Christs victory in our family was manifested and satans power was overcome.

All praise and glory be unto God!!!

Jeff, Romans 16 is not about escatology.
Zsuzsanna

(Edited to correct spelling)

Good spirit and good discussion on thread. Just a gentle reminder to please keep the pots and pans in the kitchen.

Brother Blaine :-)

Post re-edited for edification.

Bro Mark writes............

"Yes, satan was defeated and disarmed at the cross, but many believers still believe that he has power over them. This is either because of a wrong understanding or because they have opened themselves up (through disobedience) to the enemies attack and in a sense, the Lord has "removed the hedge"."

Good word brother. Since I asked this question in the other thread and Blaine took it here, can I ask that we avoid using any word ending in "ism." I would like to see a plain reading of the word and our understanding of it without dragging in " isms," or the thoughts of other men long since dead. Jesus is alive in us and His Spirit dwells in us and He continues to give every generation understanding and inspiration of the revelation of God's word.

So the question would be " was the victory at Calvary a complete victory." If God tells us that " He whom the son sets free is free indeed, completed liberated from the curse of the Law," is this true? ..........bro Frank

Saints I appreciate the spirit of the discussion and this is provoking some questions within me. I will put them out for your consideration unthawed.

Matthew 3:1-2

Now in those days John the Baptist came preaching in the wilderness of Judea, saying, "Repent for the Kingdom of Heaven is at hand,"

Luke 11:20

But if I cast out demons by the Finger of God then the kingdom of God has come upon you.

Luke17:21

The kingdom of God is not coming with signs to be observed nor will they say, "Look here it is" or "there it is." For behold the kingdom of God is in your midst.

Based on the above verses are we seeing something like a "now" and "not yet"? The kingdom of God has been inaugurated by Christ. But it will not be fully consummated until he returns. Is this what we're seeing?

But how does that play out in the context of this thread? We see Satan has been disarmed and defeated at the cross? But why do we still see his activity in the world today?

Brother Blaine

brother Frank what "ism" does my post fall under? Or are you referring to another post?

But to these questions, yes Christ has liberated us from the curse of the law. And yes satan was defeated at calvary.

But no, not by a long shot do many believers walk fully in that victory.

Yes, Blaine. Exactly. That is what the whole, full counsel of all of the sum of God's Word teaches & confirms to us.

Tozsu,
Again, if you'll go back and read the thread, I'm not the one who brought that verse into the discussion - FYI.
God Bless,
Jeff

In my understanding the kingdom of God is here and gradually growing until its fullness when the whole world will know His glory.

Matthew 13:31-33
31Another parable put he forth unto them, saying, The kingdom of heaven is like to a grain of mustard seed, which a man took, and sowed in his field:
32Which indeed is the least of all seeds: but when it is grown, it is the greatest among herbs, and becometh a tree, so that the birds of the air come and lodge in the branches thereof.
33Another parable spake he unto them; The kingdom of heaven is like unto leaven, which a woman took, and hid in three measures of meal, till the whole was leavened. 

I believe that a good tree and a good leaven was meant here.
Zsuzsanna

brother Blaine, in the spirit of generating some good discussion and applications for our walk with Christ, it seems to me that yes, satan was defeated at Calvary but we must learn to overcome him on a personal level in our christian walk.

2 Tim 2:26: "...that they may come to their senses and escape from the snare of the devil, having been held captive by him to do his will.

1 John 2:14: "I have written to you, young men, because you are strong, and the word of God abides in you, and you have overcome the evil one."

James 4:7: "Submit therefore to God. Resist the devil and he will flee from you."

1 Peter 5:8: "Be of sober spirit, be on the alert. Your adversary, the devil, prowls around like a roaring lion, seeking someone to devour. But resist him, firm in your faith..."

Revelation 12:11: "And they overcame him by the blood of the Lamb, and by the word of their testimony; and they loved not their lives unto the death."

Ephesians 6:11: "Put on the whole armor of God, that you may be able to stand against the schemes of the devil."

Ephesians 6:12: "For we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high places."

Ephesians 6:16: "In all circumstances take up the shield of faith, with which you can extinguish all the flaming darts of the evil one".

Often the analogy of taking posession of the promised land is used for our fight against the evil forces, in both cases victory is promised if we obey, because God already judged the canaanites the same way as satan is defeated.
Zsuzsanna

Blain quoted it in the initial post but he did not say whether it was quoted for or against satan being defeated today and why. He put it up for discussion.
I think it proves that Satan is defeated, because it shows that Satan's attempt to deceive will be stopped shortly after it was started if the disciples are wise and obedient.
Zsuzsanna

Easy on there bro Mark, I was not referring to you. I just do not want this discussion to be dragged into the isms of the other discussion. I think a proper understanding of our victory in Jesus and the defeat of Satan and where Satan is now is the key to understanding the issues of the other thread.............bro Frank

Jud 1:6 And the angels which kept not their first estate, but left their own habitation, he hath reserved in everlasting chains under darkness unto the judgment of the great day.

2Pe 2:4 For if God spared not the angels that sinned, but cast them down to hell, and delivered them into chains of darkness, to be reserved unto judgment;

awakened, I agree 100%, and thanks for the quotes Iam already encouraged greatly by them.

Zsuzsanna

Frank,
Death and hades (or Sheol in Hebrew) in Revelation get cast into the Lake of Fire in the end. Obviously/Surely you don't believe that has happened already? But even if he has been cast down into his domain of "Hell" for now (Hades, Sheol), if he is still roaming around seeking whom he may devour, then the "matter of factness" with which you are seemingly trying to shape could also be a "reactionary misunderstanding" too, no? And if He is "released on the earth having great fury, knowing His time is short" at the end, you must also be implying that's already happened too, no? Because after all, "it is finished", right? But even the original Greek there is Telethesthai which means "the debt is paid in full". The debt has been completely paid, but the title has not been fully assumed until "the end of all things" is consummated at the end of the age when Christ returns & establishes His kingdom in its fullness for all eternity. I think defining these words in these scriptures (& going to the original Greek & Hebrew to do so) is important if we are going to really rightly understand the matter, & looking at context, & considering ALL the scriptures on the subject too. It's like the discussion between "total sovereignty & freewill" in some ways. One side heralds Romans 9 & the other Hebrews (11 or 12 I think), but both are in the word of God & there is no contradiction in God, only incomplete understanding of it by man. I'm not saying the devil wasn't defeated at Calvary, & the debt paid in full. I'm saying the devil is still alive, still roams like a roaring lion and his demon principalities, & a time when he is released with great fury is still coming when "his time is short". The only way not to except ALL these truths reconciled without excluding any is to create a new paradigm where somehow EVERYTHING in the Word is already done & happened. Which I believe is a grievous error. Not trying to be sensational either brother, just honest.
God Bless,
Jeff

brother Frank writes:
"Jud 1:6 And the angels which kept not their first estate, but left their own habitation, he hath reserved in everlasting chains under darkness unto the judgment of the great day.

2Pe 2:4 For if God spared not the angels that sinned, but cast them down to hell, and delivered them into chains of darkness, to be reserved unto judgment".

These references are only to certain angels who overstepped their boundaries so to speak...and not to satan.

John the Apostle writes about satans precise location at one point:
Rev 2:12: "And to the angel of the church in Pergamum write: The One who has the sharp two-edged sword says this: ‘I know where you dwell, where Satan’s throne is; and you hold fast My name, and did not deny My faith even in the days of Antipas, My witness, My faithful one, who was killed among you, where Satan dwells."

In the 1st century, satan had set up his headquarters or whatever you may want to call it, in or around Pergamum.

Peter also was very clear..."satan goes about like a roaring lion..." So he was still on the earth causing trouble when Peter was alive.

Also Pauls had this to say about satans whereabouts:
2 Thess 2:18 "For we wanted to come to you ”” I, Paul, more than once ”” and yet Satan hindered us."

And lastly Jesus himself had an actual encounter with the person of satan during his 40 day fast...right there on planet earth in Israel.

Saints I appreciate the good discussion and spirit on this thread. ( Also aporeciate you leaving the pots and pans in the kitchen :-)) Also a lot of good stuff being preented here.

Okay. Trying to walk through the discussion here. Frank asked if the victory over Satan at the cross was complete. I think we would agree this is the case. Jesus did say it is finished.

But then this begs the question. Why are we
seeing activity of Satan here on Earth? If the victory Of Satan has been achieved at the cross why are we still fighting the devil? We have exhortations of scripture to resist the devil. To put on the Ephesian armor. Yet we also see in Scripture that the devil has been defeated.

I'm just trying to come to grips with the two truths of scriptures. The truth that the devil was defeated at the cross. But also the truth that we are still fighting the evil one on earth.

Would appreciate your thoughts and insights.

Bro Blaine

Brother good thought. In other words the war was won at the cross. But there's still a mop-up operation before we can enjoy the full picture of Jesus.

Bro Blaine

Tzunna spoke of our fight against Satan as akin to the Israelites occupying the land promised to them by God. Interesting observation. The land had been promised by God to the Israelites. But they had to fight to occupy it.

From God's perspective the victory over Satan has been won at the cross. From God's perspective this is a done deal. But I wonder if as the Israelites, we have to fight to occupy that victory in our individual lives and ministry.

Thoughts to ponder.

Bro Blaine

My understanding is that it is only as we are living as 'crucified' with Christ, that the victory that Jesus obtained for us, is operational.

Although it occurred 2,000 years ago, and we are positionally there, in order for the operation of it to be manifest in our lives, we must accept there is a part for us to play.

It is not by any effort on our part, but in the 'reckoning' of Romans 6. We must reckon ourselves dead to sin and finished with all working from the old man.

If we reckon ourselves dead to sin then Satan has no grounds in us but the slightest movement of trusting in our flesh, nullifies the place of victory and down we go.

Great points & scriptures Mark

Zsuzsanna, Mark, great verses.

I was also thinking of this one, myself.

2Ti 2:25 In meekness instructing those that oppose themselves; if God peradventure will give them repentance to the acknowledging of the truth;
2Ti 2:26 And that they may recover themselves out of the snare of the devil, who are taken captive by him at his will.

Notice that people OPPOSE THEMSELVES, and through repentance and being born-again, they can recover themselves out of the snare of the devil. Their will, will no longer be manipulated by the Devil as they are indwelt and led by the Holy Spirit. Now, we bring our will into harmony with the Lord's will rather than being taken captive by Satan at his will. But, we have to maintain our deliverance and there is more land (promises of God) to possess. What is given is not automatically possessed and the Children of Israel found out.

The Church has occupied a rather passive role as if it has a defeated attitude in the face of the enemy that rules in the world. God is saying to His Church, "Rise up and rule in the midst of your enemies."

The Lord has sent the "Rod" of His strength out of Zion and tells us to "rule in the midst of our enemies".

Psa_110:2 The LORD shall send the rod of thy strength out of Zion: rule thou in the midst of thine enemies.

In the OT, it was carnal enemies but today, the Lord has pulled the veil back and shows us who our true enemy is (Eph 6), not flesh and blood.

The Christian walk today parallels the children of Israel yet in a spiritual way. The god of this world has established his strongholds and authorities in the "land". I believe the word that came to Israel through Moses is the word for the Church, today. "Behold, I have set the land before you: GO IN and POSSESS THE LAND..." (Deut 1:8).

A passive attitude and lies and deception will not conquer and possess. Consequently, (as in 2 Tim 2:25-6, above) the enemy remains in the land and God's people suffer. Parallels exactly with the children of Israel in the wilderness who walked in disobedience. God wants His people to be a victorious people; a strong people that can rule in circumstances rather than be ruled by circumstances; a people that can determine the will of God and take direction rather than being directed by a turn of events. He wants a people that will magnify the Name of the Lord, who has made Him their strong Tower, their Refuge, their Shield, their Covering and their Conqueror.

Parallels:

Jesus is our spiritual Joshua;
Joshua broke the power of the authorities (Josh. 11:23; 12:24)

Jesus broke the power of the enemy (Col 2:15)

The Church must deal with the presence of the enemy. Israel did not possess all their land (Judg 1:19,21,27,28;2:12)

John 14:12 Verily, verily, I say unto you, He that believeth on me, the works that I do shall he do also; and greater works than these shall he do; because I go unto my Father.

1Jn 3:8 He that committeth sin is of the devil; for the devil sinneth from the beginning. For this purpose the Son of God was manifested, that he might destroy the works of the devil.

1Jn 3:10 In this the children of God are manifest, and the children of the devil: whosoever doeth not righteousness is not of God, neither he that loveth not his brother.

As I previously mentioned, what has been given is not necessarily possessed as we see this principle in the OT, with the Children of Israel. Everything that has been given must be possessed by faith.

God has given a word to the Church - Matt 28:18-20
God has given armor for the Church (Eph 6)
And there is a battle for the Church (2 Cor 10:3-4)
(For the weapons of our warfare are not carnal, but mighty through God to the pulling down of strong holds;)

The challenge for the Israelites then, possess the land, WITHOUT.

The challenge for the Church today, possess the land, WITHIN.

Our Joshua has broken the authority of evil over us (Col 1:13)

And now the works of the enemy must be dealt with in the land of the mind, the will, the emotions and the body.

Faith on our part will extend God's authority into every area of our lives (mind, will, emotions, body).

Just as the enemy challenged the Israelites, the enemy will challenge the believer. His works must be met with superior force (JESUS). The Cross is the focal point of his defeat. He is a defeated foe who has left his forces scattered in the land.

To possess the land, the Israelites had to face the enemy and his works. There could be no compromise in any area just as there can be no compromise in any area of our lives. We must face our enemy and if we are willing to deal with the works of the enemy, the Land of Promise will be the land of complete victory.

God has delegated His authority to us (Mark 16:17; Luke 9:1, 10:19)

Our authority over Satan from the Word (Luke 10:19; James 4:7; 1 Pet 5:8-9; Col 2:15; 1 John 3:8; 1 John 4:4, Rev 12:11; Matt 18:18)

We are to withstand Satan by the Word:
Num 23:19 God is not a man, that he should lie; neither the son of man, that he should repent: hath he said, and shall he not do it? or hath he spoken, and shall he not make it good? Rev 12:11; Eph 6:17

His Blood is our covering and His Spirit is our strength. (Rev 12:11 and Eph 3:16)

God wants His Church to be aggressive (not shrink back) and to confront a kingdom that is spiritual.
"For we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high places." Eph 6:12

We are fighting "principalities", "powers", "rulers of the darkness" and "spiritual wickedness in high places".

The position of the Church today is that we sit with Christ in heavenly places (Eph 2:5-6) and we are vitally joined to the Head (1 Cor 6:17; Rom 7:4). You and I are Christ's inheritance (Eph 1:18).

The Church is to extend the scepter of His kingdom:
Psa 45:6 Thy throne, O God, is for ever and ever: the sceptre of thy kingdom is a right sceptre.

Psa 44:5 THROUGH THEE will we push down our enemies: through thy name will we tread them under that rise up against us.

The Church must ENTER TO DELIVER just as the Israelites were commanded to enter if they were to be delivered.

We resist the devil by faith (James 4:7), we have been given authority to "loose" bondages of the enemy, we have the authority in Christ to cast out devils (Mark 16:17).

Deliverance is done by believers who take authority and cast out.

As spiritual kingdom confronts spiritual kingdom, the church must rise up in the power and authority of her Head. The Jerichos of wickedness must fall with all its rulers. Satan has had time to establish his kingdom throughout the earth. The Church is God's agent on earth to challenge these "authorities" and pull down the strongholds of wickedness.

How does the Believer give ground to enemy?

Unrenewed mind - 2 Cor 4:4, 3:14; Eph 2:3; Col 1:21
A carnal mind - Rom 8:6
By lies and deception admitted to the mind
By passivity of the mind

The physical life of the Israelites in the wilderness parallel the spiritual walk of Believers in the Church.

In the Pentateuch there are valuable lessons to learn regarding our Christian walk, though their enemies were physical, and ours are now spiritual.

Psalm 91 is our victory anthem.

Satan was defeated at Calvary and the defeat was a complete one. No longer did humanity have to be deceived by the enemy.

It is like the land, the promised land that was given to Israel. God gave them it, but they had to take what was given. God completely fulfilled His promise, His covenant. If the Israelites did not possess all of the land then their disobedience was no reflection on God.

God has given us complete freedom. He has given it to us. If we do not walk in that freedom, posses it, take hold of it, reckon on it, then this is no reflection upon God but upon us. He has given us the full armor but we have to it on.

In Rev 13 Satan makes war against the saints, and for a little while, he is allowed.

Rev 13:7 And it was given unto him to make war with the saints, and to overcome them: and power was given him over all kindreds, and tongues, and nations.

Note the time frame when power was " given," to Satan. He then fools all the nations of the earth in fact he almost fools the elect if it were possible, thank the Lord it is not possible............bro Frank

Yes, TMK, there is effort on our part. We have a role to play. Read my post, when you get a chance.

by appolus on 2016/4/23 17:48:18

In Rev 13 Satan makes war against the saints, and for a little while, he is allowed.

Rev 13:7 And it was given unto him to make war with the saints, and to overcome them: and power was given him over all kindreds, and tongues, and nations.

The life of Jesus Christ on earth was always in conflict with the Pharisees (religion) and the genuine life of Jesus Christ functioning in Christians throughout the centuries, is also always in conflict with religion, which "makes war with the saints to overcome them" (13:7). "Saints" are Christians, "holy ones" in whom the Holy One, Jesus Christ, lives. Religion always seeks to "overcome" Christians, to "conquer" them. And many times it does and that is why Jesus Christ is always calling for His people to "come out, come out of her my people (Babylon) and be not partakers of her plagues."

The Greek word used in this verse is nike (nikao), which is in reference to the Nicolaitans (2:6,15) and the rider of the white horse who "went out conquering and to conquer" (6:2).

nik-ah'-o
From G3529; to subdue (literally or figuratively): - conquer, overcome, prevail, get the victory.

The rider of the white horse is masquerading as a pure and righteous victor. Religionists, disguise themselves as "servants of righteousness" (II Cor. 11:15) as they are led by Satan who "disguises himself as an angel of light" (II Cor. 11:14).

2 Timothy 3:5
Having a form of godliness, but denying its power: from such turn away.

In this verse I think the power means exactly what we are talking about that is that we have the power to live a righteous life because Christ defeated Satan. Only the religious people deny this.

Rev 13:7 And it was given unto him to make war with the saints, and to overcome them: and power was given him over all kindreds, and tongues, and nations.

Not happened yet. Saints have always suffered persecution, but Satan has not had power over all Kindred and tongues and nations, the context is in the paragraph itself. The wider context is that we shall be hated by all nations as stated above in Rev 13.

And it was given unto him to make war with the saints, and to overcome them: and power was given him over all kindreds, and tongues, and nations. And all that dwell upon the earth shall worship him, whose names are not written in the book of life of the Lamb slain from the foundation of the world. If any man have an ear, let him hear.
(Rev 13:7-9)

Every single person on earth shall worship him, only the saints will not do this, hence the worldwide persecution. This of course has never happened before but will happen..........bro Frank

Jesus, is still calling for His people in all the world to come out of Babylon as they have been temporarily overcome by the religious system's spiritual seduction. The Church is consorting with the religious system (Satan's kingdom) and has been been overcome (seduced) by her, otherwise Jesus would not be calling for His Church to come out. (Rev 18:4)

I can also see your point of view regarding persecution except for one thing. Persecution does not overcome us, it only kills the body.

Matt 10:28 And fear not them which kill the body, but are not able to kill the soul: but rather fear him which is able to destroy both soul and body in hell.

They can kill the body but not the soul. One is only "overcome" when they bow to another and not to Christ. One is only overcome when one is overcome spiritually. The scriptures do not teach that when one is persecuted and dies for Christ they are overcome. No, the scriptures teach that the one who dies a martyr IS THE OVERCOMER.

Rev 12:11 AND THEY OVERCAME HIM by the blood of the Lamb, and by the word of their testimony; and they loved not their lives unto the death.

If we think about Rev. 13:7 only in a physical sense, then I can understand why you think a saint has been overcome.

The Church is overcome when it allows itself to be seduced by Babylon. Being overcome spiritually is the definition of a Believer being overcome.

Rev 13:6 And he opened his mouth in BLASPHEMY against God, to blaspheme his name, and his tabernacle, and them that dwell in heaven.
Rev 13:7 And it was given unto him to make war with the saints, and to overcome them: and power was given him over all kindreds, and tongues, and nations.

The war that Satan makes with the saints is a spiritual war, one of deception and lies and temptation.

And the result of this spiritual war mentioned in Eph 6, is: "all that dwell upon the earth shall worship him, (except) whose names are not written in the book of life of the Lamb slain from the foundation of the world." (Rev 13:8)

Rom 12:21 Be not overcome of evil, but overcome evil with good.

That is my position and I can graciously agree to disagree and move on.

Julias writes..........

"I can also see your point of view regarding persecution except for one thing. Persecution does not overcome us, it only kills the body."

"And it was given unto him to make war with the saints, and to overcome them:"

Thats the word brother. And I agree, Satan cannot prevail against the saints spiritually but he can kill them all or at least attempt to kill them all.

The war is raged by Satan in the flesh as he tries to kill all the saints. The war is won by the saints as they overcome him by the blood of the lamb, the word of their testimony and they loved not their lives unto death. Satan thought by killing Jesus on the cross that he could destroy him. Yet that was downfall. Once again he thinks he can wipe out the Church, the Body of Christ, by killing them all, he will be wrong again for we do not battle against flesh and blood, our battle is won in the spiritual realm as the physical realm tries to do away with us........bro Frank

Satan makes war with the Saints and overcomes them with false doctrine. He has many believing as the Jews do, that a Deliverer is coming that will be a political and nationalistic Deliverer. Jesus rejected this the first time and it is just as false the second time. And because the Jews did not have eyes to see and ears to hear, they missed/rejected their Messiah. Now, many Christians do not have ears to hear and eyes to see, and are creating an innumerable amount of fables because they are taking all figurative, symbolic language and interpreting it as physical which produces very strange things.

It was the Jews that were persecuting Paul for preaching the "Hope of Israel". What was the Hope of Israel that Paul was preaching that the Jews did not agree with? Was it that a physical Deliverer did not matter any more? Was Paul telling the Jews that Jesus Christ was a spiritual Deliverer to save them from their sins? Or do you think Paul told them that "the Lord is coming again as a physical Deliverer to set up His kingdom on earth and you will be able to be saved then? I don't think Paul was telling them that because he continue to receive persecution. I think he was telling them that Jesus Christ, whom they rejected is your Messiah and you need to repent because He is not coming to deliver you from your carnal enemies, He wants to deliver you from your sins.

Paul believed he was living in the last days and that the Lord was coming. Something about Paul's preaching, about the "Hope of Israel" riled up the Jews? Why would they be riled up if Paul was agreeing with them that the Messiah was coming again to setup up His spiritual kingdom on earth?

Paul preached about the resurrection of the dead, both of the just and the unjust and he preached Jesus Christ and Him crucified.

Act 24:14 But this I confess unto thee, that after the way which they call heresy, so worship I the God of my fathers, believing all things which are written in the law and in the prophets:
Act 24:15 And have hope toward God, which they themselves also allow, that there shall be a resurrection of the dead, both of the just and unjust.

Paul could have avoided a lot of persecution if he only agreed with the Jews that a Kingly Messiah would bring His kingdom to earth and rid the Jewish nation of their carnal enemies.

Act 24:14 But this I confess unto thee, that after the way which they call heresy, so worship I the God of my fathers, believing all things which are written in the law and in the prophets:

Even though Paul said this in 24:14, there is no mention that his gospel was a gospel of an earthly reign over Israel's enemies.

No mention of a physical Deliverer, here either.
Act 26:20 But shewed first unto them of Damascus, and at Jerusalem, and throughout all the coasts of Judaea, and then to the Gentiles, that they should repent and turn to God, and do works meet for repentance.
Act 26:21 For these causes the Jews caught me in the temple, and went about to kill me.

Act 26:22 Having therefore obtained help of God, I continue unto this day, witnessing both to small and great, saying none other things than those which the prophets and Moses did say should come:

Obviously, Paul never mentioned anything about a future Israeli kingdom on earth with a Messiah that puts down their carnal enemies.

And what did he preach? Jesus Christ and Him crucified!

Acts 26:23 That Christ should suffer, and that he should be the first that should rise from the dead, and should shew light unto the people, and to the Gentiles.

Paul could have saved himself a lot of persecution if he only preached of a future kingdom on earth where neighboring enemies were subdued by the Messiah.

Last verses of the book of Acts:
Act 28:27 For the heart of this people is waxed gross, and their ears are dull of hearing, and their eyes have they closed; lest they should see with their eyes, and hear with their ears, and understand with their heart, and should be converted, and I should heal them.
Act 28:28 Be it known therefore unto you, that the salvation of God is sent unto the Gentiles, and that they will hear it.
Act 28:29 And when he had said these words, the Jews departed, and had great reasoning among themselves.
Act 28:30 And Paul dwelt two whole years in his own hired house, and received all that came in unto him,
Act 28:31 Preaching the kingdom of God, and teaching those things which concern the Lord Jesus Christ, with all confidence, no man forbidding him.

Paul did not teach the Jews about "signs" as many dispensationlists and millenialists do, today. They are all about signs and interpreting world events with the Bible.

1Co 1:22 For the Jews require a sign, and the Greeks seek after wisdom:
1Co 1:23 But we preach Christ crucified, unto the Jews a stumblingblock, and unto the Greeks foolishness;

Why is the Christian Church telling ethnic Israel that a political, nationalistic Deliverer is coming? To avoid persecution? No, I don't think so. I think they really believe it.

your words are false, and bear no truth in them.

Post deleted

Brother, respectfully, I ask please keep to the OP. The question is has satan been defeated today? Please keep your posts on the intent of this thread.

Bro Blaine

Yep, sorry about the rabbit trail. I did respond to the op.

And your response had good thoughts. Gave me some things to think about.

Bro Blaine

Sister you had some good thoughts regarding Romans 6. Christ died in 2000 years ago and defeated Satan at the cross. Romans 6 tells us that we were crucified with Christ. His death isn't actual objective historical fact. Our death with him is a spiritual reality. But the fact that we continue to struggle to reckon ourselves as dead in Christ. Is the issue our faith?

I don't know just pondering what you shared.

Brother Blaine

Luke 10:18

I was watching Satan fall from Heaven like lightning.

Reelation 12:9

And the great dragon was thrown down, the serpent of old who is called the devil and Satan, who deceives the whole world, he was thrown down to the Earth, and his angels were thrown down with him.

Are these the same event?

I think it is hard for many people to separate what victory means and what victory looks like. I want folks, especially you Julias and dont take this as negative against you, but it is really important to look at the cross. Look at Jesus on the cross. Nailed up there, rejected, tortured, stripped naked, taken outside the city to the garbage dump, and killed there. A notorious and ignominious death. This is victory, this is what the defeat of Satan looks like. The world and the spirit of the world hates this. This physical death looks like anything but victory, but it is and He made an open shame of Satan, by this death, according to Scripture.

" Forgive them Father for they know not what they do." Can you hear the chains falling brothers and sisters? The chains of hell and sin and death. Foolishness to those that are perishing, victory and glory to the saints. Satan will soon be loosed once more only this time will be his end. Satan himself will come in the anti-christ and he will get what he has always wanted. Every tribe, every tongue, every nation will bow down to him. This is what, in the very beginning, caused his fall, pride. He thought he could take Gods place! And now here he is, every living being bowing down to him. But wait, what will darkness do with the light of the saints? What will he do with the bearers of the truth? What did he do to Jesus? He will try and kill every voice that stands against him. But that's okay, for the saints overcome him as Jesus overcame him. Not by avoiding death, but by embracing it and crying out like Jesus did, not rendering evil for evil. This is how evil is defeated. This is the victory, Satan may destroy our bodies, like he did with the Apostles, but victory reigns eternally in the spirit of the saints. Praise God Satan was defeated at Calvary and millions of saints after Him were able to follow His example and even after the great falling away, God's remnant saints in these last days will follow His leading and we will take up our crosses willingly by the power of the Spirit that burns inside of us............bro Frank

Not taking it wrong at all, Frank. Very good!

Jesus did not look like a powerful messiah, someone who could lead armies and deliver men. Thus, He was rejected, amongst other reasons.

Isaiah 53 tells us this:

he hath no form nor comeliness;
and when we shall see him, there is no beauty that we should desire him.
He is despised and rejected of men;
a man of sorrows, and acquainted with grief:
and we hid as it were our faces from him;
he was despised, and we esteemed him not.

But, in His humility and willingness to become obedient even unto death on the cross, He demonstrated love for us and showed us the path to victory. His crucifixion became the single most powerful act in all of human history. That is not typically how man views overcoming.

We identify with Jesus and He in turns identifies with us as He has shown us the way of victory, the path to overcoming, the cross, becomes our victory as it was His victory, our touchstone of faith, as Jessie Penn-Lewis puts it.

It is in dying that we live.

2 Timothy 2:12
If we suffer, we shall also reign with him: if we deny him, he also will deny us:

And I love this verse because we are meant to reign in life, by His life.

Romans 5:17
For if by one man's offence death reigned by one; much more they which receive abundance of grace and of the gift of righteousness shall reign in life by one, Jesus Christ.)

Good word brother Frank!

" Forgive them Father for they know not what they do." Can you hear the chains falling brothers and sisters? The chains of hell and sin and death. Foolishness to those that are perishing, victory and glory to the saints. Satan will soon be loosed once more only this time will be his end. Satan himself will come in the anti-christ and he will get what he has always wanted. Every tribe, every tongue, every nation will bow down to him. This is what, in the very beginning, caused his fall, pride. He thought he could take Gods place! And now here he is, every living being bowing down to him. But wait, what will darkness do with the light of the saints? What will he do with the bearers of the truth? What did he do to Jesus? He will try and kill every voice that stands against him. But that's okay, for the saints overcome him as Jesus overcame him. Not by avoiding death, but by embracing it and crying out like Jesus did, not rendering evil for evil. This is how evil is defeated. This is the victory, Satan may destroy our bodies, like he did with the Apostles, but victory reigns eternally in the spirit of the saints. Praise God Satan was defeated at Calvary and millions of saints after Him were able to follow His example and even after the great falling away, God's remnant saints in these last days will follow His leading and we will take up our crosses willingly by the power of the Spirit that burns inside of us.

Excellent exhortation dear brother Frank. It is clear from Scripture that at the Cross the power of the enemy has been vanquished but we must still claim this victory and walk in it daily. And even overcome through death and martyrdom a victory over earthly end-time demonic forces. Death has been conquered we are not to fear it. That in itself is victory over satan. Hallelujah.

by TMK on 2016/4/23 17:53:34

quote: "It is not by any effort on our part, but in the 'reckoning' of Romans 6."

I have a minor qualm about this. Primarily because 1 Peter 5:8 tells us to be "sober" and "vigilant." To me at least, that implies effort on our part.

and Blaine on 2016/4/23 23:27

Sister you had some good thoughts regarding Romans 6. Christ died in 2000 years ago and defeated Satan at the cross. Romans 6 tells us that we were crucified with Christ. His death isn't actual objective historical fact. Our death with him is a spiritual reality. But the fact that we continue to struggle to reckon ourselves as dead in Christ. Is the issue our faith?

I don't know just pondering what you shared.

Brother Blaine

Brothers, It is an issue of faith to enter into His rest. (Most make the mistake that it is by works - working out our sanctification.) Faith that He came to save us from sin. We must reckon ourselves done with it - absolutely. He gives the power to deliver us from the old man.

But after that, yes there is a requirement from us. To hold that position ie crucified with Christ, we must be vigilant and sober, being careful not to start to rely on our flesh once more. If we do that we will soon find ourselves back in our former position where Satan has ground and will deceive us. He does not have to bother much with the unsaved - they willjust get on with their sinning. It is Christians that are deceived by him.

Brothers and sisters thank you for your thoughts and excellent posts on this thread. Much to think about. But I think based on the consensus of what you are sharing we believe that Satan is defeated today. But we must claim that victory over Satan in a walk of faith in Jesus Christ. Faith in His work on the cross and his resurrection from the grave. Faith that His resurrected spirit is now living in us to help us walk out that faith. His victory over Satan.

I apologize I could not respond individually to each excellent post here. But thank you again for posting and your spirit by which you posted.

I think this thread has shown what a good discussion can be on a forum. And dear Saints thank you so much for keeping the pots and pans in the kitchen where they belong. :-)

Will be thinking some more on our victory over Satan and posting from time to time as the Spirit gives lead.

Brother Blaine

Amen, Brenda. The unbelievers are held captive by his (Satan's) will.

The purpose of Christ’s coming into the world was to destroy the works of the Devil:
1 John 3:8
the one who practices sin is of the devil; for the devil has sinned from the beginning. The Son of God appeared for this purpose, to destroy the works of the devil.

Heb. 2:14
Therefore, since the children share in flesh and blood, He Himself likewise also partook of the same, that through death He might render powerless him who had the power of death, that is, the devil,

Jesus has ALREADY won the victory over the Devil.
Col. 2:13-15
When you were dead in your transgressions and the uncircumcision of your flesh, He made you alive together with Him, having forgiven us all our transgressions, having canceled out the certificate of debt consisting of decrees against us, which was hostile to us; and He has taken it out of the way, having nailed it to the cross. When He had disarmed the rulers and authorities, He made a public display of them, having triumphed over them through Him.

In His death for the sins of men and His triumphant resurrection, Christ broke the "bonds of death,” and therefore destroyed Satan’s ultimate power over mankind. The Gospel, which is the good news of the victory Christ has won for us, is the "chain” which binds Satan’s power.

This DOES NOT mean that Satan is not still active within certain spheres of worldly influence.

1. Peter says he is a roaring lion

1 Pet. 5:8
Be of sober spirit, be on the alert. Your adversary, the devil, prowls around like a roaring lion, seeking someone to devour.

However, in this same context Peter goes on to tell Christians that they can resist him and overcome him.

1 Pet. 5:9-10
But resist him, firm in your faith, knowing that the same experiences of suffering are being accomplished by your brethren who are in the world. After you have suffered for a little while, the God of all grace, who called you to His eternal glory in Christ, will Himself perfect, confirm, strengthen and establish you.

James also gives this instruction:
James 4:6-10
But He gives a greater grace. Therefore it says, "GOD IS OPPOSED TO THE PROUD, BUT GIVES GRACE TO THE HUMBLE.” Submit therefore to God. Resist the devil and he will flee from you.
Draw near to God and He will draw near to you. Cleanse your hands, you sinners; and purify your hearts, you double-minded.
Be miserable and mourn and weep; let your laughter be turned into mourning and your joy to gloom.Humble yourselves in the presence of the Lord, and He will exalt you.

Satan is like a viscous dog chained to a pole. A dog does not cease to be viscous just because he is chained. If you enter within the range to which he is limited, he is still very dangerous. However, his range is limited or restricted. He is bound.

Before Christ’s death and resurrection ”“ before the Gospel plan of salvation went into operation ”” the whole world lay in darkness due to Satan’s uninhibited dominion.

It was only the Jewish nation that kept the knowledge of the true and living God alive, and they frequently turned aside from God’s laws and became idolatrous.

What Revelation is telling us (Satan bound for a thousand years) is that during the "thousand years” (a long but indefinite period) during which Satan is bound, he is unable to destroy Christianity through a universal persecution. Notice these facts:

1. He tried it in the days of the early church, using the pagan Roman Empire as his instrument to persecute the church (Acts. 8:1).

2. Thousands suffered and died for the faith, but the Lord’s church was not wiped out or destroyed.

3. The reign of Christ has continued throughout more than 2000 years of persecution and opposition.

4. It will continue until the end of this world, when Christ returns to raise the dead, judge all men, and receive the faithful to himself (2 Thess. 1:7-10).

5. He will then deliver the Kingdom BACK to the Father.
1 Cor. 15:20-26
20* But now Christ has been raised from the dead, the first fruits of those who are asleep. 6
21* For since by a man came death, by a man also came the resurrection of the dead.
22* For as in Adam all die, so also in Christ all will be made alive.
23* But each in his own order: Christ the first fruits, after that those who are Christ’s at His coming,
24* then comes the end, when He hands over the kingdom to the God and Father, when He has abolished all rule and all authority and power.
25* For He must reign until He has put all His enemies under His feet.
26* The last enemy that will be abolished is death.

Brother I agree. Indeed Eph. 3:10 is showing that God is working out His Victory, His Victorious Life in Jesus over the demonic realm, through his bride the church.

Bro Blaine

Brother thank you for your thoughtful posts on this thread. Indeed you are so right. The evil one cannot touch the true believer in Christ. Such a verse to take comfort in. Such a verse to know about our victory in Jesus.

Bro Blaine

Brother thank you for your thoughtful post. You are always centered on the word. And I do agree that ultimately one day the enemy will be thrown into the Lake of fire. And for sure our victory assured in Jesus by what he has done to the cross.

Bro Blaine

My brother I so appreciated your short answer. I know that answer came from my s heart filled with Jesus. So appreciate your posts.

Brother we miss you on the Friday night calls. I hope you will return soon.

Brother Blaine

My sister Welcome to the forum. I always appreciate reading your posts. Very good insights from what your shared.

Bro Blaine

My Scottish brother you are ever so right on in your posts.

Bro Blaine

Brother thank you for your posts. And you are right we have to put on that Ephesians armor. By putting on the armor we know that we are backed by the authority of heaven. By the authority of Jesus Himself.

And brother you had every right to rebuke me on that other thread. Your rebuje caused me to come to repentance. That is why I opened up this thread on our victory over Satan. Because like you brother I too can be deceived by the enemy. But if we put on that armor. We can resist him.

Brother Blaine

As Brenda mentioned, nothing is automatic, we cannot give ground to the enemy. What has been given by God must be possessed by faith.

And Blane mentions we must put on the whole armor of God (Jesus Christ).

What happened when the children of Israel disobeyed the Lord and went after other gods?

What happens when the Believer disobeys Jesus, lusting and going after other gods?

1 Corinthians 10:1-12

Moreover, brethren, I would not that ye should be ignorant, how that all our fathers were under the cloud, and all passed through the sea; And were all baptized unto Moses in the cloud and in the sea; And did all eat the same spiritual meat; And did all drink the same spiritual drink: for they drank of that spiritual Rock that followed them: and that Rock was Christ. But with many of them God was not well pleased: for they were overthrown in the wilderness.

Now these things were our examples, to the intent we should not lust after evil things, as they also lusted. Neither be ye idolaters, as were some of them; as it is written, The people sat down to eat and drink, and rose up to play. Neither let us commit fornication, as some of them committed, and fell in one day three and twenty thousand. Neither let us tempt Christ, as some of them also tempted, and were destroyed of serpents. Neither murmur ye, as some of them also murmured, and were destroyed of the destroyer. Now all these things happened unto them for ensamples: and they are written for our admonition, upon whom the ends of the world are come.
Wherefore let him that thinketh he standeth take heed lest he fall.

"And brother you had every right to rebuke me on that other thread. Your rebuje caused me to come to repentance. That is why I opened up this thread on our victory over Satan. Because like you brother I too can be deceived by the enemy. But if we put on that armor. We can resist him."

I thank God that He did that in you brother. I can't even remember the thread actually or what I wrote, I just hope I was loving and kind. God bless you my dear friend. I love you and love your precious heart of humility.

Water under the bridge bro. But I think of the verse that says the kiss of an enemy is death. But faithful are the wounds of a friend.

Because of you're loving rebuke ( although at the time it hurt) I have tried to be careful what I post in this forum.

Blessings to you my brother. Next time in Houston I hope we can put some shrimp on the barbie. You are Aussie aren't you. Frank tells me you're not South African. :-)

Bro Blaine