...And what happens if Satan decides to go past the limit?
I've written about Satan in a previous post and referred to this article. Here's what the article says about Satan (and his power):
Satan became the ruler of this world and the prince of the power of the air (John 12:31; 2 Corinthians 4:4; Ephesians 2:2). He is an accuser (Revelation 12:10), a tempter (Matthew 4:3; 1 Thessalonians 3:5), and a deceiver (Genesis 3; 2 Corinthians 4:4; Revelation 20:3). His very name means “adversary” or “one who opposes.” Another of his titles, the devil, means “slanderer.”
It is true that Satan has some abilities to influence people. But they are limited, meaning Satan cannot go past them, no matter how hard he tries.
1. He has the ability to influence non-believers. 2 Cor. 4:4 tell us that Satan is the "god of this world" and "has blinded the minds of the unbelievers, to keep them from seeing the light of the gospel of the glory of Christ, who is the image of God." In other words, Satan has the power to push false philosophies, evil thoughts and wrong belief systems onto those who do not know Christ. He keeps them in "darkness" (apart from God) whereas Christ brings them into the light (John 1:4-5). Here is an excerpt from an article about this very topic (read it HERE):
An example of a false philosophy might be a belief that man can earn God's favor by a certain act or acts. In fact, earning eternal life is a predominate theme around the world. Earning God's favor by works, however, is contrary to biblical revelation. Man cannot work to earn God's favor; eternal life is a free gift (see Ephesians 2:8-9). And that free gift is available through Jesus Christ and Him alone (John 3:16; 14:6). You may ask why does mankind simply not receive the free gift that enables them to truly be called children of God (John 1:12)? The answer is that Satan—the god of this world—pushes a false philosophy onto the world. Satan sets the agenda, the unbelieving world follows, and mankind continues to be deceived. It is no wonder that Scripture calls Satan a liar (John 8:44).
2. He continues to have the power to influence people after they become Christians. Listen to what Peter says concerning the devil's power: "Be sober-minded; be watchful. Your adversary the devil prowls around like a roaring lion, seeking someone to devour" (1 Peter 5:8). This knowledge, however, should not frighten us because Jesus Christ is our Lord and he has a greater power than the devil (see Luke 4:13). In fact, Scripture tell Christians that they have the power to resist the devil (James 4:7) by relying on God's strength and truth (Ephesians 6:11). Additionally, Scripture tells us that God will not let us be tempted by Satan beyond our ability. This means there is always a way to avoid sin, even in the most confusing situations:
"No temptation has overtaken you that is not common to man. God is faithful, and he will not let you be tempted beyond your ability, but with the temptation he will also provide the way of escape, that you may be able to endure it" (1 Cor. 10:13)
Hope this helps you friend. Take heart, as Satan is limited. He is not all-powerful. In fact, one day he will be brought to justice and his influence will be put to a complete end (Revelation 20:10).
[Answered by Pastor HM]
