Topical Encyclopedia Satan, a central figure in Christian theology, is often referred to as "The Accuser of Our Brethren," a title that underscores his role as the adversary of humanity and the divine. This title is derived from Revelation 12:10 , which states, "Then I heard a loud voice in heaven saying: 'Now have come the salvation and the power and the kingdom of our God, and the authority of His Christ. For the accuser of our brothers has been thrown down, he who accuses them day and night before our God.'"Origins and Role Satan's origins are traditionally linked to his rebellion against God. Isaiah 14:12-15 and Ezekiel 28:12-17 are often interpreted as references to Satan's fall from grace, describing a once-glorious being who sought to exalt himself above God. This rebellion led to his expulsion from heaven, marking the beginning of his role as the adversary. In the Old Testament, Satan appears in the Book of Job as a member of the divine council, where he challenges the integrity of Job, a righteous man. Job 1:9-11 records Satan's accusation: "Does Job fear God for nothing? Have You not placed a hedge on every side around him and his household and all that he owns? You have blessed the work of his hands, and his possessions have increased in the land. But stretch out Your hand and strike all that he has, and he will surely curse You to Your face." New Testament Depictions The New Testament further elaborates on Satan's role as the accuser and tempter. In the Gospels, Satan tempts Jesus in the wilderness, attempting to derail His mission (Matthew 4:1-11). Jesus' resistance to these temptations underscores His sinless nature and His authority over Satan. Satan's role as the accuser is also evident in the writings of the apostles. In 1 Peter 5:8 , believers are warned, "Be sober-minded and alert. Your adversary the devil prowls around like a roaring lion, seeking someone to devour." This imagery highlights Satan's relentless pursuit of believers, seeking to undermine their faith and accuse them before God. Spiritual Warfare The concept of spiritual warfare is deeply intertwined with Satan's role as the accuser. Ephesians 6:11-12 instructs believers to "Put on the full armor of God, so that you can make your stand against the devil’s schemes. For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this world’s darkness, and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms." Believers are called to resist Satan's accusations and temptations through faith, prayer, and adherence to God's Word. James 4:7 offers a promise of victory: "Submit yourselves, then, to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you." Final Defeat The ultimate defeat of Satan is a central theme in Christian eschatology. Revelation 20:10 prophesies his final judgment: "And the devil who had deceived them was thrown into the lake of fire and sulfur, where the beast and the false prophet are. And they will be tormented day and night forever and ever." This passage assures believers of Satan's eventual downfall and the triumph of God's kingdom. Throughout Scripture, Satan is depicted as a formidable adversary, yet one whose power is limited by God's sovereignty. His role as the accuser serves as a reminder of the spiritual battle faced by believers, who are called to stand firm in their faith and trust in the redemptive work of Christ. Nave's Topical Index Revelation 12:10And I heard a loud voice saying in heaven, Now is come salvation, and strength, and the kingdom of our God, and the power of his Christ: for the accuser of our brothers is cast down, which accused them before our God day and night. Nave's Topical Index Library Rejoicings of the victors. Christ the Conqueror of Satan Snares of Satan. Snares of Satan Joshua and the Angel The Work of Christ. The Meaning "It is Finished" A vision of Judgement and Cleansing Introduction Resources How much power does Satan possess? | GotQuestions.orgIs Satan in hell? Where is Satan? | GotQuestions.org Does Satan exist? | GotQuestions.org Satan: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Subtopics Satan: Apollyon (Greek: Destroyer) Satan: Called Abaddon (Hebrew: Destroyer) Satan: Kingdom of, to be Destroyed Satan: The Accuser of Our Brethren Satan: The Angel of the Bottomless Pit Satan: The Prince of the Power of the Air Satan: The Prince of This World Satan: The Prince: Ruler of the Darkness of This World Satan: The Prince: The God of This World Satan: The Prince: The Serpent Satan: The Prince: The Spirit That Works in all Disobedient People Satan: The Prince: The Tempter Satan: The Prince: The Wicked One Satan: The Prince: Unclean Spirit Satan: Unclassified Scriptures Relating To Related Terms |