Who is the creator

NO reputable and recognized greek scholar would affirm the translation the "word was a god"
You mean a trinity believing Greek scholar wont. They have 0 explanation of why The Greek word given to the Word( John 1:1) and satan 2Cor 4:4 can be translated differently in that circumstance. Catholicism put God to the Word in error to fit false council teachings.
 
Plus ALL can look up John 1:1 and 2 Cor 4:4 in Greek by googling it- they find-The true living God at both spots is called a different Greek word than either the Word or satan is called.
You have been corrected on this innumerable times: it is the same exact word(s), but different cases depending on the grammatical role they play in the sentence. For instance “the god” (ho theos) is used of Satan, “the god of this world…”. We only capitalize the G when “ho theos” is in reference to one who is God.


Doug
 
I noticed in the Bible it always seemed to be past-tense
Greek lesson: Greek verbs primarily express the type of action and do not necessarily convey a time frame, that is past, present, or future. These are implied by their use in context.

I’m not sure to which passages you are referring specifically, but my cursory check finds that the Aorist tense is used, which indicates that the action of sanctification is a completed action.

If the Perfect tense is used, it means that the action was completed (at some point in the past) and the results of the action are still currently in force.

Present tense means the action is currently actively happening/in process.

Imperfect tense means the action was actively occurring/in process relative to the time of the writing.

Again, the time element is not the primary function of the Greek verb, put rather the state of completion of the verb, that is is the action complete or incomplete, on going or finished relative to the time of the writing.

Doug
 
Then how do you explain Greek scholars putting a god at John 1:1 in their translations? Abner Kneeland-1822-Compared Greek to English, side by side in his NT translation to prove to the world a god is correct. Plus ALL can look up John 1:1 and 2 Cor 4:4 in Greek by googling it- they find-The true living God at both spots is called a different Greek word than either the Word or satan is called. These 2 spots are the only 2 spots in NT where 2 are called God and god. The only possible reason the Word is given a different word, like satan is at 2 Cor 4:4 is to show the difference of God and god. One cannot translate both spots different=a god is 100% correct.
Are you calling Satan a god?
 
I’m not sure to which passages you are referring specifically, but my cursory check finds that the Aorist tense is used, which indicates that the action of sanctification is a completed action.
I'm talking about Christians, not mankind. If you are presently a born again Christian, you were sanctified at the time you were justified. Does that make more sense?

And sanctified in the past tense that first jumped out at me was in Hebrews 10:26-31. That is why I prayed and asked God what He called the process that the Church calls sanctification. He answered immediately and I heard Him say, "glorification."

What do you think of Romans 8:30 and 1 Corinthians 6:11
 
And sanctified in the past tense that first jumped out at me was in Hebrews 10:26-31.
ἡγιάσθη (Hagiastha) is an Aorist verb, indicative mood, passive voice. The past tense sense is only a relative sense.

In this context, the term infers being set apart from unbelievers who are not yet saved.

Sanctify has both the idea of separation from the common, and being cleansed, purified, or made holy.

Doug
 
ἡγιάσθη (Hagiastha) is an Aorist verb, indicative mood, passive voice. The past tense sense is only a relative sense.

In this context, the term infers being set apart from unbelievers who are not yet saved.

Sanctify has both the idea of separation from the common, and being cleansed, purified, or made holy.

Doug
But it is NOT a life long process, otherwise justification is too. 1 Corinthians 6:11. Are you defending your Weslyan theology rather than the Word of God? This is why I left ALL man-made denominations. Do you not accept God glorifying us as the process? Don't take my word for it, ask His yourself like I did.

Wait a minute. Has God never spoken to you?

Good night.
 
But it is NOT a life long process, otherwise justification is too. 1 Corinthians 6:11.
Growing in Christ is a part of the process and thus in that sense, it is a lifelong process. That was Peter’s point in 2 Peter 1:10Therefore, my brothers and sisters, make every effort to confirm your calling and election. For if you do these things, you will never stumble, 11and you will receive a rich welcome into the eternal kingdom of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.

Are you defending your Weslyan theology rather than the Word of God?
Don’t we all think that the Word of God is the same as our theology? To defend one should be to defend the other.
This is why I left ALL man-made denominations.
Was not Jack Hayford’s church a denomination?

Do you not accept God glorifying us as the process?

Glorification is the end of the process. The final consummation of our redemption wherein we are made perfect forever.


Don't take my word for it,

Don’t worry, I won’t! ;)
ask His yourself like I did.

I have many times, and thus I speak what I have learned from him.
Wait a minute. Has God never spoken to you?

Good night.
Many times in my 49 years since I was saved. (And I believe once audibly, but that doesn’t mean anything as far as this conversation goes.)


Doug
 
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Are you calling Satan a god?
2 Cor 4:4 The god of this age has blinded the minds of unbelievers, so that they cannot see the light of the gospel that displays the glory of Christ, who is the image of God.

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Is God or Satan in control of this world?—god of this world

Bible Question:​

Is God or Satan in control of this world?

Bible Answer:​

Satan Tempts Jesus Christ

Satan Tempts Jesus Christ


Who is the god of this world? 2 Corinthians 4:4 says that whoever the god of this world is, he has blinded the minds of the unbelievers that they will not see, that is believe, in the gospel of Christ, who is God, and be saved.

In whose case the god of this world has blinded the minds of the unbelieving so that they might not see the light of the gospel of the glory of Christ, who is the image of God. 2 Corinthians 4:4 (NASB)

God of this World Identified​

John 12:31 refers to this being as the ruler of this world.

Now judgment is upon this world; now the ruler of this world will be cast out. John 12:31 (NASB)
It is clear that no human is reigning as a king over this world today. That is, this ruler is invisible. 1 John 5:19 adds that the whole world is under the control of the evil one. That is, the god of this world or the ruler of this world is evil. He is called the evil one.

Ephesians 2:1-2 calls this god or ruler the prince of the power of the air. The picture that is given to us is a being who has great power. The passage also says he is a spirit; that is, he is an evil angel (Daniel 10:13-20). He is part of the demonic world. He is clearly not a holy angel. Revelation 20:3 adds that he deceives the whole world. This evil angel acts as if he is the god of this world.

Revelation 12:9 helps us identify this god of the world, the ruler of this world, the evil one, and the prince of the power of the air. The verse reveals that this being was the serpent in Genesis 3. He is also called the devil and Satan.

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. Revelation 12:9 (NASB)
The verse also reveals that he is an angel. Verses 7-8 reveal that Satan has an army of angels. Jesus tells us in Luke 10:17–18 that He saw Satan fall from heaven like lightning. He fell from heaven because he wanted to become God (Isaiah 14:12-15; Ezekiel 28:11-17). In those passages we discover that Satan was a cherub or an angel who wanted to become God. That was his first sin. As a result, he was cast out of heaven along with one-third of the angels in heaven (Revelation 12:3-4). 1 John 3:8 adds that the devil practices sin and he has sinned from the beginning. That is, Satan or the devil is an evil angel.

Now we are ready for Acts 26:18 which records the words of the apostle Paul. The verse describes part of the ministry that was given to Paul. He was called . . .

. . . to open their eyes so that they may turn from darkness to light and from the dominion of Satan to God, that they may receive forgiveness of sins and an inheritance among those who have been sanctified by faith in Me. Acts 26:18 (NASB)
Notice that Satan is not in total control. By the preaching of the gospel, Satan will lose control of people when they believe in Christ. At that point, they escape the control of Satan. So, the god of this world is Satan, but he is a “lower-case god” and not the God of the Bible.

God of this World’s Authority​

This reveals that Satan was created as an angel. Even though he is called the god of this world, the ruler of this world, the evil one, the prince of the power of the air, and the deceiver of the whole world, he is only a created angel—an evil angel. His power is limited.

The book of Job reveals that Satan had to obtain God’s permission to test Job (Job 1:12; 2:6), for God had placed a “hedge” around Job to protect him. So in order to afflict Job, God had to drop the hedge and allow Satan to test him. Another important passage that reveals Satan does not have total control over the world is Luke 22:31. It reveals that Satan had asked for permission to sift Peter like wheat. That is, if and when Satan desires to do so, he cannot just attack those who believe in God. He must obtain permission from God. Satan is a “god” only in a figurative and limited sense.

Romans 16:20 adds that eventually Satan will be crushed. He will be crushed by Christ (Revelation 19:19-20:2) at His second coming. In addition, Luke 4:5-6 indicates that God has given Satan control over this world.

And he led Him up and showed Him all the kingdoms of the world in a moment of time. And the devil said to Him, “I will give You all this domain and its glory; for it has been handed over to me, and I give it to whomever I wish.” Luke 4:5-6 (NASB)
But Satan’s authority and power is limited and temporary. This evil angel is a god of this world only in a limited sense. He is only a god. He is not God.

God of this World’s Permissions​

Further proof that Satan has limited power is revealed in the book of Job. Job 1:13-15 states that he can cause animals and people to be killed. He can cause lightning and wind (Job 1:16, 19). A number of passages reveal that he can cause sickness (Job 2:7; 1 Corinthians 5:5). Satan can cause people pain (2 Corinthians 12:7).

2 Thessalonians 2:8-9 indicates that he has great powers that will be revealed to the world in the future. God allows him to prowl around looking for people to devour (Job 1:7; 1 Peter 5:8). Zechariah 3:1 reveals that he accuses believers. Numerous passages state that Satan tempts unbelievers and believers (Matthew 16:23; Luke 22:3; Acts 5:3; 1 Corinthians 7:5). He can also hinder the ministry of believers (1 Thessalonians 2:18). He can cause us suffering (1 Timothy 1:20).

God is allowing Satan to appear as an angel of light (2 Corinthians 11:14). The most likely reason is to confirm those who have rejected God in their unbelief. Then Satan offers a smorgasbord of different false religions and cults that will satisfy those who have already rejected God (Revelation 2:9, 24).

Finally, after Christ died on the cross so that our sins can be forgiven, Satan can no longer use sin to cause men and women to die spiritually and go to hell.

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. Hebrews 2:14 (NASB)
Hebrews 2:14 clearly states that Satan has lost power. The god of this world has very limited power.

Conclusion​

So, how can believers survive in this world against the power of such an evil angel? Both Ephesians 6:11-13 and James 4:7 tell believers to resist Satan. The passages do not tell us to fight or rebuke Satan. They say we are to resist him.

Put on the full armor of God, so that you will be able to stand firm against the schemes of the devil. For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the powers, against the world forces of this darkness, against the spiritual forces of wickedness in the heavenly places. Therefore, take up the full armor of God, so that you will be able to resist in the evil day, and having done everything, to stand firm. Ephesians 6:11-13 (NASB)

Submit therefore to God. Resist the devil and he will flee from you. James 4:7 (NASB)
Remember that we can resist Satan because he is not the true God of the Scriptures. Some day Satan will be thrown into hell or the lake of fire for all eternity (Revelation 20:10). Praise the Lord.



Is Satan the world's god?
Is Satan considered the god of this world?​
Meaning of the Phrase “god of this world”
The phrase often arises from 2 Corinthians 4:4, which states, “The god of this age has blinded the minds of unbelievers so they cannot see the light of the gospel of the glory of Christ, who is the image of God.” Some translations render “god of this age” as “god of this world.” In this context, the title describes the adversary’s (Satan’s) role: leading a system of thought, culture, and practice that stands in opposition to the purposes of God.
Satan’s power, according to Scripture, is limited by the ultimate sovereignty of the true God, but he holds significant sway over those who remain in unbelief. The idea is that Satan actively blinds hearts and minds to prevent people from recognizing and embracing the truth of the gospel.
Biblical Background and Terminology
Several passages bolster this understanding of Satan’s authority on earth. John 12:31 designates him as the “prince of this world.” Ephesians 2:2 describes him as “the ruler of the power of the air, the spirit who is now at work in the sons of disobedience.” These descriptions present Satan as occupying a leadership position in realms of spiritual darkness, influencing human behavior and societies.
In the Old Testament, Isaiah 14:12-15 and Ezekiel 28:12-19 use imagery, originally directed at prideful earthly rulers, to illustrate the fall and pride of a being who sought to elevate himself above God. Early Jewish writings and Qumran texts (from the Dead Sea Scrolls) reflect a belief in personal and active forces of evil, supporting the view that the biblical text accurately preserves the concept of an adversary with real influence.
Nature and Scope of Satan’s Influence
1. Spiritual Deception
Satan’s primary strategy involves deception, as indicated in John 8:44: “He was a murderer from the beginning, refusing to uphold the truth, because there is no truth in him. When he lies, he speaks his native language, because he is a liar and the father of lies.” This deception extends to false teachings, worldly philosophies, and distractions that keep people from understanding or accepting the gospel.
2. Temporary Authority
Although described as a “god” or “prince,” Satan’s authority is temporary and remains subordinate to God’s omnipotence. The Book of Job (Job 1:6-12) recounts how Satan cannot act without God allowing it to fulfill higher purposes. Likewise, Luke 22:31-32 shows Jesus telling Peter that Satan had demanded permission to “sift you like wheat,” but Jesus prayed for Peter’s faith.
3. Impact on Individuals and Nations
Satan’s sphere of influence covers entire cultural or societal structures that oppose God’s moral law and hamper individuals from seeking reconciliation with Him. From a biblical standpoint, his “god of this world” status explains why rampant evil and moral decay persist, as fallen humanity, left unrestrained by Christ’s redemption, gravitates toward sin (Romans 3:10-18).
Sovereignty of God Versus Satan
Scripture upholds the absolute sovereignty of Yahweh, who created all things. Colossians 1:16-17 affirms Jesus Christ’s central role in creation and His sustaining power over everything. While Satan holds a measure of authority in a fallen creation, this does not diminish the ultimate rule of God. Passages such as 1 John 4:4 remind believers: “He who is in you is greater than he who is in the world.”
The resurrection of Christ stands as definitive proof of God’s triumph over the realm of darkness. In 1 Corinthians 15:54-57, the Apostle Paul proclaims victory over sin and death through the risen Christ. Such victory guarantees that Satan’s temporary governance will one day be overtaken by the fullness of God’s kingdom (Revelation 20:10).
Historical Writings and Manuscript Evidence
1. Early Church Testimony
Writings from early Christian leaders (e.g., Ignatius, Polycarp) consistently affirm an active force of evil personified in Satan who, though influential, is already defeated by Christ’s work on the cross. Their letters, preserved in multiple manuscript streams, align with the New Testament portrayal of Satan.
2. Manuscript Reliability
Copies of Paul’s letters, such as in key papyri (e.g., P^46), show a consistent reference to 2 Corinthians 4:4 without textual corruption. Scholars confirm that the phrase “the god of this world” or “the god of this age” remains stable through the transmission history. This consistency reinforces that the notion of Satan in such a role is part of the authentic Pauline message.
3. Archaeological Corroboration
While archaeology mainly addresses historical and cultural contexts, discoveries from sites in the ancient Near East illustrate that biblical locales and references align with established historical realities. This confirms that the biblical worldview of spiritual opposition was not an afterthought but rooted in the region’s accepted belief in real spiritual forces.
Practical Implications
1. Understanding Spiritual Warfare
Recognizing Satan’s role as “god of this world” prepares believers and seekers to expect opposition to the message of Christ. It underscores the need for vigilance, prayer, and reliance on God’s power (Ephesians 6:10-18).
2. Hope in Christ’s Authority
The gospel message is that, despite the spiritual blindness Satan desires to impose, Jesus is the true God and King. In Matthew 28:18, Jesus declares, “All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to Me.” Believers find hope and direction in the assurance that Christ’s ultimate authority eclipses Satan’s limited reign.
3. Call to Redemption
While Satan blinds unbelievers, Scripture insists that the light of Christ can pierce any darkness. As Paul writes in 2 Corinthians 4:6, “For God, who said, ‘Let light shine out of darkness,’ made His light shine in our hearts to give us the light of the knowledge of the glory of God in the face of Jesus Christ.” The invitation remains open for all to receive sight and salvation.
Conclusion
Satan is indeed referred to as the “god of this world” (2 Corinthians 4:4) or “prince of this world” (John 12:31), indicating his significant influence over individuals and societies that have not yielded to God’s truth. However, his authority is neither autonomous nor equal to Yahweh’s. Scriptural testimony, supported by reliable manuscripts and corroborated through early church writings, emphasizes that though Satan exerts a real and dangerous power, it is always eclipsed by the sovereignty of the one true God. Christ’s resurrection signals the ultimate defeat of all evil powers, securing the promise that Satan’s dominion will inevitably come to an end.

 
Growing in Christ is a part of the process and thus in that sense, it is a lifelong process. That was Peter’s point in 2 Peter 1:10Therefore, my brothers and sisters, make every effort to confirm your calling and election. For if you do these things, you will never stumble, 11and you will receive a rich welcome into the eternal kingdom of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.
Of course there is a growth process. Haven't you read my posts. I'll say it again, but feel insulted. I'm saying the process is not called sanctification, but glorification
Was not Jack Hayford’s church a denomination?

Don’t we all think that the Word of God is the same as our theology? To defend one should be to defend the other.

Yes, Jack Hayford is Foursquare. In fact, at one time he was their president. But I haven't lived in California since we moved in 1995. Jack's sermons were anointed, and I don't recall him making any errors, but I've learned so much more now that he didn't know. You defending a denomination instead of being open to more truth are limiting yourself.

Since I've had my gift, I've checked on YouTube and have seen the anointing. It is white. So is the anointing on my pastor at the little country church I attend the most that split from the UMC. I have four I rotate; all different denominations, but all Christian with the fewest errors in three of them, not the one they kicked me out of. 😢 But, I'm going there today for their food bank and get my hugs. 🥰 That SDA church only accepts EGW, their prophetess, as gifted. I told them in their Sabbath school class of older adults about miracles only, and some thought I must have the devil in me so called the pastor. I would never allow them to ask me any questions about what I believed about their doctrines. I would just ask them questions I've heard from their enemies on the radio (Calvary Chapel pastors on "To Every Man An Answer") who said they were a cult who do not believe Jesus is God. They do. I never challenged them. I wasn't attending there for that. I only started going back there because of Heb. 10:25. But seeing as in the Old Testament Jesus appeared as the Angel of the Lord, they think Jesus who is God appeared as Michael the Archangel (Daniel 10) because he, Michael, is called "your prince" (that actually meant he was national Israel's archangel) but not that Jesus was a created being as are angels, like JW's believe. Going to church on Saturdays is not a sin. Not even Sunday is commanded by God. Our Sabbath rest is Today - always present, not one day a week as in the "letter of the law." It is called abiding in Jesus, and He in us.

Glorification is the end of the process. The final consummation of our redemption wherein we are made perfect forever.
See, not open to anything but Weslyan theology. Doug, you can still be Weslyan and accept the corrections and even add to their knowledge. No man-made denomination is infalible. You wouldn't be a traitor.
 
2 Cor 4:4 The god of this age has blinded the minds of unbelievers, so that they cannot see the light of the gospel that displays the glory of Christ, who is the image of God.

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Is God or Satan in control of this world?—god of this world

Bible Question:​

Is God or Satan in control of this world?

Bible Answer:​

Satan Tempts Jesus Christ

Satan Tempts Jesus Christ


Who is the god of this world? 2 Corinthians 4:4 says that whoever the god of this world is, he has blinded the minds of the unbelievers that they will not see, that is believe, in the gospel of Christ, who is God, and be saved.


God of this World Identified​

John 12:31 refers to this being as the ruler of this world.


It is clear that no human is reigning as a king over this world today. That is, this ruler is invisible. 1 John 5:19 adds that the whole world is under the control of the evil one. That is, the god of this world or the ruler of this world is evil. He is called the evil one.

Ephesians 2:1-2 calls this god or ruler the prince of the power of the air. The picture that is given to us is a being who has great power. The passage also says he is a spirit; that is, he is an evil angel (Daniel 10:13-20). He is part of the demonic world. He is clearly not a holy angel. Revelation 20:3 adds that he deceives the whole world. This evil angel acts as if he is the god of this world.

Revelation 12:9 helps us identify this god of the world, the ruler of this world, the evil one, and the prince of the power of the air. The verse reveals that this being was the serpent in Genesis 3. He is also called the devil and Satan.


The verse also reveals that he is an angel. Verses 7-8 reveal that Satan has an army of angels. Jesus tells us in Luke 10:17–18 that He saw Satan fall from heaven like lightning. He fell from heaven because he wanted to become God (Isaiah 14:12-15; Ezekiel 28:11-17). In those passages we discover that Satan was a cherub or an angel who wanted to become God. That was his first sin. As a result, he was cast out of heaven along with one-third of the angels in heaven (Revelation 12:3-4). 1 John 3:8 adds that the devil practices sin and he has sinned from the beginning. That is, Satan or the devil is an evil angel.

Now we are ready for Acts 26:18 which records the words of the apostle Paul. The verse describes part of the ministry that was given to Paul. He was called . . .


Notice that Satan is not in total control. By the preaching of the gospel, Satan will lose control of people when they believe in Christ. At that point, they escape the control of Satan. So, the god of this world is Satan, but he is a “lower-case god” and not the God of the Bible.

God of this World’s Authority​

This reveals that Satan was created as an angel. Even though he is called the god of this world, the ruler of this world, the evil one, the prince of the power of the air, and the deceiver of the whole world, he is only a created angel—an evil angel. His power is limited.

The book of Job reveals that Satan had to obtain God’s permission to test Job (Job 1:12; 2:6), for God had placed a “hedge” around Job to protect him. So in order to afflict Job, God had to drop the hedge and allow Satan to test him. Another important passage that reveals Satan does not have total control over the world is Luke 22:31. It reveals that Satan had asked for permission to sift Peter like wheat. That is, if and when Satan desires to do so, he cannot just attack those who believe in God. He must obtain permission from God. Satan is a “god” only in a figurative and limited sense.

Romans 16:20 adds that eventually Satan will be crushed. He will be crushed by Christ (Revelation 19:19-20:2) at His second coming. In addition, Luke 4:5-6 indicates that God has given Satan control over this world.


But Satan’s authority and power is limited and temporary. This evil angel is a god of this world only in a limited sense. He is only a god. He is not God.

God of this World’s Permissions​

Further proof that Satan has limited power is revealed in the book of Job. Job 1:13-15 states that he can cause animals and people to be killed. He can cause lightning and wind (Job 1:16, 19). A number of passages reveal that he can cause sickness (Job 2:7; 1 Corinthians 5:5). Satan can cause people pain (2 Corinthians 12:7).

2 Thessalonians 2:8-9 indicates that he has great powers that will be revealed to the world in the future. God allows him to prowl around looking for people to devour (Job 1:7; 1 Peter 5:8). Zechariah 3:1 reveals that he accuses believers. Numerous passages state that Satan tempts unbelievers and believers (Matthew 16:23; Luke 22:3; Acts 5:3; 1 Corinthians 7:5). He can also hinder the ministry of believers (1 Thessalonians 2:18). He can cause us suffering (1 Timothy 1:20).

God is allowing Satan to appear as an angel of light (2 Corinthians 11:14). The most likely reason is to confirm those who have rejected God in their unbelief. Then Satan offers a smorgasbord of different false religions and cults that will satisfy those who have already rejected God (Revelation 2:9, 24).

Finally, after Christ died on the cross so that our sins can be forgiven, Satan can no longer use sin to cause men and women to die spiritually and go to hell.


Hebrews 2:14 clearly states that Satan has lost power. The god of this world has very limited power.

Conclusion​

So, how can believers survive in this world against the power of such an evil angel? Both Ephesians 6:11-13 and James 4:7 tell believers to resist Satan. The passages do not tell us to fight or rebuke Satan. They say we are to resist him.


Remember that we can resist Satan because he is not the true God of the Scriptures. Some day Satan will be thrown into hell or the lake of fire for all eternity (Revelation 20:10). Praise the Lord.




Is Satan the world's god?



Is Satan considered the god of this world?


Meaning of the Phrase “god of this world”

The phrase often arises from 2 Corinthians 4:4, which states, “The god of this age has blinded the minds of unbelievers so they cannot see the light of the gospel of the glory of Christ, who is the image of God.” Some translations render “god of this age” as “god of this world.” In this context, the title describes the adversary’s (Satan’s) role: leading a system of thought, culture, and practice that stands in opposition to the purposes of God.
Satan’s power, according to Scripture, is limited by the ultimate sovereignty of the true God, but he holds significant sway over those who remain in unbelief. The idea is that Satan actively blinds hearts and minds to prevent people from recognizing and embracing the truth of the gospel.
Biblical Background and Terminology
Several passages bolster this understanding of Satan’s authority on earth. John 12:31 designates him as the “prince of this world.” Ephesians 2:2 describes him as “the ruler of the power of the air, the spirit who is now at work in the sons of disobedience.” These descriptions present Satan as occupying a leadership position in realms of spiritual darkness, influencing human behavior and societies.
In the Old Testament, Isaiah 14:12-15 and Ezekiel 28:12-19 use imagery, originally directed at prideful earthly rulers, to illustrate the fall and pride of a being who sought to elevate himself above God. Early Jewish writings and Qumran texts (from the Dead Sea Scrolls) reflect a belief in personal and active forces of evil, supporting the view that the biblical text accurately preserves the concept of an adversary with real influence.
Nature and Scope of Satan’s Influence
1. Spiritual Deception
Satan’s primary strategy involves deception, as indicated in John 8:44: “He was a murderer from the beginning, refusing to uphold the truth, because there is no truth in him. When he lies, he speaks his native language, because he is a liar and the father of lies.” This deception extends to false teachings, worldly philosophies, and distractions that keep people from understanding or accepting the gospel.
2. Temporary Authority
Although described as a “god” or “prince,” Satan’s authority is temporary and remains subordinate to God’s omnipotence. The Book of Job (Job 1:6-12) recounts how Satan cannot act without God allowing it to fulfill higher purposes. Likewise, Luke 22:31-32 shows Jesus telling Peter that Satan had demanded permission to “sift you like wheat,” but Jesus prayed for Peter’s faith.
3. Impact on Individuals and Nations
Satan’s sphere of influence covers entire cultural or societal structures that oppose God’s moral law and hamper individuals from seeking reconciliation with Him. From a biblical standpoint, his “god of this world” status explains why rampant evil and moral decay persist, as fallen humanity, left unrestrained by Christ’s redemption, gravitates toward sin (Romans 3:10-18).
Sovereignty of God Versus Satan
Scripture upholds the absolute sovereignty of Yahweh, who created all things. Colossians 1:16-17 affirms Jesus Christ’s central role in creation and His sustaining power over everything. While Satan holds a measure of authority in a fallen creation, this does not diminish the ultimate rule of God. Passages such as 1 John 4:4 remind believers: “He who is in you is greater than he who is in the world.”
The resurrection of Christ stands as definitive proof of God’s triumph over the realm of darkness. In 1 Corinthians 15:54-57, the Apostle Paul proclaims victory over sin and death through the risen Christ. Such victory guarantees that Satan’s temporary governance will one day be overtaken by the fullness of God’s kingdom (Revelation 20:10).
Historical Writings and Manuscript Evidence
1. Early Church Testimony
Writings from early Christian leaders (e.g., Ignatius, Polycarp) consistently affirm an active force of evil personified in Satan who, though influential, is already defeated by Christ’s work on the cross. Their letters, preserved in multiple manuscript streams, align with the New Testament portrayal of Satan.
2. Manuscript Reliability
Copies of Paul’s letters, such as in key papyri (e.g., P^46), show a consistent reference to 2 Corinthians 4:4 without textual corruption. Scholars confirm that the phrase “the god of this world” or “the god of this age” remains stable through the transmission history. This consistency reinforces that the notion of Satan in such a role is part of the authentic Pauline message.
3. Archaeological Corroboration
While archaeology mainly addresses historical and cultural contexts, discoveries from sites in the ancient Near East illustrate that biblical locales and references align with established historical realities. This confirms that the biblical worldview of spiritual opposition was not an afterthought but rooted in the region’s accepted belief in real spiritual forces.
Practical Implications
1. Understanding Spiritual Warfare
Recognizing Satan’s role as “god of this world” prepares believers and seekers to expect opposition to the message of Christ. It underscores the need for vigilance, prayer, and reliance on God’s power (Ephesians 6:10-18).
2. Hope in Christ’s Authority
The gospel message is that, despite the spiritual blindness Satan desires to impose, Jesus is the true God and King. In Matthew 28:18, Jesus declares, “All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to Me.” Believers find hope and direction in the assurance that Christ’s ultimate authority eclipses Satan’s limited reign.
3. Call to Redemption
While Satan blinds unbelievers, Scripture insists that the light of Christ can pierce any darkness. As Paul writes in 2 Corinthians 4:6, “For God, who said, ‘Let light shine out of darkness,’ made His light shine in our hearts to give us the light of the knowledge of the glory of God in the face of Jesus Christ.” The invitation remains open for all to receive sight and salvation.
Conclusion
Satan is indeed referred to as the “god of this world” (2 Corinthians 4:4) or “prince of this world” (John 12:31), indicating his significant influence over individuals and societies that have not yielded to God’s truth. However, his authority is neither autonomous nor equal to Yahweh’s. Scriptural testimony, supported by reliable manuscripts and corroborated through early church writings, emphasizes that though Satan exerts a real and dangerous power, it is always eclipsed by the sovereignty of the one true God. Christ’s resurrection signals the ultimate defeat of all evil powers, securing the promise that Satan’s dominion will inevitably come to an end.​



That question was for Keiw who believes that Jesus is a god. The difference is that Jesus is God, not a god. Satan is only a god, but not remotely equal with Jesus. That is what I was getting at. My next question would have been is Jesus and Satan equal in rank in the eyes of JW's.

1 John 3:8-9
8 He who sins is of the devil, for the devil has sinned from the beginning. For this purpose the Son of God was manifested, that He might destroy the works of the devil. 9 Whoever has been born of God does not sin, for His seed remains in him; and he cannot sin, because he has been born of God.

Before the death of Jesus and His resurrection, no one was free from sin. Satan is not the god of the born again of the Spirit, like before when even those of the Old Covenant had a sin nature and struggled. Jesus is King and God of us, not Satan. He only allows Satan to rule his people.
 
You have been corrected on this innumerable times: it is the same exact word(s), but different cases depending on the grammatical role they play in the sentence. For instance “the god” (ho theos) is used of Satan, “the god of this world…”. We only capitalize the G when “ho theos” is in reference to one who is God.


Doug
Corrected by the mislead NEVER works. You believe the mislead over undeniable facts.
 
Small g god= has godlike qualities. It is not calling that one God. God inspired his bible-2 Cor 4:4--The god of this system of things = satan. He is blinding the world.
Diet 32:39“See now that I myself am he!
There is no god besides me.
I put to death and I bring to life,
I have wounded and I will heal,
and no one can deliver out of my hand.

Isa 45:20“Gather together and come;
assemble, you fugitives from the nations.
Ignorant are those who carry about idols of wood,
who pray to gods that cannot save.
21Declare what is to be, present it—
let them take counsel together.
Who foretold this long ago,
who declared it from the distant past?
Was it not I, the Lord?
And there is no God apart from me,
a righteous God and a Savior;
there is none but me.
22“Turn to me and be saved,
all you ends of the earth;
for I am God, and there is no other.

Doug
 
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