And the devil who deceived them was thrown into the lake of fire and brimstone, where the beast and the false prophet are also, and they will be tormented day and night forever and ever.

— Revelation 20:10

And I will put enmity between you and the woman, and between your seed and her seed. He will crush your head, and you will strike his heel.

— Genesis 3:15

Having disarmed the rulers and authorities, He made a public display of them, having triumphed over them in Him.

— Colossians 2:15

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

— 1 John 3:8b

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

Thoughts on Today’s Reading

Grace, mercy and love from Christ to you.

How astonishing that rogue rebels would try to overcome Christ’s kingdom! However, sin always involves deception, which represents Satan’s very nature. The devil began his career on earth by deceiving human beings, and he ends as he began. Regardless of his efforts, Satan’s downfall and destruction are certain. Satan’s defeat, irrevocably secured on the cross by Jesus, will be consummated after the one thousand years. Satan will be thrown into the lake of burning sulfur and tormented forever. God will destroy evil, exalt His Son, and protect His people.

God’s purposes always prevail, in our lives and in His world. Satan’s reign of terror is temporary; he will be utterly defeated. God will eventually remove Satan forever, sealing the victory Jesus won at the cross. God powerfully transforms His people now and will raise them to reign with His Son. The world’s creation and consummation center on the Lord Jesus Christ. Everything in this life and for all eternity finds its source and significance in Jesus, who will reign forever as victor and King.