Satan's Role in God's Plan: An Adversary with a Purpose
In the intricate tapestry woven by God, Satan holds a unique and pivotal role that, while frequently misunderstood, is a critical aspect of divine sovereignty and redemption. The preordained cross, as described in Revelation 13:8, underscores a scenario where sin becomes the impetus for the necessity of the atonement. However, Satan does not merely obstruct divine will but serves as an instrument in God's strategic and loving purpose.
Satan as an Adversary to God's Sovereignty
The role of Satan is often conflated with direct opposition to God. Yet, a deeper understanding reveals that his rebellion, while essential, is part of a larger plan. Satan's desire, as encapsulated in Zechariah 3, 'to be as god,' aligns with a role given by God to challenge His sovereignty. This challenge, however, is not arbitrary but a means through which God displays His grace and mercy.
God's sovereignty stands unchallenged, and He justly maintains order. Satan, on the other hand, is granted the ability to propagate unbelief, beginning with the very first humans, Adam and Eve. This act of rebellion spread the idea that humans have a free will to choose between good and evil, essentially leading to the belief that one must take care of oneself rather than relying on a sovereign, all-powerful, and loving God.
False Belief: The Root of Sin and Its Consequences
The false belief that one can fulfill their destiny without divine assistance causes hatred, selfishness, corruption, and malcontent. This belief that humans hold dominion over their fate, contrary to God's sovereign will, results in moral failings and societal ills. Consequently, humanity must face the consequences of these actions, leading to a dire need for divine intervention, which is exemplified by the cross.
Rev. 13:8 underscores that sin is necessary for the revelation of the cross's importance. It is through Satan's role in propagating sin and opposition to divine will that the cross becomes a reality, revealing the unconditional mercy and grace of God. This plan, as described in Romans 3:10-23, highlights that God's sovereignty is not only unshakeable but also loving and merciful, even to those who oppose Him.
The Antichrist and False Prophet: The Final Confrontation
The ultimate test of this adversarial relationship is anticipated in the end times and the millennium, when Satan, aligning with the antichrist and false prophet, will attempt to overthrow God's sovereignty. Despite this failed attempt, Satan's role will end permanently, and his torment will cease.
Even in this final confrontation, God will still love and care for Satan, as this love is pivotal in the plan of redemption. God's eternal love is evident in the cross, which reveals the ultimate demonstration of grace, which could not have been possible without Satan's efforts to oppose Him. This is precisely what Romans 11:32 states: 'God has concluded all in unbelief through Satan’s lie that He might have mercy on all.'
The Role of Faith and the Holy Spirit
Only Jesus, the author and finisher of faith, as mentioned in Hebrews 12:2, can choose to accept God's salvation. Through faith, believers are quickened by the Holy Spirit, allowing them to understand their need and have faith in the Lord. This salvation, as described in Ephesians 1:4 and 5, is not something individuals earn or deserve but is a gift provided through the Holy Spirit.
Those who are separated from God due to unbelief, particularly those who have never had the chance to know and accept the gospel, will remain eternally separated. However, Jesus, by becoming sin and bearing the suffering of separation from God, ensures that even the most hopeless can experience the unconditional love and forgiveness of God. This is beautifully encapsulated in the life of Jesus, where His cry of despair 'My God, why have you forsaken me' is a testament to the perfect sacrifice of love and redemption.
Ultimately, the eternal fellowship that believers share with God is the result of a love determined before even their creation. God's primary purpose and pleasure is to extend this unconditional love and care to everyone, to the utmost degree possible.