Satan / Adversary
Satan is the personal evil being who opposes God, deceives people, and seeks to hinder God’s purposes. The word can mean “adversary,” but in Scripture it commonly refers to the devil.
At a Glance
Satan is the personal evil being who opposes God, deceives people, and seeks to hinder God’s purposes. The word can mean “adversary,” but in Scripture it commonly refers to the devil.
Description
Satan, often called “the adversary,” is presented in Scripture as a real personal spiritual enemy who opposes God, tempts human beings to sin, deceives the nations, and accuses God’s people. While the term itself can at times describe an adversary more generally, the dominant biblical usage refers to the devil, the chief opponent of God’s righteous rule. Scripture does not encourage unhealthy speculation about his origin or activity beyond what is revealed, but it clearly teaches that Satan is evil, active, and under God’s sovereign restraint. His defeat is certain through the saving work, resurrection, and final triumph of Jesus Christ, so believers are called to resist him, remain watchful, and stand firm in faith.