10.4 The (Temporary) Ruler of This World
The Limited Power of Evil

Read John 12:31; 14:30; 16:11; 2 Corinthians 4:4; and Luke 4:6. What do these texts teach about the dominion of the enemy in this world?

The Bible makes it clear that Satan currently holds a certain amount of power and authority over this world. In John 12:31; 14:30; and 16:11, Jesus refers to him as “the prince of this world,” who, however, is destined for judgment. 2 Corinthians 4:4 calls him “the god of this age,” who blinds the unbelievers so that they cannot see the light of the Gospel. In Luke 4:6, Satan even claims that he has been given power over the kingdoms of the world and that he can distribute them to whomever he wants.

These verses show that evil in the world does not merely exist by chance, but that behind the scenes an unseen power is at work, fighting against God and His rule. Yet the Bible also reveals that this dominion is limited and only temporary. Satan operates only within the “rules” established by God. God has chosen to grant His creatures free will, which means that evil can exist – but not without limits.

The Limits of Satan’s Power

• God allows evil to operate for a certain time, but He has already determined the outcome: Satan’s end is sealed.

• God’s actions are not driven by abuse of power but follow the principles of love and justice. He could destroy Satan immediately, but that would not fairly conclude the great struggle. All of creation must come to recognize that God’s way is the best.

• Satan cannot act arbitrarily but moves within the limits set by God. This is exemplified in the story of Job (Job 1:12; 2:6), where Satan can only go as far as God permits.

To what extent does the fact that Jesus calls Satan the “ruler of this world” help us to understand, at least in part, the evil that currently exists in the world? It is comforting to know that this is indeed only a temporary dominion!

The fact that Jesus calls Satan the “ruler of this world” (John 12:31; 14:30; 16:11) helps us to understand evil in the world from a broader, spiritual perspective. It shows us that the chaos, injustice, and suffering we experience daily do not simply occur by accident, but are part of a larger conflict – the great struggle between good and evil.

Why Is This Important for Our Understanding of Evil?

1. Evil Is Not Evidence Against God’s Existence

   Many people ask, “If God is good and almighty, why is there so much suffering?” The Bible explains that Satan, as the temporary ruler of this world, has great influence on events. Evil exists not because God wills it, but because He permits free will – both among angels and among humans.

2. Satan Has Only Limited Power

   Although Satan is called the “prince of this world,” his power is not unlimited. God sets clear boundaries for him, and he can only go as far as God allows (e.g., in Job 1:12). This means that while evil is real and often painful, it does not occur arbitrarily or without divine control.

3. Jesus’ Victory Shows That Satan’s Dominion Is Temporary

   Jesus calls Satan the “ruler of this world,” but He adds that he “will be cast out” (John 12:31). Through His death and resurrection, Christ has sealed Satan’s ultimate defeat. Even though Satan is still at work, his downfall is certain – his rule is only a matter of time.

Comforting Hope: Evil Has an End!

• Suffering is not forever. Even though we experience hardship, injustice, and pain now, we can know that evil has an expiration date! The Bible promises that a time will come when “there will be no more death or mourning or crying or pain” (Revelation 21:4).

• Jesus has already triumphed. Through His sacrifice, Jesus laid the foundation for the ultimate destruction of evil. Satan’s time is limited – and that means hope for us!

• God’s justice will prevail. Even if it sometimes seems as if evil triumphs, we can trust that God will ultimately set everything right.

Conclusion:
The fact that Jesus calls Satan the “ruler of this world” helps us to better contextualize the present suffering: We live in a fallen world where the enemy still exerts power. Yet this power is limited and ephemeral. Good will prevail, and God’s kingdom will endure forever. This knowledge gives us comfort, strength, and hope – because we know that our struggles and sufferings are not the final word. Jesus has already defeated the enemy, and we can live with that assurance!

How does the reality of the cosmic struggle affect our everyday life?
The Bible shows us that Satan holds a certain dominion over this world, yet his power is limited and temporary. This realization can influence our daily lives and our faith in various ways:

1. A Realistic View of Evil

   We experience daily suffering, injustice, wars, diseases, and personal challenges. But rather than despair or blame God, we can understand that we live in a fallen world where evil is active but does not have the final say. This perspective helps us to avoid hopelessness and to hold fast to our faith in difficult times.

2. Encouragement Despite Trials

   When we face difficulties and trials, we can remember that Jesus himself said,

   “In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.” (John 16:33)

   Even if we sometimes feel that evil triumphs, we know: the victory has already been won! Our faith gives us support and hope.

3. Prayer as a Spiritual Weapon

   Since we know that a spiritual battle is taking place behind the scenes (Ephesians 6:12), prayer becomes a critical source of strength. God intervenes when we ask Him! Our prayers impact the events in the world, even if we do not always see it directly.

4. Living Consciously in God’s Truth

   In 2 Corinthians 4:4 it is said that the “god of this age” (Satan) blinds many people. We should consciously choose to live in the truth of God, not to be deceived by the enemy’s lies, and to shape our thinking according to God’s Word (Romans 12:2).

5. Living Justice and Compassion

   Even though we know that evil is still at work, as Christians we are called to be a light in the darkness (Matthew 5:14-16). We are to reflect God’s love and justice by advocating for others, showing mercy, and standing up for truth and righteousness.

6. Rejoicing in the Coming Kingdom of God

   Satan may have temporary influence, but we live with the assurance that God’s kingdom is coming! Revelation 21:4 promises us a future without suffering, pain, and death. This hope should drive us daily to hold on to our faith and focus on the eternal.

Conclusion:
The fact that Satan still holds power over this world explains many of the challenges we face. Yet his influence is limited, and God has already won the victory. This gives us strength, hope, and courage to hold fast to Jesus even in hard times. Our faith is not just theory, but a living reality that shapes our everyday life – we live in a world of conflict, but with the assurance of God’s ultimate victory!

No matter how dark the night may seem – God’s light has already triumphed.

Source: https://fulfilleddesire.net/lesson-10-rules-of-engagement-10-4-the-temporary-ruler-of-this-world-the-god-of-love-and-justice-living-faith/

The message of James is one of the central teachings of the New Testament and particularly emphasizes the connection between faith and works. The Letter of James is addressed to Christians who live amid trials and temptations, encouraging them to demonstrate a practical, living faith.

1.Faith Must Be Shown Through Works

James stresses that genuine faith must manifest itself in deeds. He writes:

“So also faith by itself, if it does not have works, is dead.” (James 2:17)

This does not mean we are justified by works, but rather that a living faith naturally bears fruit. James uses the examples of Abraham and Rahab to show that their faith was proven by their actions (James 2:21-25).

2.Perseverance in Trials

The Letter of James begins with a call to rejoice in trials, because they strengthen faith:

“Count it all joy, my brothers, when you meet trials of various kinds, for you know that the testing of your faith produces steadfastness.” (James 1:2-3)

This shows that trials are God’s means of shaping character and deepening faith.

3.Asking God for Wisdom

James encourages believers to seek God’s wisdom:

“If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask God, who gives generously to all without reproach, and it will be given him.” (James 1:5)

Such wisdom is evident in a humble and righteous way of life.

4.The Power of the Tongue

Another strong theme in James is controlling the tongue. He warns that the tongue is like a small fire that can cause great harm (James 3:5-6). Instead, Christians should choose their words carefully and avoid slander and quarreling.

5.Humility and Dependence on God

James teaches that pride and self-confidence are dangerous. He calls believers to submit humbly to God:

“Submit yourselves therefore to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you. Draw near to God, and he will draw near to you.” (James 4:7-8)

This shows that a humble heart is key to fellowship with God.

6.Handling Wealth and Social Justice

James warns the rich not to place their trust in their possessions:

“Come now, you rich, weep and howl for the miseries that are coming upon you!” (James 5:1)

He criticizes social injustice and calls Christians to stand up for the poor and needy.

7.The Power of Prayer

Finally, James underscores the importance of prayer:

“Is anyone among you sick? Let him call for the elders of the church, and let them pray over him, anointing him with oil in the name of the Lord.” (James 5:14)

The prayer of a righteous person is very powerful (James 5:16).

Conclusion

The message of the Letter of James is an exhortation to practical Christianity. It shows that faith is not merely theoretical, but must be lived out in reality. James challenges us to demonstrate our faith through works, obedience, humility, and prayer.

His message is as relevant today as it was then: A living faith is revealed in a life that serves God and our fellow human beings.

 

March 5, 2024

DAILY BIBLE READING – James Chapter 1

¹ James, a servant of God and of the Lord Jesus Christ, to the twelve tribes which are scattered abroad, greeting.

² My brethren, count it all joy when ye fall into divers temptations;

³ Knowing this, that the trying of your faith worketh patience.

⁴ But let patience have her perfect work, that ye may be perfect and entire, wanting nothing.

⁵ If any of you lack wisdom, let him ask of God, that giveth to all men liberally, and upbraideth not; and it shall be given him.

⁶ But let him ask in faith, nothing wavering. For he that wavereth is like a wave of the sea driven with the wind and tossed.

⁷ For let not that man think that he shall receive any thing of the Lord.

⁸ A double minded man is unstable in all his ways.

⁹ Let the brother of low degree rejoice in that he is exalted:

¹⁰ But the rich, in that he is made low: because as the flower of the grass he shall pass away.

¹¹ For the sun is no sooner risen with a burning heat, but it withereth the grass, and the flower thereof falleth, and the grace of the fashion of it perisheth: so also shall the rich man fade away in his ways.

¹² Blessed is the man that endureth temptation: for when he is tried, he shall receive the crown of life, which the Lord hath promised to them that love him.

¹³ Let no man say when he is tempted, I am tempted of God: for God cannot be tempted with evil, neither tempteth he any man:

¹⁴ But every man is tempted, when he is drawn away of his own lust, and enticed.

¹⁵ Then when lust hath conceived, it bringeth forth sin: and sin, when it is finished, bringeth forth death.

¹⁶ Do not err, my beloved brethren.

¹⁷ Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, and cometh down from the Father of lights, with whom is no variableness, neither shadow of turning.

¹⁸ Of his own will begat he us with the word of truth, that we should be a kind of firstfruits of his creatures.

¹⁹ Wherefore, my beloved brethren, let every man be swift to hear, slow to speak, slow to wrath:

²⁰ For the wrath of man worketh not the righteousness of God.

²¹ Wherefore lay apart all filthiness and superfluity of naughtiness, and receive with meekness the engrafted word, which is able to save your souls.

²² But be ye doers of the word, and not hearers only, deceiving your own selves.

²³ For if any be a hearer of the word, and not a doer, he is like unto a man beholding his natural face in a glass:

²⁴ For he beholdeth himself, and goeth his way, and straightway forgetteth what manner of man he was.

²⁵ But whoso looketh into the perfect law of liberty, and continueth therein, he being not a forgetful hearer, but a doer of the work, this man shall be blessed in his deed.

²⁶ If any man among you seem to be religious, and bridleth not his tongue, but deceiveth his own heart, this man’s religion is vain.

²⁷ Pure religion and undefiled before God and the Father is this, To visit the fatherless and widows in their affliction, and to keep himself unspotted from the world.

King James Version. Public Domain

 

Commentary

Introduction

The Letter of James is a practical and straightforward message addressed to Christians who are experiencing various trials. Already in the first chapter, James encourages his readers to maintain faith and patience in temptations, to seek God’s wisdom, and to be doers of the Word. He especially emphasizes that true piety is not found merely in hearing, but in acting upon what is heard. This chapter makes it clear that God does not tempt anyone to do evil; rather, temptations arise from one’s own desires. At the same time, James teaches that genuine faith must be evidenced by a life of holiness and active love.

Commentary

1. The Christian in Temptation (vv. 1-12)
James begins with a paradoxical command: “Count it all joy when you fall into various temptations” (v. 2). He views trials not as obstacles but as a means of developing patience and spiritual maturity. Christians should not be discouraged by outward circumstances but should ask God for wisdom (v. 5). However, this wisdom is given only to those who ask in faith and do not doubt (vv. 6-8). James reminds us that true greatness does not lie in wealth, for it is transient like the grass of the field (vv. 9-11). Those who remain steadfast will be rewarded with the crown of life (v. 12).

2.The Origin of Temptation (vv. 13-18)
Here, James clarifies a central misunderstanding: God tempts no one to do evil (v. 13). Temptation arises from one’s own lust and can ultimately lead to sin and death (vv. 14-15). This warning highlights the danger of giving in to one’s desires. At the same time, James points to the goodness of God: every perfect gift comes from above, from the Father of lights, who does not change (v. 17). This demonstrates God’s faithfulness and constancy, in contrast to the instability of human temptations.

3.Hearers and Doers of the Word (vv. 19-27)
A key theme in the Letter of James is that faith must be expressed through actions. James exhorts believers to be quick to hear but slow to speak and slow to become angry (vv. 19-20). True faith is not shown merely by listening but by obedience to God’s Word (v. 22). Anyone who only hears but does not act is like someone who looks at his face in a mirror and immediately forgets what he looks like (vv. 23-24). By contrast, whoever follows the law of liberty will be blessed (v. 25).

Authentic worship does not consist in external rituals but in practical love: helping orphans and widows in their distress and keeping oneself unstained by the world (v. 27). This is a powerful call to genuine, practical piety.

Summary

James chapter 1 teaches that faith must be demonstrated through perseverance, wisdom, and deeds.

• Faith and Trials: Christians should view temptations as opportunities for spiritual growth and trust in God’s wisdom.

• The Origin of Temptation: God tempts no one to do evil—temptations arise from our own desires.

• Faith in Practice: True piety is shown through actions, not merely by hearing the Word.

The chapter ends with a clear call: Pure worship means caring for those in need and leading a holy life. James challenges us to live out our faith in practical ways and to bear witness through our behavior.

 

 

WEEKLY SPIRIT OF PROPHECY READING – Ellen White | Steps to Christ
Chapter 7—The Test of Discipleship
Read online here

 

Commentary

Introduction

Chapter 7 addresses the fundamental truth that a genuine conversion is not merely evident in external actions but in an inner, profound change of heart. Faith in Christ brings about a new creation that does not arise from human effort but from the work of the Holy Spirit. While some Christians may be unable to pinpoint the exact time of their conversion, the authenticity of their experience is demonstrated by a new way of life. Love for God, a transformed heart, and growing obedience to His Word are the proofs of being a child of God. This chapter introduces us to the significance of a life truly shaped by Christ and shows that genuine discipleship is not achieved through outward works alone, but through a deep, living relationship with God.

Commentary: Characteristics of Being a Child of God

1. A New Creation Through Christ (2 Corinthians 5:17)

   Scripture describes rebirth as a complete re-creation of the individual: “Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; the old has passed away.” This means that true conversion results in a profound change of heart that manifests not only in external forms but in all our thinking, feeling, and actions.

   • The work of the Holy Spirit is not always tangible or visible but can be likened to the wind (John 3:8).

   • This inner transformation reveals itself through a new attitude toward sin, a growing desire for holiness, and a deep love for God.

   • A changed heart produces the fruit of the Spirit: “love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control” (Galatians 5:22).

2. The True Test of Faith: Where Does Our Heart Stand?

   Merely living a moral life on the outside does not prove genuine rebirth. Pride or social standing can also motivate a person to be “good.” However, true sonship or daughterhood in God is evident in questions like:

   • Who owns our heart?

   • What do we love to talk about most?

   • To whom do our deepest thoughts and feelings belong?

     A true disciple of Christ orders his life according to Him—loving what Christ loves and hating what He hates. Divine love is the driving force behind every action.

3. The Danger of Misconceptions About Faith and Obedience

   There are two main errors that Christians must guard against:

   • The error of works-righteousness: believing that one can be justified before God by one’s own efforts. Scripture makes it clear: “All works done without Christ are tainted by selfishness and sin.” We are saved by the grace of Christ alone.

   • The error of lawless faith: believing that grace frees a person from observing God’s law. Yet true faith leads to obedience: “For this is the love of God, that we keep His commandments” (1 John 5:3).

     Christ not only grants us forgiveness but also the power to live according to His will. The law is not a means of salvation but an expression of divine love.

4. The True Foundation of Salvation

   No one can save themselves through their own righteousness. But Christ offers us His righteousness:

   • He lived a perfect life and fulfilled God’s law on our behalf.

   • Through His death, He took our sins upon Himself.

   • Through faith, His righteousness is credited to us.

     This means: “Christ’s nature takes the place of our nature; thus we are accepted by God.” Walking in Christ is a daily process of surrender and renewal.

5. True Faith Leads to Obedience

   Saving faith is not merely an intellectual assent to truth, but a trust that transforms our lives. “Faith without works is dead” (James 2:17).

   • True children of God are recognized by their deeds of righteousness.

   • Obedience is not the means of salvation but the fruit of a renewed heart.

   • The closer we draw to Christ, the more we recognize our own imperfections—this is a sign of genuine sanctification.

     A Christian does not live in lawlessness but “walks just as He walked” (1 John 2:6).

Summary: The Marks of a True Child of God

Chapter 7 describes the true nature of conversion and shows that being a child of God is not just an external form but a profound transformation of the heart. A renewed person is not defined by occasional good deeds but by a consistent change of character.

• Rebirth by the Holy Spirit is evident in new priorities, new love for God, and new values.

• True followers of Christ focus their hearts, minds, and lives on Him.

• Faith and obedience go hand in hand: faith in Christ produces a new way of life aligned with God’s will.

This chapter calls us to examine our own hearts: Is our life in harmony with Christ? Do we love God with all our heart? Do our thoughts, words, and actions show that we are His children? Only through a deep, daily connection with Jesus can we experience genuine transformation and give evidence of being children of God.

Source: https://fulfilleddesire.net/5-03-2025-james-chapter-1-believe-his-prophets/