Satan and His Kingdom 51 The adversary has also his organized governments, which the Apostle Paul describes as “principalities . . . powers . . . sovereigns of this present darkness” (Eph. 6:12, C. H.). We read of “Satan’s throne” (Rev. 2 :1 3 ) ; of “his ministers” (2 Cor., 11 :15); of his “principalities” and his “powers” ; and of his hosts of “spirits of evil” (Eph. 6:12, C. H.) in the heavens. Daniel’s account of his interview with the messenger from God supports the view that these princi palities and powers of Satan are given charge of specified coun tries ; for the Satanic “prince of Persia” withstood the heavenly messenger, who said that on his return he would again have to meet with the same Prince, together with the “Prince of Greece” (Dan. 10:13, 20). Satan therefore reigns over an aerial kingdom of hierarchies and spiritual powers, and a kingdom on earth in the world of men, and he governs by means of an organized government. But let us not forget that all these hosts are compelled to acknowledge the Sovereign Lord of the Universe! Unbelievers in God are alone to be found on earth, for the powers of evil “believe and shudder” (James 2 :19 ) , knowing that they are reserved unto judgment. III. SATAN’S SYSTEM OF RELIGION In his organized government the adversary has also a religion for those whom he can delude and deceive, showing his perfect mimicry of the worship of the true God. WORSHIP OF IDOLS In 1 Corinthians one aspect of Satan’s religion is revealed as we are shown what idol-worship actually means. They who would walk in fellowship with God must “flee from idolatry,” lest they would hold “communion with demons ." They dare not partake of the “table of the Lord,” and of the “table of demons.” (1 Cor. 10:19-22, C. H .). The matter was vital to the Corinthians, as it now is to native, Christians in heathen
Made with FlippingBook flipbook maker