Christian Cyclopedia

Term meaning literally “accuser,” 1 Ptr 5:8; in Scripture usually a descriptive name of Satan; also used in the plural for the fallen angels (demons [see Demon], evil spirits, unclean spirits), the chief of whom is called Satan by way of eminence (Mt 12:24–26). Satan himself, for whose subjugation Christ came, is the originator of all wickedness (Eph 2:2), an opponent of the kingdom of God. He is the tempter of the faithful (1 Ptr 5:8–9); he led Eve into sin and so became the originator and king of death (Heb 2:14). Originally created good, the evil spirits fell through their own fault (2 Ptr 2:4). That the devil is a personal being is clear from the Gospels and Epistles. Jesus calls him “evil one” and “enemy” (Mt 13:19, 28; 1 Ti 5:14). Other terms: “Adversary” (1 Ptr 5:8), “Satan” (Lk 22:31), “Beelzebub” or “Beelzebul” (Mt 10:25; 12:24; Mk 3:22; Lk 11:15, 18, 19), “prince” of devils and demons (Mt 12:24), “ruler of this world” (Jn 12:31; cf. Eph 6:12). Everlasting punishment was prepared for the devil and his angels (Mt 25:41). See also Demonology; Demoniac Possession.