CAST
OF
CHARACTERS
AT THE
END
OF
TIME: THE VILLAINS
JESUS’ TRIUMPH OVER SATAN Christians disagree about how much power Satan possesses after the triumph of Jesus. Nearly every believer, however, can find common ground on these two truths: Satan is on the prowl, but his time and powers are limited.
According to amillennialists, the sacrificial death and triumphant resurrection of Jesus shattered Satan’s power once and for all; right now, Satan is bound.
Shortly before Jesus returns physically to earth, Satan will be released.
Postmillennialists see the strength of Satan crumbling gradually as the gospel takes root around the world. Some preterists believe that Satan has been bound ever since the fall of Jerusalem in AD 70.
Shortly before Jesus returns physically to earth, Satan will be released.
Premillennialists (including dispensational premillennialists) expect Satan’s rebellion to grow clearer as the end of time draws nearer.
After Jesus returns to earth, Satan will be bound for one thousand years (Revelation 20:1–3). When this glorious millennial kingdom draws to an end, Satan will be released.
Once again, Satan will refuse to submit to Jesus. Satan will be defeated and confined forever in a fiery lake of torment (Revelation 20:7–10).
Once again, Satan will refuse to submit to Jesus. Satan will be defeated and confined forever in a fiery lake of torment (Revelation 20:7–10).
Once again, Satan will refuse to submit to Jesus. Satan will be defeated and confined forever in a fiery lake of torment (Revelation 20:7–10).
The Archangel Michael against Lucifer, ceiling fresco by Matthäus Günther (1776).
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