▪︎ Jesus on the cross was the decisive blow that took out Satan (John 12:31-32)… how? He bound him, limited him, restrained him by the power of the Holy Spirit working through the Church.
▪︎ This restraint will be removed at the rapture, when Jesus returns and the church is gathered up to meet Him in the air… 2Thes 2:6-7, 8;
▪︎ Daniel prophesied that this would happen – Dan_12:1-4
1“Now at that time Michael, the great prince who stands guard over the sons of your people, will arise. And there will be a time of distress such as never occurred since there was a nation until that time; and at that time your people, everyone who is found written in the book, will be rescued. 2“Many of those who sleep in the dust of the ground will awake, these to everlasting life, but the others to disgrace and everlasting contempt. 3“Those who have insight will shine brightly like the brightness of the expanse of heaven, and those who lead the many to righteousness, like the stars forever and ever. 4“But as for you, Daniel, conceal these words and seal up the book until the end of time; many will go back and forth, and knowledge will increase.”
; ▪︎ He did this to other fallen angels as well… 2Peter 2:4, 9;
▪︎ Conclusion: If the Lord can deliver us from Satan and his demons, He can certainly deliver us from temptation… 2Peter 2:9;
Note: There is a fine line and it’s very difficult to differentiate between different types of rebellion (2Peter 2:18 analysis ►):
1. Those who just escape or just barely escape (1Cor 3:11-12, 13-14, 15), and
2. Those who live in error (1Cor 6:9, 10; Gal 5:21; Eph 5:5), and are doomed.
Consequently, many will be surprised and disappointed, Matt 7:21, 22-23.