In a recent video, ministry leader Perry Stone shared a profound message about Satan, based on a dream God had given him.
This dream was meant to expose the truth about Satan by delving into the Scriptures. It is crucial to establish a biblical foundation before exploring the dream’s significance.
To understand Satan, it is important to debunk the incorrect images people have developed over the years. One of the earliest depictions of Satan is as a serpent in the Garden of Eden, which became his emblem throughout Scripture. Additionally, Isaiah 14:12 reveals that Satan is a fallen angel, specifically referred to as Lucifer, the son of the morning. Further insight into his angelic position before the fall can be found in Ezekiel 28, where he is described as the anointed cherub.
Scripture also depicts Satan as a seven-headed dragon, symbolizing his influence over seven principalities or empires throughout history. These empires include Assyria, Egypt, Babylon, Media, Persia, Greece and Rome. The seventh head represents the empire that will continue to exist for a short period, as described in the book of Revelation.
Various other images have emerged, such as Satan with goat-like features, hooves and horns, however these s are not accurate. According to the Bible, Satan is a fallen angel, and various types of angels are mentioned, some with wings and others with different faces. It is essential to recognize that Satan, being a fallen angel, resembles a man, as affirmed in Isaiah 14:16-17.
“These images are man-made. This is not biblical nor is it the actual imagery of what Satan looks like,” Stone says.
The dream provided a warning about an impending attack orchestrated by the enemy. In the dream, Stone saw Satan standing near him, emanating strength and handsomeness, with a commanding presence. This encounter shattered the stereotypical image of Satan commonly portrayed in art and culture.
“I was in a room…I was in a deep sleep in the room and standing probably…10 feet away from me, I saw Satan,” explains Stone.
“He never told me he was Satan. I knew by the Spirit who he was. …He was very, very strong looking; he was very tall; he was very broad shouldered; he was extremely handsome. …He did have hair on his head…his entire being except for his head was covered with a built-in type of armor,” adds Stone.
Stone emphasizes that discussing Satan and understanding his true nature is not about glorifying him but rather exposing the reality of his existence. By relying on Scripture and personal experiences, believers can gain valuable insights into Satan’s history, characteristics and deceptive tactics.
“If Satan is in front of you, he’s attacking you. If he’s in front of you and you’re not obeying God, you might be following him. When he is behind you (Matt. 16:23), you are free to move forward and to do the will of God, to do what God has called you to do,” Stone says.
It is crucial for Christians to recognize the importance of understanding Satan from a biblical perspective. By debunking incorrect images and exploring relevant Scriptures, believers can understand who Satan truly is. This knowledge enables them to be vigilant and equipped to combat his strategies, all while remaining rooted in the truth of God’s Word.
James Lasher is Staff Writer for Charisma Media.