The World's Secret Ruler
Satan, the Bible tells us, offered Jesus "all the kingdoms of the world and their glory" in exchange for one act of worship. (Matthew 4:8-10) Essentially, Jesus was offered world rulership-but on the Devil's terms. Jesus did not fall prey to this temptation. Was it really a temptation, though? Could Satan actually make such a grandiose offer? Yes, for Jesus imself called the Devil "the ruler of the world," and the apostle Paul described him as "the god of this system of things." - John 14:30; 2 Corinthians 4:4; Ephesians 6:12.
Of course, Jesus knew that the Devil does not have a kind heart. He described Satan as a "murderer" and as "the father of lies and of all that is false." (John 8:44, The Amplified Bible) Obviously, a world "lying in power" of such a wicked spirit can never be truly happy. (1John 5:19) But the Devil will not have this authority indefinitely. Jesus, now a mighty spirit creature, will shortly depose Satan and completely eliminate his influence.- Hebrews 2:14; Revelation 20:1-3.
Satan himself knows that his days as world ruler are fast running out. Hence, he is making a desperate, all-out effort to corrupt humans beyond reform, just as he did prior to the flood of Noah's day. (Genesis 6:1-5; Jude 6) "Woe for the earth and for the sea," says Revelation 12:12, "because the Devil has come down to you, having great anger, knowing that he has a short period of time." Bible prophecy and world events indicate that we are living near the conclusion of this "short period of time." (2 Timothy 3:1-5) Relief is now in sight.


Next time: A Government To Bring Happiness