One big misconception in the Christian Churches of all denominations is the notion of hell and that Satan is there with his minions. It is not what scripture teaches. Here are some examples of the misconception. “Jesus was driving out a demon that was mute, and when the demon had gone out, the mute man spoke and the crowds were amazed.” (Luke 11:14) “And when He came to the other side into the country of the Gadarenes, two demon-possessed men confronted Him.” (Matthew 8:28) These are just two examples of many others. If  Satan and his demons are in hell, how can they possess humans on earth? 

So, where is Satan? In the Book of Revelation, we read in the letter to Pergamum (Revelation 2:13), “I know[a] where you live—where Satan’s throne is! And you are holding on to My name and did not deny your faith in Me, even in the days of Antipas, My faithful witness who was killed among you, where Satan lives.” So again, how can Satan be in Hell if he has a throne on earth and lives there? In Revelation 20:2-3, We read,” He seized the dragon, that ancient serpent who is the devil and Satan, and bound him for a thousand years. 3 And he threw him into the Abyss, shut it, and sealed it over it over him, so that he could not deceive the nations until the thousand years were complete. After that he must be released for a brief time.” Finally, after a thousand years, “And the devil that deceived them was cast into the lake of fire and brimstone, where the beast and the false prophet are, and shall be tormented day and night for ever and ever.” (Revelation 20:10) Nowhere up until that moment is Satan in Hell. 

Satan has created the greats of his lies in the hearts and minds of Christians. The only possible explanation for this teaching is to cause fear of going to hell. But, of course, the lake of fire is the final destination for evil! If Satan and his minions are on earth, then the reality of demon possession is actual. Those who refuse to recognize a God are deceived into believing there is no Satan. In doing so, they welcome control since God is not present in their hearts. These evil spirits try and influence our behavior every day. They speak to our minds as if the ideas and thoughts are our creation. Without God’s gift of discernment, we can easily be deceived. 

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