Satan’s Role as God’s Examiner: A Theological Exploration
Isaac Megbolugbe
November 17, 2025
Introduction
The Bible teaches that Satan serves a specific purpose in God’s sovereign plan, acting as an examiner of believers’ faith and loyalty. This role is evident in the book of Job, where Satan tests Job’s steadfastness, ultimately revealing the reality of God’s refinement and transformation in his life.
Satan’s Involvement in Testing Believers
Scripture reveals that Satan is involved in testing believers, seeking to undermine their faith and loyalty to God (Job 1:6-12, 2:1-7). However, God’s sovereign will prevails, using these tests to refine and strengthen believers, ultimately bringing glory to Himself (James 1:2-4, 1 Peter 1:6-7).
God’s Sovereignty over Satan’s Actions
While Satan’s desire is for believers to fail, God’s purpose is for them to emerge victorious, demonstrating His power and goodness (Romans 8:28, 2 Corinthians 12:7-10). Scripture illustrates this dynamic, showing how Satan’s actions are subject to God’s permission and oversight (Job 1:12, 2:6, Revelation 20:7-10).
Examples of God’s Sovereignty in Affliction
The biblical accounts of Job and Paul demonstrate God’s sovereignty over Satan’s actions. Job’s afflictions, though instigated by Satan, served God’s purpose, revealing His compassion and mercy (Job 2:7-10, James 5:11). Similarly, Paul’s thorn in the flesh, described as a “messenger of Satan,” was given to keep him humble, ultimately serving God’s purpose of promoting Paul’s holiness (2 Corinthians 12:7-10).
Conclusion
In God’s economy, Satan’s role as examiner serves to highlight the reality of believers’ faith and loyalty. While Satan seeks destruction, God’s sovereign will ensures that believers emerge refined, strengthened, and victorious, bringing glory to Himself. As James 5:11 reminds us, “Behold, we consider those blessed who remained steadfast. You have heard of the steadfastness of Job, and you have seen the purpose of the Lord, how the Lord is compassionate and merciful.”
Isaac Megbolugbe, Director of GIVA Ministries International, retired professor at Johns Hopkins University, 2024 Marquis Organization’s Class of Top Executives in the United States of America and a Fellow of the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors. He is resident in the United States of America.
👍👍👍👍