I saw Satan fall from heaven like lightning.
The Trinitarian Claim
Some Trinitarians claim that Jesus is saying he saw Satan fall from heaven at the foundation of the world.
The Claim vs. The Facts
Trinitarians are resorting to their imaginations rather than the contextual facts. There is no reason to suppose Jesus is referring to an event at the foundation of the world. The context concerns the 72 disciples conquering Satan and the powers of darkness.
The Problem with the Claim
Jesus makes this statement in response to the 72 disciples who had just returned from their mission:
The seventy returned with joy, saying, “Lord, even the demons are subject to us in your name.”
And Jesus said to them, “I was watching Satan fall from heaven like lightning.
Jesus isn't making a random statement about something which happened at the dawn of creation. He is responding to a statement made by his disciples about what happened after Jesus had sent them out.
Analysis of the Facts
A simple review of the context, and basic reading comprehension, demonstrates that Jesus is referring to his disciples overcoming Satan during the mission of the 72:
The seventy returned with joy, saying, “Lord, even the demons are subject to us in your name.” And he said to them, “I was watching Satan fall from heaven like lightning. Behold, I give you authority to tread on serpents and scorpions, and over all the power of the enemy, and nothing will injure you. Nevertheless do not rejoice that the spirits are subject to you, but rejoice that your names are recorded in heaven.”
Conclusion
The context demonstrates that Jesus is referring to victory over Satan and the powers of darkness when the 72 overcame the power of the enemy.
Created: August 24, 2018
Last Revision/Update: August 24, 2018
