The book of Matthew in the Bible refers to the “Kingdom of Heaven” 32 times in the English Standard Version (ESV). Further, the phrase “Kingdom of God” can be found 69 times from the book of Matthew through the book of 2 Thessalonians. Finally, just the word “kingdom” can be found in both the Old and New Testaments 339 times.
Is There a Kingdom of Hell
It is interesting to note that of all the times the word “kingdom” is used, it is only in Matthew 12:26 (and the corollary in Luke 11:18) where there is a reference to Hell as a kingdom. Even the context surrounding that verse is not at all suggesting Satan will be a king of his domain. It was merely was used as an argument against the Scribes and Pharisees by Jesus, rejecting the premise that the source of His miracles and ministry came from the power of the evil one.
When Hell is discussed in the Bible, it is presented as a prison, a furnace, a lake of fire, an unquenchable fire, an outer darkness, an eternal fire, a place or torment, bottomless pit, etc. (Col 1:13, Rev. 21:8, 20,1,10, 20:15, Mat. 5:22, 8:12, 13:50, Mark 9:43, 9:48, Luke 16:23, 2 Peter 2:4,17, Jude 1:13, etc.).
Is Satan a King
Perhaps for many, there is this belief that Satan and his demons will be “running things” in Hell. That somehow, he will be in charge, or in control, of an underworld kingdom. It provides a sense of order and of community, even in the most difficult of places.
Biblically Based Reality
The Bible does not seem to offer that view. It is true that Satan and his minions will be locked in Hell for eternity. Yet, there is evidence that there are levels of Hell, just as there are perhaps levels of Heaven. However, nowhere in Scripture does it suggest that Satan will take on the rule of a king or have any authority at all in his immortal state. Instead…
Revelation 20:10 – and the devil who had deceived them was thrown into the lake of fire and sulfur where the beast and the false prophet were, and they will be tormented day and night forever and ever.
For those who see truth in God’s Word, it is unlikely that one, in continuous torment, can operate as a king, ruling a kingdom.
Author – Jeff Hilles | BCWorldview.org
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