He is called ‘the prince of the power of the air.’
Theologian John Piper recently delved into the biblical title for the devil as “the prince of the power of the air,” clarifying that this designation does not signify that Satan is all-powerful.
In a recent “Ask Pastor John” episode posted on the Desiring God website, Piper was questioned about Ephesians 2:2, which refers to Satan as “the prince of the power of the air.” Piper acknowledged that while many scholars, including himself, are uncertain about the exact meaning behind this title, there are scriptural hints that provide some clarity.
Piper cautioned against overemphasizing his interpretation, even though the topic is important because it is biblical. He suggested that other clearer teachings within the New Testament hold greater significance.
He explained that the description of Satan having some authority in the air does not mean he is omnipresent or all-knowing. Instead, Satan commands numerous unclean spirits or demons, which are dispersed worldwide in the air.
The term “air,” according to Piper, refers to the space above the Earth as understood by Paul and his contemporaries, who lacked the scientific knowledge of the atmosphere’s extent. Thus, “air” serves as a general term for the realm in which humans live.
Regarding “prince of the power,” Piper interprets it as “ruler of authority,” emphasizing that Satan’s dominion over the air, or the lower heavens, is not absolute. He referenced 2 Corinthians 4:4, which calls the devil “the god of this world,” who blinds unbelievers to prevent them from seeing the light of the Gospel of Christ. Piper believes that “god of this world” and “ruler of the authority of the air” are essentially synonymous, representing the world and air as spheres of human existence.
Piper concluded that Satan, as a spirit invisible like air, can launch his attacks anywhere humans breathe. Hence, believers must always wear the armor of God for protection. He reassured that Christ, exalted as King in the highest Heaven, reigns supreme over all powers, and Satan, though influential, is restrained.
In 2022, John MacArthur, another prominent pastor and theologian, also discussed the meaning of “the prince of the power of the air,” describing it as identifying Satan as the ruler of a spiritual realm. MacArthur interpreted “the air” as the immaterial, spiritual world where the devil operates. He noted that Satan’s influence is exerted through his demons and false religions, even though he is not omnipresent.
MacArthur added that Satan’s domain over “the air” is a temporary realm of operation allowed by God, where he conducts his evil and deceptive works among unbelievers.