242. Who Really Rules the Earth Today?

<p>A central question running throughout biblical literature concerns the ultimate governance of the present world. On one hand, Scripture repeatedly declares that <strong>God is the supreme, absolute Sovereign</strong> over all creation. On the other hand, numerous passages describe <strong>Satan as the &quot;ruler&quot; or &quot;god&quot; of this age</strong>, exerting real influence over human systems, empires, and worldly structures.</p><p>Resolving this tension requires understanding the biblical distinction between <strong>de jure authority</strong> (God&#39;s ultimate ownership and rightful authority) and <strong>de facto permission</strong> (the temporary, delegated latitude permitted to spiritual forces and human free agency in a fallen world).</p>