“But to which of the angels has He ever said: ‘Sit at My right hand, till I make Your enemies Your footstool’?” (Hebrews 1:13).
When the children of Israel had decisively conquered the armies of the five kings allied against them (Kings Adoni-Zedek of Jerusalem, Hoham of Hebron, Piram of Jarmuth, Japhia of Lachish, and Debir of Eglon—Joshua 10:3), Joshua had the defeated monarchs brought out to him. He then instructed his captains to “come near, put your feet on the necks of these kings” (Joshua 10:24). When they had done this, Joshua said to them, “Do not be afraid nor dismayed; be strong and of good courage, for thus the Lord will do to all your enemies against whom you fight” (Joshua 10:25).
Placing your foot on the neck of your enemy (i.e., making them your footstool) is a graphic way of portraying the abject and utter defeat of a foe. As it was in Joshua’s day (Joshua 10:26), it was a sure indication of complete annihilation and certain death.
The mission statement for Jesus’ incarnation was “Destroy the works of the devil” (1 John 3:8). He fulfilled His mission (John 17:4). He has made salvation from sin and death possible. At the present time, Jesus sits at God’s right hand until the final blow of His enemies (as described in Revelation 20:10-15) occurs.
Satan has been utterly defeated. His complete annihilation and permanent punishment—along with all evil—are certain. Therefore, do not be afraid nor dismayed. Be strong and of good courage. In Christ, we are more than conquerors (Romans 8:37).
