Satan was first created as one of God’s holy angels (Ephesians 3:9), in fact, he was one of God’s most beautiful creations (Ezekiel 28:12-15). Because of his beauty, Satan, formerly called Lucifer, became prideful (Ezekiel 28:17). And He decided to attempt to unseat God and then demand that all worship him (Isaiah 14:13, 14).
Lucifer charged God with being unfair and he rebelled against his Creator. Satan’s lies were accepted by many angels, and one-third joined him (Revelation 12:3, 4). If God had destroyed Lucifer immediately, some angelic beings who did not fully comprehend God’s character may have begun to worship God out of fear. But God only accepts the cheerful worship and voluntary devotion that is moved by love and trust. Obedience for any other reason is not right.
Satan claimed that he had a better plan for the government of the universe. So, God is giving him time to demonstrate his plans before the universe. The Lord will abolish sin only after every soul in the universe is convinced that Satan’s government is hurtful, ruthless and deadly.
The Bible says, “We are made a spectacle [margin says “theater”] unto the world, and to angels, and to men” (1 Corinthians 4:9). The entire universe is watching as we play a part in the controversy between Christ and Satan.
And when the controversy ends, every soul will completely understand the principles of good and evil. Those who have chosen to join with sin and Satan will be finally destroyed with him (Matthew 25:41). But God’s people will be taken to the eternal safety of their heavenly home (John 14:3).
In His service,
BibleAsk Team
