The Faith I Live By

March—Satan And The Great Rebellion

The Uprising of Rebellion, March 1

Sin and the First Rebel

But your iniquities have separated between you and your God, and your sins have hid his face from you, that he will not hear. Isaiah 59:2. FLB 66.1

Evil originated with Lucifer, who rebelled against the government of God. Before his fall he was a covering cherub, distinguished by his excellence. God made him good and beautiful, as near as possible like Himself.^{1SDA Bible Commentary 4:1163.} FLB 66.2

Nothing is more plainly taught in Scripture than that God was in no wise responsible for the entrance of sin; that there was no arbitrary withdrawal of divine grace, no deficiency in the divine government, that gave occasion for the uprising of rebellion. Sin is an intruder, for whose presence no reason can be given. It is mysterious, unaccountable; to excuse it, is to defend it. Could excuse for it be found, or cause shown for its existence, it would cease to be sin.^{2The Great Controversy, 492, 493.} FLB 66.3

The first sinner was one whom God had greatly exalted. He is represented under the figure of the prince of Tyrus flourishing in might and magnificence. Little by little Satan came to indulge the desire for self-exaltation.... Though all his glory was from God, this mighty angel came to regard it as pertaining to himself. Not content with his position, though honored above the heavenly host, he ventured to covet homage due alone to the Creator. Instead of seeking to make God supreme in the affections and allegiance of all created beings, it was his endeavor to secure their service and loyalty to himself.... FLB 66.4

Is he [Satan] not the first great apostate from God? ^{3SDA Bible Commentary 4:1162, 1163.} FLB 66.5

It is at Lucifer's throne that every evil work finds its starting point, and obtains its support.^{4Letter 43, 1895.} FLB 66.6