Being a devoted Christian, reading the Bible is not debatable for me. It is something that I have incorporated into my culture and day-to-day being. One of the most disturbing things I have encountered in the Bible is how Satan works hard to suppress God’s will. However, the Bible also clearly shows that Satan was once God’s angel. What I am curious to know is what caused his downfall. Why did Satan fall as an angel?
The scripture is clear that Satan fell as an angel because of his pride (Ezekiel 28:12-18). Isaiah also describes Satan’s desire to make himself “God” as a significant contributor to why he did fall as an angel. He wanted to take over the universe instead of worshipping and serving God like the other angels.
I invite you to join me in this article as I explain why Satan fell as an angel. I will uncover and give more information on Satan’s pride and what Christians can learn from his fall. Keep reading to learn more.
Where in the Bible can I read about Satan’s fall?
You can read the symbolical description of Satan’s fall from Heaven from Ezekiel 28:12-18 and Isaiah 14:12-14. The book of Ezekiel describes the blameless nature of Satan from the day he was created till he became full of himself and unrighteousness struck in. Furthermore, this book reveals that Satan was a Cherub, an angel who is said to hold a high position in the Kingdom of God.
On the hand, Isaiah 14:12-14 also narrates the fall of Satan. It says, “How you are fallen from Heaven, O day star, son of the dawn. How are you cut down to the ground, you who laid the nations low! You said in your heart, and I will ascend to Heaven above the stars of God. I will set my throne on high; I will sit on the mount of assembly in the far reaches of the north. I will ascend above the heights of the clouds; I will make myself like the High.”
This narration indicates that Satan fell from Heaven because he wanted to make himself God’s equal. He wanted to go against God’s will.
Why did Satan have pride in his heart?
The book of Ezekiel 28:17 notes that Satan had pride in his heart because of beauty. “Your heart was proud because of your beauty; you corrupted your wisdom for the sake of your splendor. I cast you to the ground; I exposed you before kings to feast their eyes on you.”
Theologians suggest that Satan was an angel holding the highest rank of all angels in Heaven. He is described as beautiful and an anointed cherub. However, his beauty took the best of him, and he was not content with his position. His pride came from the beauty and the intense desire to make himself God. He wanted to make himself the ruler of the universe.
Where did pride come from when Satan was an angel?
Satan’s pride came from his selfish ambition and desire to exalt himself above God. In Isaiah 14:12-15, Satan chest-thumbs himself and notes that he will make himself the Most High. This passage in the scripture suggests that Satan’s pride came from his desire to be like God, to be equal with God, or even to surpass Him in power and authority. However, pride is also considered a sin in the Christian faith, and it can lead to disobedience and separation from God. It is believed that Satan’s pride ultimately led to his rebellion against God and his fall from grace as an angel.
Did God know Satan would sin against him?
Though the scripture does not directly note that God knows Satan would sin against Him, it is clear that God is omniscient. This means that he is all-knowing (1st John 3:1-20). He is aware of everything that happened, everything that is to happen, and all that is happening now. If God did not know that Satan would sin against Him, then His nature is deficient. And that is impossible because if there is a deficiency, He cannot be the all-knowing God. Therefore, he knew Satan would sin against Him, but he gave him his free will.
What can Christians learn from Satan’s fall?
There are several lessons that Christians can learn from Satan’s fall:
- Pride leads to downfall: Satan’s fall was caused by his pride and desire to exalt himself above God. Christians can learn from this and recognize the dangers of pride, which can lead to disobedience and separation from God.
- Satan is a deceiver: Satan’s fall also highlights his nature as a deceiver and liar. Christians can learn to be aware of Satan’s tactics and recognize the importance of staying rooted in the truth of God’s word.
- There are consequences for disobedience: Satan’s fall resulted in his expulsion from Heaven and eternal separation from God. Christians can learn that disobedience has consequences but also that God is merciful and offers forgiveness to those who repent.
- God’s power is more significant and greater than Satan’s: Despite Satan’s attempts to exalt himself, he was ultimately powerless against God. Christians can learn to trust in God’s power and authority, even in the face of opposition and temptation from Satan.
As a devout Christian, I have always been passionate about the Christian faith. This inspired me to pursue a degree in Religious studies and a Masters in Theology in college. I have also been privileged to teach 4 Christian courses in a college and university. Since I am dedicated to spreading the word of God, I am actively involved in the Church. Additionally, I share his word online and cover diverse topics on the Christian faith through my platform. You can read more about me on the about us page.
