The Origins of Pride: A Theological Exploration of Satan and His Role

Introduction

For centuries, Satan (Lucifer), an angelic being, has been depicted as being cast out of Heaven due to his pride. However, this notion is more a literary creation of poet John Milton than a scriptural truth. The Bible itself does not explicitly mention this event.

This article delves into the theological origins of pride and the role of Satan as an adversary. We will explore why labeling Satan as prideful is more a notion than a scriptural truth, and how pride, as propagated by Satan, leads to false beliefs, hate, and selfishness.

The Role of Satan: Promoting False Beliefs

The preordained cross, as mentioned in Revelation 13:8, necessitated sin. According to the Bible, God cannot sin against Himself, and He does not forcefully make us sin. Therefore, when Satan, an angel of the Lord (Zechariah 3), and a servant of God, began to "say in his heart, I will be as god" (Isaiah 14:14), he took on the role of an adversary to God's sovereignty and unconditional grace.

This belief that humans can act against God's will and take care of themselves is a significant sin that propagates in the hearts of both Adam and Eve and subsequently in all humanity. As stated in Romans 3:10–23, this false belief enables false religions, hatred, selfishness, corruption, and evil.

The Adversary's Role and Redemption

Satan's role as an adversary is not permanent. His true nature and the extent of his opposition to God's sovereignty will be revealed during the end times when he aligns with the Antichrist and False Prophet. This collusion will culminate in a final conflict against Jesus and His saints.

Despite Satan's eternal punishment and the discovery that he is just a created being like us, God's love and grace remain unchanging. As mentioned in Revelation 13:8 and Romans 11:32, the cross was necessary to reveal God's mercy and revealed grace.

The Role of Jesus and the Holy Spirit

Only those who Jesus, the author and finisher of faith (Hebrews 12:2), can choose (Ephesians 1:4-5) and be quickened by the Holy Spirit (Romans 8:9-11) can know the need for fellowship with God. Those who remain eternally separated from God's presence due to their lack of faith through no fault of their own will not experience this perfect place of eternal happiness.

Jesus' sacrifice, as mentioned in Matthew 27:46, eliminated any hope of experiencing the feelings of despair and abandonment that Satan propagated. Through His sacrifice, everyone—whether saved, lost, or unborn—is covered by His redemption and forgiveness.

Conclusion

This exploration of Satan's role and the origin of pride highlights the profound nature of God's unconditional love and grace. Jesus became sin (2 Corinthians 5:21) for us to ensure that no one ever experiences the desperate and hopeless cry of abandonment.

Moreover, it underscores the importance of biblical understanding to grasp the true nature of our adversary and the grace offered to all of us by God, through Satan's role in propagating false beliefs.