Satan’s heavenly rebellion against God triggered an avalanche of suffering that continues today. Our personal rebellion against him adds to the slide.
It is easy to understand why we rebel against God.
We see only a dim reflection of his excellence in his natural handiwork and in his Biblical revelation, as well as through our conscience and the experiences of others. Furthermore, suffering distorts our perception of his goodness.
Therefore, we must often exercise faith to believe that he is truly who he claims to be.
In addition, we are born with a sinful nature that compels us to think and act selfishly, independent of him. We live in a world of immorality that leads us astray.
These factors explain our rebellion against God, but why did Satan rebel against him?
Perfect Conditions
Satan was flawless at his creation. He lived in a perfect environment devoid of immorality and affliction. He had no unmet needs.
Satan basked in God’s glory. He continually saw new facets of his excellence. He did not need to exercise faith to believe in his divine goodness.
Moreover, Satan had prestige and authority. He held a high rank among the angels and was endowed with wisdom and splendor.
So why did Satan throw all of this away?
Personal Morality
We must wait until heaven for a detailed explanation, but the Bible provides a general answer.
Satan became enamored with the same allure that he used to entice Adam and Eve. He wanted to be like God.
Satan knew he could never replace God in the heavenly hierarchy. He knew he could never be omniscient, omnipotent, or omnipresent like him.
But he could formulate his own moral code. He could reject God’s standards and determine right and wrong for himself.
Nobody tempted Satan to devise his own version of morality. He conceived and acted on this idea out of pride, without any external prompting.
For him to think he knew better than God was the ultimate expression of pride.
The same goes for us.
Volitional Freedom
That God did not intervene to prevent Satan’s rebellion demonstrates his respect for the moral autonomy of the will.
However, after Satan misused his volitional freedom, God condemned him to eternal torment for his defiance.
God likewise respects our volitional freedom. He never forces us to abide by his moral code, nor does he demand that we comply with his salvation plan.
But those who misuse their free will to defy God in this life will incur the same punishment he has reserved for Satan unless they choose to be spiritually reborn.
