Q: Why did You need to create the angel called Satan?

A: Satan was created as a holy angel. Isaiah 14:12 possibly gives Satan’s pre-fall name as Lucifer. Ezekiel 28:12-14 describes Satan as having been created a cherub, apparently the highest created angel. He became arrogant in his beauty and status and decided he wanted to sit on a throne above that of God’s (Isaiah 14:13-14; Ezekiel 28:15; I Timothy 3:6). Satan’s pride led to his fall. Notice the many “I will” statements in Isaiah 14:12-15. Because of his sin, God barred Satan from heaven.

God created Satan for the purpose of being the head worship leader in heaven. However it seems that God gave angels a free will just as He did man. In their free will, Satan and a third of the angels chose to rebel against God. Serving and worshipping God was not enough, he wanted to be as God. Isn’t that the same argument Satan gave to Eve and isn’t that the argument we hear in some of the religions of the world today? God’s plan has a purpose for Satan, even in his fallen state. In Proverbs 16:4 it says, “The Lord has made all things for Himself, even the wicked for the day of evil.” 

Satan became the ruler of this world and the prince of the power of the air (John 12:31; II Corinthians 4:4; Ephesians 2:2). He is an accuser (Revelation 12:10), a tempter (Matthew 4:3; I Thessalonians 3:5), and a deceiver (Genesis 3; II Corinthians 4:4; Revelation 20:3). His very name means “adversary” or “one who opposes.” Another of his titles—the devil, means “slanderer.”

Even though he was cast out of heaven, Satan still seeks to elevate his throne above God’s. He counterfeits all that God does, hoping to gain the worship of the world and encourage opposition to God's kingdom. Satan is the ultimate source behind every false cult and world religion. Satan will do anything and everything in his power to oppose God and those who follow God. However, Satan’s destiny is sealed—an eternity in the lake of fire (Revelation 20:10).

Barry Edwards