To understand Satan’s origin, we must go far back in time, before man existed. In Job 38:7  God reveals that millions of angels already existed when the heavens and earth were created and "all the sons of God (angels) shouted for joy". The angels were in perfect harmony and agreement at that time. So how does the devil fit into this picture?

Ezekiel 28:12-12 describes Satan before he rebelled against God. “You were the seal of perfection, full of wisdom and perfect in beauty. You were in Eden, the garden of God; every precious stone was your covering: the sardius, topaz, and diamond, beryl, onyx, and jasper, sapphire, turquoise, and emerald with gold. The workmanship of your timbrels and pipes was prepared for you on the day you were created.”  

Then we are told in verse 15: “You were perfect in your ways from the day you were created, till iniquity was found in you.” Satan’s sin of pride and vanity ultimately led to outright and open rebellion against God. Isaiah 14:13-14 states: “You said in your heart, ‘I will ascend to heaven; I will raise my throne above the stars [angels] of God; I will sit enthroned on the mount of assembly, on the utmost heights of the sacred mountain. I will ascend above the tops of the clouds; I will make myself like the Most High’ ” (NIV).

This powerful spirit entity, and a third of all the angels, decided to challenge God for control of the universe but, of course, they did not succeed and were cast down to the earth from God’s throne in the third heaven. Jesus Christ told his disciples He saw Satan fall ‘like lightning from heaven’ at this time (Luke 10:18).

God then allowed Satan and his minions to remain on the earth for the time being,  to aid His purpose in developing holy, righteous character in human beings. We are to turn our backs on Satan and his demons ways of pride, violence and rebellion and live by every word of God.

» Click here to find out what the Bible says about the fate of Satan and his demons.