War in Heaven

There are two words used by Ezekiel that could help us understand the strategy of Lucifer’s attack against God.

The first one is trade (“your widespread trade” [Ezek. 28:16, NIV]); he was involved in “widespread trade.” The word translated “trade” also could be rendered “slander,” suggesting that in heaven Lucifer was involved in raising false accusations against God and probably other heavenly beings. “Slander” is evil speech intended to damage the reputation of others, and it can describe the behavior of a person who has chosen to ignore the will of God and who stands under divine judgment (Lev. 19:16, Jer. 6:28–30). It results in division and disorder (2 Cor. 12:20). Satan is described in the Bible as the accuser or slanderer of God's people, the adversary (Zech. 3:1, Rev. 12:10). Satan did not hold “ ‘to the truth, for there is no truth in him. When he lies, he speaks his native language, for he is a liar and the father of lies’ ” (John 8:44, NIV).

This slander led Satan to violence, the second important word (Ezek. 28:16). Violence designates an antisocial behavior that violates God's established order. It is motivated by hate or egotism and could lead to physical and social attacks. In some cases it results in murder or in the exploitation of others for personal benefit (Gen. 49:5, Micah 6:12). Satan was a “ ‘murderer from the beginning’ ” in that he introduced violence and death into God's creation (John 8:44).

What was the final result of the anti-God behavior of Lucifer in heaven? Rev. 12:7-9.

Slowly and mysteriously Satan's selfish feelings were transformed into a behavior that was an open attack against God and His Son. What was at first hidden soon became visible, creating confusion and disorder. There was war in heaven. This was the beginning of the cosmic conflict in which we all are involved. Satan and his supporters were defeated in heaven, on the cross, and will be extinguished from the universe at the appropriate time. The resolution of the sin problem not only restores the fallen human race to perfect and permanent union with God but will reestablish a perfect moral harmony throughout all of God’s creation.