Bible Question: In looking for an answer to the general question, "Who is Satan?" I have found many scripture passages that are supposed to explain his origin and his fall. However, when I go back and read these passages in context, they do not seem applicable, in spite of a long-held assumption by most people that they do, in fact, refer to Satan. For example, Isaiah 14 (especially 14:12-15) is a taunt against the King of Babylon, and does not actually refer to Satan (I don't think) or even mention Satan. In Ezekiel 28:13, although it refers to Eden, it is actually a part of a prophesy against the King of Tyre. In both cases the kings seem to be punished for their pride and wicked ways, and the stories they tell seem to be metaphors for what is currently happening (or will come to pass), and not about what has already happened with Satan. Only in Revelations 12:7-9 does a story of the fall of Satan appear in context, but it also refers to a prophesy of what is to come. Why do so many people assume these passages (such as Isaiah and Ezekiel) refer to the devil when he is never actually mentioned? I am familiar with many New Testament (and Old Testament) references to the ways Satan works in our lives today and how we must avoid him. I am just trying to get to the origin of the familiar story of the fall of Satan and why we teach this to our children in Sunday school, etc. if it is not actually there. I am on a kind of quest since the story of Satan was brought up in a Bible study I'm working on, and now, coincidentally, my son has asked me about this. I would appreciate feedback on this issue so I can "get it right" in my own soul and also accurately answer my children's questions, today and in the future. |
Bible Answer: Dear 12345, Hopefully the following web-site will be of help. www.bible.org/docs/theology/theology.htp Scroll down to Satanology/Demonology under Theology topics. This should at least give you a good overview and head you in the right direction. Speaking The Truth In Love, BradK |