Hands-free narration of this study — good for the car.
Synopsis
Sin did not begin on earth. It began in a covering cherub who turned from love that gives to love that grasps, and it raised charges against God's government that the plan of salvation answers. Understanding the origin of sin explains why the cross had to be a revelation as well as a rescue.
Key points
- Sin began as self-exaltation, not as a rule broken by accident.
- Lucifer's charge was that God's law is arbitrary and His rule selfish.
- The great controversy is over God's character, settled publicly at Calvary.
Key texts
- Isaiah 14:12-14
- Ezekiel 28:12-17
- Revelation 12:7-9
- John 8:44
- Comprehension
1. According to Isaiah 14 and Ezekiel 28, what was the essence of Lucifer's fall?
- Scripture
2. Read Ezekiel 28:15. What does 'till iniquity was found in thee' say about the cause of sin?
- Doctrinal Clarity
3. What accusations did Satan raise against God's government?
- Contrast
4. Contrast love that gives with love that grasps.
- Scripture
5. Read Revelation 12:7-9. Why was rebellion answered by expulsion rather than by immediate destruction?
- Doctrinal Clarity
6. Why must the cross answer charges as well as pay a penalty?
- Application
7. Where do you see Lucifer's principle at work in ordinary ambition?
- Application
8. How does knowing sin's origin protect you from blaming God for evil?