Yes. Originally, as God created him, he was holy, pure, grand of character and of a high order of angelic nature, a “covering cherub” (Ezekiel 28:16). His name was Lucifer, meaning “Day Star.” According to the Bible, of his own free will, he became Satan, meaning adversary or accuser. He transformed himself from the loyal, glorious servant of God to a bitter enemy and opponent.

The Scriptures tell us what transformed his heart–that it was an evil thought, a disloyal thought, an ambitious thought. The spirit being Lucifer said within himself, “I will ascend into heaven, I will exalt my throne above the stars of God (the other angelic beings) …I will be like the Most High” (Isaiah 14:12-14). Just as God rules the entire universe, Satan apparently also wanted to reign supreme and work out his own schemes and plans. Lucifer’s opportune moment came when our first parents were created. Perceiving that they had procreative powers, it seems he seized upon the thought that by alienating them from God, he could wield an influence over them and eventually have an earthly dominion of his own.

God permitted him to carry out much of his scheme; however, at the same time, Satan was unknowingly working out a part of the divine program. God foresaw Satan’s fall and mankind’s fall. God had already planned for the Savior Jesus to die for mankind. Jesus was “the Lamb slain from the foundation of the world” (Revelation 13:8). It is not to be understood that Satan has in any sense thwarted the divine program. On the contrary, it has been a part of God’s great plan to permit evil to reign for 6,000 years and then to bind Satan and establish righteousness.

Additional Resources:

Download the free PDF: “Why God Permits Evil” Many have dismissed the existence of God because they could not understand why He would allow evil to prosper. In this wonderful booklet the biblical answer reveals a wisdom and justice that is fitting of a God worthy of our praise.

Christian Questions Podcast
Episode #1266: “Why Doesn’t God Just Destroy Satan?”
Satan’s history and God’s righteous reasons for keeping him alive
Preview Video
CQ Rewind Show Notes

Episode #1305: “How Do Satanic Demons Influence Our World?”
Establishing the origin, power and methods of dark spiritual beings
Preview Video
CQ Rewind Show Notes

For kids, parents and Bible class teachers:
CQ Kids Video: “What does the Bible say about Satan?”
CQ Kids Video: “Who is Satan?”
CQ Kids Video: “Why didn’t God stop Satan from tempting Eve?”