32
The Truth About Angels
Had he done this, he might have saved himself and many angels.
He had not at that time fully cast off his allegiance to God. Though he
had left his position as covering cherub, yet if he had been willing to
[41]
return to God, acknowledging the Creator’s wisdom, and satisfied to
fill the place appointed him in God’s great plan, he would have been
reinstated in his office. The time had come for a final decision; he
must fully yield to the divine sovereignty or place himself in open
rebellion. He nearly reached the decision to return, but pride forbade
him.—
Patriarchs and Prophets, 39
.
God Meets Satan’s Challenge
In the councils of heaven it was decided that principles must be
acted upon that would not at once destroy Satan’s power; for it was
God’s purpose to place things upon an eternal basis of security. Time
must be given for Satan to develop the principles which were the foun-
dation of his government. The heavenly universe must see worked out
the principles which Satan declared to be superior to God’s principles.
God’s order must be contrasted with Satan’s order. The corrupting
principles of Satan’s rule must be revealed. The principles of righteous-
ness expressed in God’s law must be demonstrated as unchangeable,
perfect, eternal.—
The Review and Herald, September 7, 1897
.
The loyal angels hasten speedily to the Son of God and acquaint
Him with what is taking place among the angels. They find the Father
in conference with His beloved Son, to determine the means by which,
for the best good of the loyal angels, the assumed authority of Satan
could be forever put down. The great God could at once have hurled
this arch deceiver from heaven; but this was not His purpose. He would
[42]
give the rebellious an equal chance to measure strength and might with
His own Son and His loyal angels. In this battle every angel would
choose his own side, and be manifested to all.—
The Spirit of Prophecy
1:21
.
Lucifer Becomes Satan
Satan ... determined to make himself a center of influence. If he
could not be the highest authority in heaven, he would be the highest
authority in rebellion against the government of heaven. Head he