1.Many people wonder how a sinless creature like Lucifer could sin for the first time. Why is sin so “mysterious” and “inexplicable”? How can we explain this first sin without excusing or justifying it? In other words, why would an explanation of its origin be tantamount to its justification?

The question of how Lucifer, a perfect and sinless creature, could sin for the first time is one of the deepest and most challenging issues in theology. Sin, by definition, contradicts everything that is logical, good, and just—therefore, it is ultimately irrational and illogical. If there were a logical explanation for the origin of sin, it would be justified and have a “reasonable cause.” But that must not be the case, because sin is a groundless resistance against the good.

1. The Origin of Sin: Pride and Selfishness Without Cause
• Ezekiel 28:15 describes Lucifer as “blameless in his ways from the day he was created until iniquity was found in him.”
• Question: How can iniquity be “found” in a perfect being?
Answer: Through free will. God created Lucifer with the ability to choose. Love without freedom would not be genuine love. Lucifer chose against God out of pride and selfishness—without any logical cause.

2. Why Does Sin Remain Inexplicable?
• An explanation would be an excuse:
If we were to find a “reason” for Lucifer’s sin, we might say: “He had a legitimate cause.” But that would justify sin, which is impossible.
• Sin is a break without cause:
It is like a child who rebels against loving parents even though there is no real reason to complain.

3. Freedom Without Coercion: A Risk of Love
• God created all creatures with the freedom to choose. Without this freedom, love would be forced.
• Risk of freedom: Creatures might reject God—and Lucifer did so.
• Why did God not intervene immediately?
To show that His way is just and that rebellion is destructive. Immediate destruction of Lucifer would have fostered fear instead of love.

4. What Do We Learn from This?
• Sin is a mystery because it is irrational. It contradicts God’s nature of love.
• Freedom is a gift—but also a responsibility.
• Satan’s rebellion began with pride: A warning against self-exaltation and discontent.

Final Thought:
Sin remains inexplicable because any explanation would justify it. It is the groundless resistance against perfect love and justice. God created us with free will so that we can choose Him out of love—even if that came with the risk of rejection. Our task is to learn from the story of Lucifer: Pride, selfishness, and doubt in God lead to destruction, whereas humility, trust, and love lead us to true life.

2.Why didn’t God simply wipe out Satan immediately? Why must evil be allowed “to come to maturity”? In what way is this “in the interest of the entire universe and for clarification for eternity”?

The question of why God did not immediately destroy Satan is profound. When Lucifer sinned, God could have destroyed him on the spot—but that would not have solved the problem of sin. Instead, God chose a path that unites justice, love, and freedom. God’s goal was not only to end the rebellion but also to reveal to all creatures the true consequences of sin. Only in this way could the universe develop trust in God’s guidance and justice.

1. Immediate Destruction Would Have Produced Fear Instead of Love
• Had God immediately destroyed Lucifer, the angels might have thought:
“Perhaps Lucifer was right. God simply destroys anyone who asks questions.”
• God’s character is based on love and freedom. He wants His creatures to trust Him willingly, not out of fear.
True love and trust are not forced—they arise through understanding.

2. Evil Must Manifest Itself to Be Unmasked
• Why allow it “to come to maturity”?
o The consequences of sin should become evident.
o Without this manifestation, creatures would always have doubts.
• Satan’s lies: He claimed that God’s law was unjust and His rule oppressive. Only over time did it become clear that:
o Satan’s way leads to suffering and destruction.
o God’s way leads to life, peace, and joy.
The parable of the weeds (Matthew 13:24–30): The weeds are allowed to grow until harvest so that when they are pulled up, the wheat is not destroyed.

3. In the Interest of the Entire Universe
• Angels and other creatures observed the conflict (cf. 1 Corinthians 4:9).
• They were to learn from their own experience:
God’s law is good.
Rebellion leads to chaos.
God is just and loving.
This understanding will solidify trust in God for all eternity.

4. The Significance for Eternity
• After Satan’s ultimate defeat, no one will question God’s justice.
• God desires a universe without fear and doubt.
• Evil will never arise again because everyone will understand: Turning away from God leads to ruin.

Final Thought:
God did not immediately destroy Satan because He wanted to harmonize love, freedom, and justice. Evil must reveal itself so that all creatures can see: God’s way is the only good way. This revelation serves the entire universe—for everlasting peace and trust.

3.Why is it very important to understand that the conflict between God and Satan is not about mere power, but rather a conflict of a different kind? In what way does a conflict over character make sense in a way that a conflict over mere power could not?

The cosmic conflict between God and Satan is not a battle between two equals for dominion. God is all-powerful, and Satan is a created being—if it were merely a power struggle, the outcome would have been immediate. However, if the conflict were only about power, the fundamental question of God’s character and His rule would remain unanswered. The real dispute revolves around trust, truth, and justice—around the question: Is God truly good, just, and worthy of worship?

1. Power Can Enforce Obedience—but Not Trust and Love
• If God had relied solely on power:
o He could have simply destroyed Satan.
o But that would have produced fear instead of love.
o Creatures might obey God out of fear rather than trust.
True worship cannot be forced—it is based on conviction and love.

2. A Conflict Over Character Speaks to the Heart, Not Just the Mind
• Satan’s accusation: That God is unjust and oppressive.
• God’s response: Not through force, but through self-revelation:
In Jesus’ life: Love, mercy, and justice.
On the cross: God’s self-sacrifice refuted Satan’s claims.
A conflict over character challenges us to ask:
“Can I trust God? Is His way truly the best for me?”

3. Why Is a Conflict Over Character More Meaningful Than a Power Conflict?
• Power can compel obedience, but it cannot win love.
• A conflict over character addresses the core of the accusation:
o Is God a loving Father or a tyrannical ruler?
o Is His law good or restrictive?
• Over time and through experience, creatures recognize that:
God’s ways bring life.
Satan’s ways lead to suffering and death.

4. Significance for Our Lives:
We, too, face daily choices:
• Do we trust God’s Word—even when we do not fully understand it?
• Do we allow Satan’s lies about God’s character to influence us?
A power struggle demands submission.
A character conflict requires a decision of the heart: Do I trust God or not?

Final Thought:
It is crucial to recognize that the conflict between God and Satan is a battle over trust and character—not over power. God does not want forced subjects, but willing children who worship Him out of love and conviction. Therefore, He reveals His love through patience, truth, and the sacrifice on the cross. Ultimately, the question for each of us is: Whom do I trust? God’s character of love or Satan’s lies?

4.How can understanding the nature of the conflict, so to speak, “lift the veil,” in what way your life might be a microcosm of the cosmic conflict? In what way do you personally experience the reality of this conflict? How should you respond to show on whose side you truly stand?

The cosmic conflict is not just a distant battle between God and Satan in heavenly realms—it also takes place in our everyday lives. Each person is part of this struggle, often without even realizing it. Our thoughts, decisions, and priorities reflect on whose side we stand: Do we trust God’s truth, or are we deceived by Satan’s lies?

1. Our Life as a Microcosm of the Cosmic Conflict
The battle for truth, trust, and worship also unfolds in our personal lives:
• In temptations: Satan whispers, “Do what feels good. God only wants to hold something back from you.”
• In times of pain and suffering: Doubts arise, saying, “If God truly loves you, why does He allow this?”
• In the pursuit of success and recognition: The world tempts us with fame, power, and pleasure—often at the expense of integrity and faith.
In each of these moments, we must decide: Do I trust God or not?

2. How Do You Experience the Conflict in Your Life?
The conflict manifests in many areas of everyday life:
• Thoughts: Negative thoughts such as self-doubt, pride, or resentment.
• Relationships: Temptations toward conflict, envy, or unforgiveness.
• Priorities: How do you spend your time? What truly matters to you?
• Ethical decisions: Honesty at work, purity in relationships, handling money with integrity.
Ask yourself:
Where am I struggling with temptation?
Are there areas in which I question God’s ways?
How do I recognize Satan’s lies in my life?

3. How Should We Respond?
To show on whose side we stand, concrete steps are essential:
Hold fast to God’s Word:
• Jesus resisted in the wilderness by using Scripture—so should we.
• Practical tip: Memorize Bible verses that strengthen you in moments of temptation.
Consciously choose God:
• “Worship the Lord your God and serve Him only” (Matthew 4:10).
• Ask yourself when making decisions: “Does this honor God?”
Cultivate a close relationship with God:
• Daily prayer and Bible reading are not mere duties, but survival strategies in the spiritual battle.
Remain vigilant and prepared:
• Recognize temptations early. Sometimes the battle begins with a small compromise.
Seek support:
• Fellowship with other believers helps you remain strong.

4. Whose Side Do You Stand On?
Your responses in conflicts, temptations, and challenges reveal which kingdom you support.
If you find yourself tempted:
• Proclaim God’s promises aloud.
• Pray for strength.
• Remember: Jesus has already secured the victory.
If you fall:
• Get back up! God’s grace is greater than your failures.

Final Thought:
The cosmic conflict is a reality—not only in the Bible but in your everyday life. Your decisions, words, and priorities reflect whom you trust and whom you worship. Even though the battle is tough, you do not fight alone: Jesus has defeated the enemy, and through Him, you can live as a conqueror today. Stand firm in God’s truth, and you will be part of His victory.

Source: https://fulfilleddesire.net/lesson-9-the-cosmic-conflict-9-7-questions-the-god-of-love-and-justice-living-faith/

March 1, 2024

DAILY BIBLE READING – Hebrews Chapter 10

¹ For the law having a shadow of good things to come, and not the very image of the things, can never with those sacrifices which they offered year by year continually make the comers thereunto perfect.

² For then would they not have ceased to be offered? because that the worshippers once purged should have had no more conscience of sins.

³ But in those sacrifices there is a remembrance again made of sins every year.

⁴ For it is not possible that the blood of bulls and of goats should take away sins.

⁵ Wherefore when he cometh into the world, he saith, Sacrifice and offering thou wouldest not, but a body hast thou prepared me:

⁶ In burnt offerings and sacrifices for sin thou hast had no pleasure.

⁷ Then said I, Lo, I come (in the volume of the book it is written of me,) to do thy will, O God.

⁸ Above when he said, Sacrifice and offering and burnt offerings and offering for sin thou wouldest not, neither hadst pleasure therein; which are offered by the law;

⁹ Then said he, Lo, I come to do thy will, O God. He taketh away the first, that he may establish the second.

¹⁰ By the which will we are sanctified through the offering of the body of Jesus Christ once for all.

¹¹ And every priest standeth daily ministering and offering oftentimes the same sacrifices, which can never take away sins:

¹² But this man, after he had offered one sacrifice for sins for ever, sat down on the right hand of God;

¹³ From henceforth expecting till his enemies be made his footstool.

¹⁴ For by one offering he hath perfected for ever them that are sanctified.

¹⁵ Whereof the Holy Ghost also is a witness to us: for after that he had said before,

¹⁶ This is the covenant that I will make with them after those days, saith the Lord, I will put my laws into their hearts, and in their minds will I write them;

¹⁷ And their sins and iniquities will I remember no more.

¹⁸ Now where remission of these is, there is no more offering for sin.

¹⁹ Having therefore, brethren, boldness to enter into the holiest by the blood of Jesus,

²⁰ By a new and living way, which he hath consecrated for us, through the veil, that is to say, his flesh;

²¹ And having an high priest over the house of God;

²² Let us draw near with a true heart in full assurance of faith, having our hearts sprinkled from an evil conscience, and our bodies washed with pure water.

²³ Let us hold fast the profession of our faith without wavering; (for he is faithful that promised;)

²⁴ And let us consider one another to provoke unto love and to good works:

²⁵ Not forsaking the assembling of ourselves together, as the manner of some is; but exhorting one another: and so much the more, as ye see the day approaching.

²⁶ For if we sin wilfully after that we have received the knowledge of the truth, there remaineth no more sacrifice for sins,

²⁷ But a certain fearful looking for of judgment and fiery indignation, which shall devour the adversaries.

²⁸ He that despised Moses’ law died without mercy under two or three witnesses:

²⁹ Of how much sorer punishment, suppose ye, shall he be thought worthy, who hath trodden under foot the Son of God, and hath counted the blood of the covenant, wherewith he was sanctified, an unholy thing, and hath done despite unto the Spirit of grace?

³⁰ For we know him that hath said, Vengeance belongeth unto me, I will recompense, saith the Lord. And again, The Lord shall judge his people.

³¹ It is a fearful thing to fall into the hands of the living God.

³² But call to remembrance the former days, in which, after ye were illuminated, ye endured a great fight of afflictions;

³³ Partly, whilst ye were made a gazingstock both by reproaches and afflictions; and partly, whilst ye became companions of them that were so used.

³⁴ For ye had compassion of me in my bonds, and took joyfully the spoiling of your goods, knowing in yourselves that ye have in heaven a better and an enduring substance.

³⁵ Cast not away therefore your confidence, which hath great recompence of reward.

³⁶ For ye have need of patience, that, after ye have done the will of God, ye might receive the promise.

³⁷ For yet a little while, and he that shall come will come, and will not tarry.

³⁸ Now the just shall live by faith: but if any man draw back, my soul shall have no pleasure in him.

³⁹ But we are not of them who draw back unto perdition; but of them that believe to the saving of the soul.

King James Version. Public Domain

 

Commentary

Introduction

Hebrews Chapter 10 is a central chapter in the New Testament that highlights the superiority of Jesus Christ’s sacrifice over the Old Testament sacrifices. The author emphasizes that the Law was only a shadow of the good things to come and could not bring complete redemption. However, through Christ’s once-and-for-all perfect sacrifice, eternal salvation was made available to believers.

The chapter contains a strong encouragement to remain steadfast in faith, along with a serious warning against deliberately turning away from the truth. It concludes with a call to trust, patience, and perseverance in faith.

Commentary

1.The Imperfection of the Law and the Perfection of Christ’s Sacrifice (Verses 1–18)

• The Law, with its annual sacrifices, could not completely remove sins (Verses 1–4).

• Christ came to fulfill God’s will by replacing the imperfect sacrificial system with His perfect sacrifice (Verses 5–10).

• While earthly priests had to offer daily sacrifices, Christ secured eternal redemption through His one-time offering (Verses 11–14).

• The forgiveness of sins through Christ means that no further sacrifices are needed (Verses 15–18).

2.The Confession of Hope and the Call to Steadfastness (Verses 19–25)

• Through Jesus’ blood, believers have free access to God (Verses 19–21).

• They are encouraged to draw near with sincere hearts, to hold fast to hope, and to encourage one another in love and good works (Verses 22–24).

• The gathering of believers should not be neglected, especially in light of Christ’s imminent return (Verse 25).

3.Warning Against Willful Sin and Apostasy (Verses 26–31)

• Those who deliberately sin after knowing the truth can expect no further sacrifice but only God’s judgment (Verses 26–27).

• The Law of Moses carried severe punishments; even more so will those be judged who trample on Christ’s sacrifice (Verses 28–29).

• The justice and judgment of God are emphasized: “It is a fearful thing to fall into the hands of the living God” (Verses 30–31).

4.Encouragement to Patience and Faith (Verses 32–39)

• The author reminds the believers of past times of suffering and their perseverance in faith (Verses 32–34).

• They are urged not to throw away their confidence but to patiently wait for the fulfillment of God’s promises (Verses 35–36).

• The chapter concludes with a quotation from Habakkuk 2:3–4: “The righteous shall live by faith” (Verses 37–38).

• Believers are encouraged not to shrink back but to remain in faith and thereby save their souls (Verse 39).

Summary

Hebrews 10 emphasizes the superiority of Christ’s once-for-all sacrifice over the incomplete sacrificial system of the Old Covenant. While the Law was only a shadow of the coming redemption, Christ’s death brought complete forgiveness.

Believers are encouraged to stand firm in faith, hold fast to the confession of hope, and motivate one another toward love and good works. At the same time, the passage sternly warns against deliberately turning away from Christ, as no further sacrifice remains—only God’s judgment.

The chapter concludes with a call to patience and faithfulness, reminding believers of the reward that awaits those who persevere in hope. “The righteous shall live by faith.”

 

 

WEEKLY SPIRIT OF PROPHECY READING – Ellen White | Steps to Christ
Chapter 6—Faith and Acceptance
Read online here

Commentary

Introduction

Chapter 6 shows us the path from the awakening of the conscience to the acceptance of divine gifts of grace. Through the work of the Holy Spirit, we recognize the destructive power and misery of sin, which separates us from God. This realization arouses in us a deep desire for forgiveness, cleansing, and freedom—yet we cannot obtain these graces through our own efforts, but only through steadfast faith in Jesus Christ, who bestows them upon us as a free gift from God.

Commentary

1.Awakening of the Conscience and Recognition of Sinfulness

• Stirring by the Holy Spirit:

  The conscience is awakened by the Holy Spirit, enabling us to perceive the malice, power, guilt, and misery of sin.

• Realization of Separation:

  We come to understand that sin has separated us from God and that we ourselves are trapped in a state of helplessness and selfishness.

2.God’s Gifts of Grace and Promises

• Free Gift of Grace:

  God offers us forgiveness, cleansing, peace, and love as gifts of grace—things that cannot be bought with money or human wisdom (see Isaiah 55:1).

• Biblical Promises:

  Promises such as “Though your sins are like scarlet, they shall be as white as snow” (Isaiah 1:18) and “I will give you a new heart and put a new spirit within you” (Ezekiel 36:26) show that God is able to free us from our sinfulness.

• Jesus as an Example:

  Jesus’ healing of the paralyzed man (Matthew 9:6) demonstrates that faith in His words and miracles brings immediate deliverance and healing.

3.Faith and Acceptance of the Divine Promise

• Necessity of Faith:

  The text calls us to confess our sins and yield ourselves to God. Only through steadfast faith, not through feelings, can we receive God’s promises.

• Daily Surrender:

  It is emphasized that we should daily acknowledge our belonging to Christ and live in His Spirit, thus remaining continually in His grace and mercy.

• Condition of Prayer:

  Our requests must be in harmony with God’s will, who wants to cleanse us of our failings and make us His children.

4.The Universal Power of Grace

• Unlimited Forgiveness:

  No one is so sinful that they cannot be touched by God’s infinite mercy. God wants to fill us with His blessings—strength, righteousness, and purity.

• The Father-Heart of God:

  God’s love is so great that He has accepted us even in our weakness. His immeasurable love and mercy express His eternal desire to redeem and renew us.

Summary

Chapter 6, “Faith and Acceptance,” calls us to acknowledge our own sinfulness and awaken within ourselves a deep longing for divine forgiveness and renewal. It stresses that we cannot achieve sanctification through our own power, but that God’s grace—given freely through Jesus Christ—covers all our shortcomings. By confessing our sins and holding firmly to faith in Jesus’ words and miracles, we become children of God who live in His Spirit and are healed by His mercy. Ultimately, it is unwavering faith and daily surrender that lead us into the fullness of God’s blessings and empower us to live a renewed, holy life.

Source: https://fulfilleddesire.net/1-03-2025-hebrews-chapter-10-believe-his-prophets/

9.6 Summary
The Cosmic Conflict – A Battle Over Truth, Trust, and Worship

The Cosmic Conflict deals with the spiritual battle between God and Satan, a conflict that has persisted throughout human history since Lucifer’s rebellion in heaven. This conflict is not a struggle for power, but a battle for truth, trust, and worship. Satan challenges God’s character, while God reveals His goodness through love, patience, and righteousness.

1. Origin of the Conflict
• Began in heaven: Lucifer, once a glorious angel, rebelled against God out of pride (Ezekiel 28; Revelation 12).
• Satan’s motive: To sow doubt about God’s justice and love.
• God’s response: He allowed time for the universe to witness the true consequences of rebellion.

2. The Battle on Earth
• In the Garden of Eden: Satan deceived Eve with trickery (“Did God really say…?”), leading to sin and the fall of man (Genesis 3).
• Jesus in the wilderness: Satan tempted Jesus with hunger, pride, and power—but Jesus resisted using God’s Word (Matthew 4:1–11).
• Lesson for us: We overcome temptations by knowing and applying God’s truth.

3. Satan’s Strategies and God’s Ways
• Satan’s methods: Lies, deception, flattery, and accusation (John 8:44; Revelation 12:10).
• God’s response: Truth, love, patience, and self-sacrifice – most clearly demonstrated on the cross.
• Practical for us: Recognize Satan’s lies in everyday life and hold fast to God’s promises.

4. The Core of the Conflict: Worship and Loyalty
• Satan’s goal: He desires worship that belongs solely to God (Matthew 4:9).
• God’s goal: The voluntary love and trust of His creatures.
• For our lives: Whom do we worship? Whom do we trust? Our daily decisions reveal on whose side we stand.

5. Victory Is Assured
• Jesus has triumphed: On the cross, He exposed Satan’s lies and revealed God’s love (Revelation 12:11).
• We are part of the battle: Yet in Christ, we are more than conquerors (Romans 8:37).
• Practical application:
Read the Bible regularly – it is your weapon.
Pray for wisdom and strength in daily life.
Remember: Your identity is in Christ, not in your mistakes.

Final Thought:
The cosmic conflict is real and affects each one of us. It is about trust, truth, and worship. Satan accuses God of being loveless—but God’s love on the cross finally refutes that lie. In this battle, we do not have to fight on our own: Jesus has already won. Stay close to Him, trust His Word, and live in the assurance that God’s truth triumphs over all lies!

The cosmic conflict is not just an overarching spiritual theme—it plays out in our daily lives. Every thought, every decision, and every action reveals on which side we stand in this battle: Do we believe God’s truth or Satan’s lies? Do we trust God even when life is difficult, or do we let doubts and temptations guide us?

1. Trust in Daily Life: Do I Trust God Even Without All the Answers?
• In challenges: When problems overwhelm us, Satan whispers, “God has forgotten you.” Yet God’s Word says, “I will never leave you nor forsake you” (Hebrews 13:5).
• Practical application:
Start each day with prayer, asking for trust in God’s guidance.
When doubts arise, remember God’s faithfulness in the past.

2. Recognize Temptations in Your Daily Life
• Temptations are often subtle: “Do what feels good” or “It’s not that big of a deal.”
• How Jesus resisted: He used God’s Word to refute Satan’s temptations (Matthew 4:4, 7, 10).
• Practical application:
Memorize Bible verses that help you in your moments of weakness.
When making decisions, ask yourself: “Does this bring me closer to God or push me away?”

3. Be Vigilant Against Satan’s Strategies
• Everyday examples of his lies:

• “You are not good enough.” → God says: “You are my beloved child” (1 John 3:1).

• “God wants to withhold something from you.” → God’s commandments protect and bless us.

  • Practical application:

  Recognize when thoughts or circumstances sow doubt about God’s goodness.

  Combat these thoughts with biblical truth.

4. Worship and Loyalty: What Holds Priority in Your Life?
• Worship is reflected in everyday life and decisions:

• What do you sacrifice time, energy, and money for?

• What occupies your thoughts the most?

  • Practical application:

  Set aside dedicated time for God—prayer, Bible reading, and gratitude.

  Regularly ask yourself: “Who or what is my highest priority?”

5. You Are Not Fighting Alone – Victory Is Certain!
• Even if you fall, Jesus has defeated the enemy – you can always rise again.
• Source of strength: You do not have to fight in your own strength – God’s Spirit lives in you (Romans 8:11).
• Practical application:
When tempted, pray: “Lord, help me stay strong.”
Seek fellowship with other believers – together, you are stronger.

Final Thought:
The cosmic conflict affects your heart, your daily life, and your decisions. Satan wants to separate you from God, but Jesus fights for you. You are not alone in this battle! Stay close to God’s Word, hold on to His love, and remember: Victory has already been won. You are more than a conqueror in Christ!

Trust in God’s truth in every battle – for in Christ, victory is already yours.

Source: https://fulfilleddesire.net/lesson-9-the-cosmic-conflict-9-6-summary-the-god-of-love-and-justice-living-faith/