How it All Went Wrong–And How it Will End Right

Unmasking the Origins of Evil

Bible Passage: Ezekiel 28:12–14, Isaiah 14:12–14, Revelation 12:7–9, Genesis 3

Summary: This sermon examines the biblical accounts of the origin of evil, exploring how pride and rebellion against God can lead to spiritual downfall, both for angels and humanity.

Application: Understanding the origin of evil is crucial for Christians, as it helps to contextualize human struggles with sin and suffering. By recognizing the consequences of rebellion against God, believers can be encouraged to resist temptation and seek God’s guidance in overcoming their weaknesses.

Teaching: This sermon teaches that evil originated in the hearts of created beings who were perfect but chose to rebel against God. It highlights the consequences of such rebellion, indicating that evil is not just a concept but a reality stemming from a choice to turn away from God's will.

How this passage could point to Christ: In the light of Scripture, Christ is the ultimate defeat of evil, as seen in Revelation. While evil entered the world through rebellion and deception, Christ's victory on the cross offers redemption and restoration to those trapped in sin.

Big Idea: Evil's origin lies in prideful rebellion against God, but through Christ, we find hope and the power to overcome evil in our lives.

Recommended Study: As you prepare this sermon, consider exploring the historical context and linguistic nuances of each passage in Logos to clarify the imagery of pride in Ezekiel and Isaiah. Pay attention to the theological implications of rebellion as delineated in Genesis and Revelation, noting any text-critical issues that support a greater understanding of spiritual warfare in your application.

1. Pride: The Fall Begins

Ezekiel 28:12–14

You could begin by highlighting the grand status granted to Lucifer before his fall, as depicted in Ezekiel. This passage suggests that pride was the catalyst for his rebellion, providing insight into how perfection can be corrupted by arrogance and self-exaltation. You might discuss the lure of pride and the warning it presents to us as believers. Relating to Christ, consider how He models humility and obedience, in contrast to Lucifer's pride.

2. Rebellion: Usurping Authority

Isaiah 14:12–14

Perhaps emphasize the ambition and desire to usurp God’s throne seen in Isaiah's portrayal of Lucifer. This point conveys the destructive nature of rebellion and self-promotion against divine authority. You could reflect on the dangers of seeking power and status contrary to God's will, drawing parallels to human tendencies. In contrast, highlight how Christ demonstrated submission to God and serves as the solution to prideful rebellion.

3. Resistance: A Cosmic Conflict

Revelation 12:7–9

Maybe focus on the cosmic battle described in Revelation, where evil is actively opposed by God’s angels. This point underscores the reality of spiritual warfare and the ultimate downfall of rebellious forces. You might illustrate how evil is not an abstract concept but a present battle that Christ decisively won. Encouraging believers to stand firm in their faith, remind them that Christ’s victory ensures that evil does not have the final word.

4. Temptation: Humanity’s Choice

Genesis 3

You could show how Genesis illustrates the entry of evil into the human realm through deception and disobedience, depicting the ripple effects of the fall on humanity. This point highlights our vulnerability to sin but also God’s promise of redemption through Christ. Address how temptation still affects us but stress the hope offered in Jesus, who provides a path to overcome sin and restore a relationship with God.