Monday: War in Heaven
Daily Lesson for Monday 20th of October 2025
Joshua understood that the battle was part of a larger conflict. What do we know about the conflict in which God Himself was involved? Read Revelation 12:7-9, Isaiah 14:12-14, Ezekiel 28:11-19, and Daniel 10:12-14.
God populated the universe with responsible creatures to whom He gave free will, a prerequisite for them being able to love. They can choose to act in accordance with, or against, God’s will. The most powerful of angels, Lucifer, rebelled against God, and took a lot of angels with him.
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Isaiah and Ezekiel refer to the conflict, although some commentators try to restrict the meaning of Isaiah 14:1-32 and Ezekiel 28:1-26 to the king of Babylon and to a ruler in Tyre. However, there are clear indicators in the biblical text that point to a transcendent reality. The king of Babylon is presented to have been in heaven at the throne of God (Isaiah 14:12-13), and the king of Tyre is said to have resided in Eden as a protective cherub on God’s holy mountain (Ezekiel 28:12-15). None of this is true about the kings of Babylon and Tyre.
Neither can it be said about the earthly kings that they were blameless and the “signet ring of perfection.” Consequently, these characters point beyond the literal kingdoms of Babylon and Tyre.
Isaiah presents a “parable” (Heb. mashal) that conveys a meaning beyond the immediate historical context. In this case, the king of Babylon becomes a paradigm of rebellion, self-sufficiency, and pride. Similarly, Ezekiel makes a distinction between the prince of Tyre (Ezekiel 28:2) and the king of Tyre (Ezekiel 28:11-12), where the prince, being active in the earthly realm, becomes the symbol of a king who acts in the heavenly one.
According to Daniel 10:12-14, these rebellious heavenly beings obstruct the fulfillment of God’s purposes on earth. It is in light of this connection between heaven and earth that we have to understand the divinely sanctioned wars of Israel. We need to recognize them as earthly manifestations of the great conflict between God and Satan, and between good and evil—all ultimately with the purpose of restoring God’s justice and love in a fallen world.
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What are ways we see, in the world around us and in our own lives, the reality of this cosmic battle between good and evil? |
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There was war in heaven (Revelation 12:7-9). This implies that there was sin in heaven. Why does the bible inform us about this? What are the practical and spiritual lessons to be learned from this information?
Of all places, how can sin be found in heaven? This tells us about the nature of sin and hence how we should respond to its existence. The fact that sin was found in a perfect being and in a perfect environment (Deuteronomy 32:4; Psalms 145:17), is something to seriously reflect about.
1. Sin is far more serious than simply a “bad behaviour”. It is subtle and every created being is potential victim. Sin is no respecter of persons or place.
2. God did not cause sin but allowed it to develop until an appointed time for its total annihilation (Nahum 1:9). Sin has no quick fix.
3. God was not in a hurry to wipe sin away instantly because He is a God of second chances. God is absolutely committed to moral freedom, and His justice is beyond reproach.
4. Freedom is precious but highly risk. Lucifer was not able to manager it within its bounds. Freedom without boundaries is deadly dangerous.
5. Pride is the epicentre of all evil. It is a matter of the heart. Of all things, we must safeguard out heart from every corruption.
“Keep your heart with all diligence, for out of it are the issues of life.” (Proverbs 4:23, KJV)
“ Watch over your heart more than anything else, because life flows from it.” (Proverbs 4:23, GW)
Good questions Omwenga! The reason that sin and war broke out in heaven is because God created even the angels with free will. They weren't programmed robots that had no choice but to obey. For as intelligent as Lucifer was, he wasn't very wise. What was he thinking that he could actually overthrow his Creator? Besides, there is no way that a created being would be able to fulfill the "duties" of God. He obviously didn't read the "job description" before he set out to try to take the throne. Lucifer wanted the position and power of God but he didn't have the ability or personality. Since he can't get to the Father, he poured out his wrath upon Jesus and his followers. He knows that his days are numbered and is determined to take as many of God’s people down with him. Our only hope is staying close to Christ.
On the subject of freedom, there may be a few thoughts to consider as we seek to understand. I think many would agree our free will is not as free as we would like. This is because of sin. But for God’s grace we naturally choose sin instead of God.
But there is another area of choice and judgement God’s creatures have to deal with. And they are related to the gift of life. The first relates to God’s choice to be God. To human understanding God did not choose to be God because He is God. So also there are many important factors of our lives that we did not have the freedom to choose but that have an important impact on of what our lives consist.
We did not choose:
To be born as humans instead of angels or some other creature of another world.
What time in history we were born.
What gender we were born with.
Who are parents were and the biases and habits with which they would raise us.
What our physical appearance is.
The DNA that influences our talents and biases (genetic makeup)
The country in which we were born with its political and cultural biases.
What race we were born.
We are created not the Creator.
It seems this is at the heart of Satans’s rebellion. He wants to be God but he can’t change reality.
In the world in which we live these factors can work for or against us because of sin, judgement, and righteousness.
But what we think is working against us can indeed be working for us if we allow Jesus to shape our minds and hearts.
Exellent points, Tim.
When we condemn or accuse others, we reflect the spirit of Satan, the accuser of the brethren (Revelation 12:10). But when we show mercy, forgiveness, and grace, we reveal the character of Christ, who came “not to condemn the world, but that the world through Him might be saved” (John 3:17).
Jesus showed us what divine love looks like when He said to the woman caught in sin, “Neither do I condemn you; go and sin no more” (John 8:11). Every act of compassion, every word of kindness, and every moment of patience places us on His side—the side of love, not condemnation.
As followers of Christ, we are called to “be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you” (Ephesians 4:32). In the great conflict between good and evil, our character reveals whose spirit controls us. To be merciful is to reflect Jesus Himself—the One who delights in mercy (Micah 7:18).
The war against sin originated in heaven, where Lucifer, led a rebellion, resulting in the loss of one-third of the angels (Revelation 12:4, 7-9). Cast out of heaven, Lucifer, now introduced discord into the world God had created and declared "very good" (Genesis 1:31). Sin spread to humanity, and the accuser gained dominion over the earth. However, the story doesn't end there. Through Calvary, the accuser was defeated, and ultimate victory is assured (Revelation 19:17-21).
A profound question arises: why did God create humanity with free will, knowing the risks? The answer lies in God's goodness. By allowing humanity to choose, God's goodness is elevated and appreciated (Romans 2:4). Throughout human history, despite our choices, God fights for us, demonstrating His goodness. May we stand on the side of good, with God, when the war is over.
Throughout history, wars like the Battle of Tours (732 A.D.), the Battle of Gettysburg (1863), and the invasion of Normandy (1944) have dramatically shaped the course of nations and beliefs. Had the Moorish army triumphed at Tours, Europe might have embraced Islam rather than Christianity; if the Confederacy had won at Gettysburg, slavery could have remained entrenched in America; and if Hitler’s forces had prevailed at Normandy, tyranny might have overshadowed freedom across the world. Each of these turning points demonstrates how a single battle can alter the moral, cultural, and spiritual direction of entire civilizations. They remind us that unseen forces and critical moments determine far more than people often realize.
To a far greater sense, Joshua came to understand that the battles he fought for example the fall of Jericho were part of an even larger, spiritual war. His encounter with the “Commander of the Lord’s army” (Joshua 5:13–15) revealed that earthly conflicts reflect a cosmic struggle between good and evil, a truth echoed later in Revelation 12:7–9, where Michael and his angels wage war in heaven against the dragon. As victory at Tours, Gettysburg, or Normandy shaped human history, the victory God gives in the spiritual realm determines the destiny of souls. Joshua’s obedience showed that triumph belongs not to human power, but to God’s purpose a truth Paul summarized when he said, “We wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against…spiritual wickedness in high places” (Ephesians 6:12).
This week's lesson seems to be saying that our secular realities and challenges are manifestations of spiritual realities that we can influence by appropriate responses which can involve physical battles like Jericho where God affirms our cooperation with him.
I would suggest that this scenario is also played out in our churches, thus Paul admonishes us to be careful that our responses are appropriate. Paul faced this dilemma with the church at Corinth. Today, we often misinterpret Paul's meaning as 'avoid these conflicts', 'cease to defend', 'avoid quarrels at all costs'. Jesus couldn't afford to take such a course in the heavenlies.That which was at stake, was worth fighting for and even laying down His life.
In Revelation 12:7–9, Isaiah 14:12–14, Ezekiel 28:11–19, and Daniel 10:12–14, we see that the great conflict did not begin on earth but in heaven a rebellion born out of pride, self-exaltation, and loss of sympathy toward the character of God. Lucifer’s heart was lifted up, and he turned from love to selfishness. That same principle—the neglect of love—is what continues the war in human hearts today.
Just as Lucifer’s rebellion began with a subtle shift in attitude (“I will ascend…”), the little negligence of sympathy you quoted from Ellen G. White describes how sin also begins in small, unnoticed ways. When we neglect compassion, we echo the spirit of Lucifer—self-centered, detached, proud. The moment we cease to care for others, we begin to drift from the very essence of God’s character: love.
Here’s the spiritual connection:
Heaven’s Conflict → Our Conflict
The war that began in heaven continues in the hearts of men. Every act of pride, indifference, or selfishness reflects that same spirit of rebellion.
Neglect → Hardening of Heart
“A little neglect of sympathy” may seem small, but it desensitizes us to God’s love. Lucifer’s fall began not with open hatred, but with a quiet loss of gratitude and love. Likewise, when we cease to feel the pain of others, we become less responsive to the Spirit’s voice.
Compassion → Healing and Victory
“We are healed by His wounds” (Isaiah 53:5). The Cross is the ultimate revelation of God’s sympathy and love for sinners. When we meditate on Christ’s sacrifice, our hearts are softened; love is rekindled, and the spirit of heaven—selfless service—takes root again in us.
So, just as Joshua recognized that his earthly battle was part of a cosmic one, we too must recognize that our daily choices—especially the small ones—are part of that same great controversy.
Every act of kindness, every word of compassion, is a victory for Christ’s kingdom. Every neglect of love strengthens the enemy’s side.
Ellen White put it powerfully
“The greatest triumph of truth is to bring the human mind into obedience to Christ, to restore in man the image of God.” (Testimonies, vol. 4, p. 606)
Thus, the “little negligence of sympathy” isn’t little at all—it’s where the war for our souls is won or lost.
We are all immersed in this battle between good and evil. There is no way to avoid it. Therefore, as free will creatures, we may choose which side we want to be on. There is no way out of these two. Every minute we can choose right or wrong. Ultimately, the most important fight is not outside of us, but inside.
Thank you JC Zielak,
Long before Jesus came to earth, the war that broke out in heaven was not a battle of weapons but of character and truth. Lucifer accused God of being unjust, selfish, and restrictive. God could have destroyed Satan instantly—but He chose a better way: to reveal His love and justice through time and action.
When Jesus came to this world, He became the living proof of God’s character. On earth, He did not come to condemn but to save. “For God sent not His Son into the world to condemn the world, but that the world through Him might be saved” (John 3:17). Every word and act of Jesus revealed what God is really like—merciful, patient, and kind even to those who rejected Him.
He did not condemn the woman caught in sin; He forgave her. He did not cast off Peter who denied Him; He restored him. Even Judas, who betrayed Him, was called “friend.” The only one Jesus condemned was Satan—the father of lies—whose rebellion began that war in heaven.
Ellen G. White writes, “He exercised the greatest tact and thoughtful, kind attention in His intercourse with the people… He never gave needless pain to a sensitive soul” (The Desire of Ages, p. 353).
The same Jesus who revealed the Father’s love on earth continues His work today, inviting us to choose His side in the great conflict between good and evil. Every act of mercy, every moment of forgiveness, every grace extended is a victory in that ongoing war.
Do you mean it was an arguement over who had a better idea?
I don’t quite understand why so many struggle with the idea that God commanded the destruction of nations whose practices were deeply abominable. About two thousand years after the Fall, God had already destroyed the entire world—except for eight people—because human wickedness had become so great that every thought was continually evil. Yet in His mercy, He promised never again to destroy the world by water.
As part of His plan for human redemption, God chose a people through whom He would reveal His character and eventually bring the Messiah into the world. To make this possible, He needed to create conditions where righteousness could thrive and prevent a return to the corruption that existed before the Flood. The moral influence of the Canaanites was so pervasive that removing them seemed to be the only way to preserve His redemptive purpose.
It’s important not to confuse or equate what God did in those ancient times with human acts of genocide. God’s judgments are never driven by hatred, prejudice, or greed, but by His perfect knowledge, justice, and mercy. He alone knows when a people or nation has reached the point where their influence only spreads destruction.
Ultimately, God’s goal has always been to remove sin completely. The destruction of the Canaanites foreshadowed what Scripture calls His “strange act” — the final destruction of all unrepentant sinners. It is not an act of cruelty, but of justice mingled with mercy, ensuring that sin and suffering will never rise again.
Is "His strange act"demonstrated by Joshua when He died on the cross is this an explanation of Gn 2:17 and what it may look like when all those who distrust Elohim die the second time?
Looking to answer the lesson’s question, like other commenters, I can see the reality of this cosmic battle between 'good and evil' reflected in the conduct of all living creatures. The danger in ‘good and evil’ is not confined to the extreme examples like war or peace, but rather in that it permeates every fiber of our being - ultimately, the fallen nature from which 'evil' acts are born.
Only the Holy Spirit is able to bring about a change to our old nature. What does the king of Tyre's haughty spirit of pride and confidence in what he perceives as 'self-made- success', display? Compare this with the 'Fruit of the Spirit' of God, His Holy Spirit - one leads to destruction, the other to life.
We can never let our guard down, as we are engaged in this cosmic battle throughout our life time. As Christians, we are called to test the spirits, become aware of the source of those spirits, which we observe 'speaking' to us, motivating us, prompting us to action.
To learn distinguishing between the voice of the Holy Spirit, evil spirits, or the human spirit, it is essential to request the Holy Spirit's help - 1 Cor.12:10; 1 John 4:1; 2 Cor.11:14; Heb.4:12; Phil.1:9-10.
"Joshua understood that the battle was part of a larger conflict."
Did he really?
The Conflict of the Ages Series of books takes us from the war in heaven until now, and beyond. I have a Seventh-day Adventist friend who did not believe Ellen White about our future, specifically whether or not Christ would be taking us to heaven for a thousand years or not. He does now, the only thing that I can figure out that brought him to the full truth of our future is the Holy Spirit. Oh yes I do know that his wife and him have Adventist TV satellite access in their home and watch it. Ultimately though is it not the Holy Spirit who convicts us? Think about on that when you are tempted to think, "Oh yes, I will have a star in my crown, cause I witnessed to someone." Oh no I am not saying don't lay the seed, rather, if possible, form a friend with the one you lay the seed of the Gospel of Christ with, and follow through with nudges and encouragement. Del Delker used to sing: Never give up, Jesus is Coming, never give up, keep holding on. That applies to many aspects of our Christian lives.