Why does Satan hate Christians?

QUESTION:

Why does Satan hate us so?

Hank

ANSWER:

Hank, you pose a great question. I think the simplest answer is to say it is because of his nature. Jesus said, in speaking to His enemies about Satan said, “You are of your father the devil, and you want to do the desires of your father. He was a murderer from the beginning, and does not stand in the truth, because there is no truth in him. Whenever he speaks a lie, he speaks from his own nature; for he is a liar, and the father of lies” (John 8:44). Satan is the ultimate psychopath. 

There are about 40 descriptive names of Satan in the Bible. One of those names is, “Apollyon,” which means destroyer (Cf. Revelation 9:11). He is also referred to as the evil one (1 John 5:18, 19). Peter warned us, “Your adversary, the devil, prowls about like a roaring lion, seeking someone to devour” (1 Peter 5:8). Paul told us our opposition is against Satan and his followers who indulge in wickedness (Ephesians 6:12).

From this brief look in the Bible, we can determine that Satan is by nature a wicked, murderous, devious, evil, deceiving liar who seeks our destruction. That is just the way he is. It’s his nature. That is why he hates.

This brings another question: did God make Satan evil? No. Satan was first created in perfection by God. Satan had great wisdom, was beautiful, and appointed as a guardian on the holy mountain of God – a special place of honor as a guardian of the throne of God (Cf. Ezekiel 28:11-19; Isaiah 14:12-17). 

But, Satan also had freedom of choice. Unfortunately, he chose to become evil. The ultimate motive was pride and envy that turned into violence and rebellion. The Bible states of him, “You were internally filled with violence, and you sinned…Your heart was lifted up because of your beauty; you corrupted your wisdom by reason of your splendor” (Ezekiel 28:16, 17; cf. 1 Timothy 3:6; Isaiah 14:13, 14). 

God did not make Satan evil, He permitted Satan to choose to become evil. Thankfully, some day, God will end forever the rampage of Satan (Revelation 20:10). In the meantime, we need to avail ourselves of the spiritual armor God has provided, and stand firm against the schemes of Satan (Ephesians 6:10-20). 

Great question, Hank. Thanks.

Dr. Newman