The Truth That Leads to Eternal Life - WHY HAS GOD PERMITTE WICKEDNESS IN OUR DAY

THE ISSUES AT STAKE

A number of issues or vital questions we raised. First, Satan called into question the truthfulness of God.  In effect, he called God a liar, and that with regard to a matter of life and death. Second, he questioned man's independence on his Creator for continued life and happiness. He claimed that neither man's life nor his ability to govern his affairs with success depended upon obedience to Jehovah. He argued that man could not act independently of his Creator and be like God, deciding for himself what is right or wrong, good or bad. Third, by arguing against God's stated law, he in effect claimed that God's way of ruling is wrong and not for the good of his creatures and in this way he even challenged God right to rule.

But Satan's action raised still another question, as is shown in the Bible in the book of Job, chapters 1 and 2. There, in connection with a man named Job, it is shown that Satan called into question the faithfulness and loyalty to Jehovah God of all creatures. In so many words, Satan made the claim that those who served God do so, not because they love God and his righteous rule, but only for selfish reasons, such as material blessings God gives them. He claimed that, if such reasons were taken away, then even a man like Job would turn away from God. (Job 1:6-11; 2:4, 5) Yes, Satan's rebellion in Eden called into question the loyalty of all God's creatures in heaven and on earth. If put to the test, would they prove their love for their heavenly Father and show that they preferred his rule to that of any other? 

Next time: The Truth That Leads to Eternal Life - GOD'S WAY OF SETTLING THE ISSUES

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