Series THE GREAT CONTROVERSY with Pastor Mark Finley  |

Lesson 1.The War Behind All Wars  |
The Cosmic Conflict: Origin, Impact, and Hope for Redemption |

In the first lesson, “The War Behind All Wars,” we delve deep into the cosmic conflict between good and evil, which forms the foundation for many of the spiritual and moral questions we face. This original conflict, which began in heaven and impacted earth, shapes our perspective on sin, suffering, and redemption. We will explore the origins of this war and God’s plan to end suffering and sin through the promise of a Redeemer. This lesson offers profound insights into the fundamental principles of faith and the eternal hope made possible through Jesus Christ.

Memory Text: Revelation 12.7.8 – “And war broke out in heaven: Michael and his angels fought with the dragon; and the dragon and his angels fought, but they did not prevail, nor was a place found for them in heaven any longer.”

Content:
1.1 War in Heaven
The Cosmic Conflict: Origin of Evil and Freedom in Heaven

The section “War in Heaven” from Revelation 12:7-9 depicts a cosmic conflict between good and evil. Satan and his angels rebelled against Christ and were expelled from heaven. These events raise questions about the existence of freedom in heaven and the origin of evil. God created Lucifer as a radiant angel with free will. Despite his perfection, Lucifer allowed pride and jealousy to take root in his heart, leading to his rebellion. God could not allow Lucifer’s rebellion to corrupt heaven, and He tried to persuade him to repent through love and mercy.

1.2 Lucifer Deceives; Christ Prevails
The Cosmic Conflict: Choosing Between Light and Darkness

The conflict between Lucifer and Christ demonstrates the power of pride and deception. Lucifer accused God of injustice and deceived many angels with his lies. The war in heaven was both a physical and ideological conflict, ending with Lucifer’s expulsion. Every angel faced the choice of whom to follow: Christ or Satan. This choice reflects the fundamental principle of the Great Controversy, teaching us to use the moral decision-making ability God has given us. As humans, we are called to respond to God’s love and serve Him through our choices.

1.3 Planet Earth Becomes Involved
The Decision at the Tree: Origin of Sin and Suffering

With the creation of the earth, God gave humans the freedom of choice, similar to what He did with Lucifer. He created a perfect world without sin but with the freedom to choose. Through the tree of knowledge, God gave humans the opportunity to prove their loyalty to Him. Satan seized this opportunity to deceive Eve, promising her that she would be like God. Adam and Eve chose against God’s instructions, leading to the introduction of sin, suffering, and death into the world. The scriptures from Genesis 3:1-3 and Romans 3:23; 5:12 emphasize the universal reality of sin and its devastating effects on all humanity. Sin separates us from God and is the cause of suffering and problems in our world.

1.4 Love Finds a Way
Hope Through the Cross: God’s Unconditional Love Manifested

Despite Adam and Eve’s sin, God gave them hope through the promise in Genesis 3:15. This prophecy speaks of a coming Redeemer, the “Seed of the Woman,” who would defeat Satan. Jesus Christ is this promised Redeemer, who won victory over sin and death through His sacrifice on the cross. The Bible verses from Hebrews 2:9; Galatians 3:13; and 2 Corinthians 5:21 emphasize the magnitude and significance of Jesus’ sacrifice for us. Through the cross, God shows us His immeasurable love and desire to redeem us despite our flaws and sins. Jesus, the Creator of the cosmos, came into the world, suffered, and died for us because He loves us infinitely. The cross is the overwhelming proof of God’s unconditional love, giving us all reason to hope.

1.5 Our High Priest
The High Priest of Our Trust: Jesus’ Intercession and Care

Jesus, our great High Priest, who died and rose again for us, understands our human weaknesses and temptations, as He was tempted in every way, yet without sin (Hebrews 4:15-16). Through His sacrificial death and intercession at God’s throne, we are freed from our guilt and the chains of sin. John 17:24-26 shows us Jesus’ deep desire for us to be with Him in heaven. His greatest desire is to save us and support us in our needs and weaknesses. In every situation, Jesus offers comfort, peace, forgiveness, and strength.

1.6 Summary
Cosmic Conflicts and the Path to Redemption

The first lesson, “The War Behind All Wars,” highlights the cosmic conflict between good and evil, which takes place both in heaven and on earth. Lucifer, once a radiant angel, rebelled against God, leading to a war in heaven and his expulsion. On earth, Adam and Eve’s decision to act against God’s instruction introduced sin, suffering, and death. Despite rebellion and sin, God offers hope through the promise of a Redeemer, symbolized by the “Seed of the Woman,” ultimately identified as Jesus Christ. Jesus’ sacrifice on the cross and His role as our High Priest enable us to receive forgiveness, redemption, and the hope of eternal life in God’s kingdom.

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