Bible Question:

If Adam and Eve were the first people whom God created, then who was the Angel Lucifer, and why was he sent to the earth to keep it from sin? Why was he patrolling the earth?

Bible Answer:

There are two previous questions entitled, “Where did Satan come from?” and “Is Satan an angel?” which should be helpful in answering who was Lucifer and where did he come from.

Sent To Earth

Satan, or Lucifer, was sent to earth as a punishment for his attempt to conquer God and take over heaven. Satan is a created being. He is called an angel. He is an evil angel, or a demon. He is the leader of all the demons who are free to patrol or roam the earth. God has allowed that. The book of Job tells us that Satan is free to roam.

Now there was a day when the sons of God came to present themselves before the LORD, and Satan also came among them. The LORD said to Satan, “From where do you come?” Then Satan answered the LORD and said, “From roaming about on the earth and walking around on it.” (NASB) Job 1:6-7

Prowling Around

God has not told us why He allows him to do this. But scripture does tell us why Satan is doing this.

Be of sober spirit, be on the alert. Your adversary, the devil, prowls around like a roaring lion, seeking someone to devour. (NASB) 1 Peter 5:8

He is our enemy and the enemy of God. He is like a rebellious child who did not get his way.

Conclusion:

Yet, God in His mercy has allowed this evil one to live. This tells us something about God’s great compassion even for wicked, evil angels who once saw Him, served Him, and then chose to openly rebel This is great comfort that God will forgive those who simply believe and depend on Jesus Christ to forgive their sins. Thank you, Jesus!