The Five “I Wills” of Satan

The five "I wills" of Satan, found in Isaiah 14:13-14, illustrate the pride and ultimate rebellion of Lucifer against God. Each declaration reveals Lucifer's desire for power, elevation, and self-deification:

  1. I will ascend into heaven - A desire to rise above his created state.
  2. I will exalt my throne above the stars of God - Aspiring to take God's place of authority.
  3. I will also sit on the mount of the congregation - A claim to supremacy over all, desiring to rule from the heights.
  4. I will ascend above the heights of the clouds - Seeking to go beyond the limits of creation.
  5. I will be like the Most High - The ultimate ambition to be equal to God.

This passage serves as a cautionary tale of pride and the destructive nature of self-exaltation.

The Five “I Wills” of God

In contrast, God's "I wills" in Exodus 6:6-8 reflect His commitment to His people and His redemptive plan, emphasizing His authority and love:

  1. I will bring you out from under the burdens of the Egyptians - A promise of deliverance from oppression (Exodus 6:6).
  2. I will take you to Me for a people - Establishing a relationship with His people (Exodus 6:7).
  3. I will be to you a God - Assurance of His presence and guidance (Exodus 6:7).
  4. I will bring you in unto the land - A promise of inheritance and provision (Exodus 6:8).
  5. I will give it to you for a heritage - Finalizing His commitment to grant them a promised land, signifying blessings (Exodus 6:8).

These statements articulate God’s faithfulness and His desire to bring His people into freedom and communion with Him.

The Seven “I Wills” of Jesus

Jesus' declarations in the New Testament further expand on the relational and transformative work of God through Christ:

  1. I will make you fishers of men - Calling His followers to a mission (Matthew 4:19).
  2. I will give you rest - Offering spiritual respite and peace (Matthew 11:28).
  3. I will keep you - Ensuring protection and security (John 6:37).
  4. I will love you - Demonstrating unconditional love (John 14:21).
  5. I will do what you ask in my name - Promise of answered prayers based on His authority (John 14:14).
  6. I will come again and see you again - Assurance of His return and continued relationship (John 14:3, John 16:22).
  7. I will send the Holy Spirit to you - Empowering believers with His presence (John 16:7).

These statements reflect the heart of Jesus' ministry and His longing to actively engage with humanity.

The Seven “I Am” Statements of Jesus

Last, the "I am" statements in John's Gospel reveal Jesus' identity and divine nature:

  1. I am the bread of life - He sustains spiritual life (John 6:35).
  2. I am the light of the world - He provides guidance and truth (John 8:12).
  3. I am the gate for the sheep - He is the protector and access point to salvation (John 10:7).
  4. I am the good shepherd - He cares for and leads His followers (John 10:11).
  5. I am the resurrection and the life - He embodies eternal hope (John 11:25).
  6. I am the way and the truth and the life - He is the exclusive path to God (John 14:6).
  7. I am the true vine - He sustains and nourishes believers in their spiritual growth (John 15:1).

These rich statements define Jesus as central to the Christian faith, highlighting both His divinity and His intimate relationship with His followers.

Conclusion

The contrasting "I will" declarations of Satan and God serve as profound reflections on ambition, authority, and relationship. While Lucifer sought self-exaltation apart from God, God and Jesus offer promises of love, redemption, and connection. Embracing the "I wills" of God leads to freedom, purpose, and a deep sense of belonging in His community.