Spiritual battles aren’t just abstract ideas from the pages of Scripture. They play out in real time, shaping nations, leaders and even the daily struggles of God’s people. The Bible makes it clear that there is a dynamic interplay between earthly rulers and unseen spiritual powers. In Ezekiel 28, we get a striking picture of this conflict that is as relevant today as it was thousands of years ago.
Renowned Bible teacher Derek Prince unpacked this passage in one of his classic teachings, explaining how Ezekiel reveals both human pride and the deeper spiritual forces working behind the scenes. “This revelation brings out the fact that there is an interplay between earthly rulers and heavenly rulers, evil heavenly rulers,” Prince said. “And that brings out the fact that one of the most important things we can do to change the situation is to deal with the evil heavenly rulers.”
The Prince of Tyre: A Lesson in Human Pride
Ezekiel begins by addressing the “prince of Tyre,” a man who exalted himself to the level of God. “Because your heart is lifted up and you say, ‘I’m a god … yet you are a man, and not a god,’” Prince quoted.
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This ancient ruler’s downfall was rooted in pride—a warning that still echoes today. “Consistently the Bible warns us more against pride than any problem,” Prince explained. Wealth, success, and wisdom can all become dangerous sources of arrogance when they lift the human heart away from God.
The King of Tyre: Unmasking the Spiritual Power
In the second half of Ezekiel 28, the focus shifts from the human ruler to a figure clearly not of this world: the “king of Tyre.” Prince noted, “It’s very clear from much that’s said he’s not a human being.”
This being had walked in Eden, was adorned with precious stones, and is described as “the anointed cherub who covers.” Prince explained that this role meant covering the throne of God with his wings. In other words, this passage is revealing Lucifer, the fallen angel, in his original splendor before pride led to his rebellion.
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“You were perfect in your ways from the day you were created, till iniquity was found in you,” Ezekiel records. Prince added, “Undoubtedly, pride is the most common temptation … and it didn’t start on earth, it started in heaven.”
The Fall of Lucifer
Prince painted a vivid picture of how Lucifer began his rebellion. “By the abundance of your trading you became filled with violence within,” he said, describing how Satan likely sought to gain the allegiance of other angels. “I believe Lucifer went around coveting and obtaining the allegiance of the angels who were under his authority.”
His heart was lifted up because of his beauty and wisdom. In this, we see the origin of sin itself: pride. The very thing that caused Lucifer to fall continues to be the greatest snare for humanity.
The Ongoing Conflict with Christ
But Prince didn’t stop with the fall. He reminded listeners that this conflict directly ties into the battle between Lucifer and Jesus. “When Jesus came to Earth in the form of a man, Lucifer said: now I can get Him,” Prince explained. Satan stirred people against Christ and saw Him crucified, thinking he had won.
“But he was wrong,” Prince declared. “Because at the third day, Jesus came forth, a total victory, Amen.”
That resurrection not only defeated Satan’s schemes in that moment but also secured victory for every believer.
Why This Matters Today
Prince emphasized that this spiritual reality is not just an ancient story. “The same thing is happening right now in the United States of America,” he said, noting that evil spiritual powers continue to influence governments and leaders.
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The takeaway is both sobering and encouraging. Though pride and deception still operate, Christ’s resurrection assures believers of victory. We are called to remain alert, resist pride, and stand firm in faith.
As Prince put it, “The conflict is not yet ended because Satan still fights in every way he can against God, the purposes of God, and the people of God.” But because of Christ’s triumph, we can face this conflict with confidence, knowing the final outcome is already secured.
James Lasher is staff writer for Charisma Media.
