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THE UNSEEN WORLD: Angels, Satan, And Demons Series 1: Course 5 of the Net Bible Institute By Don Stewart

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About The NET Bible Institute (NBI) Welcome to the global classroom! In order to allow anyone, anywhere in the world, to learn more about the Christian faith, AusAmerica Ministries has created the Net Bible Institute (NBI) www.nbible.org. Our Vision Our vision for NBI is that it will be a complete course of study about what Christianity believes and teaches. The Net Bible Institute, when eventually completed, will consist of forty-four individual courses in five different series, and will cover all major areas of Christian belief and practice. A separate textbook will be prepared for each individual course. The various textbooks are now in the process of being written. The entire course of study is called Understanding The Christian Faith. The textbooks for the various courses are produced as educational tools explaining what Christians believe and why they believe it. Each course in the program is designed to be used for either self-study, home Bible study, or for the classroom. It is our goal to make the Net Bible Institute the most comprehensive course of study that is available anywhere. Everything Is Free Everything in the Net Bible Institute is free. All materials (textbooks, audio, tests) are provided on our Web site without charge. There will never be a charge for anything that we offer. It is our vision to reach the entire world with the truths of the Christian faith. It is our conviction that this should be done totally without charge. We invite you to join us at the Net Bible Institute for a thorough study of the Bible – the Word of God. We trust you will be greatly enriched by your experience. Until the whole world hears, AusAmerica Ministries

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THE UNSEEN WORLD: Angels, Satan, And Demons Series 1: Course 5 of the Net Bible Institute

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THE UNSEEN WORLD: Angels, Satan, And Demons (Series 1: Course 5 of the Net Bible Institute) www.nbible.org. By Don Stewart © 1998 AusAmerica Ministries Published by AusAmerica Publishers Box 15 Murrieta, California 92564 USA

ISBN 1-877825-26-3 All Rights Reserved. Although the material in this book may be copied and distributed it must not be used for resale. The material must be used unedited and in its entirety. Duplication of more than one hundred copies must be made with permission of AusAmerica Ministries.

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Table Of Contents TABLE OF CONTENTS Topic 1

GOOD ANGELS What The Bible Says About The Righteous Angels

Question 1.

Do Angels Actually Exist?

Question 2.

Who Are Angels?

Question 3.

Why Study About Angels?

Question 4.

Why Are There So Many Misconceptions About Angels?

Question 5.

When Were Angels Created?

Question 6.

Were All The Angels Created Good?

Question 7.

What Do Angels Look Like?

Question 8.

Where Do Angels Live?

Question 9.

Are Angels Organized In Ranks?

Question 10.

What Is The Character Of Angels?

Question 11.

What Are Some Of The Names Given To Angels?

Question 12.

What Are The Differences Between Angels And Humans?

Question 13.

What Are The Differences Between Jesus And The Angels?

Question 14.

What Are The Ministries Of Angels?

Question 15.

What Have Angels Done According To The Old Testament?

Question 16.

What Did Angels Do In The Life And Ministry Of Christ?

Question 17.

What Ministry Did The Angels Have In The Early Church?

Question 18.

What Will Angels Do According To The Book Of Revelation?

Question 19.

Who Is Michael The Archangel?

Question 20.

Is It Possible To Identify Michael The Archangel With Jesus?

Question 21.

Who Is The Angel Gabriel?

Question 22.

Who Is The Angel Of The LORD In The Old Testament?

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Question 23.

Who Is The Angel Of The LORD In The New Testament?

Question 24.

Are Angels Connected With The Various Nations?

Question 25.

Who Are The Living Creatures?

Question 26.

Who Are The Cherubim?

Question 27.

Who Are The Seraphim?

Question 28.

Who Are The Elect Angels?

Question 29.

Should People Worship Angels?

Question 30.

Should We Pray To Angels?

Question 31.

Do Angels Appear To People Today?

Question 32.

Do Believers Have A Guardian Angel?

Question 33.

Does Each Church Have An Individual Angel Watching Over It?

Question 34.

Do Angels Transport Believers At Death?

Question 35.

In What Sense Will Believers Judge Angels? Summary To Good Angels (Topic 1)

Topic 2

EVIL ANGELS What The Bible Says About The Unrighteous Angels

Question 36.

Why Should The Subject Of Evil Angels Be Studied?

Question 37.

Who Are The Evil Angels?

Question 38.

When Did The Angelic Rebellion Occur?

Question 39.

Where Do The Evil Angels Reside?

Question 40.

How Many Evil Angels Exist?

Question 41.

Are The Evil Angels Organized?

Question 42.

What Do Evil Angels Do?

Question 43.

What Is The Destiny Of Evil Angels? Summary To Evil Angels (Topic 2)

Table Of Contents

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Topic 3

DEMONS The Existence And Work Of Evil Spirits

Question 44.

Do Demons Actually Exist?

Question 45.

How Are We To Understand Jesus’ Belief In Demons?

Question 46.

What Are Demons?

Question 47.

Where Did Demons Originate?

Question 48.

What Is The Difference Between Demons And Devils?

Question 49.

What Power Do Demons Have?

Question 50.

What Are The Limitations Of Demons?

Question 51.

Do Demons Understand The Limitations Of Their Power?

Question 52.

Can Demons Materialize In Human Or Animal Form?

Question 53.

What Are The Doctrines Of Demons?

Question 54.

Is Demon Possession A Reality?

Question 55.

Does The New Testament Give Specific Examples Of People Being Demon Possessed?

Question 56.

What Conclusions Can Be Made About Demon Possession?

Question 57.

What Happens When A Person Is Demon-Possessed?

Question 58.

Can A Person Become Demon-Possessed Today?

Question 59.

Can A Christian Be Demon-Possessed?

Question 60.

Does The New Testament Equate Disease With Demon Possession?

Question 61.

What Authority Do Christians Have Over Demons?

Question 62.

What Are Some Practical Considerations In Dealing With Demonic Forces?

Question 63.

What Is The Ultimate Fate Of Demons? Summary To Demons (Topic 3)

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Topic 4

SATAN The Biblical Description Of The Archenemy Of God

Question 64.

Does Satan, Or The Devil, Really Exist?

Question 65.

Who Is Satan? What Is His Career?

Question 66.

How Is Satan’s Character Described?

Question 67.

What Does Satan Look Like?

Question 68.

How Does Satan Counterfeit Jesus?

Question 69.

What Contrasts Are There Between The Devil And The Holy Spirit?

Question 70.

Does Satan Have His Own Kingdom?

Question 71.

Did God Create The Devil?

Question 72.

What Caused Satan’s Fall?

Question 73.

What Were The Results Of Satan’s Fall?

Question 74.

Where Does Satan Presently Live?

Question 75.

Why Did God Allow Satan To Continue After He Rebelled?

Question 76.

Why Is Satan Called Lucifer?

Question 77.

What Are Some Of The Different Titles Of Satan?

Question 78.

Does Isaiah Speak Of Satan’s Fall?

Question 79.

Is Ezekiel Speaking Of Satan Or The King Of Tyre?

Question 80.

Why Did God Use The King Of Babylon And The King Of Tyre To Illustrate The Fall Of Satan?

Question 81.

How Has The Devil Attempted To Thwart God’s Plan Of The Ages?

Question 82.

In What Ways Did Jesus Achieve Victory Over The Devil?

Question 83.

How Has Satan Attempted To Destroy The Church?

Question 84.

How Will Satan Work Through The Man Of Sin?

Question 85.

Will God Release The Devil For A Short Time After Christ Returns?

Question 86.

What Is The Ultimate Destiny Of The Devil?

Table Of Contents Question 87.

What Is The Extent Of Satan’s Power?

Question 88.

Is Satan Able To Perform Miracles?

Question 89.

How Does Satan Keep Unbelievers In Spiritual Darkness?

Question 90.

What Are The Methods Of The Devil Toward The Believer?

Question 91.

Can Satan Cause Physical Harm To Belie vers?

Question 92.

When Does Satan Spiritually Attack The Believer?

Question 93.

Can Believers Be The Unwitting Tools Of Satan?

Question 94.

How Can The Believer Have Victory Over The Devil? Summary To Satan (Topic 4)

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THE UNSEEN WORLD Angels, Satan, And Demons (Series 1, Course 5) INTRODUCTION The subject of this course is the “unseen world.” According to the Bible, there is a world around us that is inhabited with spirit-beings that are unseen to the human eye. These beings are distinct from both God and humanity. Some of them are concerned with our welfare, while others mean to do us harm. These beings include angels, both good and bad, Satan, and demons. The holy angels are messengers of the Creator while the evil angels are messengers of their leader - Satan. Both groups execute the purpose of the one they serve. The Bible Is Our Authority Since humanity has no direct dealings with angels, or any consciousness of their presence, the only way in which we can know anything about them is through the divinely inspired record of Scripture. In this course we will examine what the Bible has to say about these beings in the unseen realm. By doing so we will be both encouraged and warned. There Is Much Told, But Much Still Unknown There is much that the Bible tells us about the unseen world. However, there are also many things that we do not know. God has removed the veil around the world of angels, Satan, and demons and told us what goes on; but there is also much that is still unexplained. This Is The Most Difficult Subject We Look At Therefore, in many ways, the subject of angels, Satan, and demons is the most difficult in our series on “What Christians Believe.” The Bible gives no systematic teaching on the subject. Whenever we encounter these spirit-beings, they are always secondary to the main emphasis of the passage. The exact relationship between Satan, angels, and demons is never explained in detail. They Are Not The Main Players In Scripture The story of Scripture is an account between God and humanity - they are the central characters. These unseen spirits play an incidental role in the overall drama. Consequently, it is difficult to understand many things about them. Therefore, we must be careful to say only as much as the Bible clearly says about the unseen world and not engage in unhelpful speculation. We Will Present A Balanced View Thus a proper balance must be maintained. We should not ignore the subject of the unseen world, neither should we give it too much emphasis. Our desire is to find a balance between ignorance and obsession. The key is to keep our eyes on Jesus Christ. The Bible says. So if you have been raised with Christ, seek the things that are above, where Christ is, seated at the right hand of God (Colossians 3:1). The continual focus on the person of Jesus Christ will be our goal as we look at what the Bible has to say about the unseen world of angels, Satan, and demons.

Introduction

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OUTLINE OF THE COURSE The outline of this course is as follows. Topic 1 GOOD ANGELS What The Bible Says About The Righteous Angels In this first section we will examine the topic of righteous angels. We will look at their origin, purpose, and destiny. Topic 2 EVIL ANGELS What The Bible Says About The Unrighteous Angels This part of the course will look at those angels that rebelled against God. We will discover what the Bible has to say about their origin, purpose and destiny. Topic 3 DEMONS The Existence And Work Of Evil Spirits Scripture speaks of evil spirits, or “demons.” It is important that we find out who they are and how they operate. We look at the topic of demons in this part of the course. Topic 4 SATAN The Biblical Description Of The Archenemy Of God The Bible says that God has an adversary known as Satan or the Devil. There is much ignorance about this evil personage. As we examine the topic of Satan we hope to clear up many misconceptions about this archenemy of God.

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Topic 1

GOOD ANGELS What The Bible Says About The Righteous Angels Introduction The Bible speaks of the existence of a vast number of spirit-beings called angels. There is much superstition and ignorance surrounding these created beings. In this section we will take a look at what the Scripture says about the angels who remained faithful to the Lord – the good angels.

Good Angels

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QUESTION 1 Do Angels Actually Exist? The Bible testifies to the existence of heavenly beings known as angels. 1.

They Are Not Mythical Creatures

There is no hint in Scripture that angels are mythical creatures - they are always treated as having genuine existence. The first mention of angels is in the Book of Genesis where the angel of the LORD appears to Hagar, the mother of Abraham’s child. The angel of the LORD found Hagar near a spring of water in the desert, the spring on the way to Shur (Genesis 16:7). The last mention of angels is in the final chapter of the last book of the Bible - the Book of Revelation. It is I myself, Jesus, who sent my angel to you to testify these things to the churches. I am the root and the descendant of David, the bright morning star (Revelation 22:16). 2.

There Are Many References To Angels In The Scripture

Between the first and last mention of angels in the Bible, there are hundreds of other references to them. Their existence is assumed everywhere in Scripture. The fact of their reality is documented in both testaments. Thirty-four books of the Bible (seventeen in each testament) speak of the existence of angels. 3.

Scripture Is The Final Authority Concerning Their Existence

If the Bible is what it claims to be, God’s revelation of Himself to humanity, then whatever subject it speaks about, it does so with ultimate authority. Since the Scriptures clearly teach the existence of creatures called angels, then it is a fact that they do exist. 4.

The Authority Of Jesus Christ Is At Stake

The existence of angels is also tied to the authority of Christ. He referred to the resurrected state of believers as being similar to that of angels. Jesus answered them and said, “You are wrong, because you know neither the Scriptures nor the power of God. For in the resurrection they neither marry nor are given in marriage, but are like angels in heaven” (Matthew 22:29-30). He also said that angels would gather believers when He returned. When the Son of Man comes in his glory, and all the angels with him, then he will sit upon his glorious throne. Then all the nations will be gathered before him, and he will separate people one from another as a shepherd separates the sheep from the goats (Matthew 25:31,32). It is clear that Jesus believed in the existence of angels. Since He is the eternal God who became a human, He would be in a position to know if they do exist.

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Summary Scripture teaches there are other rational personal beings who exist in the universe that are distinct from humans. The Bible calls them angels. From the first book of the Bible, until the last, the existence of angels is clearly taught in hundreds of different references. Angels are always assumed to have genuine existence - they are never treated as mythical characters. In addition to the overall testimony of Scripture, we also have the clear teaching of Jesus on the subject - He believed in angels. Since He is God the Son, His Word settles the issue. Therefore we conclude that angels really do exist.

Good Angels

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QUESTION 2 Who Are Angels? Angels are spirit beings, created to do the work of the Lord. The Bible says their nature is one of “spirit.” Of the angels he says, “He makes his angels spirits, and his ministers flames of fire” (Hebrews 1:7). The writer to the Hebrews also said. Are not all angels spirits in the divine service, sent to serve for the sake of those who are to inherit salvation? (Hebrews 1:14). Are Angels And Spirits Different? Some have argued that angels and spirits are actually different from one another. This is based upon a statement in the Book of Acts. The Sadducees say that there is no resurrection, or angel, or spirit; but the Pharisees acknowledge all three. Then a great clamor arose, and certain scribes of the Pharisees’ group stood up and contended, “We find nothing wrong with this man. What if a spirit or an angel has spoken to him?” (Acts 23:8,9). More likely, angels may be part of a larger category of creatures called “spirits,” rather than being a distinct group. ANGELS IN THE OLD TESTAMENT

The Hebrew word translated “angel” is mal’ak. This term, used 103 times in the Old Testament, simply means “messenger.” It refers to one who brings a message in the place of another person. The term is mainly used of heavenly messengers. And he dreamed that there was a ladder set up on the earth, the top of it reaching to heaven; and the angels of God were ascending and descending on it (Genesis 28:12). The Word Is Used Of Humans In The Old Testament However the term is also used of earthly messengers - such as a prophet in the Book of Haggai, and a priest in the Book of Malachi. Then Haggai, the messenger [angel] of the LORD, spoke to the people with the LORD’s message, saying, “I am with you, says the LORD” (Haggai 1:13). Malachi wrote. For the lips of a priest should guard knowledge, and people should seek instruction from his mouth, for he is the messenger [angel] of the LORD Almighty (Malachi 2:7).

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ANGELS IN THE N EW TESTAMENT

The Greek word angelos, translated “angel,” likewise means, “messenger.” It has the idea of someone who speaks or acts in the place of the one who sent him. It is used 175 times in the New Testament - the great majority of the time it refers to heavenly messengers. The Word Also Refers To Humans However, on six occasions in the New Testament, the term angel refers to human beings. Jesus said. This is the one about whom it is written, ‘See, I am sending my messenger [angel] ahead of you, who will prepare your way before you’ (Matthew 11:10). Mark wrote. It is written in Isaiah the prophet: “I will send my messenger [angel] ahead of you, who will prepare your way” (Mark 1:2). Luke used the term angel to refer to the messengers of John the Baptist. After John’s messengers [angels] left, Jesus began to speak to the crowd about John: “What did you go out into the desert to see? A reed swayed by the wind?” (Luke 7:24) He also used it to refer to John the Baptist. This is one about whom it is written: “I will send my messenger [angel] ahead of you, who will prepare your way before you” (Luke 7:27). Luke later used the term to refer to messengers that Jesus sent ahead to Samaria. And he sent messengers [angels] on ahead, who went into a Samaritan village to get things ready for him (Luke 9:52) James uses the Greek word to describe the spies that Rahab the prostitute hid from the people of Jericho. In the same way, was not even Rahab the prostitute considered righteous for what she did when she gave lodging to the spies [angels] and sent them off in a different direction? (James 2:25). The Apostle Paul used the phrase “messenger [angel] of Satan” when referring to some physical ailment that he had. To keep me from becoming conceited because of these surpassingly great revelations, there was given me a thorn in my flesh, a messenger [angel] of Satan, to torment me (2 Corinthians 12:7). The Bible Speaks Of “Angels Of Heaven” Often we find in the New Testament qualifying phrases such as “angels of heaven” (Matthew 24:36) when referring to angelic creatures. Phrases like this make it clear that angelic personages are in view. The context usually makes it clear whether we are dealing with earthly or heavenly messengers.

Good Angels

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WHAT DO WE KNOW ABOUT ANGELS? Our concern is with the heavenly creatures called “angels.” What do we know about them? From Scripture we learn a number of important things. 1.

They Are Created Beings

Angels are created beings - they have not existed eternally. Though the Genesis creation account does not record the creation of angels, we know from other passages that they were directly made by the power of God Almighty. The psalmist speaks of the creation of angels. Praise him, all his angels; Praise him, all his heavenly hosts!. . . . Let them praise the name of the LORD, for he commanded and they were created (Psalm 148:2,5). The Lord made the celestial bodies as well as the angels by His spoken Word. And Ezra said: “You are the LORD, you alone; you have made heaven, the heaven of heavens, with all their host, the earth and all that is on it, the seas and all that is in them. To all of them you give life, and the host of heaven worships you” (Nehemiah 9:6). “All things” would include the angels. The phrase “host of heaven” probably refers to the angels. 2.

They Were Created By Jesus Christ

The Bible says that Jesus Christ created all things, visible and invisible. For by him all things in heaven and on earth were created, things visible and invisible, whether thrones or dominions or rulers or powers - all things have been created through him and for him (Colossians 1:16). Specifically mentioned in the things that Christ created are thrones, dominions, rulers, and powers. These are terms that refer to ranks of angels. 3.

They Are Dependent Creatures

Because the angels have been created, they are dependent creatures - they need God to exist. Like humanity, they have no independent existence apart from God. God is the only being who is, by nature, self-existent - He needs nothing else to exist. Paul wrote. Formerly, when you did not know God, you were enslaved to beings that by nature are not God (Galatians 4:8). Only the Lord is God by nature. 4.

They Are A Separate Creation From Humanity

Angels are a different creation than humans. We have nothing in common with them that binds us together. Though all humans are racially bound together, we are separate from the angels. Even in our resurrection bodies we will not become angels.

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The Unseen World They Were Created Above Humans

The Bible teaches that angels are a distinct created order above humanity. Speaking of humans the Bible says: You have made them for a little while lower than the angels; you have crowned them with glory and honor (Hebrews 2:7). Angels are the highest creation in the heavenly sphere as humans are the highest creation on the earth. 6.

They Are Not A Race

Angels are a company of beings rather than a race. They do not marry, neither are they male or female. They are sexless, unmarriageable, creatures who do not propagate their own kind. Jesus said. For in the resurrection they neither marry nor are given in marriage, but are like angels in heaven (Matthew 22:30). 7.

They Are Invisible Spirit Beings

Angels are spirit beings who are invisible to the human eye. Of the angels he says, “He makes his angels spirits, and his ministers flames of fire” (Hebrews 1:7). By nature, they have no physical form. Jesus made this point when referring to His resurrection body. Look at my hands and my feet; see that it is I myself. Handle me and see; for a ghost does not have flesh and bones as you see that I have (Luke 24:39). Their spirit-form does not necessarily imply that they have no body at all, merely that it is not a human body - they have a different makeup from humanity. Whether angels are pure spirit, such as God, or have some type of material existence, such as humans, is a much debated point. Like so many issues dealing with this subject, the Bible does not comment on it. What we can safely say is that angels do not have any form, or substance, like humans. Beyond this is only speculation. 8.

They Have An Angelic Nature

Angels have their own unique nature. The spirit-nature of angels is not the same as God’s spirit nature, or our human nature. God’s nature, or essence, is that of spirit. Jesus said. God is spirit, and those who worship him must worship in spirit and truth (John 4:24). However God is an uncreated Spirit - a Being that has always existed. Angels are created, invisible, spiritbeings. Humans and angels will keep their distinction in the ages to come. Humans will not become angels, and angels will not become human. 9.

They Are Not Subject To Natural Law

Therefore angels, as spirit-creatures, are not limited to physical or natural conditions. They are not subject to the laws of nature. Angels can pass back and forth from the spiritual realm to the natural realm. In the Book of Acts we read.

Good Angels

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Suddenly the angel of the Lord appeared and a light shone in the cell. He touched Peter on the side and woke him, saying, “Get up quickly.” And the chains fell off his hands (Acts 12:7). Physical boundaries present no obstacles for them. 10. They Can Assume A Body Though they have no physical form, angels can, at times, assume a body as the Lord allows them. This is known as an “angelophany” - the appearance of an angel. For example, an angel rolled the stone away from the tomb of Jesus. And behold there was a great earthquake; for an angel of the Lord, descended from heaven, came and rolled back the stone and sat on it (Matthew 28:2). Angels are unseen until God chooses a time when they are to appear. We cannot be exactly certain whether the bodies these angels assumed were real bodies, or only appeared to be real. There is not enough information to know for certain. We do know that angels are capable of materializing only when God wills - they cannot do something like this on their own. On one occasion we find them eating. So he took butter and milk and the calf which he had prepared, and set it before them [the angels]; and he stood by them under the tree as they ate (Genesis 18:8). This indicates, at least for that one episode, the angels took on a real body. 11. They Move Rapidly Scripture tells us that angels can move rapidly. They are represented as flying. Then I saw another angel flying in the middle of heaven, with the everlasting gospel to proclaim to those who live on the earth - to every nation and tribe and language and people (Revelation 14:6). The fact that they are represented as flying gave rise to the notion that they have wings. Wings for flight apply to beings that function in our world. Angels do not need wings to move rapidly in the unseen world. Two distinct types of angels, the cherubim and seraphim, are represented as having wings. However, the angels which have appeared to humans are not described as having wings. 12. They Are Numerous The Scripture teaches that the number of angels is very great. This is expressed in various ways. With mighty chariotry, twice ten thousand, thousands upon thousands, the Lord came from Sinai into the holy place (Psalm 68:17). Daniel saw an innumerable amount of angels before God’s throne.

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The Unseen World A stream of fire issued and flowed out from his presence. A thousand thousands served him, and ten thousand times ten thousand stood attending him. The court sat in judgment, and the books were opened (Daniel 7:10).

At the birth of Jesus, armies of angels appeared. And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host, praising God and saying (Luke 2:13). Jesus told His disciples that He could command more than twelve legions of angels to appear and protect Him. Do you think that I cannot call on my Father, and he will at once send me more than twelve legions of angels? (Matthew 26:53). A legion consisted of about three to five thousand men. Twelve legions of angels would have been a way of saying an extremely large number of angels were at His disposal. The Bible also says. But you have come to Mount Zion and to the city of the living God, the heavenly Jerusalem, to an innumerable company of angels (Hebrews 12:22). The Book of Revelation speaks of the countless number of angels. Then I looked, and I heard the voice of many angels around the throne, the living creatures, and the elders; and the number of them was ten thousand times ten thousand, and thousands of thousands (Revelation 5:11). If this number were to be taken literally, it would be two hundred million! 13. They Are A Limited Number Of Them Though numerous, the number of angels is limited. Since they cannot propagate their own, angels cannot, by themselves, bring other angels into existence. Scripture also indicates that all the angels have already been created - the creation of angels does not now happen. For by him all things in heaven and on earth were created, things visible and invisible, whether thrones or dominions or rulers or powers - all things have been created through him and for him (Colossians 1:16). The Bible also tells us that God has ceased creating anything new – this included angels. Thus the heavens and the earth were completed, and all their host. And on the seventh day God finished the work that he had done, and he rested on the seventh day from all the work that He had done (Genesis 2:1,2). The “host of heaven” is another designation for angels.

Good Angels

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14. They Are Immortal Angels are not subject to death - they are immortal. Their immortality has been given to them by God who Himself is immortal. Paul wrote the following about the nature of God. It is he alone who has immortality and dwells in unapproachable light, whom no one has ever seen or can see; to him be honor and eternal dominion. Amen (1 Timothy 6:16). Angels do not possess immortality in and of themselves. Like humans, their immortality is derived from God. Jesus told the Sadducees that resurrected believers would be like angels. Indeed they cannot die anymore, because they are like the angels. They are children of God, being children of the resurrection (Luke 20:36). Death is something that humanity has experienced because of sin. Since these angels did not sin, they will not experience death. Because they are eternal beings and do not possess human bodies, they do not understand either growth or death. The number of angels, therefore, cannot decrease. 15. They Are Personal Beings Angels are personal beings - they can be interacted with. They have every feature of personality such as intelligence, thought, and choice. We know that at least two of the angels, Michael and Gabriel, have personal names. The Bible says that angels have desired to look into the glorious things of salvation. It was revealed to them [the prophets] that they were not serving themselves but you, when they spoke of the things that have now been told you by those who have preached the gospel to you by the Holy Spirit sent from heaven. Even angels have desired to look into these things (1 Peter 1:12). This desire on their part is a sign of personality. The personality of angels can further be seen by the fact they have powers of speech, memory, and the ability to ask and answer questions. Like humanity, angels were created with choice. The fact that some angels decided to rebel against God demonstrates that each of them could choose whom they would serve. This is a further example that God made the angels as personal beings. Summary Angels are invisible, personal spirit-beings created by God. They have been made above humanity in the created order. These personages have no physical form like humans, but in the past, they have at times, assumed a physical form for the sake of humanity. They are sexless, deathless, creatures who are ministering spirits. The function of the righteous angels is to do the will of God.

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QUESTION 3 Why Study About Angels? Why should anyone take their time to study about angels? Of what benefit can it be to look into this subject? 1.

They Are Prominent In Scripture

One of the main reasons for the study of angels is their prominence in Scripture. There is much said about angels and their function. Their influence is not restricted to any one time in history - we find angels being involved in the work of God from Genesis to Revelation. Since the Bible gives much space to their ministry, we ought to pay attention to what Scripture says about them. 2.

They Play An Important Function In God’s Plan

Furthermore, their function is important for us to understand. Since they play an important role in God’s overall plan for humanity, it is necessary for us to understand the extent of their involvement and how they relate to us. 3.

They Will Exist Forever Alongside Humans

Since angels are prominent in Scripture, and perform important functions in the plan of God, it is important that we know as much as we can about them. Angels and humans are the only created beings that will exist forever. There is no evidence that God will introduce new beings in the ages to come. 4.

They Remind Us The Unseen World Is Real

Furthermore, a study of angels reminds us that the unseen world is real. It informs us that we are not the only beings in the universe. There are unseen forces, both good and evil, that are all around us. These forces are in a constant spiritual battle. 5.

We Need To Clear Up Ignorance On This Subject

In addition, a study of the subject of angels from the Scripture will clear up ignorance on the subject. Are these spirit-beings friendly or hostile? Do they cause us harm? Since angels live beyond our means of detection, we need a source that will give us the correct answers to these questions. The Bible is the final authority on all matters of faith and practice; whatever it says on the subject of angels is the final word. Thus, we can know for certain who angels are, and what they do, because we have an authoritative source to look at. 6.

They Encourage Consistent Living

The study of angels should encourage believers to live consistent Christian lives, seeing they are observing our every move. Paul wrote. For I think that God has exhibited us apostles as last of all, as though sentenced to death, because we have become a spectacle to the world, to angels and to humans (1 Corinthians 4:9). Seemingly every thing that we do is observed by angels. If believers realize this truth, then it will encourage them to live consistently with their beliefs.

Good Angels 7.

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We Can Be Confident In God’s Protection

Angels also serve a protective function for the believer. The Bible says. For he will command his angels concerning you to guard you in all your ways. On their hands they will bear you up, so that you will not dash your foot against a stone (Psalm 91:11,12). Our faith in God’s providential care is strengthened when we understand the ministry of angels. Since God has placed these intelligent creatures to guide and protect believers, it will strengthen our faith in Him and His concern for us. 8.

We Can Learn From Their Example

Angels also provide examples for believers as to how we should live. They are continually in worship and service to God. Believers should learn to imitate that behavior. Jesus told us to pray. Your kingdom come. Your will be done, on earth as it is in heaven (Matthew 6:10). God’s will is being done in heaven through the ministry of angels. They do His bidding continually, joyfully, and with unquestioned obedience. Believers should learn to do likewise. Summary The study of the ministry of angels from the Scripture can be profitable for a number of reasons. Angels play a prominent role in Scripture. So much is said about them by the writers of the Bible that it should encourage us to understand who they are, and what they do. They have an important function in the overall plan of God as well as in the lives of believers. We will not know about their involvement unless we study the Scriptures. If we are to study the complete plan of God, then the study of angels is necessary. A study of angels reminds us of the reality of the unseen world. Understanding what the Bible says about angels will clear up ignorance on the subject. Realizing that angels are observing us will encourage us to live more consistent lives. Understanding that angels protect believers will comfort us in times of trouble. We also have their example of devoted service to God. Their continual service of the Lord should be a challenge to us to behave in the same manner. Consequently the study of angels can have many benefits.

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The Unseen World

QUESTION 4 Why Are There So Many Misconceptions About Angels? The study of angels can bring great benefits. Among them is the clearing up of misconceptions that people hold about them. The reasons for certain misconceptions about angels can be attributed to the following. 1.

The Rejection Of The Supernatural

Often the subject of angels is ignored or misunderstood because of the rejection of the supernatural. Since the existence of God is rejected, the existence of angels is likewise rejected. Those who do not accept the Bible as God’s Word are not going to turn to Scripture to discover anything about angels. They assume that angels do not exist. 2.

Ignorance Of Scripture

Ignorance of what the Bible says on the subject of angels also leads to misconceptions. Though many people may accept the fact that angels exist, they have not turned to the Scripture to find out who they are, and what they can and cannot do. Personal experiences and fanciful stories replace what God has said on the subject. 3.

Superstition And Fear Of The Unknown

Consequently the subject of angels is often treated with superstition and fear. This can lead to all types of strange beliefs and behavior with respect to angels. People can give undue adoration, prayer, and even worship to these created spiritual beings. The remedy for these problems is simple: one must turn to the pages of Scripture to discover what God has to say on the subject rather than looking to other sources of information on these heavenly beings. The Bible encourages people to study the Scriptures and test the spirits. Paul wrote. But test everything; hold fast to what is good (1 Thessalonians 5:21). John declared. Beloved, do not believe every spirit, but test the spirits to see whether they are from God; for many false prophets have gone out into the world (1 John 4:1). Therefore a careful study of the Word of God will clear up misconceptions about angels. Summary Many times the subject of angels is approached with a number of misconceptions. They include the rejection of the supernatural, ignorance of Scripture, and superstition and fear. They are all associated with not taking seriously what the Bible has to say. However once someone takes the time to consider what the Bible teaches on the subject, the denial of angels, as well as ignorance and fear concerning them, will disappear.

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QUESTION 5 When Were Angels Created? Angels are created beings. They have been made for the purpose of doing the bidding of God. We will now see what the Bible has to say with respect to their creation. 1.

They Were Created At The Beginning

The first verse of Scripture gives us an indication as to when the angels were created. In the beginning God created the heavens and the earth (Genesis 1:1). The phrase “heavens and the earth” refers to the entire universe. This would include all the separate parts. The creation of angels would seemingly be included in this statement. 2.

They Were Probably Created Before The Earth

Though we are not told exactly when they were created, it seems to be sometime before the earth was created. God spoke to Job saying. Where were you when I laid the foundation of the earth? Tell me, if you have understanding. . . when the morning stars sang together and all the sons of God shouted for joy? (Job 38:4,7). The term “sons of God” is one of the many designations for angels, as the Book of Job earlier states. One day the “sons of God” came to present themselves before the LORD, and Satan also came among them (Job 1:6). If the phrase “sons of God” is referring to angels in Job 38, then when God created the heavens and the earth, the angels had already been in existence. However there are many commentators who see the term “sons of God” as being symbolic and not literal in this part of Job. 3.

They Were Created Before The Seventh Day

One thing we can be certain about is that the angels were created before the seventh day of creation. The Bible says the following about the six days of creation. Thus the heavens and the earth were completed, and all their hosts (Genesis 2:1). The phrase “all their hosts” probably refers to the angels. 4.

God Created All Things In Six Days

Another passage that is explicit about what God created is found in the Book of Exodus. For in six days the LORD made the heavens and the earth, the sea, and all that is in them, but he rested on the seventh day. Therefore the LORD blessed the Sabbath day and made it holy (Exodus 20:11). Everything was created in six days. This, of course, would include the angels.

26 5.

The Unseen World They Were Probably All Created Together

From a statement that Paul made, it is sometimes assumed that all angels were created together. For by him all things in heaven and on earth were created, things visible and invisible, whether thrones or dominions or rulers or powers - all things have been created through him and for him (Colossians 1:16). Although this may be true, it does not necessarily follow from this statement. Summary The time of the creation of angels is something that the Bible does not specifically mention. Angelic existence dates back before the creation of humans. How far back no one knows. They seem to have been in existence when the earth was created. Scripture indicates the angels sang and shouted at God’s creation of the earth - possibly before any material thing was made. They were definitely created before humanity. Beyond this, there is not enough information to be more specific.

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QUESTION 6 Were All The Angels Created Good? Yes. When God originally created the angels, they, along with everything else in the universe, were created good. The Bible says. God saw everything that he had made, and indeed, it was very good. And there was evening and there was morning, the sixth day (Genesis 1:31). 1.

They Were All Put On Probation

Though all of the angels were originally created holy, not all of them remained in this state. It seems that God allowed for a time of testing after their creation. Led by one particular angel, some of them rebelled against God, though it seems that most of them continued to follow Him. The Bible makes a clear distinction between these two groups of angels. 2.

There Are Good Angels Who Stayed Loyal To God

The angels that did not rebel continue to follow the Lord until this day. They have constantly demonstrated their loyalty to God. They are known as the “elect” angels. I charge you before God and the Lord Jesus Christ and the elect angels that you observe these things without prejudice, doing nothing with partiality (1 Timothy 5:21). 3.

There Are Evil Angels Who Rebelled

On the other hand, the evil angels await judgment. The Bible says that the eternal fires of judgment were prepared for them. Then he will say to those at his left, ‘You that are accursed, depart from me into the eternal fire prepared for the Devil and his angels’ (Matthew 25:41). Summary Though God initially created everything perfect, some of the angels chose to leave their position with Him. That rebellion separated the angels into two groups - righteous and unrighteous. The righteous ones will remain in His service forever while the unrighteous angels, through their own choice, have been condemned to judgment.

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The Unseen World

QUESTION 7 What Do Angels Look Like? Is there any indication in Scripture that angels are fair-skinned men who sit on clouds, wear long white robes, and have two large wings? Do we ever find them carrying harps? Though this is the traditional way in which angels have been viewed, there is nothing in Scripture to suggest that this is how they look. From Scripture we learn a number of things about the appearance of angels. 1.

They Are Spirit Beings

Angels are spirit beings. There is no description given in the Bible of what they look like in their true essence. Although angels do not have a physical form like humans, they do have some type of localized form - they occupy some space. Whatever their normal form is like, it is a form adapted to the unseen spiritual realm. Though the Bible does not comment about their usual form, it does says that there are various types of bodies in heaven as well as upon the earth. Paul wrote. Not all flesh is alike, but there is one flesh for human beings, another for animals, another for birds, and another for fish. There are both heavenly bodies and earthly bodies, but the glory of the heavenly is one thing, and that of the earthly is another (1 Corinthians 15:39-40). We cannot make any conclusions beyond this. 2.

They Usually Are Not Seen

In most cases, the people do not see angels. In their ordinary activities they are not visible. For example, Balaam could not see the angel standing in front of him in the road. The donkey saw the angel of the LORD standing in the road, with a drawn sword in his hand. Thus the donkey turned off the road, and went into the field and Balaam struck the donkey, to turn it back onto the road (Numbers 22:23). Elisha prayed that the eyes of his servant would be opened to see the angels around him. Then Elisha prayed: “O LORD, please open his eyes that he may see.” So the LORD opened the eyes of the servant, and he saw; the mountain was full of horses and chariots of fire all around Elisha (2 Kings 6:17). The “chariots of fire” are a term that refers to angels. 3.

They Are Not Always Recognized As Angels

That angels have no recognizable form can be seen as follows - many times they appeared to people without even being recognized as angels. They looked no different than ordinary men. In the Book of Judges we read about one such episode. Then the woman came and told her husband, saying, “A man of God came to me and his appearance was like the appearance of the angel of God, very awesome. And I did not ask him where he came from, nor did he tell me his name” . . . The angel of the LORD did not appear again to Manoah and his wife. Then Manoah realized that it was the angel of the LORD (Judges 13:6,21).

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Abraham had angelic visitors that looked human. The LORD appeared to Abraham by the oaks of Mamre, as he sat at the entrance of his tent in the heat of the day. He looked up and saw three men standing near him. When he saw them, he ran from the tent entrance to meet them, and bowed down to the ground (Genesis 18:1,2). 4.

They Appear As Men

Though angels are sexless creatures, when they appear in Scripture they are always described as looking like men, not women or children. For example, at the tomb of Jesus we are told that angels appeared. But Mary stood crying outside the tomb. As she cried, she bent over to look into the tomb; and she saw two angels in white, sitting where the body of Jesus had been lying - one at the head and the other at the feet (John 20:11,12). Yet Luke describes these angels as appearing in the form of men. While they were perplexed about this thing, suddenly two men in dazzling clothes stood beside them (Luke 24:4). While angels appeared as men, the people soon recognized them as angels. In addition, the two angels that are named in Scripture have names of men - Michael and Gabriel. 5.

They Are Able To Eat

Angels, when they assume a human body, are able to eat. When three angels visited Abraham he prepared food for them. Then he took curds and milk and the calf that he had prepared, and set it before them; and he stood by them under the tree while they ate (Genesis 18:8). It has been noted that the psalmist wrote of the food of angels. Humans ate of the bread of angels; he sent them food in abundance (Psalm 78:25). This, however, is not to be taken literally, since angels do not have bodies. 6.

They Are Clothed

When angels appear, they are always clothed - sometimes in white or very bright clothing. While they were perplexed about this thing, suddenly two men in dazzling clothes stood beside them (Luke 24:4). We find no darkness in them whatsoever as they are representing God - who Himself is light. When Jesus ascended into heaven, two angels appeared wearing white clothes and having the appearance of men.

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The Unseen World They were looking intently up into the sky as he was going, when suddenly two men dressed in white stood beside them (Acts 1:10).

7.

Stephen Had The Face Of An Angel

The martyr Stephen was said to have the face of an angel when he spoke to the religious rulers. And all who sat in the council looked intently at him, and they saw that his face was like the face of an angel (Acts 6:15). The idea behind the phrase, “face of an angel,” seems to be that his face was shining. 8.

They Reflect The Glory Of The Lord

Sometimes the glory of the Lord shone through the angels. Then the angel of the Lord stood before them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were terrified (Luke 2:9). 9.

Sometimes They Are Different Looking

Though angels usually appear as normal looking men, there are times when they wear special clothing. Daniel encountered such an angel. I looked up and saw a man clothed in linen, with a belt of gold from Uphaz around his waist. His body was like beryl, his face like lightning, his eyes like flaming torches, his arms and legs like the gleam of burnished bronze, and the sound of his words like the roar of a multitude (Daniel 10:5,6). 10. They Are Never In Subhuman Form Though angels appear at times in the form of humans, we never find them appearing in subhuman form they never look like animals, birds, or some other material object. Furthermore, the Bible says that angels have spoken to people out of the cloud and out of the fire, but the angels never identified themselves with either the cloud or the fire. 11. They Are Identified With Humanity Like Christ As Christ identified with humanity, by becoming human being, angels, in a similar way as messengers of God, identified with humanity in outward form and language. They, as His messengers, come to humanity in a way that is identifiable. 12. They Do Not Have Wings Medieval art made popular the idea that angels had wings. Though Daniel 9:21 and Revelation 14:6 refers to angels as flying, neither of these passages mentions wings. When angels have appeared to humans in the Bible, there is no indication that they had wings. Though wings are never attributed to angels who have appeared to humanity, two types of angelic creatures - the cherubim and seraphim - have wings. Apart from the cherubim guarding the Garden of Eden after the sin of Adam and Eve, there is no other report of their appearance to humans. They are seen in visions, or are representative figures in the Ark of the Covenant, and the temple. Thus the idea that some angelic creatures do have wings does

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have some biblical validity. It is not certain, however, that any angel who appeared to humans ever was in a form that included wings. Summary Angels are spirit-beings whose exact form is never described for us. They have no physical form like humans. When they do appear to humans they appear as men, not women. The concept that they have white skin and play a harp is not found in the Bible. Two different types of angelic creatures, the cherubim and seraphim, are said to have wings but there are no clear examples of the other angels ever appearing to humans with wings.

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The Unseen World

QUESTION 8 Where Do Angels Live? According to Scripture, earth is not the only inhabited place in the universe. 1.

Angels Live In Heaven

Angels make their home in heaven. Jesus said. For when they rise from the dead, they neither marry nor are given in marriage, but are like angels in heaven (Mark 12:25). Though they are said to live in the heavenly realm, there is not necessarily one certain place where they reside. The Bible does speak of the evil angels leaving their proper dwelling. And the angels who did not keep their own position, but left their proper dwelling, he has kept in eternal chains in deepest darkness for the judgment of the great Day (Jude 6). Some have thought that this refers to a specific place where angels reside. What we can say for certain is that angels do live in the heavenly realm. 2.

They Have Access To God

Not only do angels live in the heavenly realm, they also have access to God’s presence. One day the “sons of God” came to present themselves before the LORD, and Satan also came among them (Job 1:6). Scripture makes a distinction between the heavenly realm - the sun, moon, and stars - and the presence of God. His presence is above this heavenly realm. This is a place that no telescope can reach. The Bible says Christ entered into this realm after His death. For Christ did not enter a sanctuary made by human hands, a mere copy of the true one, but he entered into heaven itself, now to appear in the presence of God on our behalf (Hebrews 9:24). 3.

They Can Come To The Earth

While angels reside in heaven, and have access to God, the Bible says that they have the capacity to come to earth. And he [Jacob] had a dream, and behold, a ladder was set on the earth with its top reaching to heaven; and behold, the angels of God were ascending and descending on it (Genesis 28:12). Scripture gives abundant testimony of angels leaving their home in heaven to minister here on the earth. For example, the Bible says an angel came down from heaven and rolled away the stone from Jesus’ tomb. There was a violent earthquake, for an angel of the Lord came down from heaven and, going to the tomb, rolled back the stone and sat on it (Matthew 28:2).

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Summary Angels live in the unseen heavenly realm. They have access to God, whose presence dwells above the heavens. Though angels have their residence in heaven, they are able to come to the earth. Therefore they are not restricted to any part of the universe. Consequently, they do the will of God wherever they are needed.

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QUESTION 9 Are Angels Organized In Ranks? Scripture teaches that God is a God of order. Paul told the church at Corinth that God wants everything done orderly. But let all things be done decently and in order (1 Corinthians 14:40). Angels Are Organized Therefore it is not surprising that we find that Scripture testifying to various orders of angels. Paul wrote. For by him all things in heaven and on earth were created, things visible and invisible, whether thrones or dominions or rulers or powers - all things have been created through him and for him (Colossians 1:16). The thrones, dominions, rulers, and powers speak of various orders of angels. Each of these terms has a specific meaning that corresponds to earthly realities. Though there is probably some overlap between the terms, it does say, at the very least, that there are different ranks of angels. These various orders are well-organized. We read the following in the Old Testament. Then Micaiah said, “Therefore hear the word of the LORD: I saw the LORD sitting on his throne, with all the host of heaven standing beside him to the right and to the left of him” (1 Kings 22:19). They Are Like An Army Their organization is like that of an army. The chronicler wrote. For day by day men came to David to help him, until there was a great army like the army of God (1 Chronicles 12:22). They Have An Archangel There is an archangel, or chief angel, according to Scripture. Paul wrote. For the Lord himself shall descend from heaven, with a shout, with the voice of the archangel, and with the trump of God: and the dead in Christ shall rise first (1 Thessalonians 4:16). Scripture tells us that his name is Michael. But when the archangel Michael contended with the Devil and disputed about the body of Moses, he did not dare to bring a slanderous accusation against him, but rather said, “The Lord rebuke you!” (Jude 9). He is the only archangel named in Scripture, though there may be others. Michael the archangel has his own army of angels.

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And there was war in heaven, Michael and his angels waging war with the dragon. And the dragon and his angels also waged war (Revelation 12:7). An army with a leader suggests organization. THEY ARE ORGANIZED IN A NUMBER OF WAYS According to the Bible, there are also angels that have authority over certain elements. They include: fire, water, and the bottomless pit. 1.

There Is An Angel Over The Fire

Scripture tells us of an angel who has authority over the fire. Then another angel came out from the altar, the angel who has authority over fire, and he called with a loud voice to him who had the sharp sickle, “Use your sharp sickle and gather the clusters of the vine of the earth, for its grapes are ripe” (Revelation 14:18). 2.

There Is An Angel Over The Water

There is also an angel who has charge over the waters. Then I heard the angel in charge of the waters say: “You are just in these judgments, you who are and who were, the Holy One, because you have so judged” (Revelation 16:5). 3.

There Is An Angel Over The Bottomless Pit

There is also an angel who has authority over the bottomless pit, or the abyss. And the fifth angel blew his trumpet, and I saw a star that had fallen from heaven to earth, and he was given the key to the shaft of the bottomless pit; he opened the shaft of the bottomless pit, and from the shaft rose smoke like the smoke of a great furnace, and the sun and the air were darkened with the smoke from the shaft (Revelation 9:1,2). Summary The Bible says that angels are well-organized in ranks. While we are not told much about their classifications, we do know that there are various orders. Among the orders of angels are those who have authority over the elements. We are told from Scripture that certain angels have authority over fire, water, and the bottomless pit, or the abyss. This is a further testimony that angels are organized. The Bible also says that an archangel or “chief angel” exists. This also suggests organization. Beyond this, we can only conjecture.

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QUESTION 10 What Is The Character Of Angels? The Bible tells us much about the nature or character of angels. From a study of Scripture we find them to be personal, intelligent beings who obey the will of God. 1.

They Are Obedient

Angels are obedient to God’s commandments. They do not hesitate to obey the Lord when He commands them. Bless the LORD, O you his angels, you mighty ones who do his bidding, obedient to his spoken word (Psalm 103:20). 2.

They Are Holy

The angels were originally created as holy beings to serve God. Isaiah records the angels as saying: And one called to another and said: “Holy, holy, holy is the LORD of hosts; the whole earth is full of his glory” (Isaiah 6:3). The phrase, “the LORD of hosts” means He is the LORD of angels. 3.

Angels Are Reverent

The highest activity of angels is the worship of God. And Ezra said: “You are the LORD, you alone; you have made heaven, the heaven of heavens, with all their host, the earth and all that is on it, the seas and all that is in them. To all of them you give life, and the host of heaven worships you” (Nehemiah 9:6). The writer to the Hebrews said. And again, when he brings the firstborn into the world, he says, “Let all God’s angels worship him” (Hebrews 1:6). They continually praise and glorify God, usually in His presence. On one occasion, at the birth of Jesus, the angels came to the earth. And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host, praising God and saying, “Glory to God in the highest heaven, and on earth peace among those whom he favors!” (Luke 2:13,14). 4.

They Can Communicate To Anyone

Language is no barrier for angels. Paul referred to the speaking ability of angels. Though I speak with the tongues of humans and of angels, but have not love, I have become sounding brass or a clanging cymbal (1 Corinthians 13:1).

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Not only can angels speak, they can communicate to any people, in any language, on the face of the earth. We find an angel preaching the everlasting gospel to the entire world before Christ returns. Then I saw another angel flying in the middle of heaven, with the everlasting gospel to proclaim to those who live on the earth - to every nation and tribe and language and people (Revelation 14:6). Every language was able to understand the message of this angel. 5.

They Are Intelligent Creatures

When the angels were created, they were made as intelligent spirits. They have been learning from the time they were created - having had the opportunity to observe God’s dealings with humanity. In addition, their intelligence has not been corrupted by sin as is the case with humanity. Therefore their intelligence is beyond that of humans. Scripture acknowledges their ability. In order to change the course of affairs your servant Joab did this. But my lord has wisdom like the wisdom of the angel of God to know all things that are on the earth (2 Samuel 14:20). We find angels in a council. And the heavens will praise your wonders, O LORD; your faithfulness also in the assembly of the saints. . . . God is greatly to be feared in the assembly of the saints, and to be held in reverence by all those around him (Psalm 89:5,7). The fact that we find angels in heavenly councils, and bringing divine revelation to humanity, shows their knowledge is superior to human beings. 6.

They Have Limited Knowledge

Though angels have superior intelligence to humans, their knowledge is limited. God cannot add to His knowledge because He knows everything. The same thing cannot be said of angels. They can continue to learn. The Bible says there are things they do not know. For example, they do not know the time of Jesus’ return to the earth. But about that day and hour no one knows, neither the angels of heaven, nor the Son, but only the Father (Matthew 24:36). Scripture tells us there are some things that they have desired to know. It was revealed to them [the prophets] that they were serving not themselves but you, in regard to the things that have now been announced to you through those who brought you good news by the Holy Spirit sent from heaven - things into which angels desired to look into! (1 Peter 1:12). Only God knows what is in the human heart. Then hear in heaven your dwelling place, forgive, act, and render to all whose hearts you know according to all their ways (for only you know what is in every human heart) (1 Kings 8:39). As intelligent as angels may be, they are still limited in what they know.

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The Unseen World Angels Know Right From Wrong

Angels know the difference between right and wrong. Your servant thought, ‘The word of my lord the king will set me at rest,’ for my lord the king is like the angel of God, discerning good and evil. May the LORD your God be with you! (2 Samuel 14:17). The fact that angels could discern good from evil was a proverbial expression in the nation Israel. 8.

They Are Mighty

In Power But Dependent Upon God

Angels are greater than humans in power. Whereas angels, though greater in might and power, do not bring against them a slanderous judgment from the Lord (2 Peter 2:11). The Psalmist wrote. Bless the LORD, O you his angels, you mighty ones who do his bidding, obedient to his spoken word (Psalm 103:20). They are called Christ’s mighty angels. And to give relief to you who are afflicted as well as to us, when the Lord Jesus is revealed from heaven with his mighty angels (2 Thessalonians 1:7). Angels are able to do things that humans cannot do. However their power is dependent upon God. They are mighty beings, but angels are not the Almighty. Their power is within fixed limits. Any power that angels may have is derived from God. They are neither all-powerful, all-knowing, or everywhere present, as is God. If there were another being in the universe who was all-powerful, then God would not be the only God. The fact that angels are not all-powerful can be seen in the episode of Michael, the archangel, and Satan. The Bible says: But when the archangel Michael contended with the Devil and disputed about the body of Moses, he did not dare to bring a condemnation of slander against him, but said, “The LORD rebuke you!” (Jude 9). Michael the archangel, the highest of all the angels, would not rebuke the Devil by himself. This is one example of how angels have limited power. Unlike God, angels can be in only one place at a time. In the sixth month the angel Gabriel was sent by God to a town in Galilee called Nazareth (Luke 1:26). Since the Bible speaks of angels traveling from place to place this indicates they cannot be everywhere at once. Daniel records this testimony of an angel.

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He said to me, “Do not fear, Daniel, for from the first day that you set your mind to gain understanding and to humble yourself before your God, your words have been heard, and I have come because of your words. But the prince of the kingdom of Persia opposed me twenty-one days. So Michael, one of the chief princes, came to help me, and I left him there with the prince of the kingdom of Persia, and have come to help you understand what is to happen to your people at the end of days. For there is a further vision for those days” (Daniel 10:12-14). This passage shows the limitation of the power of angels as well as the fact that they are not everywhere present. 9.

They Are Humble

Though mighty, angels are also humble. They do not seek their own glory but rather the glory of God. They go about their ministry unnoticed by humanity. For example, when the seraphim worship the Lord, they cover their feet. This act, seemingly, is a sign of humility. Seraphs were in attendance above him; each had six wings: with two they covered their faces, and with two they covered their feet, and with two they flew (Isaiah 6:2). 10. Angels Are Sinless The angels that did not rebel against Him are without sin. While this is never directly stated, it is inferred from the various names given to them. They are called both “holy angels” (Mark 8:38) and “elect angels” (1 Timothy 5:21). Summary The character, or attributes, of angels are listed for us in Scripture. The Bible says they are obedient, holy, and reverent. They are able to communicate to anyone. They are intelligent creatures but their knowledge is limited. They do know right from wrong. Although they are mighty they remain humble. The angels that did not rebel against God are without sin. There is much for us to learn from them. Though powerful, they are humble. Though intelligent, they have devoted their intelligence to the service of the Lord.

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QUESTION 11 What Are Some Of The Names Given To Angels? Apart from the familiar title “angel,” these heavenly beings are known by a variety of different names in the Bible. As we search the Scripture we find them designated as follows. 1.

Angels

This, of course, is their most popular name. Often when we find these spirit-beings addressed as angels, there are qualifying words that further describe them. These include the following. Jesus called them “holy angels.” Those who are ashamed of me and of my words, of them the Son of Man will be ashamed when he comes in his glory and the glory of the Father and of the holy angels (Luke 9:26). Jesus also called them the “angels of God.” And I tell you, everyone who acknowledges me before others, the Son of Man also will acknowledge before the angels of God (Luke 12:8). Jesus called them “His angels.” For the Son of Man is to come with his angels in the glory of his Father, and then he will repay everyone for what has been done (Matthew 16:27). These beings are also “angels in heaven.” For in the resurrection they neither marry nor are given in marriage, but are like angels in heaven (Matthew 22:30). The Bible also calls them “mighty angels.” And to give relief to the afflicted as well as to us, when the Lord Jesus is revealed from heaven with his mighty angels (2 Thessalonians 1:7). 2.

The Host Of Heaven (Heavenly Host)

Scripture designates angels as the “host of heaven” or the “heavenly host.” And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host, praising God and saying (Luke 2:13). This term refers to the armies of angels. The angels, as the “host of heaven,” are represented as standing on both the right and left side of God. And Micaiah said, “Therefore, hear the word of the LORD. I saw the LORD sitting on his throne, and all the host of heaven standing by him on his right and on his left” (1 Kings 22:19).

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The Bible continually refers to God as the “God of hosts” or the “LORD of hosts.” The word “hosts” also refers to the stars in the sky. 3.

Spirits

Angels are also known as spirits. Are not all angels spirits in the divine service, sent to serve for the sake of those who are to inherit salvation? (Hebrews 1:14). 4.

Sons Of God

In the Book of Job they are called “sons of God.” One day the “sons of God” came to present themselves before the LORD, and Satan also came among them (Job 1:6). A “son of God” is one who is brought into existence by God. This is the description of angels in their unfallen state. They are sons of God in the sense that they are His creation. In the Old Testament angels are called “sons of God” while humans are called the “servants of God.” In the New Testament the reverse is true - angels are servants and believers are called the sons of God. 5.

Sons Of The Mighty

They are also called “sons of the mighty.” For who in the heavens can be compared to the LORD? Who among the sons of the mighty can be likened to the LORD? (Psalm 89:6). The psalmist also wrote. Ascribe to the LORD, O sons of the mighty, ascribe to the LORD glory and strength (Psalm 29:1). 6.

Holy Ones

Angels are also called “holy ones” by the psalmist. Let the heavens praise your wonders, O LORD, your faithfulness in the assembly of the holy ones . . . In the council of the holy ones God is greatly feared; he is more awesome than all who surround him (Psalm 89:5,7). 7.

The Watchers

In the Book of Daniel, angels are called “watchers.” I continued looking, in the visions of my head as I lay in bed, and there was a holy watcher, coming down from heaven . . . The sentence is rendered by decree of the watchers, the decision is given by order of the holy ones, in order that all who live may know that the Most High is sovereign over the kingdom of humans - he gives it to whom he will and sets over it the lowliest of human beings’ (Danie l 4:13,17).

42 8.

The Unseen World Flames Of Fire

They are called “flames of fire.” He makes winds his messengers, flames of fire his servants (Psalm 104:4). 9.

Rulers

Angels are also called rulers. But the ruler of the kingdom of Persia opposed me twenty-one days. So Michael, one of the chief princes, came to help me, and I left him there with the prince of the kingdom of Persia (Daniel 10:13). 10. Thrones This title is symbolic of leadership. For by him all things in heaven and on earth were created, things visible and invisible, whether thrones or dominions or rulers or powers - all things have been created through him and for him (Colossians 1:16). 11. Dominions This speaks of their sphere of influence. For by him all things in heaven and on earth were created, things visible and invisible, whether thrones or dominions or rulers or powers - all things have been created through him and for him (Colossians 1:16). 12. Powers This is another term for rulers. For by him all things in heaven and on earth were created, things visible and invisible, whether thrones or dominions or rulers or powers - all things have been created through him and for him (Colossians 1:16). 13. The Elect The good angels are given the title of “elect.” I warn you, in the sight of God and Christ Jesus and the elect angels, to keep these instructions without partiality, and to do nothing out of favoritism (1 Timothy 5:21). 14. Chariots Of Fire Angels are also called “chariots of fire.”

Good Angels

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Then Elisha prayed: “O LORD, please open his eyes that he may see.” So the LORD opened the eyes of the servant, and he saw; the mountain was full of horses and chariots of fire all around Elisha (2 Kings 6:17). 15. The Council Angels are spoken of as being a council, or an assembly, of holy ones. Let the heavens praise your wonders, O LORD, your faithfulness in the assembly of the holy ones . . . . a God feared in the council of the holy ones, great and awesome above all that are around him (Psalm 89:5,7). 16. Heavenly Beings They are also called heavenly beings. Ascribe to the LORD, O heavenly beings, ascribe to the LORD glory and strength (Psalm 29:1). 17. Morning Stars This could be a title of angels, or it could be symbolically referring to God’s creation. While the morning stars sang together and all the angels shouted for joy? (Job 38:7). Summary The Bible attributes a number of titles to angels. They include angels, host of heaven, spirits, sons of God, sons of the Mighty, holy ones, the watchers, flames of fire, rulers, thrones, dominions, powers, the elect, chariots of fire, the council, heavenly beings and morning stars. Each of these titles helps us to better understand their attributes. It is interesting to note just how many different descriptions the Bible gives of angels - obviously they have been very busy in carrying out God’s plan of the ages.

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QUESTION 12 What Are The Differences Between Angels And Humans? Angels have certain things in common with humans as well as things that are different. 1.

Both Angels And Humans Were Created Perfect

Both angels and humans were created perfect in the beginning. And God saw all that he had made, and behold, it was very good. And there was evening and there was morning, the sixth day (Genesis 1:31). However the angels served God in His heavenly presence while perfect humanity was placed upon the earth. 2.

Angels Are Not Created In God’s Image, Humans Are

Only humans, however, were created in the image of God. Then God said, “Let us make humanity in our image, according to our likeness; and let them rule over the fish of the sea and over the birds of the sky and over the cattle and over all the earth, and over every creeping thing that creeps on the earth.” And God created humanity in his own image, in the image of God he created them; male and female he created them (Genesis 1:26,27). 3.

The Entrance Of Sin Touched All Humans But Only Some Angels

Though humanity and angels were created perfect, sin touched both the human and angelic population. After Adam and Eve sinned, all the humans that were born afterward, with the exception of the Lord Jesus, were born with a sin nature. The Bible says. When Adam had lived one hundred thirty years, he became the father of a son in his likeness, according to his image, and named him Seth (Genesis 5:3). The likeness of Adam was a sinful likeness. All humans who are born inherit that sin nature. The Bible says. Since all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God (Romans 3:23). Some angels also sinned. However many did not. Those that did not sin have remained loyal to God ever since. 4.

Humans Can Bear Children, Angels Cannot

Unlike humans, angels cannot bear children. They cannot, therefore, have any type of family relationships. Jesus said. At the resurrection people will neither marry nor be given in marriage; they will be like the angels in heaven (Matthew 22:30).

Good Angels 5.

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Humans Can Be Forgiven, Angels Cannot

Though all humans and some angels sinned, there is forgiveness only for humans. Paul wrote. He made him who knew no sin to be sin on our behalf, that we might become the righteousness of God in him (2 Corinthians 5:21). The angels who sinned are awaiting the Day of Judgment. Jesus said. Then he will also say to those on the left, ‘Depart from me, you cursed, into the everlasting fire prepared for the Devil and his angels’ (Matthew 25:41). 6.

Humans Share Christ’s Exalted Position, Angels Do Not

Believers are a new creation in Christ. Consequently we share His exalted position. And raised us up with him and seated us with him in the heavenly places in Christ Jesus (Ephesians 2:6). 7.

Humans Conform To The Image Of Christ, Angels Do Not

The final state of redeemed humans is far above angels - believers will be conformed to the image of Christ. For those whom he foreknew he also predestined to be conformed to the image of his Son, in order that he might be the firstborn within a large family (Romans 8:29) 8.

Humans Will Someday Judge Angels, Angels Will Not Judge Humans

The ones who have believed in Jesus will eventually judge angels. Do you not know that we are to judge angels - to say nothing of ordinary matters? (1 Corinthians 6:3). Consequently there are a number of differences between angels and humans. Summary While there are some things that angels and humans have in common, there are many things that separate them. Humans have been made in the image of God. They are able to bear children and have family relationships. Though sin entered into both the angelic and human sphere, only the sin of humans can be forgiven. Christ came to die for the sins of humanity, not of angels. Those humans who have trusted Christ as their Savior will eventually judge angels. Because of these things, the humans who have believed in Jesus will have a superior position to the angels in the ages to come.

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QUESTION 13 What Are The Differences Between Jesus And The Angels? The Bible contrasts the character of angels and that of the Lord Jesus. 1.

Jesus Has A More Excellent Name

Jesus has a more excellent name than the angels. Having become as much superior to angels as the name he has inherited is more excellent than theirs (Hebrews 1:4). There is a clear distinction between Jesus and the angels. The word “name” in this context has to do with character. For example, the angels named in Scripture are Michael “who is like God?” and Gabriel “God is my strength.” Yet Jesus has a more excellent name than them in the sense that He is the Lord God Himself. 2.

Christ Is Superior To Angels In Every Respect

In a long passage (Hebrews 1:5-2:9) the writer emphasizes Christ as superior to the angels in every respect. For a short time, when He became a man, Jesus was made a little lower than the angels. However, He is, in every way, superior to them. 3.

Angels Worshipped Him

Christ was superior to the angels in the fact that they worshipped Him. And when he again brings the first-born into the world, he says, “And let all the angels of God worship him” (Hebrews 1:6). 4.

He Is The Creator While They Are The Created

Thus we see the contrast between the Creator and the created since Scripture teaches that Jesus was the Creator of the angels. For in him all things in heaven and on earth were created, things visible and invisible, whether thrones or dominions or rulers or powers - all things have been created through him and for him (Colossians 1:16). Angels were created above humanity, but they are below Christ - the Creator of all things. Summary The Bible does say that Jesus has a more excellent name than the angels. He is distinct from the angels in the fact that He created them. Therefore we have the distinction between the Creator and the created. Consequently Jesus is said to have a more excellent name, or identity, than the angels.

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QUESTION 14 What Are The Ministries Of Angels? The work, or ministry, of angels, with respect to humanity, can be placed in three categories - they are God’s agents, His messengers and His servants. ANGELS ARE GOD’S AGENTS As agents of God, angels act as executors of God’s judgment. When God decreed judgment on humanity, often He would send angels to carry out this judgment. After he drove them out, he placed on the east side of the Garden of Eden cherubim and a flaming sword flashing back and forth to guard the way to the tree of life (Genesis 3:24). Angels judged the city of Jerusalem for their idolatry (Ezekiel 9:1-11). The Judgment Of Sodom Angels also went to Sodom to pronounce judgment upon that evil city. In the evening the two angels came to Sodom, and Lot was sitting in the gateway of Sodom. When Lot saw them, he rose to meet them, and bowed down with his face to the ground (Genesis 19:1). They Act With Authority When angels were sent to do the will of God, they acted with authority. At the tomb of Jesus, two angels broke the Roman seal, and rolled back the massive stone. This caused the entire guard unit to faint. And suddenly there was a great earthquake; for the angel of the Lord, descended from heaven, came and rolled back the stone and sat on it. For fear of him the guards shook and became like dead men (Matthew 28:2,4). ANGELS ARE GOD’S M ESSENGERS Angels bring God’s message to humanity. This is in keeping with the meaning of the term “angel.” God has used angels to send the following messages to humanity 1.

They Have Given Divine Revelation

Angels have given divine revelation. The martyr Stephen said. You are the ones that have received the law as ordained by angels, but you have not obeyed it (Acts 7:53). Paul wrote to the Galatians. What purpose then does the Law serve? It was added because of transgressions, until the seed should come to whom the promise was made; and it was appointed through angels by the hand of a mediator (Galatians 3:19).

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The Unseen World The Book Of Revelation Was Given Through An Angel

The introduction to the Book of Revelation tells us that this final book of Scripture was given through an angel. The revelation of Jesus Christ, which God gave him to show his servants what must soon take place. He made it known by sending his angel to his servant John, (Revelation 1:1). 3.

Announcements Are Made By Angels

Angels announced the birth of Christ and John the Baptist. But after he [Joseph] had thought about these things, behold, the angel of the Lord appeared unto him in a dream, saying, Joseph, son of David, do not fear to take Mary as your wife: for the child which is conceived in her is of the Holy Spirit. And she shall bring forth a Son; and you shall call his name Jesus; for it is he himself that shall save his people from their sins (Matthew 1:20,21). In Luke we read. Then the angel of the Lord appeared there with him, standing at the right side of the altar of incense. When Zechariah saw him, he was terrified and fear overcame him. But the angel said to him, “Do not be afraid, Zechariah, for your prayer has been heard. Your wife Elizabeth will bear you a son, and you will name him John (Luke 1:11-13). 4.

Angels Give Warnings

Angels gave warnings to God’s people. Now after they had left the angel of the Lord appeared to Joseph in a dream and said, “Get up, take the child and his mother, and escape to Egypt, and remain there until I tell you - for Herod is about to search for the child, to destroy him” (Matthew 2:13). 5.

Angels Can Give Instruction

God used angels to provide instruction. The Gentile Cornelius received angelic instruction. He was commanded to send servants to Joppa to find Simon Peter. One day at about three in the afternoon he had a vision. He distinctly saw an angel of God, who came to him and said, “Cornelius!” (Acts 10:3). ANGELS ARE GOD’S SERVANTS Angels have also been used as God’s servants. They have ministered to believers in the following ways. 1.

They Rejoice At Conversion

Angels are interested in the spiritual welfare of people to the point that they rejoice at their conversion. Jesus said. In the same way, I tell you, there is joy in the presence of the angels of God over one sinner who repents (Luke 15:10).

Good Angels 2.

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They Can Give Physical Provision

Angels have been used to give physical provision. Then he [Elijah] laid down under the broom tree and fell asleep. Suddenly an angel touched him and said to him, “Get up and eat.” He looked, and there at his head was a cake baked on hot stones, and a jar of water. He ate and drank, and laid down again. The angel of the LORD came a second time, touched him, and said, “Get up and eat, otherwise the journey will be too much for you” (1 Kings 19:5-7). Angels have been sent to sustain people. After the Lord Jesus was tempted by the Devil, angels were sent to sustain Him. Then the Devil left him, and suddenly angels came and began to minister to him (Matthew 4:11). 3.

They Have Been Sent To Protect God’s People

Angels have also been sent to protect God’s people. The angel of the Lord was sent to protect Hagar. The angel of the LORD found Hagar near a spring of water in the desert, the spring on the way to Shur (Genesis 16:7). The two angels who visited Lot protected both him, and themselves, by causing blindness to the men of Sodom. And they struck with blindness the men who were at the door of the house, young and old, so that they were unable to find the door (Genesis 19:11). 4.

God Used Them For Deliverance

God has used angels as objects of deliverance. When we cried to the LORD, he heard our voice, and sent an angel and brought us out of Egypt. Here we are in Kadesh, a town on the edge of your territory (Numbers 20:16). The Lord also used angels to deliver Peter and John from the hands of the Sadducees. Then the high priest and all his associates, the members of the party of the Sadducees, were filled with jealousy. They arrested the apostles and put them in jail. But during the night the angel of the Lord opened the doors of the jail and brought them out (Acts 5:17-19). 5.

They Can Give Direction

The Bible says that Philip was directed to the Ethiopian eunuch by an angel. Then the angel of the Lord said to Philip, “Get up and go toward the south to the road that goes down from Jerusalem to Gaza.” (This is a wilderness road) (Acts 8:26). 6.

They Assist In Answering Prayer

On a couple of occasions, angels assisted in an answer to prayer.

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In the Book of Daniel we have the angel Gabriel explaining to Daniel the meaning of his prayers (Daniel 9:20-27). We also find Peter being helped in his release from prison by an angel who was sent in response to prayer (Acts 12:1-11). 7.

They Have Interceded For Humanity

Angels have also interceded on behalf of humanity. Then the angel of the LORD said, “O LORD of hosts, how long will you withhold mercy from Jerusalem and the cities of Judah, with which you have been angry these seventy years?” (Zechariah 1:12). 8.

They Give Encouragement

Angels have also been sent for encouragement. Often times when they appeared to people their first words were, “Don’t be afraid.” An angel encouraged the Apostle Paul after a storm at sea. For last night there stood by me an angel of the God to whom I belong and whom I worship. He said, ‘Do not be afraid, Paul; you must stand before the emperor; and indeed, God has granted safety to all those who are sailing with you.’ So keep up your courage, men, for I have faith in God that it will be exactly as I have been told (Acts 27:23-25). The angel of the Lord appeared to Gideon, a discouraged and frightened man. Now the angel of the LORD came and sat under the oak at Ophrah, which belonged to Joash the Abiezrite, as his son Gideon was beating out wheat in the wine press, to hide it from the Midianites. The angel of the LORD appeared to him and said to him, “The LORD is with you, you mighty warrior” (Judges 6:11,12). The cowardly Gideon went on to lead Israel in a great victory over the Midianites. 9.

They Never Appear To The Wicked

Angels are God’s agents to His people. Never do we find an angel appearing to an evil person to warn them of impending disaster. When God was going to send a Flood to the earth, He warned the people through Noah, not an angel. For as the days of Noah were, so will be the coming of the Son of Man. For as in those days before the flood they were eating and drinking, marrying and giving in marriage, until the day Noah entered the ark, and they knew nothing until the flood came and swept them all away, so too will be the coming of the Son of Man (Matthew 24:37-39). Good angels only appear to righteous people! 10. They Came At Important Times Like the miracles recorded in Scripture, angels seem to have appeared at crucial times in the program of God. For example, we find them giving praise at God’s creation, guarding the Garden of Eden after the Fall, involved in the giving of the Law, and center-stage in events in the life of Christ - birth, temptation, Gethsemane, resurrection, and ascension. They will also appear at His judgment of the nations.

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11. They Are In Service To God Although the great amount of biblical references with respect to angels refers to their service toward humanity, their most important ministry is service to God. We are told that certain types of angels unceasingly worship the Creator. And the four living creatures, each one of them having six wings, are full of eyes around and within; and day and night they do not cease to say, “Holy, holy, holy, is the Lord God, the Almighty, who was and who is and who is to come” (Revelation 4:8). 12. They Are Motivated By Love What motivates the angels in their ministry to humans is not their own love for them, but rather their love and devotion to God. Summary The work of angels can be placed in three categories. They are God’s agents who execute His judgment. Angels are God’s messengers revealing His will. They are God’s servants, doing His will. They have also appeared at crucial times in the overall program of God to do the Lord’s bidding. Consequently their work has been of the utmost importance in God’s overall plan for humanity.

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QUESTION 15 What Have Angels Done According To The Old Testament? Angels have figured prominently in many episodes that the Old Testament records. We will consider some of the more prominent examples. 1.

They Were Present At Creation

When God created the world, it seems angels witnessed it. Where were you when I laid the foundation of the earth? Tell me, if you have understanding. when the morning stars sang together and all the “sons of God” shouted for joy? (Job 38:4,7). 2.

..

An Angel Appeared To Hagar

Although angels were seemingly present at creation, there is no mention of their ministry until the days of Abraham. After Hagar had conceived Abraham’s child, Sarah, Abraham’s wife, sent her out. The angel of the LORD found Hagar. The angel of the LORD found her [Hagar] by a spring of water in the wilderness, the spring on the way to Shur (Genesis 16:7). Later, when Abraham and Sarah sent out Hagar and Ishmael, the Bible says that an angel ministered unto them. And God heard the voice of the boy. Then the angel of God proceeded to call to Hagar from heaven, and said to her, “What troubles you, Hagar? Do not be afraid; for God has heard the voice of the boy where he is” (Genesis 21:17). 3.

Three Angels Visit Abraham

The Bible says that three angels visited Abraham while on their way to Sodom. These angels appeared in the form of men. He looked up and saw three men standing nearby. When he saw them, he ran from the tent entrance to meet them, and bowed down to the ground (Genesis 18:2). The angels who met Abraham included the “angel of the LORD.” 4.

They Rescued Lot

Two angels rescued Lot from the destruction of Sodom. But he lingered; so the men seized him and his wife and his two daughters by the hand, the LORD being merciful to him, and they brought him out and left him outside the city (Genesis 19:16).

Good Angels 5.

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Jacob Encountered Angels

Jacob had a variety of experiences with angels. One of these episodes was his famous dream. He had a dream in which he saw a stairway resting on the earth, with its top reaching to heaven, and the angels of God were ascending and descending on it (Genesis 28:12). An angel appeared to Jacob in another dream. Then the angel of God said to me in the dream, ‘Jacob,’ and I said, ‘Here I am!’ (Genesis 31:11). Later, angels met Jacob as he traveled. Jacob went on his way and the angels of God met him (Genesis 32:1). At the end of his life, Jacob said. The angel who has delivered me from all harm, may he bless these boys? And may my name live on in them, and the names of my fathers Abraham and Isaac; and may they grow into a multitude in the midst of the earth (Genesis 48:16). Jacob, therefore, had a number of experiences with angels. 6.

There Was A Passover Angel

The angel of death killed every firstborn, of both humans and animals, of those families who did not have blood placed over the door post. The families of those who placed the blood were passed over (Exodus 12). 7.

They Were Present At The Giving Of The Law

Angels were present at the giving of the law. The LORD came from Sinai and dawned over them from Seir; he shone forth from Mount Paran. He came with myriads of holy ones from the south, from his mountain slopes (Deuteronomy 33:2). The psalmist also wrote. With mighty chariotry, twice ten thousand, thousands upon thousands, the Lord came from Sinai into the holy place (Psalm 68:17). The “mighty chariotry” is a term for angels. In the speech of Stephen, angels are acknowledged as being involved when God gave the law. It was this Moses whom they rejected when they said, ‘Who made you a ruler and a judge?’ and whom God now sent as both ruler and liberator through the angel who appeared to him in the bush. He is the one who was in the congregation in the wilderness with the angel who spoke to him at Mount Sinai, and with our ancestors. He received living oracles to give to us. You are the ones that received the law as ordained by angels, but you have not obeyed it (Acts 7:35,38,53).

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Paul also emphasized this. What purpose then does the Law serve? It was added because of transgressions, until the seed should come to whom the promise was made; and it was appointed through angels by the hand of a mediator (Galatians 3:19). The writer to the Hebrews concurred. For if the message declared through angels was valid, and every transgression or disobedience received a just punishment (Hebrews 2:2). 8.

An Angel Gave A Warning To Balaam

God sent His angel to warn Balaam that he was disobeying the Lord. But the donkey said to Balaam, “Am I not your donkey, which you have ridden all your life to this day? Have I been in the habit of treating you this way?” And he said, “No.” Then the LORD opened the eyes of Balaam, and he saw the angel of the LORD standing in the road, with his drawn sword in his hand; and he bowed down, falling on his face (Numbers 22:30,31). 9.

An Angel Rebuked Israel

An angel rebuked Israel for their idolatry. Now the angel of the LORD went up from Gilgal to Bochim, and said, “I brought you up from Egypt, and brought you into the Land that I had promised to your ancestors. I said, ‘I will never break my covenant with you. For your part, do not make a covenant with the inhabitants of this land; tear down their altars.’ But you have not obeyed my command. See what you have done! So now I say, I will not drive them out before you; but they shall become adversaries to you, and their gods shall be a snare to you.” When the angel of the LORD spoke these words to all the Israelites, the people lifted up their voices and crie d (Judges 2:1-4). 10. They Cursed The Enemies Of The Lord During the time of the Judges, an angel cursed those who did not help the LORD against His enemies. Curse Meroz, says the angel of the LORD, curse bitterly its inhabitants, because they did not come to the help of the LORD, to the help of the LORD against the mighty (Judges 5:23). 11. They Judged Israel For David’s Sin When David sinned by numbering the people of Israel, God judged them through the angel of the LORD. But when the angel stretched out his hand toward Jerusalem to destroy it, the LORD relented concerning the evil, and said to the angel who was bringing destruction among the people, “It is enough; now stay your hand.” The angel of the LORD was then by the threshing floor of Araunah the Jebusite. When David saw the angel who was destroying the people, he said to the LORD, “I alone have sinned, and I alone have done wickedly; but these sheep, what have they done? Let your hand, I pray, be against me and against my father’s house” (2 Samuel 24:16-17).

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12. Elijah Was Strengthened By An Angel The prophet Elijah was strengthened by an angel who brought him things to eat and drink. Then he laid down under the broom tree and fell asleep. Suddenly an angel touched him and said to him, “Get up and eat.” He looked, and there at his head was a cake baked on hot stones, and a jar of water. He ate and drank, and laid down again. The angel of the LORD came a second time, touched him, and said, “Get up and eat, otherwise the journey will be too much for you” (1 Kings 19:5-7). 13. An Angel Killed The Assyrians The angel of the LORD killed a large number of the Assyrian army. That very night the angel of the LORD set out and struck down one hundred eighty-five thousand in the camp of the Assyrians; when morning dawned, they were all dead bodies (2 Kings 19:35). 14. An Angel Saved Three Hebrews From The Fiery Furnace The three friends of Daniel - Hananiah, Mishael, and Azariah - were saved from the fiery furnace by an angel. He [Nebuchadnezzar] replied, “But I see four men unbound, walking in the middle of the fire, and they are not hurt; and the fourth has the appearance of a god” (Daniel 3:25). 15. An Angel Preserved The Life Of Daniel An angel preserved the life of Daniel in the lion’s den. Daniel testified as follows. My God sent his angel and shut the lions’ mouths so that they would not hurt me, because I was found blameless before him; and also before you, O king, I have done no wrong (Daniel 6:22). Summary We find that angels were very active during the period of the Old Testament. From the very beginning in the Book of Genesis, through the Babylonian captivity, they have been carrying out God’s will toward humanity. As can be seen from the examples given, they have appeared at crucial times in Old Testament history.

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QUESTION 16 What Did Angels Do In The Life And Ministry Of Christ? As angels were active ministering during the Old Testament period, the same can be said for life of Jesus. The New Testament stresses the fact that angels viewed the ministry of Christ. Without any doubt, the mystery of our religion is great: he was revealed in flesh, vindicated in spirit, seen by angels, proclaimed among Gentiles, believed in throughout the world, taken up in glory (1 Timothy 3:16). Angels appeared at various times in the life and ministry of Jesus. 1.

An Angel Predicted His Birth

The angel Gabriel predicted the birth of Christ to Mary. And the angel said unto her, “Do not be afraid, Mary: for you have found favor with God. And behold, you shall conceive in your womb, and bring forth a Son, and you shall call his name Jesus. He shall be great, and shall be called the Son of the Most High. And the Lord God shall give unto him the throne of his father David: and he shall reign over the house of Jacob for ever; and of his kingdom there shall be no end” (Luke 1:30-33). 2.

They Were Present At His Birth

Angels were present at the birth of Christ. And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host, praising God and saying, “Glory to God in the highest heaven, and on earth peace among those whom he favors!” (Luke 2:13,14). 3.

An Angel Warned Joseph To Flee From Herod To Egypt

An angel warned Joseph about Herod’s plot to kill the baby Jesus. When they had gone, an angel of the Lord appeared to Joseph in a dream. “Get up,” he said, “take the child and his mother and escape to Egypt. Stay there until I tell you, for Herod is going to search for the child to kill him” (Matthew 2:13). 4.

An Angel Told Joseph That Herod Was Dead

After Herod died an angel told Joseph to return from Egypt. When Herod died, the angel of the Lord suddenly appeared in a dream to Joseph in Egypt and said, “Get up, take the child and his mother, and go to the land of Israel, for those who were seeking the child’s life are dead” (Matthew 2:19,20).

Good Angels 5.

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They Were At The Temptation Of Christ

Angels ministered to Christ after His temptation by the Devil. Then the Devil left him, and behold, angels came and began to minister to him (Matthew 4:11). 6.

An Angel Was With Jesus At Gethsemane

When Christ was praying at the Garden of Gethsemane, an angel was there ministering to Him. Then an angel from heaven appeared to him and gave him strength (Luke 22:43). 7.

Angels Were Ready To Help At Betrayal

Angels were ready to help when Jesus was betrayed. Jesus said. Do you think that I cannot now appeal to my Father, and he will at once send me more than twelve legions of angels? (Matthew 26:53). 8.

An Angel Rolled The Stone From The Tomb

An angel rolled back the stone from the tomb of Joseph of Arimathea. And suddenly there was a great earthquake - for an angel of the Lord, descended from heaven, came and rolled back the stone and sat on it (Matthew 28:2). 9.

An Angel Announced The Resurrection Of Christ

An angel announced the resurrection of Christ. But the angel said to the women, “Do not be afraid; I know that you are looking for Jesus who was crucified. He is not here; for he has been raised, just as he said. Come, see the place where he was laying” (Matthew 28:5,6). 10. An Angel Was At Jesus’ Ascension Christ ascended into heaven with angels present. While he was going, and they were gazing up toward heaven, suddenly two men in white robes stood by them (Acts 1:10). 11. There Will Be Angels At The Second Coming The Bible says angels will be with Christ at His Second Coming. And he will send out his angels with a loud trumpet call, and they will gather his elect from the four winds, from one end of heaven to the other (Matthew 24:31). 12. They Will Execute Christ’s Judgment When Christ comes again, angels will execute His judgment. Paul wrote.

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The Unseen World And to give relief to you who are afflicted, as well as to us, when the Lord Jesus is revealed from heaven with his mighty angels (2 Thessalonians 1:7).

13. Angels Will Separate The Righteous From The Unrighteous Angels will separate the righteous from the wicked. The Son of Man will send his angels, and they will collect out of his kingdom all causes of sin and all evildoers . . . So it will be at the end of the age. The angels will come out and separate the evil from the righteous (Matthew 13:41,49). 14. Angels Will Hear Christ Acknowledging Or Denying People After the separation of the unrighteous from the righteous, angels will hear Christ either acknowledging or denying each person. And I tell you, everyone who acknowledges me before others, the Son of Man also will acknowledge before the angels of God (Luke 12:8). 15. Angels Saw Jesus In Deity And Humanity It is important to remember that angels had seen Jesus, as God, previously to Him becoming a man. When Jesus humbled Himself in becoming human, they saw the Lord of the universe make Himself into a servant. These same angels, who had seen Jesus banish the angel who became the Devil after the original rebellion, now see this same fallen angel tempting Jesus. The angels observed Jesus suffering at the hands of sinful humanity, agonizing in the Garden of Gethsemane, and dying a humiliating death between two robbers. Indeed, they observed the great love that Jesus showed toward humanity. Summary The ministry of angels can be found throughout the life of Christ. From His birth, to His ascension into heaven, angels played an important role in the ministry of Christ. The Bible says that the angels predicted His birth and were present when He was born. The angels also warned Joseph about those who were attempting to kill Jesus. Angels ministered to Jesus after His temptation. In the Garden of Gethsemane angels were there to strengthen Jesus. Angels were ready to help Jesus when Judas betrayed Him. The Bible says an angel rolled the stone away from the tomb of Jesus. When Jesus ascended into heaven angels were present. Angels will be Christ at His Second Coming. They will execute His judgment. Angels will separate the righteous from unrighteous. Finally, angles will hear Christ either acknowledging or denying Christ. Angels have seen Jesus in both His Deity and His humanity. The fact that angels had an attentive role around the ministry of Jesus is another testimony of His Deity. Just as they surround the throne of God the Father and serve Him, angels also were around Jesus - attending to God the Son.

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QUESTION 17 What Ministry Did The Angels Have In The Early Church? Angels were busy ministering to people after the time of Christ. As we look at the history of the early church, we also find angels ministering to God’s people. 1.

An Angel Appeared To Philip

An angel appeared to Philip and directed him toward the Ethiopian eunuch. Then the angel of the Lord said to Philip, “Get up and go toward the south to the road that goes down from Jerusalem to Gaza.” (This is a wilderness road.) (Acts 8:26). 2.

An Angel Appeared To Cornelius

When a Gentile believer named Cornelius wanted to know more about the Lord, an angel was sent to him. There was a man named Cornelius who lived in Caesarea - a centurion of the Italian Cohort, as it was called. He was a devout man who feared God with all his household. He gave alms generously to the people and prayed constantly to God. About three o’clock on one afternoon he had a vision in which he clearly saw an angel of God coming in and saying to him, “Cornelius” (Acts 10:1-3). We find an angel coming to Cornelius as an answer to his prayer. The angel instructed Cornelius to send for Simon Peter who would tell him the message of Jesus the Christ. 3.

Peter Was Help Out Of Jail By An Angel

The Bible says that an angel helped get the Apostle Peter out of jail. And when Peter had come to himself, he said, “Now I know for certain that the Lord has sent his angel, and has delivered me from the hand of Herod and from all the expectation of the Jewish people” (Acts 12:11). 4.

Herod Was Killed By An Angel

The evil king Herod was killed by an angel. And immediately, because he had not given the glory to God, the angel of the Lord struck him down, and he was eaten by worms and died (Acts 12:23). 5.

An Angel Encouraged Paul

An angel encouraged Paul when he faced a storm on his way to Rome. For last night there stood by me an angel of the God to whom I belong and whom I worship (Acts 27:23).

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The Unseen World The Church Testifies To Angels

Angels ministered to certain believers in the early church. In the same manner the church unveiled God’s wisdom to the angels. So that through the church the wisdom of God in its rich variety might now be made known to the rulers and authorities in the heavenly places (Ephesians 3:10). Angels will observe the divine grace that God shows toward humanity, Summary The ministry of angels did not stop with the ascension of Jesus. During its early period, when the church was growing, we find angels ministering to God’s people. The Bible says that angels ministered to Phillip, Cornelius and Peter. An angel killed the evil king Herod. Angels also encouraged the Apostle Paul. In addition, the church itself is a testimony to angels of the wisdom of God.

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QUESTION 18 What Will Angels Do According To The Book Of Revelation? According to the Book of Revelation, there will be a future ministry of angels. Their work toward God and humanity is not yet finished. 1.

Countless Number Of Angels Worship God

We find innumerable angels worshipping around God’s throne. Then I looked, and I heard the voice of many angels surrounding the throne and the living creatures and the elders; they numbered myriads of myriads and thousands of thousands (Revelation 5:11). 2.

Four Angels Restrain The Winds Of Judgment

The Bible says four angels will restrain judgment upon the earth. After this I saw four angels standing at the four corners of the earth, holding back the four winds of the earth so that no wind could blow on earth or sea or against any tree (Revelation 7:1). 3.

Seven Angels Sound Seven Trumpets Of Judgment

There will be seven angels that will stand before the Lord with seven trumpets. And I saw the seven angels who stand before God, and seven trumpets were given to them (Revelation 8:2). 4.

Angels Will Fight With Michael

Angels will be fighting in heaven under the leadership of Michael the archangel. And there was war in heaven, Michael and his angels waging war with the dragon. And the dragon and his angels waged war, and they were not strong enough, and there was no longer a place found for them in heaven. And the great dragon was thrown down, the serpent of old who is called the Devil and Satan, who deceives the whole world; he was thrown down to the earth, and his angels were thrown down with him. And I heard a loud voice in heaven, saying, “Now the salvation, and the power, and the kingdom of our God and the authority of his Christ have come, for the accuser of our comrades has been thrown down, who accuses them before our God day and night” (Revelation 12:7-10). 5.

An Angel Does Worldwide Preaching Of The Gospel

An angel will travel all around the world and preach the gospel. Then I saw another angel flying in the midst of heaven, with the everlasting gospel to proclaim to those who live on the earth - to every nation and tribe and language and people (Revelation 14:6).

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The Unseen World An Angel Will Announce The Fall Of Babylon

An angel will announce the fall of Babylon. And another angel, a second one, followed, saying, “Fallen, fallen is Babylon the great, she who has made all the nations drink of the wine of the passion of her adulteries” (Revelation 14:8). 7.

The Wicked Are Judged Before Angels

The wicked will be judged in the presence of angels. He himself shall also drink of the wine of the wrath of God, which is poured out full strength into the cup of his indignation. He shall be tormented with fire and brimstone in the presence of the holy angels and in the presence of the Lamb (Revelation 14:10). 8.

They Are Harvesters At The End Of The Age

God will send the angels to become harvesters at the end time. They will harvest both the good and the evil. Then another angel came out of the temple in heaven, and he too had a sharp sickle. Then another angel came out from the altar, the angel who has authority over fire, and he called with a loud voice to him who had the sharp sickle, “Use your sharp sickle and gather the clusters of the vine of the earth, for its grapes are ripe.” So the angel swung his sickle over the earth and gathered the vintage of the earth, and he threw it into the great wine press of the wrath of God (Revelation 14:17-19). Jesus also spoke of angels coming at the end-time harvest to separate the righteous from the unrighteous (Matthew 13:24-30). 9.

Angels Will Pour Out Bowls Of Judgment

Before Christ returns angels will pour out seven bowls of judgment on the people of the earth (Revelation 15 and 16). 10. An Angel Reveals The Great Prostitute To John The great prostitute of Babylon is revealed to John (Revelation 17:1-7). 11. An Angel Calls For Judgment John saw an angel calling for the judgment of the people. Then I saw an angel standing in the sun, and with a loud voice he called to all the birds that fly in the midst of heaven, “Come, gather for the great supper of God” (Revelation 19:17). 12. An Angel Binds Satan After Christ returns, an angel will bind Satan in the bottomless pit for a thousand years. Then I saw an angel coming down from heaven, holding in his hand the key to the bottomless pit and a great chain. He seized the dragon, that ancient serpent, who is the Devil and Satan, and bound

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him for a thousand years and threw him into the abyss, and shut it and sealed it over him, so that he should not deceive the nations any longer, until the thousand years were completed; after these things he must be released for a short time (Revelation 20:1-3). 13. There Is No Mention Of Angelic Ministry In The Kingdom Age According to the premillennial view of the future, Christ will rule as the King of Kings in His visible glory on the earth for one thousand years. After that time the eternal state will begin. Interestingly, there is no mention of any angelic ministry during the millennial reign of Christ. There is the point of view among some Bible -believers that there will be no literal thousand-year reign of Christ upon the earth in the future. According to this view, when Christ returns the eternal state will begin without any intervening period. 14. Angels Praise God In The Eternal State In the eternal state we find the angels praising God. But you have come to Mount Zion and to the city of the living God, the heavenly Jerusalem, and to innumerable angels in festal gathering, and to the assembly of the firstborn who are enrolled in heaven, and to God the judge of all, and to the spirits of the righteous made perfect, and to Jesus, the mediator of a new covenant, and to the sprinkled blood that speaks a better word than the blood of Abel (Hebrews 12:22-24). Summary In the Book of Revelation, angels play a prominent role. From preaching the everlasting gospel, to the binding Satan into the bottomless pit, angels are in the midst of the program of God at the end times. Consequently, angels have been an important part of God’s dealings with humanity from Genesis to Revelation.

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QUESTION 19 Who Is Michael The Archangel? One of the most prominent characters in the Bible is Michael the “archangel” or “chief angel.” He is the only angel specifically designated as an archangel. His name means, “who is like God?” He is mentioned a number of times in Scripture. From the Bible we know the following things about him. 1.

He Is One Of The Chief Princes

Michael is called “one of the chief princes.” But the prince of the Persian kingdom resisted me twenty-one days. Then Michael, one of the chief princes, came to help me, because I was detained there with the king of Persia (Daniel 10:13). This title suggests a high rank. 2.

He Supported Another Angel

Michael supported another angel who was being hindered from answering Daniel’s prayer. But I am to tell you what is inscribed in the book of truth. There is no one with me who contends against these princes except Michael, your prince (Daniel 10:21). 3.

He Will Have An End Times Ministry

Michael will have a prominent role in the end times. At that time Michael, the great prince, the protector of your people, shall arise. There shall be a time of anguish, such as has never occurred since nations first came into existence. But at that time your people shall be delivered, everyone who is found written in the book. Many of those who sleep in the dust of the earth shall awake, some to everlasting life, and some to shame and everlasting contempt. Those who are wise shall shine like the brightness of the sky, and those who lead many to righteousness, like the stars forever and ever. But you, Daniel, keep the words secret and the book sealed until the time of the end. Many shall be running back and forth, and evil shall increase (Daniel 12:1-4). According to this passage, Michael seems to have a direct connection with the nation Israel. 4.

He Is Possibly The Archangel Mentioned In 1 Thessalonians

Michael is probably the archangel alluded to in First Thessalonians. For the Lord himself, with a cry of command, with the archangel’s call and with the sound of God’s trumpet, will descend from heaven, and the dead in Christ will rise first (1 Thessalonians 4:16). 5.

He Contended With Satan Over Moses’ Body

We are told that Michael contended with Satan.

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But when the archangel Michael contended with the Devil and disputed about the body of Moses, he did not dare to bring a condemnation of slander against him, but said, “The Lord rebuke you!” (Jude 9). This is the only passage where Michael is specifically called an archangel. 6.

He Will War Against Satan

Before Christ comes back, Michael and his angels will war with Satan and his angels. And there was war in heaven, Michael and his angels waging war with the dragon. And the dragon and his angels waged war, and they were not strong enough, and there was no longer a place found for them in heaven. And the great dragon was thrown down, the serpent of old who is called the Devil and Satan, who deceives the whole world; he was thrown down to the earth, and his angels were thrown down with him (Revelation 12:7-9). Michael and his army prevail; Satan is thrown down to the earth. 7.

He Is The Messenger Of Law And Judgment

After looking at what the totality of Scripture has to say about Michael the archangel he seems to be the messenger of law and judgment. Summary From looking at the Scripture we can conclude the following about Michael the archangel. He is the only archangel named in Scripture. He seems to have some connection with the nation Israel. In the past, he contended with Satan over the body of Moses. He will appear at the last times fighting with the armies of Satan. His mission seems to be that of law and judgment.

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QUESTION 20 Is It Possible To Identify Michael The Archangel With Jesus? There have been those who have attempted to equate Michael the archangel with Jesus - that they are the same person. Some feel that Michael is Jesus Christ appearing in a temporary form, such as Christ did as the angel of the LORD. This Is A Different View Than The Watchtower This is different than the view of the Watchtower Bible and Tract Society, the Jehovah’s Witnesses. They believe that Christ is a created being who was Michael the archangel in the Old Testament - a view totally incompatible with what the Bible says about Jesus. THE CASE FOR M ICHAEL B EING J ESUS The arguments for Michael’s identification as being the Pre-incarnate Christ are as follows: 1.

Michael Is The Chief Prince And Protector

Michael is called the chief prince of God’s people. He is also called the protector of the people Israel. The Bible teaches that the Lord is the one who protects Israel. My help comes from the LORD, who made heaven and earth. He will not allow your foot to slip; he who keeps you will not slumber. Behold, he who keeps Israel will neither slumber nor sleep (Psalm 121:2-4). The argument goes like this: If the LORD protects Israel, and Michael is the one who is called the protector of the people, then Michael must be the LORD who is protecting the people. 2.

Christ Will Give A Command Like An Angel

The Bible says that when Christ returns, He will come with the voice, or cry of command, of the archangel. For the Lord himself, with a cry of command, with the archangel’s call and with the sound of God’s trumpet, will descend from heaven, and the dead in Christ will rise first (1 Thessalonians 4:16). Since Christ comes with the voice of the archangel, the argument goes that He must be that archangel. The only archangel named in Scripture is Michael. RESPONSE TO THE ARGUMENT THAT MICHAEL IS JESUS The biblical evidence does not substantiate the idea that Michael the archangel was actually Jesus. The following points make this clear.

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Michael Only Has Authority Over Other Angels

The fact that Michael is called a chief prince only means that he has authority over other angels - not over everything that exists. 2.

Jesus Is Never Called The Chief Prince

In addition, Jesus is never called the chief prince in Scripture. On the contrary He is the king of kings and Lord of Lords. And on his robe and on his thigh he has a name written, “KING OF KINGS, AND LORD OF LORDS” (Revelation 19:16). Though Michael has protected Israel, it is as God’s representative. It is ultimately the Lord, not Michael, who is protecting His chosen people. 3.

Christ Comes With A Voice Like An Archangel

The fact that Christ comes with the voice, or cry of command, like an archangel does not mean that He is one. The voice He uses will be “like” or “as” that of an archangel. In other words, the Scripture is stressing that He has a powerful voice. 4.

Michael Is One Of The Chief Princes

In addition, Michael is called one of the chief princes. But the prince of the kingdom of Persia opposed me twenty-one days. So Michael, one of the chief princes, came to help me, and I left him there with the prince of the kingdom of Persia (Daniel 10:13). This means that he is one of a group of princes. We do not know how large the group is, but he is not in a class by himself. The Bible says that Jesus is the unique Son of God. No one has ever seen God, but God the One and Only, who is at the Father’s side, has made him known (John 1:18). 5.

Michael Is The Highest Of The Angels

Michael is the highest of the angels - an order of created beings. He is one of the angels; he is not the Creator of the angels as the Bible says that Jesus is. For by him all things in heaven and on earth were created, things visible and invisible, whether thrones or dominions or rulers or powers - all things have been created through him and for him (Colossians 1:16). 6.

Michael Would Not Rebuke The Devil

There is a further problem with the identification of Jesus with Michael. The Book of Jude says.

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The Unseen World But when the archangel Michael contended with the Devil and disputed about the body of Moses, he did not dare to bring a condemnation of slander against him, but said, “The Lord rebuke you!” (Jude 9).

Michael is obviously not the Lord. He could not rebuke the Devil on his own, but rather called upon the Lord to rebuke him. Jesus has no such problem with the Devil - He personally rebuked him, since He is the Lord. Then Jesus said to him, “Away with you, Satan! For it is written, ‘You shall worship the LORD your God, and him only you shall serve.’ “ Then the Devil left him, and behold, angels came and began to minister to him (Matthew 4:10,11). 7.

Michael’s Name Bears Testimony To His Character

Michael, the one who is closest in proximity to the Lord at the top of the angelic creation, bears testimony to the great gap between the Creator and the created. His name means, “Who is like God?” The answer, of course, is no one. The closer one gets to God, the more they realize their own nothingness and His greatness. Neither Michael, nor any of the angels, is like God. Summary There is no biblical evidence to equate Michael the archangel with Jesus. To the contrary, Jesus and Michael are two different personages. Michael is the highest of the angels - an order of created beings while Jesus is the uncreated Second Person of the Trinity, God the Son.

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QUESTION 21 Who Is The Angel Gabriel? Apart from Michael the archangel, the only other angel in Scripture who is specifically named is Gabriel. His name means “God is my strength,” or “mighty one.” Though he is not specifically called an archangel, he is a high-ranking angel. He stands in the presence of God and to him are given messages of the highest importance in relation to the kingdom of God. THE REFERENCES TO GABRIEL The Bible gives the following references to the angel Gabriel. 1.

He Gave Understanding Of The Vision To Daniel

Gabriel was told to explain to Daniel the meaning of a vision. And I heard the voice of a man between the banks of Ulai, and he called out and said, “Gabriel, give this man an understanding of the vision” (Daniel 8:16). Gabriel explained to Daniel about the rule of the kingdoms of Medo-Persia and Greece. He also told Daniel about the premature death of Alexander the Great. 2.

He Gave The Prophecy Of Christ’s Coming

In another appearance, Gabriel gave Daniel the explanation of the prophecy of Christ’s coming. While I was speaking in prayer, the man Gabriel, whom I had seen before in a vision, came to me in swift flight at the time of the evening sacrifice (Daniel 9:21). It was a time of despair for the nation when Gabriel came to Daniel with the message of hope. His name, “God is my strength” or “mighty one,” testified to the all-powerful God who was about to deliver His people from the bondage of captivity, and bring them back into the land of promise. 3.

He Was Possibly The Glorious Angel

It is possible that Gabriel is the unnamed, glorious, angel who interpreted the vision of Daniel in the third year of Cyrus. I looked up and saw a man clothed in linen, with a belt of gold from Uphaz around his waist (Daniel 10:5). Another unnamed angel interpreted the vision Daniel received during the reign of Belshazzar. This angel may also have been Gabriel. I approached one of the attendants to ask him the truth concerning all this. So he said that he would disclose to me the interpretation of the matter (Daniel 7:16). 4.

Gabriel Announced The Birth Of John The Baptist

The angel Gabriel announced the birth of John the Baptist to his father Zechariah.

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The Unseen World Then the angel of the LORD appeared to him there, standing at the right side of the altar of incense . . . . The angel replied, “I am Gabriel. I stand in the presence of God, and I have been sent to speak to you and to bring you this good news” (Luke 1:11,19).

5.

He Appeared To Mary

The angel Gabriel also appeared to Mary. In the sixth month the angel Gabriel was sent by God to a town in Galilee called Nazareth, to a virgin engaged to a man whose name was Joseph, of the house of David. The virgin’s name was Mary. And he came to her and said, “Greetings, favored one! The Lord is with you” (Luke 1:26-28). 6.

Other Possible Appearances As The Angel Of The Lord

While there are only four times when Gabriel’s name is specifically mentioned in the Bible, there are other occasions where he may have appeared as the angel of the LORD. A number of times in the New Testament, a personage called the angel of the LORD appeared. Though he is not named, it is probable that he is Gabriel - since Gabriel is designated as the angel of the LORD in Luke 1:11. Summary Gabriel is one of only two angels named in Scripture. His ministry seems to be that of mercy and promise. We know that he appeared to Daniel, Zechariah, the father of John the Baptist, as well as to Mary, the mother of Jesus. He is called the “angel of the LORD” in Luke 1. He is probably the one who appeared to Joseph a number of times as the angel of the LORD. Other appearances of the angel of the LORD in the New Testament may be attributed to him.

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QUESTION 22 Who Is The Angel Of The LORD In The Old Testament? Though all the good angels are angels of God, or angels of the Lord, there is one special angel who is distinct and unique from all the other angels, he is called the “angel of the LORD.” He Appears In Both Testaments The Bible, in both testaments, speaks of this personage called the “angel of the LORD,” the “angel of the Presence” or the “angel, or messenger, of the Covenant.” He appears in many important contexts in Scripture. The manner in which he is described sets him apart from all the other angels. THERE ARE THREE POSSIBILITIES AS TO HIS IDENTIY Three major views have been put forth as to the exact identity of the angel of the LORD. Option 1.

He was mighty angel who acted as the special representative of the LORD.

Option 2.

He is God the Father assuming a human body.

Option 3.

He is God the Son, taking a body for a short period of time.

Each of these three views has its supporters. THE APPEARANCES OF THE ANGEL OF THE LORD To determine which view best fits the evidence, we will consider some of the major appearances of the angel of the LORD and make some observations about those appearances. 1.

He Appeared To Hagar

The first recorded appearance of the angel of the LORD was to Hagar, Abraham’s mistress, and the mother of his son Ishmael. The angel of the LORD also said to her, “I will so greatly multiply your offspring that they cannot be counted for multitude” (Genesis 16:10). This angel said He Himself would multiply the descendants of Hagar. After the appearance of the angel of the LORD Hagar said. She gave this name to the LORD who spoke to her: “You are the God who sees me,” for she said, “I have now seen the one who sees me” (Genesis 16:13). She believed that she had spoken directly to God.

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The Unseen World He Appeared To Abraham And Sarah At Mamre

Three men appeared to Abraham and his wife Sarah at the plains of Mamre. They had come to inform Abraham and Sarah concerning two matters. The son that God had promised them would be born to Abraham and Sarah the next year, and the evil cities of Sodom and Gomorrah would be destroyed. One of the three visitors who gave them this information is specifically called the LORD. The LORD appeared to Abraham by the oaks of Mamre, as he sat at the entrance of his tent in the heat of the day (Genesis 18:1). 3.

The Angel Appeared To Abraham On Mount Moriah

God told Abraham to bring his son Isaac to Mount Moriah to be sacrificed. Abraham obeyed and was about to take Isaac’s life when God intervened. The angel of the LORD stopped Abraham saying. He said, “Do not lay your hand on the boy or do anything to him; for now I know that you fear God, since you have not withheld your son, your only son, from me” (Genesis 22:12). He called a second time to Abraham. The angel of the LORD called to Abraham a second time from heaven (Genesis 22:15). In this instance the angel of the LORD, who called out to Abraham, seems to be the LORD Himself. 4.

He Appeared Several Times To Jacob

This angel appeared a number of times to Jacob. Then the angel of God said to me in the dream, ‘Jacob,’ and I said, ‘Here I am’ (Genesis 31:11). Jacob wrestled all night with a man who finally disabled him. The next morning Jacob understood that it was God Himself whom he had wrestled. And Jacob called the name of the place Peniel: for I have seen God face to face, and my life is preserved (Genesis 32:30). At the end of his life, Jacob spoke of God, and the angel of the LORD, as identical. The angel who has delivered me from all harm - may he bless these boys. May they be called by my name and the names of my fathers Abraham and Isaac, and may they increase greatly upon the earth (Genesis 48:16). 5.

Moses And The Burning Bush

The angel of the LORD appeared to Moses in the burning bush. There the angel of the LORD appeared to him in flames of fire from within a bush. Moses saw that though the bush was on fire it did not burn up (Exodus 3: 2). The angel explained who He was.

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He said further, “I am the God of your father, the God of Abraham, the God of Isaac, and the God of Jacob.” And Moses hid his face, for he was afraid to look at God (Exodus 3:6). The martyr Stephen emphasized this special event. And after forty years had passed, an angel appeared to him in the wilderness of Mount Sinai, in the flame of a burning thorn bush (Acts 7:30). 6.

God’s Promise To Send His Angel

God promised to send His angel ahead of the children of Israel. I am going to send an angel in front of you, to guard you on the way and to bring you to the place that I have prepared. Be attentive to him and listen to his voice; do not rebel against him, for he will not pardon your transgression; for my name is in him. But if you listen attentively to his voice and do all that I say, then I will be an enemy to your enemies and a foe to your foes. When my angel goes in front of you, and brings you to the Amorites, the Hittites, the Perizzites, the Canaanites, the Hivites, and the Jebusites, and I blot them out (Exodus 23:20-23). The Israelites were told that they must obey this angel because the name of the LORD was in him. Since God would never share His name with any created being, this angel must be God Himself. Isaiah the prophet wrote. I am the LORD, that is my name; my glory I give to no other, nor my praise to idols (Isaiah 42:8). Since God will not share His name or glory with anyone else, this angel must be God. 7.

Joshua

An imposing personage appeared to Joshua. When Joshua was by Jericho, that he lifted up his eyes and looked, and behold, a man was standing opposite him with his sword drawn in his hand, and Joshua went to him and said to him, “Are you for us or for our adversaries?” And he said, “No, rather I indeed come now as captain of the host of the LORD.” And Joshua fell on his face to the earth, and bowed down, and said to him, “What has my lord to say to his servant?” And the captain of the LORD’s host said to Joshua, “Remove your sandals from your feet, for the place where you are standing is holy.” And Joshua did so (Joshua 5:13-15). Having Joshua immediately remove his sandals reminds one of the LORD telling Moses to remove his sandals in God’s presence at the burning bush. 8.

Gideon

Gideon was a man who was called by God to raise an army to defeat the innumerable Midianites. Because Gideon was a timid person, God paid him a visit to assure him that all would go well. After the encounter Gideon exclaimed. Then Gideon perceived that it was the angel of the LORD; and Gideon said, “Help me, Lord GOD! For I have seen the angel of the LORD face to face.” But the LORD said to him, “Peace be to you; do not fear, you shall not die” (Judges 6:22).

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If it was only an angel, and not God, that Gideon saw, then why was he afraid for his life? 9.

Samson’s Parents

The angel of the LORD appeared to a Hebrew woman to announce the birth of a son, Samson. He was to deliver the people of Israel from their enemies. The angel of the LORD did not appear again to Manoah and his wife. Then Manoah realized that it was the angel of the LORD. And Manoah said to his wife, “We shall surely die, for we have seen God” (Judges 13:21,22). They identified the angel of the LORD with God Himself. 10. Other Appearances Where He Is Distinguished From The Lord Although these appearances identify the angel of the LORD with the LORD Himself, there are other appearances of the angel of the LORD where he is distinguished from God. When the angel stretched out his hand to destroy Jerusalem, the LORD was grieved because of the calamity and said to the angel who was afflicting the people, “Enough! Withdraw your hand.” The angel of the LORD was then at the threshing floor of Araunah the Jebusite (2 Samuel 24:16). Zechariah wrote. Then they spoke to the angel of the LORD who was standing among the myrtle trees, “We have patrolled the earth, and lo, the whole earth remains at peace.” Then the angel of the LORD said, “O LORD of hosts, how long will you withhold mercy from Jerusalem and the cities of Judah, with which you have been angry these seventy years?” Then the LORD replied with gracious and comforting words to the angel who talked with me (Zechariah 1:11-13). THE CASE FOR A THEOPHANY: A TEMPORARY APPEARANCE OF GOD The case for the angel of the LORD being a theophany, a temporary appearance of God in a body, is as follows. 1.

He Is Identified With God

In some contexts, the angel of the LORD is identified with God. 2.

He Has Power To Give Life

The angel of the LORD is said to have power to give life (Genesis 16:10). Only God has this power. 3.

He Is All-Knowing

The quality of omniscience, or knowing everything, is attributed to the angel of the LORD (Genesis 16:13; Exodus 3:7).

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He Is The Judge Of The Earth

The angel of the LORD is called the “Judge of all the earth” (Genesis 18:25). This is a title that belongs to God alone. 5.

He Can Forgive Sin

The Bible says that only God can forgive sin. I, I am he who blots out your transgressions for my own sake, and I will not remember your sins (Isaiah 43:25). Yet the angel of the LORD had authority to forgive sins (Exodus 23:21). 6.

He Receives Worship

Worship belongs to God and Him alone. Yet Moses and Joshua worshiped the angel of the LORD. Conclusion The evidence from these appearances seems clear. At certain times in the past God took upon Himself a human form to appear to people as the angel of the LORD. Though we do not know exactly which member of the Trinity is in view, the most likely candidate would be God the Son. While the angel of the LORD is sometimes identified with the LORD Himself, there are other times when they are distinguished. Therefore we can conclude that on some occasions the angel of the LORD was God Himself, while at other times he was merely a messenger sent from the LORD. The context must determine the identity of the angel of the LORD. If the angel of the LORD was, in some instances, Jesus Christ coming in a temporary body, then the term angel stresses the basic meaning of the word - one sent. God the Son was sent by God the Father. Therefore the word “angel” in that context would be referring to the office of the One sent - a messenger. This is in keeping with nature of the mission of Jesus Christ - He is the one whom the Father has sent. I am one who bears witness of myself, and the Father who sent me bears witness of me (John 8:18). If, however, it is one of the angelic host who is referred to as the angel of the LORD, then it is the nature of the being that is being stressed - one of the heavenly host, a created spirit-being. Summary On a number of occasions in the Old Testament when the angel of the LORD appeared, it seems to be the LORD Himself. The angel has attributes that belong to God and God alone. In addition, He is addressed as the LORD. If this be the case, then He is not a created being, but God Himself who took on angelic form. Though some have thought it to be God the Father, this would more likely be an instance of Jesus Christ, the Second Person of the Trinity, coming to earth for a short time in a human form. Other times, however, the angel of the LORD is clearly distinguished from the LORD. On these occasions the angel must be a created being rather than God Himself.

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QUESTION 23 Who Is The Angel Of The LORD In The New Testament? On a few occasions in the Old Testament period, the angel of the LORD could have been Jesus Himself. The Bible also says the angel of the LORD appeared in New Testament times. What is his identity there? From the New Testament we discover the following things about this angel. 1.

He Foretold The Birth Of Jesus

The angel of the LORD appeared to Joseph and foretold the birth of Jesus. But just when he had resolved to do these things, the angel of the LORD appeared to him in a dream and said, “Joseph, son of David, do not be afraid to take Mary as your wife, for the child conceived in her is from the Holy Spirit. She will bear a son, and you are to name him Jesus, for he himself will save his people from their sins” (Matthew 1:20,21). In this context the angel is not identified. 2.

He Is Identified With Gabriel

Luke, however, identifies the angel of the LORD as Gabriel. And there appeared unto him [Zechariah] the angel of the LORD standing on the right side of altar of incense (Luke 1:11). Luke also wrote. The angel replied, “I am Gabriel. I stand in the presence of God, and I have been sent to speak to you and to bring you this good news” (Luke 1:19). Therefore, in this particular case, the angel of the LORD could not have been Christ. 3.

He Appeared After The Birth Of Christ

The angel of the LORD also appeared to Joseph after Jesus had been born. He warned Joseph that Herod was about to kill the child. Now after they had left, behold the angel of the Lord appeared to Joseph in a dream and said, “Get up, take the child and his mother, and escape to Egypt, and remain there until I tell you; for Herod is about to search for the child, to destroy him” (Matthew 2:13). He also spoke to Joseph after Herod had died. The angel told him that his family could return from Egypt. When Herod died, the angel of the LORD suddenly appeared in a dream to Joseph in Egypt and said, “Get up, take the child and his mother, and go to the land of Israel, for those who were seeking the child’s life are dead” (Matthew 2:19,20).

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Since Jesus had already been born, it is not possible that He could be both the young child, and the angel of the LORD, at the same time. Therefore the angel, or messenger, of the LORD in this context, was someone else. 4.

He Delivered Peter

The angel of the LORD helped Peter escape from jail. Suddenly the angel of the LORD appeared and a light shone in the cell. He touched Peter on the side and woke him, saying, “Get up quickly.” And the chains fell off his hands (Acts 12:7). 5.

The Angel Of The Lord Killed Herod

The angel of the LORD is the one who put the evil king Herod to death. And immediately, because he had not given the glory to God, the angel of the LORD struck him down, and he was eaten by worms and died (Acts 12:23). Though the angel of the LORD is not identified in these instances, there is nothing to suggest that the he was the LORD Himself. 6.

It Is Probably Gabriel

The most likely candidate for the angel of the LORD in the New Testament is Gabriel. When the angel of the LORD appeared to Zechariah to announce the birth of John the Baptist, he identified himself as Gabriel. Though we are not specifically told the identity of this angel of the LORD in the other New Testament contexts, it is consistent to identify him with the angel Gabriel. “AN” ANGEL OR “THE” ANGEL? There is one more matter that needs to be addressed concerning the identity of the angel of the Lord in the New Testament. In the Greek New Testament there is no article before the words, “angel of the Lord.” Therefore, it can be translated either “an angel of the Lord” or “the angel of the Lord.” Some Bible translations use the article “the” before the “angel of the Lord” while others do not. Summary While the angel of the LORD may have been Jesus Christ making temporary appearances on certain occasions in the Old Testament, it certainly was not the same person appearing during the New Testament era. On two different occasions when the angel of the LORD appeared to Joseph, Jesus had already been born. Obviously it could not have been Him. This tells us that the phrase “angel of the LORD” either speaks of more than one person, or that the same person was involved in all the appearances under the title “angel of the LORD.” If this is the case, then it could not have been the Lord Jesus in those Old Testament appearances, since it was not He who appeared under this title during the New Testament period. Since Gabriel is identified as the angel of the LORD in Luke, we should probably assume that it is he who appears in other contexts in the New Testament, but is not named.

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QUESTION 24 Are Angels Connected With The Various Nations? We find from Scripture that there is a connection between angels and the different nations of the world. When the Jews were about to return from captivity, the prophet Daniel began to pray and fast for their return. At this time the Jews were under the rule of the Persian Empire. After three weeks of prayer, an angel appeared and explained to Daniel the reason for the delay. But then a hand touched me and roused me to my hands and knees. He said to me, “Daniel, greatly beloved, pay attention to the words that I am going to speak to you. Stand on your feet, for I have now been sent to you.” So while he was speaking this word to me, I stood up trembling. He said to me, “Do not fear, Daniel, for from the first day that you set your mind to gain understanding and to humble yourself before your God, your words have been heard, and I have come because of your words. But the prince of the kingdom of Persia opposed me twenty-one days. So Michael, one of the chief princes, came to help me, and I left him there with the prince of the kingdom of Persia, and have come to help you understand what is to happen to your people at the end of days. For there is a further vision for those days. But I am to tell you what is inscribed in the book of truth. There is no one with me who contends against these princes except Michael, your prince” (Daniel 10:10-14,21). This passage gives us some insight into the battles occurring in the spiritual realm. We can make the following observations from this passage. 1.

There Is A Spiritual Battle Occurring

It took this angel twenty-one days to answer Daniel’s prayer because the prince of the kingdom of Persia hindered him. Obviously this could not have been an earthly prince restraining an angel. Therefore this passage speaks of a spiritual battle that is occurring. 2.

The Prince Of Persia Is Overseeing The Nation

The prince of Persia seems to be the angel that was overseeing this nation. For some reason he was opposed to the Jews returning to their Promised Land. Though no specific details are given, we are informed by this passage that there was an angel overseeing Persia in the same way as the Lord used Michael as the overseer of the nation Israel. 3.

There Is Also The Prince Of Greece

From this passage we are informed that there is also a prince, or angel, over Greece. Then he said, “Do you know why I have come to you? Now I must return to fight against the prince of Persia, and when I am through with him, the prince of Greece will come” (Daniel 10:20). After his battle with the prince of Persia, this angel said the angel, or prince, of Greece was to come. This angel that looked after Greece, like the one over Persia, was not inclined to let the Jews be released from their captivity.

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Angels Are Described As Rulers In The New Testament

When the New Testament uses the word “rulers” to describe the orders of angels, this may include these various angels over the nations. The word is used of both good and bad angels. Paul wrote. So that through the church the manifold wisdom of God might now be made known to the rulers and authorities in the heavenly places (Ephesians 3:10). He said that our ultimate struggle is against these authorities. For our struggle is not against enemies of flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the cosmic powers of this present darkness, against the evil spiritual forces in the heavenly places (Ephesians 6:12). Summary There are angels that oversee the various nations. Scripture gives examples of angels looking over the affairs of Greece and Persia. These orders of angels are perhaps the rulers that Paul referred to when he said that our struggle is with spiritual forces.

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QUESTION 25 Who Are The Living Creatures? The Book of Ezekiel describes heavenly beings called “living creatures.” And out of the midst thereof came the likeness of four living creatures. And this was their appearance: they had the likeness of a man. And every one had four faces, and every one of them had four wings. And their feet were straight feet; and the sole of their feet was like the sole of a calf’s foot; and they sparkled like burnished brass. And they had the hands of a man under their wings on their four sides; and they four had their faces and their wings thus: their wings were joined one to another; they turned not when they went; they went every one straight forward. As for the likeness of their faces, they had the face of a man; and they four had the face of a lion on the right side; and they four had the face of an ox on the left side; they four had also the face of an eagle. And their faces and their wings were separate above; two wings of every one were joined one to another, and two covered their bodies. And they went every one straight forward: whither the spirit was to go, they went; they turned not when they went. As for the likeness of the living creatures, their appearance was like burning coals of fire, like the appearance of torches: the fire went up and down among the living creatures; and the fire was bright, and out of the fire went forth lightning. And the living creatures ran and returned as the appearance of a flash of lightning (Ezekiel 1:5-12). The description Ezekiel gives of these creatures is both complicated and puzzling - they are merely called “four living creatures” and nothing more. In this context, we have no other clue to their identity. Some Think They Are The Cherubim Though the living creatures are not identified in Ezekiel 1, we may have an explanation of their identity later in Ezekiel. In another vision, Ezekiel sees heavenly creatures whom he calls, “cherubim.” Now the cherubim were standing on the south side of the house when the man went in; and a cloud filled the inner court. Then the glory of the LORD rose up from the cherub to the threshold of the house; the house was filled with the cloud, and the court was full of the brightness of the glory of the LORD. The sound of the wings of the cherubim was heard as far as the outer court, like the voice of God Almighty when he speaks. When he commanded the man clothed in linen, “Take fire from within the wheelwork, from among the cherubim,” he went in and stood beside a wheel. And a cherub stretched out his hand from among the cherubim to the fire that was among the cherubim, took some of it and put it into the hands of the man clothed in linen, who took it and went out. The cherubim appeared to have the form of a human hand under their wings. I looked, and there were four wheels beside the cherubim, one beside each cherub; and the appearance of the wheels was like gleaming beryl. And as for their appearance, the four looked alike, something like a wheel within a wheel. When they moved, they moved in any of the four directions without veering as they moved; but in whatever direction the front wheel faced, the others followed without veering as they moved. Their entire body, their rims, their spokes, their wings, and the wheels - the wheels of the four of them - were full of eyes all around. As for the wheels, they were called in my hearing “the wheelwork.” Each one had four faces: the first face was that of the cherub, the second face was that of a human being, the third that of a lion, and the fourth that of an eagle (Ezekiel 10:3-14). Because this description is similar to chapter 1, many people think they are two different descriptions of the same creatures - the cherubim.

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Revelation 4 Speaks Of Living Creatures Some identify them with the living creatures spoken of in the Book of Revelation. The first living creature like a lion, the second living creature like an ox, the third living creature with a face like a human face, and the fourth living creature like a flying eagle (Revelation 4:7). They had four faces: of a man, an ox, a lion, and an eagle. They seem to be representative of various parts of God’s creation (humanity, domesticated animals, the wild beasts, and birds). These living creatures worship God continually. And the four living creatures, each of them with six wings, are full of eyes all around and inside. Day and night without ceasing they sing, “Holy, holy, holy, the Lord God the Almighty, who was and is and is to come” (Revelation 4:8). There Is Not Enough Information To Be Certain Though these beings are similar to the ones spoken of in Ezekiel, there are some differences between them. Whether they are the same creatures with slightly different descriptions, or two similar types of heavenly creatures, we cannot be certain. There is simply not enough information. Summary Ezekiel saw in a vision four living creatures that were around the throne of God. Their identity is not explained. In chapter 10 he gives a description of the cherubim - which could be the same creatures. We also find similar living creatures in the Book of Revelation. Though their characteristics are similar, they are not exactly the same. Consequently we do not have enough information to make any definite conclusions about these heavenly creatures.

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QUESTION 26 Who Are The Cherubim? Scripture speaks of angelic creatures known as cherubim. They are possibly the highest form of angelic beings. The word “cherubim” is the plural form of “cherub.” In some of the older English versions, “cherubim” was made plural by, “cherubims.” This however, is a mistaken translation since cherubim is the plural form, and cherub the singular. THE CHERUBIM IN SCRIPTURE We find the cherubim mentioned a number of times in Scripture. 1.

The Were Guarding Eden

Cherubim guarded the Garden of Eden after Adam and Eve were banished. He drove them out; and at the east of the garden of Eden he placed the cherubim, and a sword flaming and turning every way to guard the way to the tree of life (Genesis 3:24). They were placed there to keep Adam and Eve from re-entering the Garden and eating from the tree of life. 2.

The Cherubim Were On The Mercy Seat

The Bible describes two golden figures of the cherubim with their wings stretched over the Mercy Seat on the Ark of the Covenant. You shall make two cherubim of gold; you shall make them of hammered work, at the two ends of the mercy seat. Make one cherub at the one end, and one cherub at the other; of one piece with the mercy seat you shall make the cherubim at its two ends. The cherubim shall spread out their wings above, overshadowing the mercy seat with their wings. They shall face one to another; the faces of the cherubim shall be turned toward the mercy seat. You shall put the mercy seat on the top of the ark; and in the ark you shall put the covenant that I shall give you (Exodus 25:18-21). God promised to meet with His people there. There I will meet with you, and from above the mercy seat, from between the two cherubim that are on the ark of the covenant, I will deliver to you all my commands for the Israelites (Exodus 25:22). 3.

Their Figure Was On The Veil Of Tabernacle

The figure of the cherubim were interwoven into the veil of the tabernacle. Moreover you shall make the tabernacle with ten curtains of fine twisted linen, and blue, purple, and crimson yarns; you shall make them with cherubim skillfully worked into them (Exodus 26:1). 4.

There Were Two Carved Cherubim Next To The Ark

Two large-sized olivewood cherubim were constructed and placed next to the Ark of the Covenant in the Temple.

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In the inner sanctuary he made two cherubim of olivewood, each ten cubits high. He put the cherubim in the innermost part of the house; the wings of the cherubim were spread out so that a wing of one was touching the one wall, and a wing of the other cherub was touching the other wall; their other wings toward the center of the house were touching wing to wing (1 Kings 6:23,27). 5.

The Lord Rode A Cherub

The Bible speaks of the Lord symbolically riding a cherub. He rode on a cherub, and flew; he was seen upon the wings of the wind (2 Samuel 22:11). The Bible also speaks of God as enthroned on the cherubim (Ezekiel 10:1-22). WHO ARE THE CHERUBIM? The exact identity of the cherubim has not been revealed in Scripture. There are three main theories as to who they are, and what they represent. 1.

They Are Actual Angels

Many believe that the cherubim are actual angels. They are similar to the seraphim, but a different order. In some instances they seem to be connected to God’s judgment and redemption of humanity (Genesis 3:24, Exodus 25:22). 2.

They Are Symbolic Representative Of The Godhead

There are some who hold that the cherubim are symbolic representative of the Trinity - God the Father, God the Son, and God the Holy Spirit. 3.

They Are Symbolic Representations Of Redeemed Humanity

Others contend that cherubim are actually symbolic of redeemed humanity. According to this view, the perfections of humanity that were lost at the fall are now reflected in the cherubim. They represent, not fallen humanity, but redeemed humanity - they are symbolic of what God has done for us. Consequently they are placed near the symbolic presence of God. ARE THEY PERSONAL B EINGS OR SYMBOLIC FIGURES ? Therefore, we have two views about the cherubim and their identity. Some see them as personal beings while others see them as only symbolic figures. 1.

They Are Symbols Of God’s Mercy

It seems what we can say is that the cherubim were symbols of the mercy of God. While the flaming sword in the Garden of Eden symbolized God’s justice, the position of the cherubim, to keep them from reentering the Garden, was a sign of God’s mercy. The position of the cherubim over the Ark of the Covenant, and in the Holy of Holies, would also seem to speak of the mercy of God.

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The Unseen World They Are Near To God

In addition, their nearness to God gives to all creation the assurance that someday it will be set free from the bondage of sin. The Bible says. For the creation waits with eager longing for the revealing of the children of God (Romans 8:19). WHAT DID THEY LOOK LIKE? Not only is the exact identity of the cherubim not known, it is also not known how they looked. Some identify them with the living creatures of Ezekiel 1 and Revelation 4. If that is the case, then they would have four faces. The first living creature like a lion, the second living creature like an ox, the third living creature with a face like a human face, and the fourth living creature like a flying eagle (Revelation 4:7). These four faces are thought to illustrate the strength of God’s creatures - lion-like strength, ox-like service, human-like intelligence, and eagle-like speed. Others, however, believe the cherubim had human faces and are not to be identified with the living creatures that had four faces. Summary The cherubim were winged creatures that appear in a number of places in Scripture. They guarded the Garden of Eden, their form was fashioned on the Ark of the Covenant, and two large carved cherubim were placed in the temple. As to their exact identity and appearance, no one knows. It is not certain that they are the living creatures identified in Ezekiel 1 or Revelation 4. Much about them still remains a mystery.

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QUESTION 27 Who Are The Seraphim? There are heavenly beings called “seraphs” or “seraphim” in the Book of Isaiah. Seraphs, or seraphim, is the plural form of the word “seraph.” The Bible gives this description of them. Seraphs were in attendance above him; each had six wings: with two they covered their faces, and with two they covered their feet, and with two they flew. Then one of the seraphs flew to me, holding a live coal that had been taken from the altar with a pair of tongs (Isaiah 6:2,6). This is the only Scriptural reference to the seraphim. The word means “the burning ones.” In the context of Isaiah, the seraphim are connected with God’s throne and His holiness. They are standing and serving before the throne, awaiting His commands. The Description Given The seraphim have six wings - two that covered the face, two over the feet, and they fly with other two. If they are angels, they have a different appearance from all the other ones in Scripture. They also have a different appearance than the cherubim. They Were The Agent In Isaiah Purification The seraphim were engaged in the purification of the prophet Isaiah. And I said: “Woe is me! I am lost, for I am a man of uncle an lips, and I live among a people of unclean lips; yet my eyes have seen the King, the LORD of hosts!” Then one of the seraphs flew to me with a live coal in his hand, which he had taken with tongs from the altar. The seraph touched my mouth with it and said: “Now that this has touched your lips, your guilt has departed and your sin is blotted out” (Isaiah 6:5,7). Summary The seraphim, or burning ones, are only mentioned in this passage in Isaiah. They are somehow connected with the throne of God. They do not appear in the form of men as do other angels, but seem to be a higher rank of angel. Though, like the cherubim, they are depicted as having wings, they are a different order of angelic creatures.

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QUESTION 28 Who Are The Elect Angels? Scripture speaks of certain angels as being “elect.” Paul wrote to Timothy. I charge you in the sight of God, and Christ Jesus, and the elect angels, that you observe these things without prejudice, doing nothing by partiality (1 Timothy 5:21). The elect angels are most likely those who stayed true to God during the original angelic rebellion. It seems there was a period of time when they were under probation. Their remaining true to the Lord revealed their election. Believers are said to be “elect unto obedience.” Peter, an apostle of Jesus Christ, to the elect who are sojourners of the Dispersion in Pontus, Galatia, Cappadocia, Asia, and Bithynia, according to the foreknowledge of God the Father, in sanctification of the Spirit, unto obedience and sprinkling of the blood of Jesus Christ: Grace to you and peace be multiplied (1 Peter 1:1,2). Like these angels, these believers willingly chose to follow the Lord when given the option. In this sense they are also “elect.” WHAT DO WE KNOW ABOUT ELECT ANGELS? The Bible says the following about the elect angels. 1.

They Are Confirmed In Their Goodness

These angels, who did not stray from the Lord, have been confirmed in their goodness. They are constantly loyal to the Lord. This is a permanent quality of their character. 2.

They Relate Differently Than Humans

Because the elect angels do not need any deliverance from sin, as do humans, they are related to Christ differently. He is not their mediator, as He is with humanity. Jesus serves as a mediator between believers and God the Father, He has no such ministry with the “elect angels.” 3.

They Have No Will To Choose Evil

It seems that the elect angels, or holy angels, now have no will to choose evil. They made their choice when they did not follow the Devil. This choice seems to be an eternal, irrevocable choice on their part there will not be another angelic rebellion in the future. 4.

They Are In Contrast To The Evil Angels

The elect angels are in contrast to those who rebelled with the Devil. Judgment is awaiting them. Then he will say to those at his left, ‘You that are cursed, depart from me into the eternal fire prepared for the Devil and his angels’ (Matthew 25:41).

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These evil angels are cursed for their sin; there is no hope for them. Summary Certain angels in Scripture are called “elect.” These are the ones who did not rebel against God in the beginning, but rather chose to stay with Him when the rebellion occurred. Like believers, their election was made manifest when they chose to follow the Lord rather than the Devil.

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QUESTION 29 Should People Worship Angels? When angels have appeared on the pages of Scripture, they often are impressive looking - having clothing described as dazzling. Because of their imposing appearance, there was the temptation to worship them. WE ARE NOT TO WORSHIP ANGELS Though impressive looking beings, angels should not be worshipped. Since God created angels, they are not worthy to be worshipped. John Was Told Not To Worship An Angel There were two incidents when John the Apostle was rebuked when he attempted to worship an angel. Then I fell down at his feet to worship him, but he said to me, “You must not do that! I am a fellow servant with you and your comrades who hold the testimony of Jesus. Worship God! For the testimony of Jesus is the spirit of prophecy” (Revelation 19:10). The angel made it clear that only God is worthy of our worship - we should not worship angels. On another occasion John again attempted to worship an angel. I, John, am the one who heard and saw these things. And when I heard and saw them, I fell down to worship at the feet of the angel who showed them to me; but he said to me, “You must not do that! I am a fellow servant with you and your comrades the prophets, and with those who keep the words of this book. Worship God!” (Revelation 22:8,9). ANGEL WORSHIP WAS PRACTICED AT THAT TIME It seems that angel worship was practiced at the time Paul wrote to the Colossians. Do not let anyone disqualify you, insisting on self-abasement and worship of angels, dwelling on visions, puffed up without cause by a human way of thinking (Colossians 2:18). Paul forbade believers to be engaged in such conduct. Though we do not fully understand the background of his statements, several observations can be made. 1.

The People Had Experienced Visions

The people who were engaged in angel worship had experienced visions. They were dwelling on what these visions had told them. The Bible warns people to beware of appearances of angels. But even if we or an angel from heaven should proclaim to you a gospel contrary to what we proclaimed to you, let that one be accursed! As we have said before, so now I repeat, if anyone proclaims to you a gospel contrary to what you received, let that one be accursed! (Galatians 1:8,9).

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They Were Filled With Pride

Those who practiced angel worship were lifted up with pride - they considered themselves more holy than anyone else because of their angelic visions. Their pride, in turn, brought about a false humility. Though they were pretending to be humble, they were, in actuality, proud. 3.

They Focused On Angels, Not Jesus

These people had the wrong focus. They were dwelling on angels, instead of the Creator of angels, Jesus. This type of thinking was not divine, but rather human. For this, the Apostle Paul chastised them. 4.

It Brought About Negative Results

The worship of angels, therefore, can bring about a number of negative results. It was wrong from the start because it centered on the wrong object - the creation rather than the Creator. One of the possible reasons that angels remain invisible is that, if visible, humans would worship them. As long as humanity cannot see angels, or directly experience or contact them, then the chances of angels worship is greatly diminished. Summary The worship of angels is something that is condemned in Scripture. Only God is to be worshipped. The angels of God do not allow themselves to be worshipped, they always direct worship to where it belongs to God and Him alone.

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QUESTION 30 Should We Pray To Angels? When we pray, should we ever address our prayers to angels? The Bible gives a clear no to this question. We Are To Pray To God Alone Prayers should be directed at God and Him alone. For there is one God, one mediator also between God and humanity, himself man, Christ Jesus (1 Timothy 2:5). There is only one mediator, or go-between, between humanity and God - the Lord Jesus Christ. Angels, nor anyone else, can intercede for believers directly to God the Father. Only God Can Help Angels only serve to do the bidding of God. They cannot, in and of themselves, help us. Their power is derived from God. Whenever they come to the aid of believers, it is because of the direct command of God. Therefore it is worthless to call upon them to help us. Only the Lord can deliver His people. The psalmist wrote. Call upon me in the day of trouble; I will deliver you, and you will honor me (Psalm 50:15). Summary Never in Scripture do we find any example of people praying to angels. Angels are sent to do God’s bidding in answer to prayer. There is only one way in which we can have access to God - through the person of Jesus Christ. Angels do not serve any function as mediators between God and humanity in that sense.

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QUESTION 31 Do Angels Appear To People Today? Is it possible for angels to appear to people today? The Bible does speak of humans entertaining angelic visitors without being aware. Let mutual love continue. Do not neglect to show hospitality to strangers, for by doing that some have entertained angels without knowing it (Hebrews 13:1,2). According to this passage, it is possible for angels to appear to humans without anyone being aware it was actually an angel. Since they have done so in the past, there is nothing impossible about this happening today. God Works As He Desires Jesus made it clear that God works as He desires. The wind blows where it chooses, and you hear the sound of it, but you do not know where it comes from or where it goes. So it is with everyone who is born of the Spirit (John 3:8). Therefore the visitation of an angel is certainly possible, if God so desires. This Was Not Normal In Biblical Times However, we must also recognize that angelic appearances were not normal in biblical times. As we look at the entire scope of biblical history, we find very few examples of angels appearing to humans. Angelic appearances are the exception rather than the rule. Summary Angelic visits have happened in the past. The Scriptures give many examples of this. On certain occasions the people were unaware of the angelic appearance. Because God works any way that He desires, there is nothing stopping God from sending an angelic visitor, if He should so wish. Yet we must remember that angelic appearances were not the norm in biblical times. Therefore believers should not expect angels to appear to them.

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QUESTION 32 Do Believers Have A Guardian Angel? Jesus made a statement that seems to teach that believes have guardian angels. Take care that you do not despise one of these little ones; for, I tell you, in heaven their angels continually see the face of my Father in heaven (Matthew 18:10). This has caused some to think that each believer has a special angel looking after them. 1.

Angels Do Protect

One of the ministry of angels is to protect God’s people. The angel of the LORD encamps around those who fear him, and delivers them (Psalm 34:7). The Psalmist also wrote. For he will command his angels concerning you to guard you in all your ways. On their hands they will bear you up, so that you will not dash your foot against a stone (Psalm 91:11,12). 2.

They Spoke Of Peter’s Angel

There is an incident, found in the Book of Acts, which may indicate that the early church understood Jesus’ words to mean that believers have guardian angels. When Peter escaped from prison, he came to the place where the believers were praying for his release. When he knocked at the door, the servant girl saw it was Peter, and told the others. They responded in this manner. They said to her, “You are out of your mind!” But she insisted that it was so. They said, “It is his angel” (Acts 12:15). Instead of thinking it was actually Peter, some thought that it was his angel. This may provide some evidence that they believed Peter actually had an angel guarding him. 3.

This Is Not Necessarily True

While this may teach us that each believer has a guardian angel, this is not necessarily the case. Jesus taught that multitudes of angels were at His disposal. This also seems to be the case with each believer multitudes of angels are at their disposal. The Bible says. Are not all angels spirits in the divine service, sent to serve for the sake of those who are to inherit salvation? (Hebrews 1:14). Elisha prayed that his servant would see the angels that were present. And Elisha prayed, “O LORD, open his eyes so he may see.” Then the LORD opened the servant’s eyes, and he looked and saw the hills full of horses and chariots of fire all around Elisha (2 Kings 6:17).

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The Holy Spirit Indwells All Believers

Furthermore, the Bible teaches that God the Holy Spirit indwells all believers. Jesus said. And I will ask the Father, and he will give you another advocate, to be with you forever (John 14:16). If the Holy Spirit of God resides inside each believer, then one might ask, “Why would we need a guardian angel looking after us?” Summary Jesus spoke of angels guarding each believer. Whether each Christian has only one angel looking after them, or a vast number of angels, the Bible does not specifically say. Based on the passage in Hebrews, it may be more proper to say that believers have a number of angels that are looking out for their interests. We do know that angels offer protection to believers. Furthermore, since God’s Spirit lives inside each believer the need for a guardian angel may not be that necessary.

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QUESTION 33 Does Each Church Have An Individual Angel Watching Over It? There is a statement found in the Book of Revelation that some Bible students believe may teach that each individual church has an angel watching over it. As for the mystery of the seven stars that you saw in my right hand, and the seven golden lampstands: the seven stars are the angels of the seven churches, and the seven lampstands are the seven churches. “To the angel of the church in Ephesus write: These are the words of him who holds the seven stars in his right hand, who walks among the seven golden lampstands” (Revelation 1:20,2:1). It is argued that the “angel” referred to here may represent an individual heavenly being that protects and watches over each church. Yet this is not possible from the context. These same angels that carried the message to the various churches are included in the rebuke of Jesus. They participated in the same sinful conduct as the churches to whom the messages were brought. They are also urged to repent. But I have this against you, that you have abandoned the love you had at first. Remember then from what you have fallen; repent, and do the works you did at first. If not, I will come to you and remove your lampstand from its place, unless you repent (Revelation 2:4,5). Since good angels do not sin, nor do they have need of repenting, this rules them out as the persons described in this passage. Other solutions will need to be found for the identity of these angels. There Are A Great Number Of Angels Instead of one particular angel watching over each church, it seems more consistent with Scripture that each church has a great number of angels watching over them. The Apostle Paul wrote to Timothy. I charge you in the sight of God, and Christ Jesus, and the elect angels, that you observe these things without prejudice, doing nothing by partiality (1 Timothy 5:21). Paul indicated that many angels are watching what goes on in the church. For this reason a woman ought to have a symbol of authority on her head, because of the angels (1 Corinthians 11:10). Summary While it is possible that each church has a special angel looking over it, the word translated “angel” in Revelation 2 and 3 cannot refer to such beings. The angels, or “messengers,” under consideration here are included in the sinful deeds of the churches to whom they bring the message of Christ. They are commanded to repent. Since good angels do not sin, or need repentance, some other persons must be in view in this passage. Scripture also hints that a number of angels are watching over each church, rather than one individual angel. However, there is no specific passage that makes this clear one way or the other.

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QUESTION 34 Do Angels Transport Believers At Death? It is a very popular idea that angels carry believers into God’s presence upon their death. Does the Bible teach that angels transport believers when they die? Believers Are Immediately With Christ The Bible teaches that those who die in Christ are immediately brought into His presence. Yes, we do have confidence, and we would rather be away from the body and at home with the Lord (2 Corinthians 5:8). Being absent from the body means being immediately with the Lord. The Dead Man Was Brought By Angels It seems that angels are the ones who transport believers into God’s presence. Jesus asserted this in a story that He told. The poor man died and was carried away by the angels to be with Abraham. The rich man also died and was buried (Luke 16:22). According to this passage, when believers die, angels bring them into God’s presence. Since angels are called ministering spirits, the transporting of the believing dead seems to be one of their ministries. Though this is the only passage in Scripture that speaks to this subject, there is no indication that this example is an abnormal occurrence. Summary Believers who die go to be immediately with the Lord. Jesus told the story of angels transporting one particular believer at his death into the presence of the Lord. Though this is the only passage in the Bible that deals with this subject, it does seem to teach that this is one of the many ministries of angels. Thus today when a believer dies, we assume that angels bring them into the presence of the Lord.

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QUESTION 35 In What Sense Will Believers Judge Angels? The Bible says that believers will indeed judge angels. Do you not know that we shall judge angels? How much more, things that pertain to this life? (1 Corinthians 6:3). The judgment of angels is something that has been given to believers. Though humanity has been made a little lower than the angels in nature, those who have trusted the Lord will be given the responsibility of judging them in the age to come. 1.

The Nature Of Judging Is Not Stated

The nature of the judgment of the angels is not stated, but judgment does not imply condemnation. Since the good angels do not sin, there is nothing for which to condemn them. The judgment of angels most likely has to do with rulership in the kingdom. The Bible teaches that believers will be rulers over different aspects of the kingdom of God. Jesus made this clear in one of His parables. His lord said to him, ‘Well done, good and faithful servant; you have been faithful over a few things, I will make you ruler over many things. Enter into the joy of your lord’ (Matthew 25:43). Faithfulness in small things, will allow believers to rule over many things. Angels will be included in this sphere of rulership. 2.

There Is No Evidence That Believers Will Condemn Evil Angels

What about the idea that believers will judge evil angels? Can this be what the passage is speaking about? As we search the Scriptures we find nothing that indicates that believers will stand in condemnation of the evil angels. At the Great White Throne judgment, the Lord is the one who will condemn all who are lost. And I saw a great white throne, and him that sat upon it, from whose face the earth and the heaven fled away; and there was found no place for them (Revelation 20:11). Summary The judgment of angels is something that has been committed to believers. The nature of the judgment will be one of rulership, not of condemnation. Redeemed believers will exercise authority over the angels in the ages to come. There is no scriptural basis that believers will stand in condemnation of evil angels.

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Summary To Good Angels (Topic 1) The Bible has the following to say about the good angels. Question 1. Scripture teaches there are other rational personal beings who exist in the universe that are distinct from humans. The Bible calls them angels. From the first book of the Bible, until the last, the existence of angels is clearly taught in hundreds of different references. Angels are always assumed to have genuine existence - they are never treated as mythical characters. In addition to the overall testimony of Scripture, we also have the clear teaching of Jesus on the subject - He believed in angels. Since He is God the Son, His Word settles the issue. Therefore we conclude that angels really do exist. Question 2. Angels are invisible, personal spirit-beings created by God. They have been made above humanity in the created order. These personages have no physical form like humans, but in the past, they have at times, assumed a physical form for the sake of humanity. They are sexless, deathless, creatures who are ministering spirits. The function of the righteous angels is to do the will of God. Question 3. The study of the ministry of angels from the Scripture can be profitable for a number of reasons. Angels play a prominent role in Scripture. So much is said about them by the writers of the Bible that it should encourage us to understand who they are, and what they do. They have an important function in the overall plan of God as well as in the lives of believers. We will not know about their involvement unless we study the Scriptures. If we are to study the complete plan of God, then the study of angels is necessary. A study of angels reminds us of the reality of the unseen world. Understanding what the Bible says about angels will clear up ignorance on the subject. Realizing that angels are observing us will encourage us to live more consistent lives. Understanding that angels protect believers will comfort us in times of trouble. We also have their example of devoted service to God. Their continual service of the Lord should be a challenge to us to behave in the same manner. Consequently the study of angels can have many benefits. Question 4. Many times the subject of angels is approached with a number of misconceptions. They include the rejection of the supernatural, ignorance of Scripture, and superstition and fear. They are all associated with not taking seriously what the Bible has to say. However once someone takes the time to consider what the Bible teaches on the subject, the denial of angels, as well as ignorance and fear concerning them, will disappear. Question 5. The time of the creation of angels is something that the Bible does not specifically mention. Angelic existence dates back before the creation of humans. How far back no one knows. They seem to have been in existence when the earth was created. Scripture indicates the angels sang and shouted at God’s creation of the earth - possibly before any material thing was made. They were definitely created before humanity. Beyond this, there is not enough information to be more specific. Question 6. Though God initially created everything perfect, some of the angels chose to leave their position with Him. That rebellion separated the angels into two groups - righteous and unrighteous. The righteous ones will remain in His service forever while the unrighteous angels, through their own choice, have been condemned to judgment. Question 7. Angels are spirit-beings whose exact form is never described for us. They have no physical form like humans. When they do appear to humans they appear as men, not women. The concept that they have white skin and play a harp is not found in the Bible. Two different types of angelic creatures, the cherubim and seraphim, are said to have wings but there are no clear examples of the other angels ever appearing to humans with wings.

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Question 8. Angels live in the unseen heavenly realm. They have access to God, whose presence dwells above the heavens. Though angels have their residence in heaven, they are able to come to the earth. Therefore they are not restricted to any part of the universe. Consequently, they do the will of God wherever they are needed. Question 9. The Bible says that angels are well-organized in ranks. While we are not told much about their classifications, we do know that there are various orders. Among the orders of angels are those who have authority over the elements. We are told from Scripture that certain angels have authority over fire, water, and the bottomless pit, or the abyss. This is a further testimony that angels are organized. The Bible also says that an archangel or “chief angel” exists. This also suggests organization. Beyond this, we can only conjecture. Question 10. The character, or attributes, of angels are listed for us in Scripture. The Bible says they are obedient, holy, and reverent. They are able to communicate to anyone. They are intelligent creatures but their knowledge is limited. They do know right from wrong. Although they are mighty they remain humble. The angels that did not rebel against God are without sin. There is much for us to learn from them. Though powerful, they are humble. Though intelligent, they have devoted their intelligence to the service of the Lord. Question 11. The Bible attributes a number of titles to angels. They include angels, host of heaven, spirits, sons of God, sons of the Mighty, holy ones, the watchers, flames of fire, rulers, thrones, dominions, powers, the elect, chariots of fire, the council, heavenly beings and morning stars. Each of these titles helps us to better understand their attributes. It is interesting to note just how many different descriptions the Bible gives of angels - obviously they have been very busy in carrying out God’s plan of the ages. Question 12. While there are some things that angels and humans have in common, there are many things that separate them. Humans have been made in the image of God. They are able to bear children and have family relationships. Though sin entered into both the angelic and human sphere, only the sin of humans can be forgiven. Christ came to die for the sins of humanity, not of angels. Those humans who have trusted Christ as their Savior will eventually judge angels. Because of these things, the humans who have believed in Jesus will have a superior position to the angels in the ages to come. Question 13. The Bible does say that Jesus has a more excellent name than the angels. He is distinct from the angels in the fact that He created them. Therefore we have the distinction between the Creator and the created. Consequently Jesus is said to have a more excellent name, or identity, than the angels. Question 14. The work of angels can be placed in three categories. They are God’s agents who execute His judgment. Angels are God’s messengers revealing His will. They are God’s servants, doing His will. They have also appeared at crucial times in the overall program of God to do the Lord’s bidding. Consequently their work has been of the utmost importance in God’s overall plan for humanity. Question 15. We find that angels were very active during the period of the Old Testament. From the very beginning in the Book of Genesis, through the Babylonian captivity, they have been carrying out God’s will toward humanity. As can be seen from the examples given, they have appeared at crucial times in Old Testament history. Question 16. The ministry of angels can be found throughout the life of Christ. From His birth, to His ascension into heaven, angels played an important role in the ministry of Christ. The Bible says that the angels predicted His birth and were present when He was born. The angels also warned Joseph about

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those who were attempting to kill Jesus. Angels ministered to Jesus after His temptation. In the Garden of Gethsemane angels were there to strengthen Jesus. Angels were ready to help Jesus when Judas betrayed Him. The Bible says an angel rolled the stone away from the tomb of Jesus. When Jesus ascended into heaven angels were present. Angels will be Christ at His Second Coming. They will execute His judgment. Angels will separate the righteous from unrighteous. Finally, angles will hear Christ either acknowledging or denying Christ. Angels have seen Jesus in both His Deity and His humanity. The fact that angels had an attentive role around the ministry of Jesus is another testimony of His Deity. Just as they surround the throne of God the Father and serve Him, angels also were around Jesus - attending to God the Son. Question 17. The ministry of angels did not stop with the ascension of Jesus. During its early period, when the church was growing, we find angels ministering to God’s people. The Bible says that angels ministered to Phillip, Cornelius and Peter. An angel killed the evil king Herod. Angels also encouraged the Apostle Paul. In addition, the church itself is a testimony to angels of the wisdom of God. Question 18. In the Book of Revelation, angels play a prominent role. From preaching the everlasting gospel, to the binding Satan into the bottomless pit, angels are in the midst of the program of God at the end times. Consequently, angels have been an important part of God’s dealings with humanity from Genesis to Revelation. Question 19. From looking at the Scripture we can conclude the following about Michael the archangel. He is the only archangel named in Scripture. He seems to have some connection with the nation Israel. In the past, he contended with Satan over the body of Moses. He will appear at the last times fighting with the armies of Satan. His mission seems to be that of law and judgment. Question 20. There is no biblical evidence to equate Michael the archangel with Jesus. To the contrary, Jesus and Michael are two different personages. Michael is the highest of the angels - an order of created beings while Jesus is the uncreated Second Person of the Trinity, God the Son. Question 21. Gabriel is one of only two angels named in Scripture. His ministry seems to be that of mercy and promise. We know that he appeared to Daniel, Zechariah, the father of John the Baptist, as well as to Mary, the mother of Jesus. He is called the “angel of the LORD” in Luke 1. He is probably the one who appeared to Joseph a number of times as the angel of the LORD. Other appearances of the angel of the LORD in the New Testament may be attributed to him. Question 22. On a number of occasions in the Old Testament when the angel of the LORD appeared, it seems to be the LORD Himself. The angel has attributes that belong to God and God alone. In addition, He is addressed as the LORD. If this be the case, then He is not a created being, but God Himself who took on angelic form. Though some have thought it to be God the Father, this would more likely be an instance of Jesus Christ, the Second Person of the Trinity, coming to earth for a short time in a human form. Other times, however, the angel of the LORD is clearly distinguished from the LORD. On these occasions the angel must be a created being rather than God Himself. Question 23. While the angel of the LORD may have been Jesus Christ making temporary appearances on certain occasions in the Old Testament, it certainly was not the same person appearing during the New Testament era.

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On two different occasions when the angel of the LORD appeared to Joseph, Jesus had already been born. Obviously it could not have been Him. This tells us that the phrase “angel of the LORD” either speaks of more than one person, or that the same person was involved in all the appearances under the title “angel of the LORD.” If this is the case, then it could not have been the Lord Jesus in those Old Testament appearances, since it was not He who appeared under this title during the New Testament period. Since Gabriel is identified as the angel of the LORD in Luke, we should probably assume that it is he who appears in other contexts in the New Testament, but is not named. Question 24. There are angels that oversee the various nations. Scripture gives examples of angels looking over the affairs of Greece and Persia. These orders of angels are perhaps the rulers that Paul referred to when he said that our struggle is with spiritual forces. Question 25. Ezekiel saw in a vision four living creatures that were around the throne of God. Their identity is not explained. In chapter 10 he gives a description of the cherubim - which could be the same creatures. We also find similar living creatures in the Book of Revelation. Though their characteristics are similar, they are not exactly the same. Consequently we do not have enough information to make any definite conclusions about these heavenly creatures. Question 26. The cherubim were winged creatures that appear in a number of places in Scripture. They guarded the Garden of Eden, their form was fashioned on the Ark of the Covenant, and two large carved cherubim were placed in the temple. As to their exact identity and appearance, no one knows. It is not certain that they are the living creatures identified in Ezekiel 1 or Revelation 4. Much about them still remains a mystery. Question 27. The seraphim, or burning ones, are only mentioned in this passage in Isaiah. They are somehow connected with the throne of God. They do not appear in the form of men as do other angels, but seem to be a higher rank of angel. Though, like the cherubim, they are depicted as having wings, they are a different order of angelic creatures. Question 28. Certain angels in Scripture are calle d “elect.” These are the ones who did not rebel against God in the beginning, but rather chose to stay with Him when the rebellion occurred. Like believers, their election was made manifest when they chose to follow the Lord rather than the Devil. Question 29. The worship of angels is something that is condemned in Scripture. Only God is to be worshipped. The angels of God do not allow themselves to be worshipped, they always direct worship to where it belongs - to God and Him alone. Question 30. Never in Scripture do we find any example of people praying to angels. Angels are sent to do God’s bidding in answer to prayer. There is only one way in which we can have access to God through the person of Jesus Christ. Angels do not serve any function as mediators between God and humanity in that sense. Question 31. Angelic visits have happened in the past. The Scriptures give many examples of this. On certain occasions the people were unaware of the angelic appearance. Because God works any way that He desires, there is nothing stopping God from sending an angelic visitor, if He should so wish. Yet we must remember that angelic appearances were not the norm in biblical times. Therefore believers should not expect angels to appear to them.

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Question 32. Jesus spoke of angels guarding each believer. Whether each Christian has only one angel looking after them, or a vast number of angels, the Bible does not specifically say. Based on the passage in Hebrews, it may be more proper to say that believers have a number of angels that are looking out for their interests. We do know that angels offer protection to believers. Furthermore, since God’s Spirit lives inside each believer the need for a guardian angel may not be that necessary. Question 33. While it is possible that each church has a special angel looking over it, the word translated “angel” in Revelation 2 and 3 cannot refer to such beings. The angels, or “messengers,” under consideration here are included in the sinful deeds of the churches to whom they bring the message of Christ. They are commanded to repent. Since good angels do not sin, or need repentance, some other persons must be in view in this passage. Scripture also hints that a number of angels are watching over each church, rather than one individual angel. However, there is no specific passage that makes this clear one way or the other. Question 34. Believers who die go to be immediately with the Lord. Jesus told the story of angels transporting one particular believer at his death into the presence of the Lord. Though this is the only passage in the Bible that deals with this subject, it does seem to teach that this is one of the many ministries of angels. Thus today when a believer dies, we assume that angels bring them into the presence of the Lord. Question 35. The judgment of angels is something that has been committed to believers. The nature of the judgment will be one of rulership, not of condemnation. Redeemed believers will exercise authority over the angels in the ages to come. There is no scriptural basis that believers will stand in condemnation of evil angels. Now that we have seen what the Scripture has had to say about the topic of good angels we will look at those angels who did not follow the Lord – the evil angels. Our next topic will examine the biblical teaching concerning evil angels from their creation to their ultimate destiny. We will look at questions including: Why should the subject of evil angels be studied? Who are the evil angels? When did the angelic rebellion occur? Where do the evil angels reside? How many evil angels exist?

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Topic 2

EVIL ANGELS What The Bible Says About The Unrighteous Angels Introduction Sometime in the distant past God created an innumerable company of angels. All of them were originally created good. However there were a number of them who rebelled against their Creator. In this section we will look at the origin, judgment, and final destiny of these evil angels.

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QUESTION 36 Why Should The Subject Of Evil Angels Be Studied? We are going to explore what the Bible says about evil angels. First, we will consider why a subject like this should be studied. Why study the subject of evil angels? 1.

It Is Part Of God’s Word

The subject of evil, or fallen, angels is part of God’s divinely inspired Word. For that reason alone it should be studied. The Bible teaches us that all Scripture is beneficial. All Scripture is God breathed and is useful for teaching, for reproof, for correction, and for training in righteousness (2 Timothy 3:16). 2.

It Illustrates The Depth Of Sin

A study of evil angels will reveal the depths of sin and ruin that can occur when one turns from the Lord. Their example is one that we do not want to follow. 3.

It Should Inspire Hatred Of Evil

A hatred of evil can be gained by seeing the results of the sins of these fallen angels. Their rebellion has affected the lives of so many others. Knowing this truth, will further inspire believers to hate evil and love the good. 4.

It Shows Evil Will Be Judged

We learn the lesson from the fallen angels that evil will be judged. Though it may seem to be winning for the present time, eventually judgment day will come. 5.

It Provides Hope Through Christ Alone

We discover that Christ is the only one who can deliver humanity from the power of these evil angels. We, in our strength, cannot deliver ourselves from their clutches. Summary The subject of fallen angels can be profitable. It is covered in a large part of the Scripture, and is, therefore, profitable for us. From a study of this subject, we learn the depths of sin, a renewed hatred for evil, an understanding that evil will eventually be judged, and that our hope is through Christ and Him alone.

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QUESTION 37 Who Are The Evil Angels? From Scripture we learn the following about evil angels. 1.

They Were Part Of God’s Original Creation

The beings which we now call “evil angels” were part of God’s original creation of spirit-beings. Like all the other angels they were originally created good. 2.

They Had The Power Of Choice

The evil angels, like the good ones, were all given the power of choice or moral judgment. They were placed under a period of probation where they could decide whom they would follow. 3.

They Left Their Rightful Place

Under the leadership of Satan, certain angels sinned and left their rightful place. The sin of these evil angels was their revolt against the Lord and His commandments. The Bible says. And the angels who did not keep their own position, but left their proper dwelling, he has kept in eternal chains in deepest darkness for the judgment of the great Day (Jude 6). They left their proper habitation - the reason for which they were created. When they chose to do this and sin against God, it was at that point they became evil angels. They were not created as evil beings. 4.

There Was Sin In Heaven

The Bible says that the heavens are now unclean because of the sin of these angels. God puts no trust even in his holy ones, and the heavens are not clean in his sight (Job 15:15). 5.

They Are Not To Be Trusted

Scripture tells us not to put our trust in these angels. Even in his servants he puts no trust, and his angels he charges with error (Job 4:18). 6.

Theirs Was Flagrant Sin

Their wickedness is confirmed in their flagrant sin and rebellion against the Lord. After the final judgment of God, the following words will be spoken. Let the evildoer still do evil, and the filthy still be filthy, and the righteous still do right, and the holy still be holy (Revelation 22:11). These angels will remain forever evil.

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There Is No Salvation For Them

Scripture teaches that God has provided salvation for fallen humanity. Who would have all people to be saved, and come to the knowledge of the truth (1 Timothy 2:4). However there is no salvation for these fallen angels. Paul wrote. And through him [Jesus] God was pleased to reconcile to himself all things, whether on earth or in heaven, by making peace through the blood of his cross (Colossians 1:20). Only those beings on the earth and in heaven will be saved. The fallen angels are spoken of being “under the earth.” Therefore, they are not objects of the saving work of Christ. 8.

They Will Bow Down To Jesus

Though they will never be saved, there will come a day when the evil angels will bow before the Lord. Therefore God also highly exalted him and gave him the name that is above every name, so that at the name of Jesus every knee should bend, in heaven and on earth and under the earth, and every tongue should confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father (Philippians 2:9-11). Paul makes it clear that even the knees of those “under the earth” will bow to Christ. Summary When God created the angels they were sinless, holy, beings. The angels that sinned were originally given the power of choice. Though they were created good, they used their choice to rebel against God. In doing so, these perfect beings abandoned the purpose for which they were created. They became the evil angels that the Bible speaks about. Their fall brought them spiritual and moral ruin and they will pay the price for their sin for all eternity.

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QUESTION 38 When Did The Angelic Rebellion Occur? The fall of the evil angels occurred sometime in the distant past. Though the Bible does not specifically tell us when this happened, there are a couple of clues. 1.

Everything Was Perfect In The Beginning

When God finished His creation, everything was said to be very good. God saw everything that he had made, and indeed, it was very good. And there was evening and there was morning, the sixth day (Genesis 1:31). When God finished creating, “everything” was “very good.” If this refers to all God’s creation, then this would include the angelic world. If this is the case, then Satan and the evil angels, did not exist before the seventh day of creation as evil beings. 2.

Sin Entered By The Time Of Genesis 3

In the third chapter of Genesis we find Satan, in the form of the serpent, coming to Eve. Now the serpent was more crafty than any other wild animal that the LORD God had made. He said to the woman, “Did God say, ‘You shall not eat from any tree in the garden?’” (Genesis 3:1). At this time, sin had already entered into the universe. It seems, therefore, that some time between Genesis 1:31 and Genesis 3 this angelic rebellion took place and sin entered into the universe. 3.

The Account In Genesis Could Be Restricted To Earth

It could be argued, however, that in Genesis the emphasis on the perfection of creation was limited to the earth - it did not include the unseen realm of the universe. The writer is only interested in telling his audience about the conditions on the earth, not the entire universe. Therefore from the perspective of the writer, no comment is made about sin being elsewhere in the universe. All the writer is saying is that sin had not reached the earth at this time. Summary The Bible says there was no sin on the earth until Adam and Eve sinned in the Garden of Eden. This does not necessarily mean there was no sin elsewhere in the universe. If the Genesis creation account is restricted to the earth, then sin could have entered at a previous time somewhere else. If, however, the Bible is saying that everything, everywhere in the universe was perfect, then sin did not occur until after the sixth day of creation.

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QUESTION 39 Where Do Evil Angels Reside? There is a question as to the exact location as to where the evil angels presently reside. Some Bible students believe that all of them are bound in the dark realms of the unseen world, while others think that some angels remain unbound, and live in the heavenly realms. VIEW 1 ALL EVIL ANGELS ARE PRESENTLY B OUND IN DARKNESS The Bible tells us that angels have been bound. And the angels who did not keep their own position, but left their proper dwelling, he has kept in eternal chains in deepest darkness for the judgment of the great Day (Jude 6). The evil angels are said to live in darkness, bound until the Day of Judgment. Tartarus The Bible speaks of them being bound in a place called “tartarus.” For if God did not spare the angels when they sinned, but cast them into tartarus and committed them to chains of deepest darkness to be kept until the judgment (2 Peter 2:4). This place is the lowest level of judgment - the place where the worst offenders go. The Abyss The place of darkness is also called the abyss. [The demons] begged him [Jesus] not to order them to go back into the abyss (Luke 8:31). From these passages, it is argued, that all angels have been bound. There is no hint that some angels remain loose or may live in some other place. The “sinning angels” are all bound, waiting for judgment. Yet they do have some access to humanity to cause various problems. VIEW 2 SOME EVIL ANGELS REMAIN UNBOUND Another view argues that the angels who have been bound do not constitute all the angels. It is argued that some evil angels remain free to cause chaos on the earth. If these evil angels are causing chaos on the earth, as everyone agrees they are, then the question may be asked, “In what sense are they bound?” Obviously they have a very long chain! 1.

They Are In The Heavenly Realm

One of the reasons people believe that some evil angels remain unbound is Paul’s statement in Ephesians. For our struggle is not against enemies of blood and flesh, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the cosmic powers of this present darkness, against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly places (Ephesians 6:12).

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He said our battle is against various orders of evil spiritual powers in the unseen, heavenly, realm. This seems to indicate these are beings who roam about freely - they are not the ones that are chained. 2.

They Will Be Loosed Before Christ Returns

Before Christ returns to the earth, certain of these bound angels will be loosed for a short period of time. So the four angels were released, who had been held ready for the hour, the day, the month, and the year, to kill a third of humanity. The number of the troops of cavalry was two hundred million; I heard their number (Revelation 9:15,16). Until that time, these angels remain bound. 3. They Will Fight With Michael Certain angels will make war with Michael and his angelic army in the heavenly realm. And there was war in heaven, Michael and his angels waging war with the dragon. And the dragon and his angels waged war (Revelation 12:7). Summary The Bible makes it clear that evil angels have been bound in darkness because of their rebellion against God. The question is whether this constitutes all the evil angels, or merely a portion of them. All sides agree that evil angels still cause problems on the earth. To say, however, that all angels are bound, yet they still cause untold problems on the earth, makes the idea of their being bound a bit meaningless. If they can still roam around the world and cause havoc, they are not really bound in any real sense of the word.

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QUESTION 40 How Many Evil Angels Exist? The number of evil angels is not disclosed to us in Scripture. We do know that there is a limited number of them, but just how many do exist is unknown. 1.

One Third Might Have Rebelled

It is possible that as many as one third of all the angels who were created decided to rebel against God. This number comes from a passage in the Book of Revelation. His tail swept down a third of the stars of heaven and threw them to the earth. Then the dragon stood before the woman who was about to bear a child, so that he might devour her child as soon as it was born (Revelation 12:4). The dragon is identified for us a few verses later. The great dragon was thrown down, that ancient serpent, who is called the Devil and Satan, the deceiver of the whole world - he was thrown down to the earth, and his angels were thrown down with him (Revelation 12:9). The idea that one third of the angels may have rebelled comes from the statement that the tail of the dragon took one third of the stars with him to the earth. In Scripture, stars, or the heavenly host, are one of the designations for angels. For example, we read in Isaiah. On that day the LORD will punish the host of heaven in heaven, and on earth the kings of the earth (Isaiah 24:21). There Are A Large Number Of Evil Angels That Are Bound Scripture speaks of a large number of evil angels that are presently bound. Saying to the sixth angel who had the trumpet, “Release the four angels who are bound at the great river Euphrates.” So the four angels were released, who had been held ready for the hour, the day, the month, and the year, to kill a third of humanity. The number of the troops of cavalry was two hundred million; I heard their number (Revelation 9:14-16). It this number is literal, then we are dealing with an angelic army of two hundred million! Summary The Bible teaches that God created a multitude of angels. It is possible that one third of this great number rebelled against Him and became evil angels. As to their exact number, there is no way to be certain. Presently a large number of these evil angels are bound. It is possible that they number as many as two hundred million.

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QUESTION 41 Are The Evil Angels Organized? Like the good angels, evil angels are also organized. The Apostle Paul said that the Christian is battling a highly organized enemy in the spirit world. For our struggle is not against enemies of blood and flesh, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the cosmic powers of this present darkness, against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly places (Ephesians 6:12). 1.

They Are An Organized Enemy

This speaks of an organized enemy. They are broken down into the categories of rulers, authorities, cosmic powers, and spiritual forces. All of this implies organization. 2.

They Have Rulers And Other Ranks

The “rulers” spoken of here are those of the highest rank. Obviously if there are rulers, there must those who are ruled over. The “authorities” would be a separate category from the rulers. Peter wrote about the organization of angels. Who has gone into heaven and is at the right hand of God, angels, authorities, and powers having been made subject to him (1 Peter 3:22). The powers and authorities, spoken of here, also refers to different ranks and classifications of evil angelic creatures. Paul wrote of them. For I am convinced that neither death, nor life, nor angels, nor rulers, nor things present, nor things to come, nor powers nor height, nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God in Christ Jesus our Lord (Romans 8:38,39). In another place, the Apostle Paul wrote about the ruling angels. In order that the manifold wisdom of God might now be made known through the church to the rulers and the authorities in the heavenly places (Ephesians 3:10). These rulers and authorities could be either good or bad angels. Either way, it speaks of an organized group of angels. Paul wrote to the Colossians that Christ had defeated these spiritual authorities. He disarmed the rulers and authorities and made a public example of them, triumphing over them in it (Colossians 2:15). Satan, and his evil angels, will eventually fight with Michael the archangel and his good angels.

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And war broke out in heaven; Michael and his angels fought against the dragon. The dragon and his angels fought back (Revelation 12:7). The fact that the dragon, or Satan, has his own angels implies organization. He is the leader of this vast array of evil angels. Summary There are highly organized ranks of evil angels according to the Bible. They are not merely a disorganized group of terrorizing angels, but rather a well organized evil army who fight under the leadership of Satan.

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QUESTION 42 What Do Evil Angels Do? According to Scripture, the angels who have rebelled against God have nothing but evil intentions. These personages ceaselessly oppose God in every way in which they are able. 1.

They Do The Work Of Satan

The evil angels do the work of their master, Satan. As the righteous angels do the work of the Lord, these evil angels follow the orders of the Devil. Scripture makes it clear that these angels belong to the Devil. Then he will say to those at his left, ‘You that are accursed, depart from me into the eternal fire prepared for the Devil and his angels’ (Matthew 25:41). 2.

They Oppose God’s People

Evil angels work in opposition to God’s purposes and God’s people. They attempt to hinder the spiritual life of believers. We find an example of their hindering work in the Book of Daniel. But then a hand touched me and roused me to my hands and knees. He said to me, “Daniel, greatly beloved, pay attention to the words that I am going to speak to you. Stand on your feet, for I have now been sent to you.” So while he was speaking this word to me, I stood up trembling. He said to me, “Do not fear, Daniel, for from the first day that you set your mind to gain understanding and to humble yourself before your God, your words have been heard, and I have come because of your words. But the prince of the kingdom of Persia opposed me twenty-one days. So Michael, one of the chief princes, came to help me, and I left him there with the prince of the kingdom of Persia, and have come to help you understand what is to happen to your people at the end of days. For there is a further vision for those days” (Daniel 10:10-14). This angel hindered the answer to Daniel’s prayer for twenty-one days. 3.

They Fight Against Good Angels

Evil angels are in a struggle against good angels. We read the following in the Book of Revelation. And war broke out in heaven; Michael and his angels fought against the dragon. The dragon and his angels fought back (Revelation 12:7). 4.

They Afflict God’s People

As much as they are able, they attempt to afflict God’s servants. Paul wrote. Even considering the exceptional character of the revelations. Therefore, to keep me from being too elated, a thorn was given me in the flesh, a messenger of Satan to torment me, to keep me from being too elated (2 Corinthians 12:7). Evil angels are opposed to both the temporal and eternal welfare of humanity.

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They Deceive God’s People

They are involved, with their master Satan, in a ministry of deception. They will send their false prophets to deceive the people of God. Jesus warned. For false messiahs and false prophets will appear and produce great signs and wonders, to lead astray, if possible, even the elect (Matthew 24:24). They will even produce false signs in their deception. 6.

They Can Bring False Teaching

Scripture warns us about angels delivering false teaching to humanity in the form of “another gospel.” Paul wrote. I am astonished that you are so quickly deserting the one who called you in the grace of Christ and are turning to a different gospel - not that there is another gospel, but there are some who are confusing you and want to pervert the gospel of Christ. But even if we or an angel from heaven should proclaim to you a gospel contrary to what we proclaimed to you, let that one be accursed! As we have said before, so now I repeat, if anyone proclaims to you a gospel contrary to what you received, let that one be accursed! (Galatians 1:6-9). Consequently we have been warned that an angelic appearance does not mean that God sent that angel. Evil angels can deceive humanity by bringing false teaching and another gospel. The Bible makes it clear what message humanity should receive. Then I fell down at his feet to worship him, but he said to me, “You must not do that! I am a fellow servant with you and your comrades who hold the testimony of Jesus. Worship God! For the testimony of Jesus is the spirit of prophecy” (Revelation 19:10). The person, and work, of Jesus Christ is the central message of Scripture. Summary According to Scripture there are a number of things that the evil angels do. First, they do the work of Satan. They follow his orders and are subjects of his kingdom. This consists of opposing the people of God. They also fight against the good angels. Evil angels can afflict God’s people in a physical way. They also tempt humanity to sin and to turn away from the things of God. We are also warned that angels can appear to humans and teach false doctrine. Consequently, believers must always look to the real Jesus to discover God’s straight and narrow way.

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QUESTION 43 What Is The Destiny Of The Evil Angels? Though evil angels are now causing problems in this world, there will come a time when they will be judged. The Bible has the following to say about their future. 1.

The Lord Will Punish The Heavenly Powers

The prophet Isaiah spoke of God punishing the powers in the heavens. On that day the LORD will punish the host of heaven in heaven, and on earth the kings of the earth (Isaiah 24:21). 2.

All Enemies Will Be Judged

Scripture says that Christ will judge all of His enemies. For he must reign until he has put all his enemies under his feet. The last enemy to be destroyed is death (1 Corinthians 15:25,26). This certainly includes evil angels. 3.

All Things Offensive Will Be Judged

When Christ returns, He will judge all things offensive, including the evil angels. The Son of Man will send his angels, and they will collect out of his kingdom all causes of sin and all evildoers, and they will throw them into the furnace of fire, where there will be weeping and gnashing of teeth (Matthew 13:41,42). 4.

They Will Bow To The Lord

The evil angels, along with everything else in creation, will acknowledge Christ as Lord. Therefore God also highly exalted him and gave him the name that is above every name, so that at the name of Jesus every knee should bend, in heaven and on earth and under the earth, and every tongue should confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father (Philippians 2:9-11). 5,

They Will Go To The Lake Of Fire

The place that God has created for this ultimate judgment of the evil angels is called the lake of fire. Then he will say to those at his left, ‘You that are accursed, depart from me into the everlasting fire prepared for the Devil and his angels’ (Matthew 25:41). 6.

This Is Their Final Destination

The lake of fire, or eternal death, will be the final destination of the evil angels. The Bible says that the eternal fire was prepared for the express purpose of judging these evil angels. This is a place of everlasting torment.

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And the Devil who had deceived them was thrown into the lake of fire and sulfur, where the beast and the false prophet were, and they will be tormented day and night forever and ever (Revelation 20:10). Therefore, the rampage caused by evil angels will not continue forever. Summary Evil angels will eventually have the same fate as their master, Satan. During the time of the prophet Isaiah, God promised to judge these rebellious beings. Jesus said that the lake of fire was specially prepared for them. They will be confined to this place of judgment forever. Consequently, their sinning against God will not be something that will continue forever. There will be an end to the sin and pain they cause - thanks to the sinless life, the death, and the resurrection of Jesus Christ.

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Summary To Evil Angels (Topic 2) From our study of the topic of evil angels we have learned the following truths. Question 36. The subject of fallen angels can be profitable. It is covered in a large part of the Scripture, and is, therefore, profitable for us. From a study of this subject, we learn the depths of sin, a renewed hatred for evil, an understanding that evil will eventually be judged, and that our hope is through Christ and Him alone. Question 37. When God created the angels they were sinless, holy, beings. The angels that sinned were originally given the power of choice. Though they were created good, they used their choice to rebel against God. In doing so, these perfect beings abandoned the purpose for which they were created. They became the evil angels that the Bible speaks about. Their fall brought them spiritual and moral ruin and they will pay the price for their sin for all eternity. Question 38. The Bible says there was no sin on the earth until Adam and Eve sinned in the Garden of Eden. This does not necessarily mean there was no sin elsewhere in the universe. If the Genesis creation account is restricted to the earth, then sin could have entered at a previous time somewhere else. If, however, the Bible is saying that everything, everywhere in the universe was perfect, then sin did not occur until after the sixth day of creation. Question 39. The Bible makes it clear that evil angels have been bound in darkness because of their rebellion against God. The question is whether this constitutes all the evil angels, or merely a portion of them. All sides agree that evil angels still cause problems on the earth. To say, however, that all angels are bound, yet they still cause untold problems on the earth, makes the idea of their being bound a bit meaningless. If they can still roam around the world and cause havoc, they are not really bound in any real sense of the word. Question 40. The Bible teaches that God created a multitude of angels. It is possible that one third of this great number rebelled against Him and became evil angels. As to their exact number, there is no way to be certain. Presently a large number of these evil angels are bound. It is possible that they number as many as two hundred million. Question 41. There are highly organized ranks of evil angels according to the Bible. They are not merely a disorganized group of terrorizing angels, but rather a well organized evil army who fight under the leadership of Satan. Question 42. According to Scripture there are a number of things that the evil angels do. First, they do the work of Satan. They follow his orders and are subje cts of his kingdom. This consists of opposing the people of God. They also fight against the good angels. Evil angels can afflict God’s people in a physical way. They also tempt humanity to sin and to turn away from the things of God. We are also warned that angels can appear to humans and teach false doctrine. Consequently, believers must always look to the real Jesus to discover God’s straight and narrow way. Question 43. Evil angels will eventually have the same fate as their master, Satan. During the time of the prophet Isaiah, God promised to judge these rebellious beings. Jesus said that the lake of fire was specially prepared for them. They will be confined to this place of judgment forever. Consequently, their sinning against God will not be something that will continue forever. There will be an end to the sin and pain they cause - thanks to the sinless life, the death, and the resurrection of Jesus Christ.

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Not only do good and bad angels exist, there are also spirit-beings called demons who, according to the Bible, cause much trouble for humanity. Our next topic will consider the identity and destructive work of these beings. This section will answer questions such as: Do demons actually exist? What are demons? Where did demons originate? What power do demons have? What are the limitations of demons?

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Topic 3

DEMONS The Existence And Work Of Evil Spirits Introduction Scripture says that creatures, known as demons, actually exist. Although much about these evil spiritbeings is shrouded in mystery Scripture does have many things to say about them. In this section we will look at the biblical teaching concerning demons.

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QUESTION 44 Do Demons Actually Exist? Are there such personages as “demons” or “unclean spirits?” Can we really believe in their existence? The Bible is clear that such creatures do indeed exist. On fifty-two separate occasions in the New Testament we have references to demons, and there are another twenty-three references to unclean spirits. DEMONS DO EXIST We find throughout the Bible the testimony that demons do exist. The fact that they influence the destinies of individuals and nations is well-documented. The biblical teaching on the subject is widespread - not limited to one place and time. With Scripture as the final authority, the existence of these spiritual beings is beyond question. 1.

The Old Testament Mentions Demons

The Old Testament writers accepted the existence of demons though not much is said about them. Moses wrote. They sacrificed to demons, not God, to deities they had never known, to new ones recently arrived, whom your ancestors had not feared (Deuteronomy 32:17). These evil spirits are not called “demons” in the Old Testament since “demon” is a Greek term. However some translations do use the term “demon” when they translate certain Old Testament terms (as in the above example). 2.

They Were Recognized By Jesus

The fact that demons do exist was recognized by the Lord Jesus. We find Him speaking about them and to them. When Jesus was engaged in a conversation with the religious leaders He said the following. If I cast out demons by Beelzebul, by whom do your own exorcists cast them out? Therefore they will be your judges. But if it is by the Spirit of God that I cast out demons, then the kingdom of God has come to you (Matthew 12:27,28). From these statements, He obviously believed in the existence of demons. We also find Jesus rebuking demons and driving them out of humans. When he [Jesus] came to the other side, to the country of the Gadarenes, two demoniacs coming out of the tombs met him. They were so fierce that no one could pass that way. Suddenly they shouted, “What have you to do with us, Son of God? Have you come here to torment us before the time?” Now a large herd of swine was feeding at some distance from them. The demons begged him, “If you cast us out, send us into the herd of swine.” And he said to them, “Go!” So they came out and entered the swine; and suddenly, the whole herd rushed down the steep bank into the sea and perished in the water (Matthew 8:28-32). In other parts of the gospels, we find Jesus dealing with the subject of demons. The fact that He accepted their existence is beyond question.

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Jesus sent out seventy disciples. Part of their mission was the driving out of demons. And the seventy returned with joy, saying, “Lord, even the demons are subject unto us in your name” (Luke 10:17). The Gospels are very well-aware of the spiritual conflict between the Lord and the forces of evil. Without a doubt, these forces were very active against the ministry of Jesus. 4.

Demons Were Recognized By Paul

The Apostle Paul also recognized the existence of demons. The Book of Acts gives the following account. One day, as we were going to the place of prayer, we met a slave girl who had a spirit of divination and brought her owners a great deal of money by fortune-telling. While she followed Paul and us, she would cry out, “These men are slaves of the Most High God, who proclaim to you a way of salvation.” She kept doing this for many days. But Paul, very much annoyed, turned and said to the spirit, “I order you in the name of Jesus Christ to come out of her.” And it came out that very hour (Acts 16:16-18). 5.

James Testified To Their Existence

The New Testament author James also testified to their existence. You believe that God is one; you do well. Even the demons believe - and shudder (James 2:19). Summary The existence of spirit-creatures called “demons,” or “unclean spirits” is clearly taught in Scripture. The writers of the Old Testament, the Lord Jesus, the Seventy, Paul, and James recognized them. Especially important is the testimony of Jesus. He was God who became a man. He would be in a position to know whether or not they did exist. Jesus made it clear that demons do exist, and that they cause all sorts of problems with humanity. Therefore the Bible says that a spiritual realm exists that is unseen to the human eye. Along with the one true, God, there exists, in this realm, such personal beings as angels, good and bad, and demons.

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QUESTION 45 How Are We To Understand Jesus’ Belief In Demons? The fact that Jesus taught that demons existed is obvious. If Jesus is the Son of God, the final authority on all matters of faith and practice, then we cannot attribute His belief in demons to superstition and ignorance. If the Bible is divinely inspired, and Jesus is the Son of God, then His Word on the matter is final. 1.

Did He Accommodate His Beliefs?

There have been a number of Christians who have been uncomfortable with Jesus’ stand on the existence of demons. They argue that Jesus knew that demons really did not exist, but for the sake of the ignorant and superstitious people of His day, He spoke and acted as though they did. This was for the benefit of His contemporaries who did not know any better. Since Jesus did not come to earth to teach us about these subjects, the argument goes, He merely went along with the prevailing view of His day, even though He knew it to be false. This way we have Jesus not really accepting the fact of the existence of demons, and yet we can still believe Him to be the Son of God. 2.

This View Causes Many Problems

There are enormous problems with this view. First, Jesus would be deceiving the people into thinking demons actually existed when He knew they did not. Since He Himself taught that His Word was the final authority on every matter, He knew that His confirmation of the existence of demons would further substantiate the widely-held view of the people that demons did indeed exist. He who called Himself the truth, therefore, would be teaching His disciples untruths. 3.

Did Jesus Go Along With The Charade?

In addition, when He told His disciples to specifically go and drive out the demons in His name, He would have known that no such creatures existed. Yet we are expected to believe that Jesus went along with this charade to the point that His disciples were to drive out these non-existent demons in His authority. 4.

What Statements Can We Trust?

Finally, if we cannot trust what He said about the existence of demons, seeing that He did it only for the ignorant people of His day, how can we trust His Word on anything? How do we know that He did not accommodate Himself on other subjects? How do we know when we can trust Him? How can we take His Word for anything? Summary To attempt to say that Jesus really did not believe in demons but rather accommodated Himself to the superstition of His day causes more problems than it solves. If Jesus did accommodate himself to this belief, then how do we know that He did not accommodate Himself to other beliefs? How can anyone determine what He really believed? Jesus accepted the existence of demons for one simple reason demons do exist.

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QUESTION 46 What Are Demons? Scripture clearly speaks of the existence of beings known as “demons”, or “unclean spirits.” We know they do exist. The Bible says the following things about their characteristics. 1.

They Are Spirit-Beings

Demons are disembodied spirits. They have no physical form to them whatsoever. That evening they brought to him [Jesus] many who were possessed with demons; and he cast out the spirits with a word, and cured all who were sick (Matthew 8:16). Demons belong to the spirit world. Their only manifestation is the disorders they cause. 2.

Demons Are Personal Intelligent Beings

It is clear that demons are intelligent beings - they have the attributes of personality. Suddenly they shouted, “What have you to do with us, Son of God? Have you come here to torment us before the time?” . . . The demons begged him, “If you cast us out, send us into the herd of swine” (Matthew 8:29,31). Demons can talk, they can make requests, they can act in fear, reason, and they attempt to persuade. These are all attributes of personality. 3.

They Are Unclean, Vicious, Spirits

Demons are hateful creatures. Matthew records the following description of two demon-possessed men. When he came to the other side, to the country of the Gadarenes, two demoniacs coming out of the tombs met him. They were so fie rce that no one could pass that way (Matthew 8:28). 4.

Some Are More Evil Than Others

The Bible speaks of degrees of wickedness among the demons. Jesus said. When the unclean spirit has gone out of a person, it wanders through waterless regions looking for a resting place, but it finds none. Then it says, ‘I will return to my house from which I came.’ When it comes, it finds it empty, swept, and put in order. Then it goes and brings along seven other spirits more evil than itself, and they enter and live there; and the last state of that person is worse than the first. So will it be also with this evil generation (Matthew 12:43-45). 5.

They Are Numerous

The fact that demons are so numerous makes the work of Satan something that takes place everywhere. And he [Jesus] asked him, “What is your name?” And he said unto him, “My name is Legion; for we are many” (Mark 5:9).

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When the demons were driven into the swine at Gadera, two thousand of them ran into the sea and drowned. So he [Jesus] gave them permission. And the unclean spirits came out and entered the swine; and the herd, numbering about two thousand, rushed down the steep bank into the sea, and were drowned in the sea (Mark 5:13). This is another indication the demons are numerous. 6.

They Are Messengers Of The Devil

Demons are the messengers of the Devil. They do the will of their master - Satan (Matthew 12:22-30). Satan is called the head, or prince, of the demons. But when the Pharisees heard this, they said, “It is only by Beelzebub, the prince of demons, that this fellow drives out demons” (Matthew 12:24) Beelzebub is one of the many names of Satan. Summary Demons do exist. They are personal intelligent beings who are evil malicious spirits. Some of them are more evil than others. There are so many of them that it makes the evil work of Satan going on almost everywhere on the earth.

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QUESTION 47 Where Did Demons Originate? The Bible makes it clear concerning the reality of demons - they are real personalities. Yet there is no information in the Bible regarding their origin. Though Scripture does not tell us specifically where they came from, a number of theories have been put forward. OPTION 1.

THEY ARE DISEMBODIED SPIRITS OF A PRE-ADAMIC RACE

A popular theory is that the demons are disembodied spirits of some race that existed before Adam spirit-beings that are separate from fallen angels. It is argued that demons existed at another place and time in bodily form, but are now disembodied spirits looking for bodies to possess. The following Scriptures are used to support this theory. When the unclean spirit has gone out of a person, it wanders through waterless regions looking for a resting place, but it finds none. Then it says, ‘I will return to my house from which I came.’ When it comes, it finds it empty, swept, and put in order (Matthew 12:43,44). When Jesus was about to exorcise the demons out of the two men at Gadera, one of them responded in this manner. He begged him earnestly not to send them out of the country. Now there on the hillside a great herd of swine was feeding; and the unclean spirits begged him, “Send us into the swine; let us enter them.” So he gave them permission. And the unclean spirits came out and entered the swine; and the herd, numbering about two thousand, rushed down the steep bank into the sea, and were drowned in the sea. The swineherds ran off and told it in the city and in the country. Then people came to see what it was that had happened (Mark 5:10-14). There is another passage that seems to make a distinction between spirits and angels. (The Sadducees say that there is no resurrection, or angel, or spirit; but the Pharisees acknowledge all three.) Then a great clamor arose, and certain scribes of the Pharisees’ group stood up and contended, “We find nothing wrong with this man. What if a spirit or an angel has spoken to him?” (Acts 23:8,9). There are others who do not find passages such as these as convincing evidence that demons formerly existed in some period in bodily form. All the Bible is saying is that they now wish to possess either man or beast - not that they formerly had bodies. There Was No Race Before Adam In addition, Scripture knows nothing of any race that existed before Adam. The Bible says that the sin of Adam brought the present chaos in the world, not some race that existed before him. Therefore, just as sin came into the world through one man, and death came through sin, and so death spread to all because all have sinned - (Romans 5:12).

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THEY ARE THE SPIRITS OF THE EVIL DEAD

Some feel that demons are the disembodied spirits of the evil dead - they are wandering around the realm of the dead seeking bodies to inhabit. This view has no biblical support. It is contradicted by the story the Lord told of the rich man and Lazarus. When the rich man died, he was in the unseen world in a place called Hades awaiting judgment. He was also told that he could not go back to this world. Besides all this, between you and us a great chasm has been fixed, so that those who might want to pass from here to you cannot do so, and no one can cross from there to us (Luke 16:26). The spirits of the evil dead go to Hades, the unseen world, waiting for the last judgment. At the Great White Throne judgment, they, as well as Hades, are thrown into the lake of fire. Then Death and Hades were thrown into the lake of fire. This is the second death, the lake of fire (Revelation 20:14). OPTION 3.

THEY ARE THE OFFSPRING OF ANGELS AND EARTHLY WOMEN

There is the view that holds the demons resulted from the relationship between angels and earthly women. The demons did not exist before this point. This view takes Genesis 6 as referring to the unlawful marriages between fallen angels and human women. Their offspring was the Nephilim whom some believe to be half-human, half-angelic. There are many problems with this view - not the least of which Jesus said angels do not marry. For in the resurrection they neither marry nor are given in marriage, but are like angels in heaven (Matthew 22:30). Life -Forms Reproduce After Their Kind In addition, God created various life-forms to reproduce only after their kind. And God said, “Let the land produce living creatures according to their kinds: livestock, creatures that move along the ground, and wild animals, each according to its kind.” And it was so (Genesis 1:24). Since God has placed a limitation on reproduction - dogs cannot mate with horses, pigs with cows, humans with apes - it seems impossible that angels could mate with humans. This is especially true when we discover that the Bible says that angels have an entirely different nature than humans. For a detailed look at this question see our course, Answering Bible Difficulties, Genesis 1-11. OPTION 4.

THEY ARE FALLEN B UT NOT CONFINED ANGELS

The best view, with respect to the identity of demons, is that they are “fallen angels.” Some of the angels who fell were bound while others became demons. These angels are doing the bidding of Satan by causing evil and possessing human beings. Satan, the ruler of the angels, is also called the ruler of the demons. But when the Pharisees heard it, they said, “It is only by Beelzebul, the ruler of the demons, that this fellow casts out the demons” (Matthew 12:24).

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Summary Scripture makes it very clear that demons exist, it does not, however, tell us where they came from. Though various theories have been put forward. One idea is that they are disembodied sprits of some Pre-adamic race. However Scripture does not teach that any race existed before Adam. Some think they are the spirits of the evil dead. Scripture does not support this theory. Others think they were the offspring of angels and human women. Scripture also contradicts this. The best answer seems to be that demons are fallen angels, since the same titles are applied to both of them. However no one knows for certain about their origin. The Bible simply does not tell us.

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QUESTION 48 What Is The Difference Between Demons And Devils? Is there a difference between demons and devils? Unfortunately some English translations in the past have translated the Greek word for “demons” as “devils.” This has led to much confusion. 1.

There Is Only One Devil

There are many demons, but there is only one Devil. The word translated Devil is the Greek diabolos, which means “slanderer.” It is always used in the singular when referring to the Devil. The adjectival form of the word diabolos is used three times in the New Testament and is translated “slanderer” or “false accuser.” Women likewise must be serious, not slanderers, but temperate, faithful in all things (1 Timothy 3:11). In 2 Timothy it says. Inhuman, implacable, slanderers, profligates, brutes, haters of good (2 Timothy 3:3). Paul wrote to Titus. Likewise, tell the older women to be reverent in behavior, not to be slanderers or slaves to drink; they are to teach what is good (Titus 2:3). 2.

The Word Translated Demon May Have The Meaning Of Intelligence

The word translated “demon” comes from the Greek word daimon, or the diminutive form daimonion, The root meaning of the Greek word daimon is “knowing” or “intelligence.” This may have the idea that their intelligence is above humans. 3.

The Words Demon And Devil Are Never Interchangeable

It is important to note that daimon and daimonion are used in the New Testament in both the singular and the plural (demon and demons), but they are never used interchangeably with diabolos (Devil). There is only one Devil. Summary The Bible says that demons do exist. There are many of them. This is in contrast to the one Devil. Since the root meaning of the Greek word translated as demons means “knowing,” there is the possibility that it reflects creatures with higher intelligence than humanity. This, however, is only conjecture.

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QUESTION 49 What Power Do Demons Have? The Bible says the following about the power of demons. 1.

They Are Able To Enter Into The Bodies Of Humans And Animals

Demons are able to enter and control both humans and animals. For he [Jesus] had said to him, “Come out of the man, you unclean spirit!” Then Jesus asked him, "What is your name?” “My name is Legion,” he replied, “for we are many.” And he begged Jesus again and again not to send them out of the area. A large herd of pigs was feeding on the nearby hillside. The demons begged Jesus, “Send us among the pigs; allow us to go into them.” He gave them permission, and the evil spirits came out and went into the pigs. The herd, about two thousand in number, rushed down the steep bank into the la ke and were drowned (Mark 5:8-13). These demons entered pigs after previously inhabiting humans. In some instances, more than one demon entered into the same victim. As with the case of the Gadarene demoniacs, there were a number of demons inhabiting those men. We also have the testimony about Mary Magdalene. Mary, called Magdalene, from whom seven demons had gone out (Luke 8:2). 2.

They Can Inflict Mental Disease

Demons have the ability to inflict mental disease. One of the Gadarene demoniacs was described as follows. For he had often been restrained with shackles and chains, but the chains he tore apart, and the shackles he broke in pieces; and no one had the strength to subdue him. Night and day among the tombs and on the mountains he was always howling and bruising himself with stones (Mark 5:4,5). 3.

They Can Inflict Physical Infirmities

They are capable of imposing physical disease. We find demons inflicting the following illnesses upon people. Demons have the ability to keep someone from using their powers of speech. And when the demon had been cast out, the one who had been mute spoke; and the crowds were amazed and said, “Never has anything like this been seen in Israel” (Matthew 9:33). According to Jesus, a woman had a physical deformity that was caused by a spirit. And just then there appeared a woman with a spirit that had crippled her for eighteen years. She was bent over and was quite unable to stand up straight (Luke 13:11). He then emphasized this woman was suffering because of Satan.

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And ought not this woman, a daughter of Abraham whom Satan bound for eighteen long years, be set free from this bondage on the sabbath day? (Luke 13:16). Blindness can also be a side affect of demonic activity. Then they brought to him [Jesus] a demoniac who was blind and mute; and he cured him, so that the one who had been mute could speak and see (Matthew 12:22). Demons can affect both the physical and the spiritual nature of a person at the same time. However we must be careful when we attempt to attribute sickness to some type of demonic activity. There are many possible causes for physical disease. Most times it is as simple as being exposed to some virus or bacteria, or the simple breaking down of the human body. In addition, sometimes sickness is a judgment of God for sin. For this reason many of you are weak and ill, and some have died (1 Corinthians 11:30). Ultimately, we do not know why someone is sick. Therefore we should not assume that it is the judgment of God, or the activity of demons. 4.

They Can Cause Erratic Behavior

We find the influence of demons causing people to behave strangely. And said, “Lord, have mercy on my son, for he is an epileptic and he suffers terribly; he often falls into the fire and often into the water. And I brought him to your disciples, but they could not cure him.” Jesus answered, “You faithless and perverse generation, how much longer must I be with you? How much longer must I put up with you? Bring him here to me.” And Jesus rebuked the demon, and it came out of him, and the boy was cured instantly (Matthew 17:15-18). 5.

They Harm Unbelievers

Scripture gives us an example of unbelievers being harmed by demons. Then some itinerant Jewish exorcists tried to use the name of the Lord Jesus over those who had evil spirits, saying, “I adjure you by the Jesus whom Paul proclaims.” Seven sons of a Jewish high priest named Sceva were doing this. But the evil spirit said to them in reply, “Jesus I know, and Paul I know; but who are you?” Then the man with the evil spirit leaped on them, mastered them all, and so overpowered them that they fled out of the house naked and wounded (Acts 19:13-16). 6.

They Deceive Nations

Entire nations can be deceived by the work of demons. These are demonic spirits, performing signs, who go abroad to the kings of the whole world, to assemble them for battle on the great day of God the Almighty (Revelation 16:14). Their work is not confined to individuals, but can include entire nations.

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It must be emphasized that the power of demons is limited. They cannot do anything they wish. Their ability to do evil is kept under control by the Lord. Summary The influence of demons can be seen by a number of things that they do. They can enter into people and animals, inflict mental and physical infirmities, cause people to behave erratically, and even deceive entire nations. Though their power is far-reaching, it can only be exercised within limits.

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QUESTION 50 What Are The Limitations Of Demons? Though demons are powerful, wicked creatures, they do have their limitations. As created beings, there are certain things that they are not able to do. 1.

They Are Not Everywhere Present

Unlike God, demons are not everywhere present. They are localized - they can only be at one place at one time. For example, when the demons were indwelling the two men at Gadera (Matthew 8:28-34), they were localized to those two men. When they were driven out of the two men by Jesus, the demons then went into the pigs, and nowhere else. They could not be in more than one place at a time. 2.

They Are Powerful But Not All-Powerful

Demons have power, but they are not all-powerful. They cannot do the same things that God does. Their power is limited. Furthermore, they cannot do good works - the sort of works that God does. When Jesus was accused of being demon-possessed the people said. Others said, “These are not the sayings of one possessed with a demon. Can a demon open the eyes of the blind?” (John 10:21). Demons have no such miraculous power, neither do they do anything good. 3.

Demons Are Intelligent But Not All-Knowing

The knowledge of demons is limited. As created beings, they are limited in what they know. They cannot read minds and do not know what is going to happen in the future. Therefore we should not attribute more power to them than the Bible does. Summary Demons are powerful. Their power should not be underestimated. However they are not all-powerful. There are limits to what they can do. Demons are intelligent, but they are not all-knowing. Demons are also limited in that they can only be at one place at one time. Furthermore, demons only do evil, we never find them doing good works.

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QUESTION 51 Do Demons Understand The Limitations Of Their Power? Yes. Though demons have power to inflict disease, and to possess people and animals, their power is limited. They understand their limitations. Demons are intelligent beings in that they understand the limit of their power. They know the following. 1.

They Know That Only One God Exists

Demons understand that there is only one God who has existence - the God of the Bible. You believe that God is one; you do well. Even the demons believe - and shudder (James 2:19). 2.

They Know The Identity Of Jesus Christ

They understand Jesus’ true nature, yet they are not committed to Him. What have we to do with you, Jesus of Nazareth? Are you come to destroy us? I know you, who you are, the Holy One of God (Mark 1:24). The demons realize that Jesus is the Son of God, and that He has authority over them. 3.

They Know Their Fate

Demons know their eventual fate. And behold, they cried out, saying, “What have we to do with you, Son of God? Are you come here to torment us before the time?” (Matthew 8:29). They realize that judgment is coming for them - a judgment they cannot escape. 4.

Demons Submit To The Authority Of Christ

Demons know Christ, and submit to His authority. When Christ commanded, the demons obeyed. And the demons besought him, saying, “If you drive us out, send us away into the herd of swine.” And he [Jesus] said unto them, “Go.” And they came out, and went into the swine: and behold, the whole herd rushed down the cliff into the sea, and perished in the waters (Matthew 8:31,32). 5.

Demons Know Genuine Believers

Demons also know those who have truly believed in Christ. And the evil spirit answered and said unto them, “Jesus I know, and Paul I know, but who are you?” (Acts 19:15).

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They Submit To Believers Under Christ’s Authority

The disciples of Jesus were given power over demons. Heal the sick, raise the dead, cleanse the lepers, drive out demons: freely you received, freely give (Matthew 10:8). This power over the demons became manifest. And the seventy returned with joy, saying, Lord, even the demons are subject unto us in your name . . . [Jesus said] Nevertheless in this rejoice not, that the spirits are subject unto you; but rejoice that your names are written in heaven (Luke 10:17,20). Demons have to submit to believers under the authority of Jesus. Summary Demons know their limitations. They understand that only one God exists and they must submit to Him. They also know who Jesus is, and they submit to His authority. Demons realize that they will eventually be judged. They also know the identity of genuine believers. Those who believe in Jesus have power over the demons and should not be frightened of them.

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QUESTION 52 Can Demons Materialize In Human Or Animal Form? Is it possible for demons to materialize? Can they appear in either human or animal form? Though we know that demons can possess humans, is it possible for them to create some physical form and simply appear? 1.

There Is No Clear Biblical Evidence This Can Occur

As we look through the pages of Scripture we find no clear example of a demon materializing. Being disembodied spirits there is no indication that they have the power to create some human form in which to appear. This would be beyond their capabilities. 2.

The Seem To Need Bodies To Work Evil

Furthermore, it seems that demons are powerless to work evil unless they inhabit a body. Jesus said. But the unclean spirit, when he is gone out of the man, passes through waterless places, seeking rest, and finds it not. Then he said, I will return into my house from where I came out; and when he is come, he finds it empty, swept, and unoccupied (Matthew 12:43,44). If a demon could simply materialize and cause havoc with humanity, then it wouldn’t be constantly looking for some human form in which to inhabit. This is a further indication that demons cannot appear at will in some human-like or animal-like form. When the demons were cast out of the men at Gadera, they did not wish to be bodiless - they would rather enter into the bodies of pigs. And he besought him much that he would not send them away out of the country. Now there was there on the mountain side a great herd of swine feeding. And they besought him, saying, “Send us into the swine, that we may enter into them” (Mark 5:10-12). 3.

They Can Appear In Other Physical Forms

Although there is no evidence that demons can simply materialize, they can assume other than human forms. Revelation 9 tells us that many demons were released from the bottomless pit. And he opened the pit of the abyss; and there went up a smoke out of the pit, as the smoke of a great furnace; and the sun and the air were darkened by reason of the smoke of the pit. And out of the smoke came forth locusts upon the earth; and power was given them, as the scorpions of the earth have power (Revelation 9:2,3). In this instance, their physical form was something like locusts, with the power to sting like scorpions. 4.

There Is Another Example Of A Different Appearance

Later, in the Book of Revelation, we are told.

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And I saw coming out of the mouth of the dragon, and out of the mouth of the beast, and out of the mouth of the false prophet, three unclean spirits, as it were frogs (Revelation 16:13). The appearances of demons in these forms will happen only after the bound angels are released from the bottomless pit. This is still in the future. Some may argue that they are an example of demons having the capability to simply materialize. If this is the case, they did not materialize in a human form, but rather an animal-like form. Like so many other issues with respect to the topic of demons, we just do not know enough to make any solid conclusions. Summary The idea that demons can somehow materialize is not found in Scripture. To the contrary, the Bible speaks of these disembodied spirits going around trying to find human beings in which to possess. Demons do appear in animal forms in the Book of Revelation. Though it could be argued that this is a materialization of demons, there is just not enough information to make that conclusion.

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QUESTION 53 What Are The Doctrines Of Demons? The Bible warns believers about the doctrine of demons. Paul wrote to Timothy about these evil teachings. But the Spirit says expressly, that in later times some shall fall away from the faith, giving heed to seducing spirits and doctrines of demons through the hypocrisy of men that speak lies, branded in their own conscience as with a hot iron; forbidding to marry, and commanding to abstain from food, which God created to be received with thanksgiving by them that believe and know the truth (1 Timothy 4:1-3). From this passage, we can make some observations about the doctrines of demons. 1.

They Want People To Engage In Religious Self-Denial

Demons would like people to engage in religious asceticism, or self denial. This would include such things as forbidding people to marry, and not to eat certain foods. By performing such ascetic acts, a person can have the false impression that they are pleasing God by this attitude of self-denial. In actuality, God has not commanded people to do any such thing. There is nothing that any of us can do to earn favor with God. Our responsibility is to believe on Him whom He sent. Jesus made this clear. Then they said to him, “What must we do to perform the works of God?” Jesus answered them, “This is the work of God, that you believe in him whom he has sent” (John 6:28,29). 2.

Demons Encourage Empty Formalism

One of the things in which demons would like people to be engaged, is mere religious formalism. The outward form of godliness is there, but no spiritual life exists. Going through all the motions of religion without any of God’s power is a demonic doctrine. 3.

They Want People To Depart From The Faith

Another instance of demonic doctrine is the departure from the historic faith. Rather than embracing the faith that has been once and for all revealed to believers, demonic influences would have people either add or subtract to what God has revealed in His Word. This is what Paul warned Timothy about when he said people would depart from “the faith.” 4.

They Bring In False Doctrine

The false doctrine that demons bring is the denial that Christ has come in the flesh. The Bible says. By this you know the Spirit of God: every spirit that confesses that Jesus Christ has come in the flesh is from God, and every spirit that does not confess Jesus is not from God. And this is the spirit of the antichrist, of which you have heard that it is coming; and now it is already in the world (1 John 4:2,3). Demonic spirits also curse Christ.

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Therefore I want you to understand that no one speaking by the Spirit of God ever says, “Let Jesus be cursed!” and no one can say “Jesus is Lord” except by the Holy Spirit (1 Corinthians 12:3). Summary Scripture warns us of doctrines of demons. These include having an outward, formal religious attitude without any of the power of God. Performing works of self-denial is another way in which people believe they are right with God - they have earned His favor. These practices, Paul says, are departures from the faith, and are doctrines of demons. Basically, demons want people to depart from the true faith that God has revealed. This would include the denial of the basic truths of the Christian faith.

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QUESTION 54 Is Demon Possession A Reality? Is demon-possession a reality, or something that is a superstition of a more ignorant time? Demon Possession Or Demonized? While the specific term “demon-possession” or “demon-possessed” is not used in Scripture, the Bible does speak of people “having a demon,” “demonized,” or demons entering into people and controlling their actions. For lack of a better term, we will use “demon-possession” to speak of these activities. DEMON POSSESSION DOES HAPPEN The New Testament does testify to the fact that demons are able to enter and control both humans and beasts. It is not mere psychological dysfunction on the part of a person. We find this from general statements the New Testament gives as well as specific examples of demon-possession. 1.

There Are General Statements In Scripture

There are a number of accounts in Scripture where demons were driven out of people. For example, Matthew makes the following statement about the miracles of Jesus. And the report of him went forth into all Syria: and they brought unto him all that were sick, with various diseases, those suffering severe pain, possessed with demons, epileptics, and paralytics, and he cured them (Matthew 4:24). 2.

Jesus’ Disciples Had Authority Over Demons

Jesus gave His disciples authority over demons when He sent them out to preach the kingdom of God. Then Jesus summoned his twelve disciples and gave them authority over unclean spirits, to cast them out, and to cure every disease and every sickness (Matthew 10:1). 3.

Why Are They Not Mentioned In John’s Gospel?

It has been argued that the Gospel of John knows nothing about demon-possession, or exorcism. But this is not true. The crowd accused Jesus of having a demon. The crowd answered, “You have a demon! Who is trying to kill you?” (John 7:21). John records that the religious leaders of His day also accused Jesus of having been demon-possessed. The Jews answered him, “Are we not right in saying that you are a Samaritan and have a demon” (John 8:48). While John’s gospel does not record any account of the healing of those demon possessed, it certainly acknowledges that the people believed demon-possession was a reality.

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Exorcism Of Demons In The Book Of Acts

After Jesus ascended into heaven, the exorcism of demons continued through the ministry of His disciples. They were able to drive out demons through the authority of Jesus. For unclean spirits, crying with loud shrieks, came out of many who were possessed; and many others who were paralyzed or lame were cured (Acts 8:7). Summary The Bible talks about people being demon possessed or demonized. This speaks of the ability of demons to enter into and control a person’s life. There are general statements in the New Testament that give evidence of the fact of demon-possession. We find this taught in each of the four gospels as well as in the Book of Acts. The Bible also teaches that the demons can be driven out of people in the authority of Jesus.

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QUESTION 55 Does The New Testament Give Specific Examples Of People Being Demon Possessed? Not only does the New Testament make general statements about people being demon-possessed, there are also specific instances in the New Testament where a person was diagnosed with this problem. 1.

At A Synagogue At Capernaum

Two of the four gospels relate the story of the demon-possessed man in a Capernaum synagogue (Mark 1:25-27; Luke 4:51-56). Jesus was teaching with authority in this synagogue when suddenly a demonic presence made itself known. Jesus exorcised the demon, causing amazement with Him, and His ability. They were all amazed, and they kept on asking one another, “What is this? A new teaching - with authority! He commands even the unclean spirits, and they obey him” (Mark 1:27). 2.

The Gadarene Demoniacs

Three out of the four gospels relay the story of the demoniacs in Gadera that were healed of their demon possession (Matthew 8:28-34) (Mark 5:1-20) (Luke 8:26-39). These two people were living among the tombs, cutting themselves, and causing fear to all who passed by. Jesus exorcised the demons out of these two individuals. The people saw the change. They came to Jesus and saw the demoniac sitting there, clothed and in his right mind, the very man who had had the legion; and they were afraid (Mark 5:15). 3.

The Daughter Of The Gentile Woman

Two of the four gospels tell the story of a Gentile woman who had a daughter who was demon-possessed (Matthew 15:21-28; Mark 7:24-50). Jesus healed the daughter of this woman without being physically present. Then Jesus answered and said unto her, “O woman, great is your faith: be it done unto you even as you will.” And her daughter was healed from that hour (Matthew 15:28). 4.

The Demoniac Boy

Three of the four gospels tell the account of a boy who was demon possessed (Matthew 17:14-21; Mark 9:14-29; Luke 9:37-42). Jesus cast the demon out of him. After crying out and convulsing him terribly, it came out, and the boy was like a corpse, so that most of them said, “He is dead.” But Jesus took him by the hand and lifted him up, and he was able to stand (Mark 9:26,27). 5.

The Mute Man

Matthew records an account of a man healed from demon possession. This individual was both mute and demon-possessed (Matthew 9:32-34).

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And when the demon was cast out, the mute man spoke: and the multitudes marveled, saying, It was never so seen in Israel (Matthew 9:33). 6.

The Mute, Blind, And Demon-Possessed Man

There is also the account of Jesus healing one demon-possessed who could not speak or see (Matthew 12:22-30; Mark 3:20-27; Luke 11:14-23). Then they brought to him a demoniac who was blind and mute; and he cured him, so that the one who had been mute could speak and see (Matthew 12:22). This is the only specific New Testament example of a person who was blind, mute, and demon-possessed that was healed of all three ailments. 7.

The Slave Girl At Philippi

In the Book of Acts there is an account of a slave girl who was demon-possessed. The Apostle Paul cast the demon out of her. But Paul, being very troubled, turned and said to the spirit, I command you in the name of Jesus Christ to come out of her. And it came out that very hour (Acts 16:18). Summary Scripture not only makes general statements about demon possession it also gives some specific examples. This includes the man at the synagogue in Capernaum, the Gadarene demoniacs, the daughter of a Gentile woman, a boy who was demon possessed, a mute man, and a man who was mute and blind. Scripture says Jesus drove the demons out of all of these people. In addition, the Apostle Paul exorcised a demon from a slave girl in the city of Philippi.

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QUESTION 56 What Conclusions Can Be Made About Demon Possession? From reading the New Testament accounts of people who were possessed with demons, as well as from other statements in the New Testament, we can make the following observations and conclusions about this subject. 1.

Demon-Possession Does Occur

Demon possession is a fact - demonic spirits can take hold and control an individual. There are a number of specific examples of it occurring, as well as general statements about its reality. There is no doubt that the Scriptures assume that demon possession is real. 2.

Possession May Be Voluntary Or Involuntary

There is no indication that each individual who was demon-possessed asked for the demon to enter. Since demon-possession may be involuntary, any unbeliever can be possessed. 3.

Demon-Possessed People Don’t Necessarily Live Immoral Lives

Those who were possessed by demons were not all immoral people. Any unbeliever, whether they live a moral life or immoral life, can be possessed by a demon. 4.

It May Or May Not Be Permanent

Demon possession can be only temporary. It is possible for the demon to leave and then return. If the demon returns, the person will be worse off than they were previously. 5.

It Can Affect The Body

Those who are demon-possessed can have their body affected by the demon. 6.

It Can Also Affect The Mind

It is also possible for the mind to be affected by one demon-possessed. 7.

There Can Be A Wide Variety Of Symptoms

There is not just one symptom of demon possession. We find a wide variety of symptoms of those who are possessed. 8.

When Someone Is Delivered It Is Immediate

When deliverance from demon-possession does come, it is immediate. There are no long periods of waiting for the demon to come out.

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The Demon May Return

It is possible for a demon to return to a person once it has been cast out. Unless a person trusts Christ, as their Savior, the possibility exists that the demon may return. If this happens, then that person can be in a worse situation than whey they were previously demon-possessed. Summary There are a number of conclusions that can be made about demon possession. First, demon possession does occur – it is a reality. Demon possession may be voluntary or involuntary. Those who are demon possessed do not necessarily live immoral lives. Demon possession may or may not be permanent. Demon possession can affect a person’s body. The mind may be affected by demon possession. Demon possession has a variety of symptoms. Deliverance from demon possession, if it comes, is immediate. However unless a person trusts Christ as their Savior the demon may return. If this happens their situation may becomes worse.

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QUESTION 57 What Happens When A Person Is Demon-Possessed? Those who were possessed by demons in Scripture showed certain symptoms. They include the following. 1.

They Cannot Control Themselves

A person who is under the control of a demon cannot control himself or herself. The evil spirit is able to speak through their lips or can make them mute as it so desires. Scripture gives examples of demonpossessed people who were mute. And when the demon was cast out, the mute man spoke: and the multitudes marveled, saying, “It was never so seen in Israel” (Matthew 9:33). We also read in Matthew. Then was brought unto him one possessed with a demon, blind and mute: and he healed him, insomuch that the mute man spoke and saw (Matthew 12:22). We also find demons speaking through people. Just then there was in their synagogue a man with an unclean spirit, and he cried out, “What have you to do with us, Jesus of Nazareth? Have you come to destroy us? I know who you are, the Holy One of God” (Mark 1:23-24). 2.

It Introduces A New Personality

Demon-possession means that a new personality is introduced to that person - the victim becomes a different person. The Gadarene demoniac acted and spoke as one who was controlled by another personality. Suddenly they shouted, “What have you to do with us, Son of God? Have you come here to torment us before the time?” (Matthew 8:29). 3.

They May Speak With A Different Voice

Sometimes those who are demon-possessed speak with a different voice. On one occasion, when Jesus asked the name of the demon, the demon spoke through the man and said. And he [Jesus] asked him, “What is your name?” And he said unto him, “My name is Legion; for we are many” (Mark 5:9). 4.

They May Have Supernatural Knowledge

In one incident, the demons speaking through a man, immediately recognized Jesus as the Messiah.

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Just then there was in their synagogue a man with an unclean spirit, and he cried out, “What have you to do with us, Jesus of Nazareth? Have you come to destroy us? I know who you are, the Holy One of God” (Mark 1:23-24). This understanding of Jesus’ identity came from supernatural knowledge. For at this time, Jesus had not yet revealed Himself to His disciples, or to the world, as the promised Messiah. 5.

They Have New Abilities

A person who is demon-possessed acquires new abilities. For example, those possessed by demons can demonstrate superhuman strength. The Bible speaks of one demoniac in the following way. He had often been restrained with shackles and chains, but the chains he wrenched apart, and the shackles he broke in pieces; and no one had the strength to subdue him. Night and day among the tombs and on the mountains he was always howling and bruising himself with stones (Mark 5:4,5). 6.

They Have Suicidal Tendencies

Demon possession can lead to suicidal tendencies. The Bible says of one person who was demonpossessed. It has often cast him into the fire and into the water, to destroy him; but if you are able to do anything, have pity on us and help us (Mark 9:22). It seems that demons want to physically destroy the person they possess. Summary The New Testament tells us some of the signs of demon possession The demons are able to speak through their victims, they can demonstrate new abilities, show different personalities, and exhibit suicidal tendencies. The main thing to understand is that demon-possessed people are controlled by this demonic presence. Though the symptoms may look like mere psychological dysfunction, in actuality, the problem is demon-possession.

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QUESTION 58 Can A Person Be Demon-Possessed Today? According to Scripture, demon possession is a harsh reality. Though demons did enter and control people during biblical times, is it possible that it still happens today? The answer is yes. Demon possession and control did not end with the New Testament. 1.

There Are Symptoms Of Demon-Possession

The symptoms of demon-possession today would be the same as in the New Testament era. These would include: superhuman strength, superhuman knowledge, a different voice speaking through the person, and the inability to control oneself. 2.

There May Be A Correlation With Some Sicknesses

It is possible, at times, to find a correlation between sickness, mental illness, and demonic activity. Caution, however, must be exercised. It is not always possible for us to know the root cause of a particular sickness or mental illness. It is not Christlike, and it is very cruel, to attribute the suffering of a person to demonic activity. This may only add to their problems. The best thing to do is to pray for that person and ask the Lord to have His way with them - whatever the root of their problem may be. 3.

We Must Rule Out Other Possibilities

In so many instances where demon-possession is assumed, the problem turned out to be something else. Only after all other possibilities are exhausted, should demon-possession be considered as the root cause of their ordeal. 4.

Demon-Possession Should Be Dealt With By Mature Christians

If demon-possession is suspected, it should not be treated lightly. Spiritually mature people who are in Christian leadership, not by new believers, should handle the episode. It is not something to be trifled with! 5.

The Demonized Person Can Be Set Free

Since demon-possession is a possibility, it is also possible for people to be controlled by God’s Holy Spirit. The Lord Jesus came into the world to set people free from the power of evil, and place them under the control of the Holy Spirit of God. 6.

The Demon May Return

Therefore, after a demon is exorcised, the Lord must come in and fill the void. Otherwise the last fate of the person will be worse than the first. Jesus warned about this. When the unclean spirit has gone out of a person, it wanders through waterless regions looking for a resting place, but not finding any, it says, ‘I will return to my house from which I came.’ Then it goes and brings seven other spirits more evil than itself, and they enter and live there; and the last state of that person is worse than the first (Luke 11:24,26).

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Believers Need Not Worry: They Are Controlled By The Lord

Those controlled by the Lord have God’s Spirit indwelling them. Jesus answered and said to him, “If anyone loves me, he will keep my word; and my Father will love him, and we will come to him and make our home with him” (John 14:23). Therefore demon-possession is something that cannot directly affect them. Summary Demon possession can still occur today. The symptoms would be similar as to those found in the New Testament. However one must be extremely careful when attributing unusual behavior to demon possession. There are other possibilities which should always be considered first. The good news is that people can be set free from demon-possession. Believers, who are indwelt with the Holy Spirit, cannot be demon-possessed.

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QUESTION 59 Can A Christian Be Demon-Possessed? Though demons can enter and possess any unbeliever, they cannot enter into the body of those who belong to the Lord. There are a number of reasons why this is so. 1.

Greater Is He That Is In Us

The Bible says that the one who indwells believers is greater than the one who is in the world. You are of God, my little children, and have overcome them: because greater is he that is in you than he that is in the world (1 John 4:4). 2.

Christians Have Been Delivered

Those who have trusted Christ have been delivered from the possibility of demonic possession. Paul wrote. In which you once lived, following the course of this world, following the ruler of the power of the air, the spirit that is now at work among those who are disobedient (Ephesians 2:2). The believers do not live any more under their authority. He has rescued us from the power of darkness and transferred us into the kingdom of his beloved Son, in whom we have redemption, the forgiveness of sins (Colossians 1:13,14). 3.

We Have Nothing In Common With Satan

Believers have nothing in common with darkness or Satan. The Holy Spirit, and a demonic spirit, cannot co-exist in the same person. Paul wrote. And what agreement has Christ with Belial? Or what part has a believer with an unbeliever? (2 Corinthians 6:15). 4.

There Is No Biblical Example Of A Christian Being Demon-Possessed

Finally, there is no example in Scripture of a believer in Jesus Christ being demon-possessed. All cases of demonic possession were with those who were unbelievers. SOME FIND PASSAGES IN SUPPORT OF B ELIEVERS B EING DEMON-POSSESSED Sometimes the following passages are cited as support of believers being possessed. 1.

The Delivery Of A Believer To Satan

Paul ordered the church of Corinth to deliver a believer over to Satan. They include the following. To deliver such a one unto Satan for the destruction of the flesh, that the spirit may be saved in the day of the Lord Jesus (1 Corinthians 5:5).

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There is no evidence that the person whom Paul delivered over to Satan became demon-possessed. He was being delivered over to Satan be judged – not to be possessed. 2.

Two People Were Turned Over To Satan

The Bible speaks of two other individuals who were also delivered over to Satan. Of whom is Hymenaeus and Alexander; whom I delivered unto Satan, that they might be taught not to blaspheme (1 Timothy 1:20). As is the case with the believer in Corinth, there is no indication that either of these men were ever demon-possessed. 3.

People Were Taken Captive By The Devil

Another passage speaks of people being taken captive by the Devil. And they may recover themselves out of the snare of the Devil, having been taken captive by him unto his will (2 Timothy 2:26). The people under discussion in this context are not believers. Consequently there is no Scriptural support for the idea that Christians can become demon-possessed. WHAT ABOUT STORIES OF B ELIEVERS AND DEMONS? If this is the case, then what about the stories that circulate with respect to believers and demonpossession. Examples are provided of believers who exhibit symptoms of demon possession. When people give examples of believers being possessed, there are a number of questions that immediately arise, “Were these victims of demon possession really believers?” “Were they actually possessed with a demon, or is there another possible explanation for their behavior?” Since the Bible gives no support that a believer can be possessed by a demon, some other explanation must be in order. The issue is clear. It is not whether a professing Christian can be demon-possessed, but rather can a genuine, “born again” Christian become demon-possessed? The answer to this question is an emphatic, “No.” WHAT THE B IBLE SAYS ABOUT THE B ELIEVER’S POSITION IN CHRIST Scripture says the following about the believer and their position in Christ. 1.

There Is A Permanent Indwelling Of Holy Spirit

The Bible teaches that the Holy Spirit permanently indwells those who have trusted Christ. Paul wrote. In him you also, when you had heard the word of truth, the gospel of your salvation, and had believed in him, were marked with the seal of the promised Holy Spirit; this is the pledge of our inheritance toward redemption as God’s own people, to the praise of his glory (Ephesians 1:13,14).

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The Unseen World Believers Are A New Creation

Believers are a new creation in Christ. So if anyone is in Christ, there is a new creation: everything old has passed away; see, everything has become new! (2 Corinthians 5:17). 3.

The Body Is The Temple Of The Holy Spirit

The body of the believer is now a temple of the Holy Spirit. Or do you not know that your body is a temple of the Holy Spirit which is in you, which you have from God? And you are not your own (1 Corinthians 6:19). 4.

Nothing Can Separate The Believer From The Lord

The Bible says that such evil powers cannot separate the believer from the love of God. For I am persuaded, that neither death, nor life, nor angels, nor principalities, nor things present, nor things to come, nor powers, nor height, nor depth, nor any other creature, shall be able to separate us from the love of God, which is in Christ Jesus our Lord (Romans 8:38,39). Specially mentioned are the angels and principalities - angelic orders. Not even they can separate the believer from the love of God. All of these things would make demon-possession an impossibility for the Christian. Satan and demons are defeated foes, yet they are still very active in this world, causing much harm. Though they cannot possess and control a believer, they can cause a number of problems. Consequently we should never underestimate or overestimate their ability. Summary The Scripture does not teach that a Christian can be possessed by a demon. The believer is “in Christ,”one of His. Every example in the Bible of a person being demon-possessed concerns an unbeliever - there are no examples of believers being possessed. Furthermore, we must be careful not to rely on stories of believers and demon-possession - many other explanations are possible. The Christian, who is indwelt by the Holy Spirit, need not fear demon possession. Yet, demons do attack believers in various ways. Therefore it would be wrong to say that they cannot have any affect on the Christian.

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QUESTION 60 Does The New Testament Equate Disease With Demon Possession? What relationship is there, if any, between disease and demon possession? The New Testament has the following to say. 1.

There Is A Distinction Between Illness And Demon Possession

While it is true that demons can inflict disease, the Bible makes the distinction between disease and being possessed by demons. Scripture distinguishes between ordinary cases of sickness, and other illnesses that are symptomatic of something else. So his fame spread throughout all Syria, and they brought to him all the sick, those who were afflicted with various diseases and pains, demoniacs, epileptics, and paralytics, and he cured them (Matthew 4:24). Here we have the distinction between demon possession and illness. 2.

The Healings Of Jesus Do Not Always Assume Demon-Possession

When Jesus healed a man with leprosy there was nothing to indicate He thought the man was demonpossessed. Immediately the leprosy left him, and he was made clean . . . [Jesus] said to him, “See that you say nothing to anyone; but go, show yourself to the priest, and offer for your cleansing what Moses commanded, as a testimony to them” (Mark 1:42,44). There were many cases of people whom Jesus healed in which there was no mention of demon possession. These included people who were mute, blind, and deaf. In none of these cases do we find the writers of Scripture attributing their illness to the demonic. 3.

The Account Of The Demon-Possessed Boy

One of the passages that seems to link sickness and demon possession is found in Mark. And they brought the boy to him. When the spirit saw him, immediately it convulsed the boy, and he fell on the ground and rolled about, foaming at the mouth. Jesus asked the father, “How long has this been happening to him?” And he said, “From childhood. It has often cast him into the fire and into the water, to destroy him; but if you are able to do anything, have pity on us and help us” (Mark 9:2022). This boy, who had symptoms of epilepsy, was actually possessed by a demon. Scripture makes the distinction between the two. And the news about him went out into all Syria; and they brought to him all who were ill, taken with various diseases and pains, demoniacs, epileptics, paralytics; and he healed them (Matthew 4:24).

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The Unseen World Demon-Possessed People Have More Than The Usual Symptoms

Those who were demon-possessed had physical manifestations of their possession. This included such things as: seizure, speech impediments, muteness, deafness, and blindness. The manifestations of these afflictions were beyond the normal symptoms for the particular ailment. There was something unusual about their symptoms that caused them to be attributed to demons. Yet others, who had the same affliction, were not assumed to be demon-possessed, but rather merely sick. Scripture is careful to make the distinction between the two. Summary The Bible says that disease and demon-possession are not to be equated. Scripture makes the clear distinction between sickness and demon-possession. There are examples of people who are demonpossessed that have physical afflictions. However others with the same afflictions are not considered to be demon-possessed. It is wrong therefore, to equate certain kinds of illness to demon-possession.

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QUESTION 61 What Authority Do Christians Have Over Demons? Demons can cause much trouble. However the Christian has authority over the demonic realm through the power of Christ. The Bible emphasizes the following. 1.

Christ Is The Victor!

The Bible makes it clear that Satan and his forces have no authority over Christ and His. And the seventy returned with joy, saying, “Lord, even the demons are subject unto us in your name” (Luke 10:17). 2.

We Are To Be Subject To Christ

Believers, therefore, need to makes themselves subject to Jesus Christ in all things. Paul wrote. And every proud obstacle raised up against the knowledge of God, and we take every thought captive to obey Christ (2 Corinthians 10:5). All of our thoughts and activities should be in subjection to Him. 3.

Believers Should Think And Pray About Heavenly Things

Our thoughts and prayers should be on the things of God. Do not worry about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. Finally, beloved, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is pleasing, whatever is commendable, if there is any excellence and if there is anything worthy of praise, think about these things (Philippians 4:6-8). Believers should pray about everything, worry about nothing. All things should be committed to the Lord. In this way, victory can be achieved over any demonic influence that may come to the believer. Summary Demonic activity is real, but the Christian should not be afraid. God is greater than any demon or any thing that they can do. Furthermore, when believers put themselves into subjection to Christ and His kingdom, by thinking His thoughts, and praying for heavenly things, then the influence of demonic activity will be negated. Christians, therefore, should neither fear demons, nor go looking for them.

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QUESTION 62 What Are Some Practical Considerations In Dealing With Demonic Forces? There are a number of practical considerations that we can make about dealing with demons. 1.

We Must Follow The New Testament Guidelines

Any deliverance from demon-possession must be done according to the guidelines found in the New Testament. As our final authority, Scripture tells us what we can, and cannot, do with respect to demonpossession. Christ and His apostles are our example. It is imperative that we do as they do. 2.

Exorcism Is Not Enough

Exorcism, by itself, is not enough. When a demon leaves a person there is a void. Unless the Holy Spirit comes into that individual’s life they can be repossessed by even greater evil spirits. Therefore the new birth is absolutely necessary for one who has been exorcised of a demon. 3.

Using The Name Of Jesus Does Not Prove Anything

The mere exorcism in the name of Jesus does not prove anything, in and of itself. Jesus warned that there would be many who exorcised demons in His name whom He never knew. Not everyone who says to me, ‘Lord, Lord,’ will enter the kingdom of heaven, but only the one who does the will of my Father in heaven. On that day many will say to me, ‘Lord, Lord, did we not prophesy in your name, and cast out demons in your name, and do many deeds of power in your name?’ Then I will declare to them, ‘I never knew you; go away from me, you evildoers’ (Matthew 7:21-23). The Word of God must be our final standard when it comes to explaining events where demon-possession is suspected. 4.

Genuine Believers Cannot Be Demon-Possessed

Genuine believers cannot be demon-possessed - Christ cannot dwell with the Devil. However professing Christians, who have never trusted Christ as their Savior, are open to demon-possession. 5.

Believers Can Be The Devil’s Instrument

Believers can come under the influence of demons and even be an unwitting tool of their evil work. This is not the same as demon-possession. 6.

We Are Not Commanded To Diagnose Possession

Believers are never asked to diagnose cases of demon-possession. Instead, prayer should be made for that individual who is suspected of being under the influence of a demon.

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Christ Should Be Magnified As Lord

In cases of supposed demon activity, the Lordship of Christ is what should be emphasized. Since the Bible teaches that Christ has achieved victory over Satan and his forces, believers should stand upon that truth, and not be afraid of demonic manifestations. 8.

There Is Not That Much Space Devoted To This Issue

There is not much space given in the New Testament to believers resisting demonic activity, or instruction about how to deal with demons. The emphasis, rather, is upon urging believers not to sin. Whenever Paul brought up a particular problem in a church, he attributed the problem to sin, not the influence of demons. Though the reality of the demonic is recognized, this is certainly not the main focus of the New Testament. The problem with sin lies with the individual and their own responsibility - it cannot be blamed upon the demons. Summary When we treat the subject of demons and their activity it is imperative that we follow the teaching of the New Testament. Scripture teaches us that exorcism, by itself, is not enough. The person must turn to Jesus Christ for complete deliverance. The Bible also warns about false believers. Therefore not all of those who invoke the name of Jesus are necessarily Christians. We also find that genuine believers cannot be demon possessed. However believers can unwittingly function as the devil’s instrument. None of us are commanded to diagnose demon possession. The emphasis is only praying for people with suspected demonic problems. Above all, Jesus Christ should be magnified as Lord. When this occurs there will be victory over demonic forces. Finally, we must note that there is not that much space devoted in Scripture to dealing with demons. We should not attempt to do more or less than we find Christ and His followers doing with respect to demons. They do exist, and they do cause problems. But they should not be the focus of the Christian when problems arise. The real problem is sin - something each of us is responsible for.

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QUESTION 63 What Is The Ultimate Fate Of Demons? As the demons are well-aware, they will eventually face judgment. The Bible says the following about their ultimate fate. 1.

Judgment And Torment Are Their Fate

During the ministry of Jesus, the demons acknowledged their ultimate fate - they will face judgment and torment. Suddenly they shouted, “What have you to do with us, Son of God? Have you come here to torment us before the time?” (Matthew 8:29). They realize the identity of Jesus. They also know that torment is their ultimate destiny when Christ judges all unbelief. 2.

There Are Stages Of Judgment

For demons, there are stages of judgment. Some demons have already been confined during this present age. And the angels who did not keep their own position, but left their proper dwelling, he has kept in eternal chains in deepest darkness for the judgment of the great Day (Jude 6). Peter says of these chained angels. For if God did not spare the angels when they sinned, but cast them into hell and committed them to chains of deepest darkness to be kept until the judgment (2 Peter 2:4). It seems that their crimes were so horrendous that they could never be set free from their imprisonment. However, some of these confined demons will be released for a short time during the future Great Tribulation (Revelation 9) and cause havoc on the earth. They will go out to do battle with the Lord. For they are spirits of demons, working signs; which go forth unto the kings of the whole world, to gather them together unto the war of the great day of God, the Almighty (Revelation 16:14). It must be noted that not all Christians believe there will be a distinct period in the future called the Great Tribulation. 3.

Christ Will Judge The Nations When He Returns

When Christ returns He will judge the nations. When the Son of Man comes in his glory, and all the angels with him, then he will sit on the throne of his glory. All the nations will be gathered before him, and he will separate people one from another as a shepherd separates the sheep from the goats (Matthew 25:31,32). At this time we assume, though it is not stated, that He will judge the demons. Consequently they will all be confined and kept from working their evil.

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There Is No Demon Activity During A Literal Millennium

We are told that the Devil is not active during a future millennial reign of Christ on the earth. Then I saw an angel coming down from heaven, holding in his hand the key to the bottomless pit and a great chain. He seized the dragon, that ancient serpent, who is the Devil and Satan, and bound him for a thousand years, and threw him into the pit, and locked and sealed it over him, so that he would deceive the nations no more, until the thousand years were ended. After that he must be let out for a little while (Revelation 20:1-3). The inactivity of the Devil would also include his followers in the spirit realm. There are differences of opinion among Christians concerning the existence of a future millennium on the earth. Some believe the language is only symbolic while others believe that Christ comes back after the millennium, not before. 5.

The Demons Will Ultimately Be Thrown Into The Lake Of Fire

With the Devil, the demons will ultimately end up in the lake of fire. The fate of the demons, therefore, is associated with the fate of the Devil. Jesus said of their fate. Then he will say to those at his left, ‘You that are accursed, depart from me into the eternal fire prepared for the Devil and his angels’ (Matthew 25:41). This will happen at the Great White Throne judgment. And the Devil that deceived them was cast into the lake of fire and sulfur, where are also the beast and the false prophet; and they shall be tormented day and night for ever and ever. And death and Hades were cast into the lake of fire. This is the second death, even the lake of fire (Revelation 20:10,14). Hades is the unseen world, which includes the realm of spirits. It, and everything associated with it, will eventually be thrown into the lake of fire. Summary The demons will not escape God’s judgment. We find their judgment occurring in several stages. Like the Devil, they will ultimately be judged and thrown into the lake of fire where they will be forever tormented for their sins.

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Summary On Demons (Topic 3) From our study of the topic of demons we have learned the following. Question 44. The existence of spirit-creatures called “demons,” or “unclean spirits” is clearly taught in Scripture. The writers of the Old Testament, the Lord Jesus, the Seventy, Paul, and James recognized them. Especially important is the testimony of Jesus. He was God who became a man. He would be in a position to know whether or not they did exist. Jesus made it clear that demons do exist, and that they cause all sorts of problems with humanity. Therefore the Bible says that a spiritual realm exists that is unseen to the human eye. Along with the one true, God, there exists, in this realm, such personal beings as angels, good and bad, and demons. Question 45. To attempt to say that Jesus really did not believe in demons but rather accommodated Himself to the superstition of His day causes more problems than it solves. If Jesus did accommodate himself to this belief, then how do we know that He did not accommodate Himself to other beliefs? How can anyone determine what He really believed? Jesus accepted the existence of demons for one simple reason - demons do exist. Question 46. Demons do exist. They are personal intelligent beings who are evil malicious spirits. Some of them are more evil than others. There are so many of them that it makes the evil work of Satan going on almost everywhere on the earth. Question 47. Scripture makes it very clear that demons exist, it does not, however, tell us where they came from. Though various theories have been put forward. One idea is that they are disembodied sprits of some Pre-adamic race. However Scripture does not teach that any race existed before Adam. Some think they are the spirits of the evil dead. Scripture does not support this theory. Others think they were the offspring of angels and human women. Scripture also contradicts this. The best answer seems to be that demons are fallen angels, since the same titles are applied to both of them. However no one knows for certain about their origin. The Bible simply does not tell us. Question 48. The Bible says that demons do exist. There are many of them. This is in contrast to the one Devil. Since the root meaning of the Greek word translated as demons means “knowing,” there is the possibility that it reflects creatures with higher intelligence than humanity. This, however, is only conjecture. Question 49. The influence of demons can be seen by a number of things that they do. They can enter into people and animals, inflict mental and physical infirmities, cause people to behave erratically, and even deceive entire nations. Though their power is far-reaching, it can only be exercised within limits. Question 50. Demons are powerful. Their power should not be underestimated. However they are not all-powerful. There are limits to what they can do. Demons are intelligent, but they are not all-knowing. Demons are also limited in that they can only be at one place at one time. Furthermore, demons only do evil, we never find them doing good works. Question 51. Demons know their limitations. They understand that only one God exists and they must submit to Him. They also know who Jesus is, and they submit to His authority. Demons realize that they will eventually be judged. They also know the identity of genuine believers. Those who believe in Jesus have power over the demons and should not be frightened of them.

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Question 52. The idea that demons can somehow materialize is not found in Scripture. To the contrary, the Bible speaks of these disembodied spirits going around trying to find human beings in which to possess. Demons do appear in animal forms in the Book of Revelation. Though it could be argued that this is a materialization of demons, there is just not enough information to make that conclusion. Question 53. Scripture warns us of doctrines of demons. These include having an outward, formal religious attitude without any of the power of God. Performing works of self-denial is another way in which people believe they are right with God - they have earned His favor. These practices, Paul says, are departures from the faith, and are doctrines of demons. Basically, demons want people to depart from the true faith that God has revealed. This would include the denial of the basic truths of the Christian faith. Question 54. The Bible talks about people being demon possessed or demonized. This speaks of the ability of demons to enter into and control a person’s life. There are general statements in the New Testament that give evidence of the fact of demon-possession. We find this taught in each of the four gospels as well as in the Book of Acts. The Bible also teaches that the demons can be driven out of people in the authority of Jesus. Question 55. Scripture not only makes general statements about demon possession it also gives some specific examples. This includes the man at the synagogue in Capernaum, the Gadarene demoniacs, the daughter of a Gentile woman, a boy who was demon possessed, a mute man, and a man who was mute and blind. Scripture says Jesus drove the demons out of all of these people. In addition, the Apostle Paul exorcised a demon from a slave girl in the city of Philippi. Question 56. There are a number of conclusions that can be made about demon possession. First, demon possession does occur – it is a reality. Demon possession may be voluntary or involuntary. Those who are demon possessed do not necessarily live immoral lives. Demon possession may or may not be permanent. Demon possession can affect a person’s body. The mind may be affected by demon possession. Demon possession has a variety of symptoms. Deliverance from demon possession, if it comes, is immediate. However unless a person trusts Christ as their Savior the demon may return. If this happens their situation may becomes worse. Question 57. The New Testament tells us some of the signs of demon possession The demons are able to speak through their victims, they can demonstrate new abilities, show different personalities, and exhibit suicidal tendencies. The main thing to understand is that demon-possessed people are controlled by this demonic presence. Though the symptoms may look like mere psychological dysfunction, in actuality, the problem is demon-possession. Question 58. Demon possession can still occur today. The symptoms would be similar as to those found in the New Testament. However one must be extremely careful when attributing unusual behavior to demon possession. There are other possibilities which should always be considered first. The good news is that people can be set free from demon-possession. Believers, who are indwelt with the Holy Spirit, cannot be demon-possessed. Question 59. The Scripture does not teach that a Christian can be possessed by a demon. The believer is “in Christ,”- one of His. Every example in the Bible of a person being demon-possessed concerns an unbeliever - there are no examples of believers being possessed. Furthermore, we must be careful not to rely on stories of believers and demon-possession - many other explanations are possible. The Christian, who is indwelt by the Holy Spirit, need not fear demon possession. Yet, demons do attack believers in various ways. Therefore it would be wrong to say that they cannot have any affect on the Christian.

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Question 60. The Bible says that disease and demon-possession are not to be equated. Scripture makes the clear distinction between sickness and demon-possession. There are examples of people who are demon-possessed that have physical afflic tions. However others with the same afflictions are not considered to be demon-possessed. It is wrong therefore, to equate certain kinds of illness to demonpossession. Question 61. Demonic activity is real, but the Christian should not be afraid. God is greater than any demon or any thing that they can do. Furthermore, when believers put themselves into subjection to Christ and His kingdom, by thinking His thoughts, and praying for heavenly things, then the influence of demonic activity will be negated. Christians, therefore, should neither fear demons, nor go looking for them. Question 62. When we treat the subject of demons and their activity it is imperative that we follow the teaching of the New Testament. Scripture teaches us that exorcism, by itself, is not enough. The person must turn to Jesus Christ for complete deliverance. The Bible also warns about false believers. Therefore not all of those who invoke the name of Jesus are necessarily Christians. We also find that genuine believers cannot be demon possessed. However believers can unwittingly function as the devil’s instrument. None of us are commanded to diagnose demon possession. The emphasis is only praying for people with suspected demonic problems. Above all, Jesus Christ should be magnified as Lord. When this occurs there will be victory over demonic forces. Finally, we must note that there is not that much space devoted in Scripture to dealing with demons. We should not attempt to do more or less than we find Christ and His followers doing with respect to demons. They do exist, and they do cause problems. But they should not be the focus of the Christian when problems arise. The real problem is sin - something each of us is responsible for. Question 63. The demons will not escape God’s judgment. We find their judgment occurring in several stages. Like the Devil, they will ultimately be judged and thrown into the lake of fire where they will be forever tormented for their sins. According to the Bible, angels good and bad, as well as demons actually exist. The leader of the evil angels and the demons is a spirit-being known by a variety of names. Our last topic of this course will consider the biblical teaching on this personage known as Satan or the Devil. The questions we will answer include the following: Does Satan, or the Devil, really exist? Who is Satan? What is his career? How is Satan’s character described? How does Satan counterfeit Jesus? What contrasts are there between the Devil and the Holy Spirit?

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Topic 4

SATAN The Biblical Description Of The Archenemy Of God

Introduction There is a personage who exists who is the archenemy of God and of humanity. He is known as the Devil or Satan. In this section we will consider the career of this evil being from his creation, fall, judgment, and final consignment to the lake of fire.

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QUESTION 64 Does Satan, Or The Devil, Really Exist? To many people, the idea of Satan, or the Devil, is a myth. He is a product of the imagination of superstitious people who did not know any better. Yet the Bible says that he is a reality. The United Testimony Of Scripture Says Yes From the Book of Genesis, through the Book of Revelation, the existence of an intelligent, cunning personage who is the great archenemy of God is clearly taught. Known by a number of different names, this personage is always treated as a real character - there is no indication whatsoever that he is merely a symbolic figure of evil. In the Old Testament, Satan is referred to in seven different books: Genesis, 1 Chronicles, Job, Psalms, Ezekiel, Isaiah, and Zechariah. In these books we find him under several different names. Nineteen of the New Testament books refer to Satan. They include: the four gospels, Acts, Romans, 1 and 2 Corinthians, Ephesians, 1 and 2 Thessalonians, 1 and 2 Timothy, Hebrews, James, 1 and 2 John, Jude, Revelation. Therefore we have a number of different authors over a sixteen hundred year period testifying to his existence. Were all of them mistaken when they wrote about this personage? In addition, we have the testimony of the Lord Jesus. Jesus acknowledged the existence of Satan. At least fifteen different times, and under five different names, Jesus asserted that the Devil, or Satan, existed. This personage, the Devil, had a confrontation with Jesus when He was fasting. Then Jesus was led up by the Spirit into the wilderness to be tempted by the Devil (Matthew 4:1). On three different occasions in the temptation account, the Bible records the answers of Jesus to Satan. Obviously He was speaking to someone. Five different times we find Jesus using personal pronouns when responding to the Devil. There is nothing in the temptation account that causes us to think it is mythological, or that Satan is merely a symbol of evil. Personal Pronouns Are Used Of Him Elsewhere, the Bible uses personal pronouns when describing Satan. This points unmistakably to a person. For example, the Lord spoke directly to Satan, and called him, “you.” And the Lord said unto Satan, “Have you considered my servant Job?” (Job 1:8). By speaking directly to Satan, and calling him “you,” it shows that he is a real person. Satan is also referred to with the pronouns “himself” and “you” in Job 2:2, as well as “you” in Zechariah 3:2. All of uses are indications of personality. HE HAS PERSONAL CHARACTERISTICS Furthermore, personal characteristics are attributed to the Devil.

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He Has The Ability To Organize

The fact that he can organize his forces shows that he has personality. And when the thousand years are finished, Satan shall be loosed out of his prison and will come out to deceive the nations at the four corners of the earth, Gog and Magog, in order to gather them for battle; they are as numerous as the sands of the sea (Revelation 20:7,8). 2.

He Has Knowledge

When he is thrown down to the earth before the Second Coming of Christ, the Bible says the Devil knows his time is short Therefore rejoice, you heavens and you who dwell in them! But woe to the earth and the sea, because the Devil has gone down to you! He is filled with fury, because he knows that his time is short (Revelation 12:12). The fact that he has this knowledge reveals he is a personal being. 3.

Satan Has Intelligence

Satan is able to form plans, use cunning, and deceive people. But I fear, lest by any means, as the serpent beguiled Eve in his craftiness, your minds should be corrupted from the simplicity and the purity that is toward Christ (2 Corinthians 11:3). All these are characteristics of personhood. 4.

He Can Reason

The fact that Satan quoted Scripture to the Lord Jesus during the temptation, shows that he is a personal being. Then the devil took him to the holy city and had him stand on the highest point of the temple. “If you are the Son of God,” he said, “throw yourself down. For it is written: “He will command his angels concerning you, and they will lift you up in their hands, so that you will not strike your foot against a stone” ( Matthew 4:5,6). He was able to reason with Jesus by quoting an obscure verse of Scripture out of context. 5.

He Has Choice

Satan has the power of choice. In the beginning he chose to rebel against God, and he has been making that same choice ever since. Choice is an obvious sign of personality. 6.

Satan Has Emotions

The Bible speaks of the Devil showing emotions. He has shown the emotion of hatred for the things of God. The Devil also has shown desire. Jesus said. Simon, Simon, behold, Satan desired to have you, that he might sift you as wheat (Luke 22:31).

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He has also displayed pride. Not a novice, lest being puffed up he fall into the condemnation of the Devil (1 Timothy 3:6). Among the emotions he shows is burning anger. Therefore rejoice, O heavens, and you that dwell in them. Woe for the earth and for the sea: because the Devil is gone down unto you, having great wrath, knowing that he has but a short time (Revelation 12:12). All of these emotions are examples of one who has personality. PERSONAL ACTIONS ARE ATTRIBUTED TO HIM There are also personal actions attributed to the Devil. 1.

He Is Able To Tempt

The Bible calls Satan the tempter. Then Jesus was led up of the Spirit into the wilderness to be tempted by the Devil (Matthew 4:1). He attempted to cause Jesus to sin, but he failed in the task. He is, however, able to tempt people to sin. To be able to tempt shows intelligence and design - both qualities of personality. 2.

He Accuses

He is able to accuse God’s people. And I heard a great voice in heaven, saying, “Now is come the salvation, and the power, and the kingdom of our God, and the authority of his Christ: for the accuser of the believers is cast down, who accuses them before our God day and night” (Revelation 12:10). This is a trait only a person has. The Old Testament also records accusations made by Satan. And he showed me Joshua the high priest standing before the angel of the LORD, and Satan standing at his right hand to be his adversary (Zechariah 3:1). As Joshua the high priest was a real person, so is Satan, his adversary. 3.

He Can Fight

Satan is said to fight against God. His struggle is organized - another trait of personality. And there was war in heaven, Michael and his angels waging war with the dragon. And the dragon and his angels waged war (Revelation 12:7). 4.

He Can Communicate

During the temptation of Jesus, Satan communicated to Him through the power of speech. In the Book of Job, Satan is also shown as talking to God.

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Then Satan answered the LORD, “Does Job fear God for nothing? Have you not put a fence around him and his house and all that he has, on every side? You have blessed the work of his hands, and his possessions have increased in the land” (Job 1:9,10). Speech is only possible if Satan is a real personality. 5.

He Will Be Punished

The fact that the Devil will eventually be punished for his sins shows that he is more than a mere force or idea. And the Devil that deceived them was cast into the lake of fire and sulfur, where are also the beast and the false prophet; and they shall be tormented day and night for ever and ever (Revelation 20:10). You can only punish someone who is real. It is impossible to punish an idea or an abstraction. THE AUTHORITY OF SCRIPTURE IS AT STAKE Therefore, the existence of a personal Devil is tied to the issue of the authority of Scripture. If Scripture is accepted for what it claims to be - God’s inspired Word, the final authority on all matters of faith and practice - then the existence of a personal Devil is beyond all doubt. However if one rejects, for whatever reason, the authority of Scripture with respect to the Devil, then it is a short step to reject other important doctrines of Scripture. One cannot believe in a fully authoritative Scripture and, at the same time, reject its teaching about the existence and personality of the Devil. Summary Satan is not a mere force, a symbolic figure of evil, or the figment of someone’s imagination. He is a real personage. We discover this in the following ways. Scripture always treats him as a personal being - never some impersonal force, or mere symbol of evil. In His dialogue with Satan, Jesus treated him as someone who has real substance. We also find the Devil in conversation with the Lord in the Book of Job. Personal pronouns such as “he,” “you,” and “himself,” are attributed to the Devil. He has the characteristics of one who has personality. He has also demonstrated personal actions. The existence and the personality of the Devil is tied to the acceptance of the Scripture as God’s revelation to humanity. We conclude Satan is a real being that exists. There is no evidence whatsoever that we should understand him as some sort of illusion or symbol of evil.

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QUESTION 65 Who Is Satan? What Is His Career? To understand the identity of Satan, or the Devil, we must take a look at his career. There are a number of stages in which we can trace his inglorious history, to his well-deserved destiny. 1.

Before His Fall

There was a time when this angelic creature was in an unfallen, sinless state. At that time, he, along with the rest of creation, was in one accord with God. Scripture describes him as a high-ranking angel, but does not tell us his name. 2.

The Fall

At some time in the dateless past, this angel decided to rebel against God. Lifted up with pride and selfish ambition, he took a large number of angels with him when he rebelled. 3.

The Judgment-Loss Of Favored Position

When this occurred, he lost the favored position that he had with the Lord. He was now Satan, or the “adversary.” 4.

Sin Enters Our World

Since the time of his fall, the Devil has attempted to deceive humanity. His main goal is to turn people away from the worship and service of the Lord. We find him appearing in the Garden of Eden in the form of a serpent. There he tempted Adam and Eve to sin. His temptation succeeded, and sin entered the previously perfect world. 5.

He Was Defeated By Christ

As soon as sin entered into our world, the Lord promised to send someone to deal with the problem. Two thousand years ago, God became a man in the person of Jesus Christ. Satan attempted to thwart the mission of Christ, but it was without success. The Devil was defeated by Christ - at the cross and then at the resurrection. 6.

His Present Position: Deceive Humanity

Presently we are in an interval period between the two comings of Christ. Satan is continuing to deceive humanity, as he has done from the beginning. 7.

He Will Be Thrown Down To The Earth

In the next step in his judgment, Satan will be thrown out of heaven, and sent down to the earth. This will happen before the Second Coming of Christ. 8.

He Will Be Placed In The Bottomless Pit

When Christ returns, Satan will be bound and placed in the bottomless pit, or the abyss, for a thousand years.

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He Will Be Released For A Short Time

At the end of the thousand years, he will be released for a short period of time. At this time he will deceive the people for one last time. After this last deception, Satan, or the Devil, will be once-and-for-all finished causing sin in our universe. 10. Satan Will Be Thrown Into The Lake Of Fire At the Great White Throne judgment, he will be thrown into the lake of fire. There he will be punished forever and ever. This will be his ultimate destiny. Summary Satan, or the Devil, was a created angel who was perfect in all his ways. When he decided to rebel against God, he brought sin into the universe. He was judged for that sin and lost his favored position with God. Satan has tempted humanity as long as the human race has existed. Adam, and Eve, the first humans listened to his temptation and brought sin into this world. Sin and Satan were defeated by Jesus’ death on the cross. Although he continues to deceive humanity his doom is sealed. He will be thrown down to the earth before the Second Coming of Christ. At Christ’s return he will be placed in a bottomless pit. He will be released from that pit for a short time to deceive the nations once more. After that is the final judgment where he will be thrown into the lake of fire. This ends his inglorious career.

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QUESTION 66 How Is Satan’s Character Described? The Bible gives the following descriptions of Satan’s character. 1.

Proud

Satan is described as being proud. Not a novice, lest being puffed up he fall into the condemnation of the Devil (1 Timothy 3:6). 2.

Fierce And Cruel

He is described as a lion who walks about looking for things to devour. Be sober, be watchful: your adversary the Devil, as a roaring lion, walks about, seeking whom he may devour (1 Peter 5:8). 3.

Powerful

The Devil is a powerful being. Even Michael the archangel would not rebuke him without calling upon the name of the Lord. But when the archangel Michael contended with the Devil and disputed about the body of Moses, he did not dare to bring a condemnation of slander against him, but said, “The Lord rebuke you!” (Jude 9). 4.

Deceitful

Satan’s methods consist of deception. Put on the whole armor of God, that you may be able to stand against the wiles of the Devil (Ephesians 6:11). 5.

Subtle

He is also described as subtle. But I fear, lest by any means, as the serpent beguiled Eve in his craftiness, your minds should be corrupted from the simplicity and the purity that is toward Christ (2 Corinthians 11:3). Summary As we examine the characteristics that the Bible attributes to the Devil, we obtain much insight into his character. We find the Scripture saying that he is proud, arrogant, powerful, cruel, fierce, deceitful, and subtle. In other words, he is total evil.

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QUESTION 67 What Does Satan Look Like? Do we know what Satan looks like? Is there some way we can identify him by his appearance? 1.

He Has No Horns, Red Suit, Or Pitchfork

During the middle ages, people would put on plays where biblical characters were portrayed. When the character of Satan came on stage, he was portrayed as an ugly individual with a red outfit, a tail, horns, and holding a pitchfork. Today, most people immediately think of this description when someone speaks about the Devil. However, this is not how the Bible describes this personage. 2.

He Has No Physical Form

Because Satan is a spirit-being, he has no physical form. The Bible says that angels do not have any physical substance. Are they not all ministering spirits, sent out to render service for the sake of those who will inherit salvation? (Hebrews 1:14). Though evil angels do not minister to God’s people, they still are spirits. 3.

He Is An Angel Of Light

When he does appear, the Devil appears as an angel of light. And no marvel; for even Satan fashions himself into an angel of light (2 Corinthians 11:14). Because Satan is the master deceiver, coming as an angel of light, he appears as a beautiful, tempting, creature - not something ugly or repulsive. Summary Contrary to the popular view of the Devil, he is not an ugly creature. Since he is a spirit-being, he has no physical form. When he does appear, it is as a beautiful creature, an angel of light.

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QUESTION 68 How Does Satan Counterfeit Jesus? Satan is the great counterfeiter of Jesus. We find that he has done this in a number of ways. 1.

Jesus Is The Unique Son, The Man Of Sin Is The Son Of Destruction

The Lord Jesus is the unique Son of God. No one has ever seen God, but God the One and Only, who is at the Father’s side, he has made him known (John 1:18). In a sense, Satan has his son, the man of sin. He is called “the son of destruction.” Let no one in any way deceive you, for it will not come unless the apostasy comes first, and the man of lawlessness is revealed, the son of destruction (2 Thessalonians 2:3). Though not a literal offspring of Satan, this man of sin is the counterfeit of the Lord Jesus. 2.

The Trinity And The Unholy trinity

God is a Trinity - made up of God the Father, God the Son, and God the Holy Spirit. Satan has his own unholy trinity - himself, the beast, and the false prophet. And the Devil that deceived them was cast into the lake of fire and sulfur, where are also the beast and the false prophet; and they shall be tormented day and night for ever and ever (Revelation 20:10). 3.

Each Have Their Children

God has His own children - those who have put their trust in Him. But as many as received him, to them gave he the right to become children of God, even to them that believe on his name (John 1:12). Satan has his own brand of children - those that practice evil. The field is the world, and the good seed are the children of the kingdom; the weeds are the children of the evil one (Matthew 13:38). 4.

The Apostles Of Christ And Apostles Of Satan

Jesus chose twelve apostles to be do His will. And he called unto himself his twelve disciples, and gave them authority over unclean spirits, to cast them out, and to heal all manner of disease and all manner of sickness. Now the names of the twelve apostles are these (Matthew 10:1,2). Satan has his own apostles.

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For such men are false apostles, deceitful workers, fashioning themselves into apostles of Christ (2 Corinthians 11:13). 5.

Each Mark Their Own

God will demonstrate His seal of ownership on His servants with a mark on their forehead. The Bible records an angel saying. Do not harm the land or the sea or the trees until we put a seal on the foreheads of the servants of our God (Revelation 7:3). In the same manner, Satan will have a mark of ownership placed upon his followers. And he causes all, the small and the great, and the rich and the poor, and the free and the bond, that there be given them a mark on their right hand, or upon their forehead (Revelation 13:16). Summary Satan, the great counterfeiter, has attempted to imitate and pervert Christ. He has done so by counterfeiting the Trinity, and the unique Father-Son relationship that God has. His followers, like God’s, are called children. Satan has his own false apostles, and he marks his own with a symbol of ownership as the Lord has done. In so many ways, he has attempted to counterfeit the true character and works of God.

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QUESTION 69 What Contrasts Are There Between The Devil And The Holy Spirit? The Bible makes a number of contrasts between the Devil and the person and work of the Holy Spirit. 1.

The Serpent And The Dove

Satan comes in the form of a serpent, while the Holy Spirit comes in the form of a dove. When Jesus was baptized, the Holy Spirit descended upon Him in bodily form, like a dove. And the Holy Spirit descended upon him in bodily form like a dove. And a voice came from heaven, “You are my Son, the Beloved; with you I am well pleased” (Luke 3:22). Satan, on the other hand, comes in the form of a serpent. And the great dragon was cast down, the old serpent, he that is called the Devil and Satan, the deceiver of the whole world; he was cast down to the earth, and his angels were cast down with him (Revelation 12:7). 2.

The Father Of Lies And The Spirit Of Truth

Jesus called Satan the father of lies, while the Holy Spirit is the Spirit of truth. You are from your father the Devil, and you choose to do your father’s desires. He was a murderer from the beginning and does not stand in the truth, because there is no truth in him. When he lies, he speaks according to his own nature, for he is a liar and the father of lies (John 8:44). The Holy Spirit speaks the truth. When the Spirit of truth comes, he will guide you into all the truth; for he will not speak on his own, but will speak whatever he hears, and he will declare to you the things that are to come (John 16:13). 3.

A Mute Spirit Or Praise To God

When Satan possesses a human being through his demons, they are able to keep that person silent. And as they went forth, behold, there was brought to him a mute man possessed with a demon (Matthew 9:32). The Holy Spirit, on the other hand, loosens the tongue of the believer to praise God. Do not get drunk with wine, for that is debauchery; but be filled with the Spirit, as you sing psalms and hymns and spiritual songs among yourselves, singing and making melody to the Lord in your hearts (Ephesians 5:18,19). 4.

A Murderer Or A Life -Giving Spirit

Satan was a murderer from the beginning.

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You are of your father the Devil, and the lusts of your father it is your will to do. He was a murderer from the beginning (John 8:44). The Holy Spirit is the one who gives life. But if the Spirit of him who raised Jesus from the dead dwells in you, he who raised Christ Jesus from the dead will also give life to your mortal bodies through his Spirit who indwells you (Romans 8:11). 5.

The Slanderer And The Advocate

The Devil is a slanderer - one who makes accusations against believers. Then I heard a loud voice in heaven, proclaiming, “Now have come the salvation and the power and the kingdom of our God and the authority of his Messiah, for the accuser of our comrades has been thrown down, who accuses them day and night before our God” (Revelation 12:10). The Holy Spirit is the Advocate for the believer. And I will ask the Father, and he will give you another Advocate to be with you forever (John 14:16). 6.

He Searches The Deep Things

The Holy Spirit searches the “deep things” of God. But unto us God revealed them through the Spirit: for the Spirit searches all things, yea, the deep things of God (1 Corinthians 2:10). Satan also has his “deep things.” But to the rest of you in Thyatira, who do not hold this teaching, who have not learned what some call ‘the deep things of Satan,’ to you I say, I do not lay on you any other burden (Revelation 2:24). Summary There are a number of contrasts that the Bible gives between Satan and the Holy Spirit - the Third Person of the Trinity. Satan is the serpent, while the Holy Spirit is the dove. The Holy Spirit is the Spirit of truth, while Satan is a liar. The Holy Spirit searches the deep things of God, while Satan also has his deep things. The Holy Spirit is a life-giving Spirit, while Satan is a murderer. Satan is the slanderer of God’s people, while the Holy Spirit is the Advocate of the believer.

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QUESTION 70 Does Satan Have His Own Kingdom? Does Satan have a kingdom? When tempting Jesus, the Devil offered Him a kingdom. Then the Devil led him up and showed him in an instant all the kingdoms of the world. And the Devil said to him, “To you I will give their glory and all this authority; for it has been given over to me, and I give it to anyone I please” (Luke 4:5,6). Was Satan correct in saying that the kingdoms of the world are under his authority? Whether Satan has his own kingdom today is a cause for a difference of opinion among Christians. OPTION 1

SATAN HAS NO KINGDOM

There are those who say that Satan has no kingdom whatsoever today. He was totally defeated by Jesus at Calvary’s cross, and is now bound in the bottomless pit. The offer he made to Jesus at the temptation was something he was not in a position to make. The kingdoms were never his to give. OPTION 2

SATAN PRESENTLY HAS A KINGDOM

Other Bible believers hold that Satan has a powerful kingdom. He is the leader of a vast army of evil spirits that are constantly at work today. Though some angels are bound, others are not. Unbelievers are said to be under the authority of Satan and his power. The Bible says. To open their eyes so that they may turn from darkness to light and from the power of Satan to God, so that they may receive forgiveness of sins and a place among those who are sanctified by faith in me (Acts 26:18). Unbelievers are still, in some sense, under the authority of Satan. The Evidence For Satan’s Kingdom The fact that Satan has a kingdom can be seen in the following statement of Jesus. He [Jesus] knew what they were thinking and said to them, “Every kingdom divided against itself is laid waste, and no city or house divided against itself will stand. If Satan casts out Satan, he is divided against himself; how then will his kingdom stand?” (Matthew 12:25,26). Furthermore, the Bible says that he is the god of this age, the ruler of the authority of the air. Paul wrote. The god of this age has blinded the minds of unbelievers, so that they cannot see the light of the gospel of the glory of Christ, who is the image of God (2 Corinthians 4:4). He has authority over this world-system. In which you formerly walked according to the course of this world, according to the prince of the power of the air, of the spirit that is now working in the sons of disobedience (Ephesians 2:2). While Satan may have a kingdom, it is, at best, only temporary.

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Satan Has Been Defeated All believers agree that Satan has been defeated. Jesus said. Now is the judgment of this world; now the ruler of this world will be driven out (John 12:31). The Bible says. And the seventy returned with joy, saying, “Lord, even the demons are subject unto us in your name.” And he said unto them, “I beheld Satan fallen as lightning from heaven” (Luke 10:17,18). Jesus Triumphed Over Satan The Apostle Paul wrote about the triumph of Jesus. Erasing the record that stood against us with its legal demands. He set this aside, nailing it to the cross. He disarmed the rulers and authorities and made a public example of them, triumphing over them in it (Colossians 2:14,15). The real issue is, “In what sense has Satan been defeated?” Has his defeat at the cross caused him to be permanently bound in the bottomless pit, or is that binding of Satan something yet future? Will it happen only when Christ returns a second time? The Bible seems to teach that the binding of Satan is still yet future. Summary Satan offered Jesus the kingdoms of this world because he claimed to have authority over them. The question as to whether his claim was legitimate has divided believers. Some say Satan has been totally defeated by Christ on the cross, and has no kingdom to offer. Others, while acknowledging Satan’s defeat on the cross, do not believe it will be fully realized until Christ returns. During this interval period, Satan is ruling this evil world system as the god of this age, and the ruler of the authority of the air.

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QUESTION 71 Did God Create The Devil? No. Though it is commonly believed that God created the Devil this is a misconception about what occurred. 1.

God Created All Things

God is the Creator of all things. And to make everyone see what is the plan of the mystery hidden for ages in God who created all things (Ephesians 3:9). 2.

He Made Them Very Good

The Bible says that God created all things very good. And God saw everything that he had made, and, behold, it was very good. And there was evening and there was morning, the sixth day (Genesis 1:31). “Everything” would include the angels that God created. 3.

There Was Only One Will In The Universe

At this time, there was only one will in the universe - Gods’ will. You are worthy, our Lord and God, to receive glory and honor and power, for you created all things, and by your will they existed and were created (Revelation 4:11). Every creature was in obedience with that one will. Perfection was everywhere. 4.

He Chose To Rebel

Though everything in God’s creation was perfect, angels, like human beings, were created with choice they were not made as robots. One of the chief angels decided to rebel against God. 5.

His Exercised His Own Will

This creature decided to bring his own will into the universe. Instead of following the Lord, this angel went off in his own direction. You said in your heart, “I will ascend to heaven; I will raise my throne above the stars of God; I will sit on the mount of assembly on the heights of Zaphon; will ascend to the tops of the clouds, I will make myself like the Most High” (Isaiah 14:13,14). 6.

He Became Satan

When this act of rebellion occurred, this angel became Satan, or the adversary. Therefore a new being came into existence, one in which God did not create. This came as a result of his choice, not because of God’s original design or intent.

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This Was The Origination Of Sin

The Bible says that Satan was the originator of sin. Scripture says that he sinned from the beginning. You are from your father the Devil, and you choose to do your father’s desires. He was a murderer from the beginning and does not stand in the truth, because there is no truth in him. When he lies, he speaks according to his own nature, for he is a liar and the father of lies (John 8:44). John also wrote. Everyone who commits sin is a child of the Devil; for the Devil has been sinning from the beginning. The Son of God was revealed for this purpose, to destroy the works of the Devil (1 John 3:8). Summary God did not create Satan. Everything that He created in the universe was perfect. Though every creature was created perfect, each one was given choice. One particular creature chose to rebel against God by trying to impose his own will, rather than following God’s will. When this occurred this angel became the adversary, or Satan. God did not create this creature in this manner, nor did He wish him to rebel. It was his own choice.

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QUESTION 72 What Caused Satan’s Fall? The Bible says that when a mighty angel fell, he became the Devil. Scripture gives us some insight into what it was that caused the fall of this angel. 1.

Pride

As we examine the Bible, we find that pride was a factor in Satan’s fall. In a passage that may speak of the original fall of this anointed angel, we read the following. Your heart was proud because of your beauty; you corrupted your wisdom for the sake of your splendor. I cast you to the ground; I exposed you before kings, to feast their eyes on you (Ezekiel 28:17). The New Testament also connects the sin of pride with the Devil. Not a novice, lest being puffed up he fall into the condemnation of the Devil (1 Timothy 3:6). Pride is at the top of the list of sins that God hates. There are six things which the LORD hates; Yes, seven which are an abomination unto him: Haughty eyes, a lying tongue, and hands that shed innocent blood (Proverbs 6:16,17). “Haughty eyes,” or pride, is at the top of the list of the things the Lord hates. The Bible warns us what pride will lead to. Pride goes before destruction, and a haughty spirit before a fall (Proverbs 16:18). 2.

He Had Selfish Ambition

A second cause for the fall of Satan was a selfish ambition - the desire to be something that he was not. In another passage that appears to give us insight around his fall, we read the following. How you are fallen from heaven, O Day Star, son of the morning! How you are cut down to the ground, you who laid the nations low! You said in your heart, “I will ascend to heaven; I will raise my throne above the stars of God; I will sit on the mount of assembly on the heights of Zaphon; I will ascend to the tops of the clouds, I will make myself like the Most High” (Isaiah 14:12-14). This angel led a rebellion against God - a rebellion that will only end when he is thrown into the lake of fire. Summary The fall of the angel who became the Devil seems to be rooted in two basic sins - pride and selfish ambition. These sins caused his downfall, as well as the downfall of those angels who went with him. It has also been the downfall of many people since that time.

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QUESTION 73 What Were The Results Of Satan’s Fall? The following things resulted from Satan’s original fall. 1.

He Became The First Sinner In The Universe

When this angel rebelled against God and became the Devil, he also became the first sinner in the universe. Scripture emphasizes that he sinned in the beginning. Everyone who commits sin is a child of the Devil; for the Devil has been sinning from the beginning. The Son of God was revealed for this purpose, to destroy the works of the Devil (1 John 3:8). 2.

Satan Became The Author Of Sin

Because he was the first sinner, he is the author of, and basis for, all subsequent sin. Jesus said to the religious rulers of His day. You are from your father the Devil, and you choose to do your father’s desires. He was a murderer from the beginning and does not stand in the truth, because there is no truth in him. When he lies, he speaks according to his own nature, for he is a liar and the father of lies (John 8:44). 3.

His Great Wisdom Was Made Corrupt Through Sin

Though this angel had great knowledge and wisdom, it was now corrupted through his sin. Your heart was proud because of your beauty; you corrupted your wisdom for the sake of your splendor. I cast you to the ground; I exposed you before kings, to feast their eyes on you (Ezekiel 28:17). 4.

He Was Completely Taken Over By Sin

The fall of Satan was complete to the extent that he was totally taken over by sin. As Jesus said, “He is the father of lies” (John 8:44). 5.

His Sin Caused Him To Be Condemned

Because of his sin, he has fallen under God’s condemnation. How you are fallen from heaven, O Day Star, son of the morning! How you are cut down to the ground, you who laid the nations low! (Isaiah 14:12). Though under God’s judgment, he still has some access to God. We read in the Book of Job. One day the heavenly beings came to present themselves before the LORD, and Satan also came among them (Job 1:6).

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Eventually Satan will only have access to the earth. And there was war in heaven: Michael and his angels going forth to war with the dragon; and the dragon warred and his angels; and they prevailed not, neither was their place found any more in heaven. And the great dragon was cast down, the old serpent, he that is called the Devil and Satan, the deceiver of the whole world; he was cast down to the earth, and his angels were cast down with him (Revelation 12:7-9). 7.

He Will Eventually Be Punished

The original sin of the Devil will result in his ultimate destiny - eternal separation from God and eternal punishment. And when the thousand years are finished, Satan shall be loosed out of his prison, and shall come forth to deceive the nations which are in the four corners of the earth, Gog and Magog, to gather them together to the war: the number of whom is as the sand of the sea. And they went up over the breadth of the earth, and compassed the camp of the saints about, and the beloved city: and fire came down out of heaven, and devoured them. And the Devil that deceived them was cast into the lake of fire and brimstone, where are also the beast and the false prophet; and they shall be tormented day and night for ever and ever (Revelation 20:7-10). Summary There were a number of results that occurred when Satan fell. Satan was the first sinner in the universe. He is also the author of sin. We also find that his great wisdom was corrupted through sin. We also find that he was completely taken over by sin. His sin caused him to be condemned and to be sent down to the earth. Eventually he will experience the ultimate judgment - eternal separation from God.

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QUESTION 74 Where Does Satan Presently Live? There are those who believe that Satan is presently bound in the bottomless pit. The Bible does say that he will be there some day. And I saw an angel coming down out of heaven, having the key of the abyss and a great chain in his hand. And he laid hold on the dragon, the old serpent, which is the Devil and Satan, and bound him for a thousand years, and cast him into the abyss, and shut it, and sealed it over him, that he should deceive the nations no more, until the thousand years should be finished: after this he must be loosed for a little time (Revelation 20:1-3). Some Bible students think this binding of Satan happened some time in the past. HE IS NOT IMPRISONED IN HELL A common belief is to think that Satan and his angels are presently imprisoned in hell. However the Bible does not teach this at all. 1.

He Has Access To God

Satan presently has access to God. Now it came to pass on the day when the sons of God came to present themselves before the Lord, that Satan also came among them (Job 1:6). This access does not seem to be anything abnormal. 2.

He Lives In The Heavenly Realm

The abode of Satan is in the heavenly realm. For our wrestling is not against flesh and blood, but against the principalities, against the powers, against the world-rulers of this darkness, against the spiritual hosts of wickedness in the heavenly places (Ephesians 6:12). 3.

He Is Active Upon The Earth

Scripture says that Satan is also active upon the earth. The LORD said to Satan, “Where have you come from?” Satan answered the LORD, “From going to and fro on the earth, and from walking up and down on it” (Job 1:7). We are warned that he now roams the earth. Be sober, be watchful: your adversary the Devil, as a roaring lion, walks about, seeking whom he may devour (1 Peter 5:8). From all of the above, we find that Satan is not presently restricted to one place.

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WAS HE CAST OUT OF GOD’S PRESENCE AT HIS FALL? The fact that Satan will eventually be thrown down to the earth brings up a question. The casting of Satan out of heaven, that is recorded in the Book of Revelation, can mean one of two things: either Satan will be thrown out of God’s presence only at this particular point in history - which is still future - or that he had previously been thrown out of God’s presence, but still had access to the stellar heavens. Some feel that he was cast out of God’ presence the moment he sinned and now only has temporary access to the Lord. Others feel that he was not banished from God’s presence when he sinned but rather will be only at this point that the Book of Revelation records (Revelation 12). Summary Satan presently dwells in the heavenly realm. The Bible teaches that he does have access to the LORD. Whether he has already been thrown out of heaven or whether this judgment is still future is an area in which Bible students disagree.

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QUESTION 75 Why Did God Allow Satan To Continue After He Rebelled? Several questions are usually asked about the original rebellion of Satan. 1.

Why Did He Create Him?

First, why did God create this angel if He knew that he was going to rebel. Since God does know everything, He certainly knew that this angel would eventually sin against him. Why, then, was he created in the first place? 2.

Why Allow Him To Continue?

Second, why did He allow this angel to rebel? Even though God created this angel, He could have kept him from rebelling against Him. Steps could have been taken to make it impossible for any type of Satanic rebellion. Why didn’t God take these steps so there would be no angelic sin? 3.

Why Not Destroy Him Immediately?

Finally, after this angel sinned, and became Satan, or the adversary, why didn’t God immediately destroy him? So much pain and suffering could have been avoided if his original sin had been immediately judged. Why didn’t God do it? Unfortunately, the Bible does not give us any specific answers to these questions. We are not told the answer to these “why” questions. Part of the reason why these questions have no answers has to do with the nature of the Bible. Scripture is God’s revelation about His dealings with humanity - this is the main story. Satan and his angels are only incidental to the message of Scripture. Consequently, much about him, and his deeds, are not explained. Neither does God explain these “why” questions with respect to him. Though the Bible does not give us any specific answers to these “why” questions about Satan, this has not kept people from speculating. The problem with this type of speculation is that no one is able to know the right answer. For whatever reason, God has not told us “why.” We should leave it at that. WHAT WE DO KNOW Rather than speculating about what we do not know, we should concentrate on what we do know. 1.

God Does Know Everything

God certainly did know all these things would happen. He is all-knowing - nothing escapes His notice. Jesus said. Are not two sparrows sold for a penny? Yet not one of them will fall to the ground apart from the will of your Father. And even the very hairs of your head are all numbered (Matthew 10:29,30).

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The Bible also says that God has not told us everything about Himself, or His plan. The secret things belong unto the Lord our God; but the things that are revealed belong unto us and to our children for ever, that we may do all the words of this law (Deuteronomy 29:29). 3.

His Ways Are Not Our Ways

The Bible makes it clear that God’s ways are beyond our ways. For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways,” declares the LORD. “For as the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways, and my thoughts than your thoughts” (Isaiah 55:8,9). Because His ways are not our ways, they are past finding out. O the depth of the riches both of the wisdom and the knowledge of God! How unsearchable are his judgments, and his ways past tracing out! (Romans 11:33). Summary There are several questions about the origin, fall, and continued existence of the Devil that we would like to understand. God has not revealed to us the answers to these questions. Much of this has to do with the main message of Scripture - God and humanity. Though people have speculated as to why God allowed these things to happen, ultimately we do not know the answer - He has not chosen to reveal it to us. We do know that God has all knowledge, and that He did know that this angel would rebel and would cause so much grief and suffering. Because the Lord tells us that His ways are past finding out, we should rest in the fact that God has an overall plan that took into consideration the rebellion and the sin of the Devil.

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QUESTION 76 Why Is Satan Sometimes Called Lucifer? In some versions of the Bible, the personage described in Isaiah 14:12 is called Lucifer. For example, the King James Version reads as follows. How art thou fallen from heaven, O Lucifer, son of the morning! how art thou cut down to the ground, which did weaken the nations! The name “Lucifer” appears nowhere else in the King James Version. Other versions however do not use the name Lucifer to describe this personage in Isaiah 14:12. The American Standard Version of 1901 reads. How art thou fallen from heaven, O day-star, son of the morning! how art thou cut down to the ground, that did lay low the nations! Most other modern versions translate this passage in a similar way as the American Standard Version. WHY THE DIFFERENCE? To understand the difference we must go back to the original language in Isaiah 14:12, Hebrew. The Hebrew word translated “day star” or “Lucifer” is Helel. This word has been rendered in a number of ways, because there was some question as to its exact meaning, and how it should be understood. We can make the following observations about this issue. 1.

It May Mean “To Howl”

Helel has been understood to be the command form of the verb, “to howl.” Therefore the translation of Isaiah 14:12 would read, “Howl, son of the morning.” 2.

The Word May Mean “To Shine”

Others have connected this word with the verb, “to shine.” From this idea came “day star,” “bright one,” or “bearer of light.” 3.

It Is Possibly A Proper Name

In the context of Isaiah, Helel is possibly used as proper name for the king of Babylon. Therefore his name would be translated as “day star,” or “bright one.” 4.

The Hebrew Was Translated Into Latin

When this Hebrew term was translated into Latin, the word lucifero was used. Lucifero basically means “to shine.” Therefore, if this term is understood to be a proper name of the king of Babylon, that name, in Latin, would be Lucifer.

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The King James translators were very familiar with Latin. In fact, the notes they kept during their translation deliberations were made in Latin. When they began their translation process, the Latin Vulgate translation of the Bible had been around a thousand years. Lucifero, the Latin translation of the Hebrew Helel, had already become a proper name for the Devil. Instead of translating the term as “day star” or “bright one,” they kept the popular Latin term “Lucifer.” This is how the term ended up in some English translations. 6.

Jesus Is The Bright And Morning Star

Though the term “day star” has been attributed to the Devil, the genuine bright morning star is Jesus. It is I, Jesus, who sent my angel to you with this testimony for the churches. I am the root and the descendant of David, the bright morning star (Revelation 22:16). Summary The reason Lucifer has been understood to be a proper name of the Devil has to do with the Latin translation of the Hebrew term Helel. This word was understood, by some, to be a proper name for the king of Babylon. It means “light bearer,” or Lucifero in Latin. The Latin title became a popular name for this evil figure. When the King James translators rendered the Hebrew term into English, they kept the popular term “Lucifer” for the Devil.

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QUESTION 77 What Are Some Of The Different Titles Of Satan? Satan, or the Devil, has been given a number of titles in Scripture. 1.

Satan

Fifty-two times in Scripture this being is designated as Satan. Now it came about on the day when the sons of God came to present themselves before the Lord, that Satan also came among them (Job 1:6). 2.

Day-Star

In Isaiah this creature is called the “day star.” This has the idea of “bearer of light.” This name, translated into Latin, is Lucifer. This was the name of Satan before his fall. How you are fallen from heaven, O day-star, son of the morning! How you are cut down to the ground, that did lay low the nations! (Isaiah 14:12). The true “day star” and “bearer of light” is the Lord Jesus Himself. It is I, Jesus, who sent my angel to you with this testimony for the churches. I am the root and the descendant of David, the bright morning star (Revelation 22:16). Jesus is the true light. The true light, which enlightens everyone, was coming into the world (John 1:9). 3.

Son Of The Morning

He is also titled “son of the morning.” How you are fallen from heaven, O day-star, son of the morning! How you are cut down to the ground, that did lay low the nations! (Isaiah 14:12). 4.

The Anointed Cherub

This angel was also called the “anointed cherub.” You were the anointed cherub that covered: and I set you, so that you were upon the holy mountain of God; you have walked up and down in the midst of the stones of fire (Ezekiel 28:14). 5.

The Devil

This is one of the most popular names for this personage. It only appears in the New Testament. Then Jesus was led up by the Spirit into the wilderness to be tempted by the Devil (Matthew 4:1).

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The Devil literally means “slanderer.” Satan is called this because he slanders both God and humanity. In the Garden of Eden, he slandered God’s character. The woman said to the serpent, “We may eat fruit from the trees in the garden, but God did say, ‘You must not eat fruit from the tree that is in the middle of the garden, and you must not touch it, or you will die.’” “You will not surely die,” the serpent said to the woman. “For God knows that when you eat of it your eyes will be opened, and you will be like God, knowing good and evil” (Genesis 3:25). He now accuses believers. Then I heard a loud voice in heaven, proclaiming, “Now have come the salvation and the power and the kingdom of our God and the authority of his Messiah, for the accuser of our comrades has been thrown down, who accuses them day and night before our God” (Revelation 12:10). 6.

Tempter

Satan is the one who tempts people to sin. The tempter came and said to him, “If you are the Son of God, command these stones to become loaves of bread” (Matthew 4:3). He wants to bring out the worst in each of us. 7.

Ruler Of Demons

This evil personage is called the ruler of the demons. But the Pharisees said, “By the ruler of the demons he drives out demons” (Matthew 9:34). 8.

Beelzebul

Satan is known as Beelzebul, which means “lord of the flies,” or “lord of dung.” But when the Pharisees heard it, they said, “It is only by Beelzebul, the ruler of the demons, that this fellow casts out the demons” (Matthew 12:24). 9.

The Evil One

Satan is also called the “evil one.” When anyone hears the word of the kingdom and does not understand it, the evil one comes and snatches away what is sown in the heart; this is what was sown on the path (Matthew 13:19). 10. Enemy He is the enemy of humanity. And the enemy who sowed them is the Devil, and the harvest is the end of the age; and the reapers are angels (Matthew 13:39).

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11. Liar Jesus made it clear that Satan is always a liar. Liar, therefore, is an appropriate title. You are of your father the Devil . . . there is no truth in him. When he speaks a lie, he speaks of his own nature: for he is a liar, and the father thereof (John 8:44). 12. Father Of Lies He is the one who originated lies. When he speaks a lie, he speaks of his own nature: for he is a liar, and the father thereof (John 8:44). 13. Murderer This fallen angel is also a murderer. You are of your father the Devil, and the lusts of your father it is your will to do. He was a murderer from the beginning (John 8:44). 14. Ruler Of This World Satan is the ruler of this world in the sense that the world is still characterized by sin. Jesus said. I will no longer talk much with you, for the ruler of this world is coming. He has no power over me (John 14:30). This title suggests that he is the major influence over our world. Scripture teaches that the whole world is in his power. We know that we are of God, and the whole world lies in the evil one (1 John 5:19). 15. God Of This Age He is the god of this present age. In whom the god of this age has blinded the minds of the unbelieving, that the light of the gospel of the glory of Christ, who is the image of God, should not dawn upon them (2 Corinthians 4:4). 16. Angel Of Light He appears as an angel of light. And no marvel; for even Satan fashions himself into an angel of light (2 Corinthians 11:14). 17. Belial The idea behind Belial is “vileness.” This title may be applied to the Devil only by implication. What agreement does Christ have with Belial? Or what does a believer share with an unbeliever? (2 Corinthians 6:15).

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18. Ruler Of The Authority Of The Air He is the authority over this present, evil world-system. In which you used to live when you followed the ways of this world and of the ruler of the kingdom of the air, the spirit who is now at work in those who are disobedient (Ephesians 2:2). 19. Adversary This being stands in opposition to everything holy. The word “Satan” means adversary. Be sober, be watchful: your adversary the Devil, as a roaring lion, walks about, seeking whom he may devour (1 Peter 5:8). 20. Roaring Lion He is likened to a lion who goes about seeking its prey. Be sober, be watchful: your adversary the Devil, as a roaring lion, walks about, seeking whom he may devour (1 Peter 5:8). 21. The Angel Of The Abyss There is some question as to whether this is a description of Satan, or merely another powerful evil angel. They have as king over them the angel of the bottomless pit; his name in Hebrew is Abaddon, and in Greek he is called Apollyon (Revelation 9:11). 22. Apollyon And Abaddon He is called Apollyon and Abaddon. They have as king over them the angel of the bottomless pit; his name in Hebrew is Abaddon, and in Greek he is called Apollyon (Revelation 9:11). The idea behind these terms is “destroyer.” Satan has been filled with hatred against God from the beginning, and has attempted to destroy every good thing that God has done. 23. Dragon Satan is called the dragon. And the great dragon was cast down, the old serpent, he that is called the Devil and Satan, the deceiver of the whole world; he was cast down to the earth, and his angels were cast down with him (Revelation 12:9). The term dragon is associated with those who oppose God. 24. The Old Serpent He is also known as the old serpent.

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And the great dragon was cast down, the old serpent, he that is called the Devil and Satan, the deceiver of the whole world; he was cast down to the earth, and his angels were cast down with him (Revelation 12:9). This reminds us of the Garden of Eden when Satan came to Adam and Eve in the form of a serpent. It speaks of his cunning. 25. Deceiver Of The Whole World This fallen angel deceives the unbelieving world. And the great dragon was cast down, the old serpent, he that is called the Devil and Satan, the deceiver of the whole world; he was cast down to the earth, and his angels were cast down with him (Revelation 12:9). Deception is what this being is all about - he is the master deceiver. 26. The Accuser Of God’s People This evil personage constantly accuses God’s people. Then I heard a loud voice in heaven, proclaiming, “Now have come the salvation and the power and the kingdom of our God and the authority of his Messiah, for the accuser of our comrades has been thrown down, who accuses them day and night before our God” (Revelation 12:10). Summary Satan, or the Devil, is known by a number of names in Scripture. They include the following. Satan, day star, son of the morning, the anointed cherub, the Devil, tempter, ruler of demons, Beelzebub, the evil one, enemy, liar, father of lies, murderer, ruler of this world, god of this age, angel of light, Belial, ruler and authority of the air, adversary, roaring lion, the angel of the abyss, Apollyon, Abbaddon, dragon, old serpent, deceiver of the whole world, accuser of God’s people. All of these names point to his evil character. The chief characteristics we find in this creature are his hostility, cunning, power, and evil intent toward God and His people.

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QUESTION 78 Does Isaiah Speak Of Satan’s Fall? There is a passage in the Book of Isaiah that may refer to the original fall of Satan. How you are fallen from heaven, O Day Star, son of the morning! How you are cut down to the ground, you who laid the nations low! You said in your heart, “I will ascend to heaven; I will raise my throne above the stars of God; I will sit on the mount of assembly on the heights of Zaphon; I will ascend to the tops of the clouds, I will make myself like the Most High.” But you are brought down to Sheol, to the depths of the Pit (Isaiah 14:12-15). In the immediate context of Isaiah, the subject is the king of Babylon, yet there seems to be a sinister person behind the king to whom this passage is referring. Many Bible students think that it refers to the original fall of Satan. If this is true, then we can learn more things about this evil personage. THERE ARE FIVE “I WILLS” IN THIS PASSAGE There are five different times in this passage when the person asserted his own will, rather than the will of God. 1.

I Will Ascend To Heaven

Ascending to heaven has the idea of being like God. Jesus ascended to heaven in the presence of His disciples. When he had said this, as they were watching, he was lifted up, and a cloud took him out of their sight. While he was going and they were gazing up toward heaven, suddenly two men in white robes stood by them. They said, “Men of Galilee, why do you stand looking up toward heaven? This Jesus, who has been taken up from you into heaven, will come in the same way as you saw him go into heaven” (Acts 1:9-11). 2.

I Will Exalt My Throne

Pride is seen here in the exaltation of self, rather than the Lord. God is the only One who is worthy to sit on the throne. Then the angel showed me the river of the water of life, bright as crystal, flowing from the throne of God and of the Lamb (Revelation 22:1). This angel wanted to be exalted above the stars of God. The term “stars” could symbolize the other angels. 3.

I Will Sit Upon The Mount Of Congregation

The governing of heaven is a position that belongs only to the Lord. In days to come the mountain of the LORD’s house shall be established as the highest of the mountains, and shall be raised above the hills; all the nations shall stream to it (Isaiah 2:2).

Satan 4.

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I Will Ascend Above The Heights Of The Clouds

Again, there is the personal desire for exaltation. Clouds in Scripture often represent the glory of God. This being wanted exaltation above the glory of God. However, Jesus is the one who will be exalted. Therefore God also highly exalted him and gave him the name that is above every name (Philippians 2:9). 5.

I Will Make Myself Like The Most High

This personage wishes to be like the Lord, but there is only one God Most High. He blessed him and said, “Blessed be Abram by God Most High, maker of heaven and earth;” But Abram said to the king of Sodom, “I have sworn to the LORD, God Most High, maker of heaven and earth” (Genesis 14:19,22). Satan wants to counterfeit God’s nature and His plans. He imitates or counterfeits the genuine work of God through his deception. This passage in Isaiah has been linked with two verses in the New Testament - Luke 10:18 and Revelation 12:8. He [Jesus] said to them, “I watched Satan fall from heaven like a flash of lightning” (Luke 10:18). In the Book of Revelation we read. And they [Satan and his army] were not strong enough, and there was no longer a place found for them in heaven (Revelation 12:8). The timing of these two statements does not seem to speak of Satan’s original fall. Jesus’ statement does not give any idea as to when this fall from heaven occurred, and the statement in Revelation is dealing with events that are still in the future. Summary Though in the immediate context of Isaiah the subject is the king of Babylon, behind him seems to be the personage of the Devil. This can be seen by some of the statements that seemingly could not be referring to the earthly king of Babylon. If this is true, then we gain insight into this angel’s motivation for his original sin. Five times in this passage the words, “I will” are used. This indicates the sin of pride caused the downfall of this personage.

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QUESTION 79 Is Ezekiel Speaking Of Satan Or The King Of Tyre? In the Book of Ezekiel there is a description of someone called the king of Tyre. Though there was an actual historical person who was the king of Tyre, the description the Bible gives of this person seems to go far beyond this human leader. While in context, Ezekiel was first speaking about the historical king of Tyre, he seemingly moved into the dateless past with a description of the original fall of Satan. Mortal, raise a lamentation over the king of Tyre, and say to him, Thus says the Lord GOD: You were the signet of perfection, full of wisdom and perfect in beauty. You were in Eden, the garden of God; every precious stone was your covering, carnelian, chrysolite, and moonstone, beryl, onyx, and jasper, sapphire, turquoise, and emerald; and worked in gold were your settings and your engravings. On the day that you were created they were prepared. With an anointed cherub as guardian I placed you; you were on the holy mountain of God; you walked among the stones of fire. You were blameless in your ways from the day that you were created, until iniquity was found in you. In the abundance of your trade you were filled with violence, and you sinned; so I cast you as a profane thing from the mountain of God, and the guardian cherub drove you out from among the stones of fire. Your heart was proud because of your beauty; you corrupted your wisdom for the sake of your splendor. I cast you to the ground; I exposed you before kings, to feast their eyes on you. By the multitude of your iniquities, in the unrighteousness of your trade, you profaned your sanctuaries. So I brought out fire from within you; it consumed you, and I turned you to ashes on the earth in the sight of all who saw you. All who know you among the peoples are appalled at you; you have come to a dreadful end and shall be no more forever (Ezekiel 28:12-19). Is This A Description Of His Fall? Admittedly, this is a difficult passage to interpret. There are many who believe that this is a description of the account of the original fall of Satan. While some of the descriptions given may fit the historical king of Tyre, others certainly do not seem to. These include the expressions: “perfect in beauty,” “you were in Eden,” “you were on the holy mountain of God,” and “you were blameless.” These descriptions would not fit the actual king of Tyre. Therefore they are most likely to be understood as statements about the original fall of the angel who became the Devil. WHAT CAN WE LEARN ABOUT SATAN? If true, we can learn the following things about this angel. 1.

He Was Full Of Wisdom And Perfect In Beauty

When originally created by God, this angel, like everything else God created was perfect. Not only that, he seemed to have been especially beautiful. 2.

He Lived In Eden

This Eden seemingly existed at a far earlier time than the Garden of Eden that God created on the earth. The description given here could hardly refer to the earthly Garden of Eden. In the Garden of Eden, there is no reference to gold or precious stones. The description given in Ezekiel resembles more the New

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Jerusalem than the Garden of Eden. The New Jerusalem will be the place where redeemed believers live - those who will be a higher order than the angels. 3.

He Was The Anointed Cherub That Covered

This may indicate that this angel held a position of superiority over all the other angels. The cherubim, along with the seraphim, seem to be the highest rank of heavenly beings. Being the “anointed cherub” speaks of the highest position among the cherubim. The phrase “that covered” reminds us that the cherubim overshadowed the Ark of the Covenant - a position next to the presence of God. All these things seem to add up to say that this personage had the highest rank in the universe of any created being. It is possible, however, that the anointed cherub is not describing the person under consideration but rather the anointed cherub was guarding the “king of Tyre.” 4.

He Was In God’s Holy Mountain

The statement here refers to the dwelling place of God - His visible glory. This angel was in the immediate presence of the Lord. 5.

He Walked In The Midst Of Stones Of Fire

The stones of fire seem to speak of the nearness to God’s throne. When Moses brought Aaron, Nadab, Abihu, and seventy of the elders up to Mount Sinai to see God’s presence, we read the following. And they saw the God of Israel; and there was under his feet as it were a paved work of sapphire stone, and as it were the very heaven for clearness. And the appearance of the glory of the Lord was like devouring fire on the top of the mount in the eyes of the children of Israel (Exodus 24:10,17). This description could be the same as the stones of fire in Ezekiel. If so, it would indicate the nearness this angel had to the throne of God. 6.

He Was Perfect In All His Ways Until His Fall

The perfection of this creature is again stressed. There was no defect in him until he chose to sin. He, like everything God created, was perfect. 7.

He Was Lifted Up With Pride Because Of His Beauty

Because of his great beauty, this creature was lifted up with pride. Scripture has much to say on the subject of pride. Pride goes before destruction, and a haughty spirit before a fall (Proverbs 16:18). 8.

His Wisdom Was Corrupted Because Of His Brightness

The great wisdom of this personage had now been corrupted. Obviously it was insanity to think that the creature could somehow overcome the Creator. 9.

He Was Thrown Out Of The Mountain Of God

This speaks of either the initial judgment of this angel, or of his future judgment - when he will be thrown down to the earth before Christ comes again. Either way, his judgment is certain.

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10. His Position Was Degraded When He Sinned No longer would this angel hold a lofty position. He will never again be spoken of as the anointed cherub or whatever title he previously held. 11. He Became An Enemy Of Humanity Now this angel becomes Satan, the adversary, the enemy of humanity. Summary In Ezekiel 28 there is a description of the fall of the King of Tyre. From this passage there seems to be a description of the original fall of Satan. However not all interpreters agree with this interpretation. They believe it refers solely to the King of Tyre. If it does refer to Satan, then we learn much about him in this passage. He was the anointed cherub who had a special place next to the throne of God. Because of his special place, and his extraordinary beauty, he was lifted up with pride. This caused him to rebel against God, and to be judged for his sin. He was thrown out of God’s presence awaiting ultimate judgment.

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QUESTION 80 Why Did God Use The King Of Babylon And The King Of Tyre To Illustrate The Fall Of Satan? Not every Bible student agrees that Isaiah 14 and Ezekiel 28 refers to the original fall of Satan. If, however, they do contain references to his original fall, then why was the king of Tyre and the king of Babylon first addressed? 1.

This Is Not An Uncommon Practice

It is not uncommon in Scripture for the writer to move from descriptions of earthly events to heavenly events - when there were some parallels between the two. For example, Psalm 45 first describes an earthly king, but then goes on to describe the Messiah - the King who will come from heaven. 2.

There May Have Been a Practical Purpose

But why was the king of Tyre and the king of Babylon first addressed? It is possible that the prophet did it this way for a practical purpose. The king of Tyre and the king of Babylon had both claimed worship as Divine Beings (see Daniel 3:1-12). They made their subjects bow down to them. They wanted to be treated as God by their people. 3.

God Gave A Warning

God, therefore, used these prophets to warn against this blasphemy by going back to the dateless past. It recounted the story when an angel originally rebelled against Him and became the Devil. The angel who began the rebellion did so by saying, “I will be like God.” 4.

There Is A Lesson To Be Learned

There was an obvious lesson in all of this. If God had originally punished the blasphemy and pride of this mighty angel who rebelled, then He will certainly punish any human king who claims himself to be God. Satan had already attempted the same thing with Adam and Eve. He said. For God does know that in the day you eat thereof, then your eyes shall be opened, and you shall be as God, knowing good and evil (Genesis 3:5). This promise of Satan, that they would be as God in some sense, can be compared to the statement found in Isaiah where this angel himself wanted to be like God. I will ascend above the heights of the clouds; I will make myself like the Most High (Isaiah 14:14). 5.

The Temptation Of Jesus

His pride, arrogance, and desire to be worshipped continued as he tempted the Lord Jesus. And he said to him, “All these I will give you, if you will fall down and worship me” (Matthew 4:9).

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Satan wanted the One who deserved worship - the Lord Jesus - to bow down and worship him. 6.

He Is The god Of This Age

Satan is also called “the god of this age” in Scripture. Whose minds the god of this age has blinded, who do not believe, lest the light of the gospel of the glory of Christ, who is the image of God, should shine on them (2 Corinthians 4:4). Therefore Satan has been consistent from the beginning in attempting to be like God, and tempting others to do the same. 7.

He Will Receive Temporary Satisfaction

This long-held ambition of Satan will be temporarily satisfied when the inhabitants of the earth will worship him, and his own representative the Antichrist. And they worshipped the dragon, because he gave his authority unto the beast; and they worshipped the beast, saying, “Who is like unto the beast? And who is able to war with him?” (Revelation 13:4). For a short period of time, his desire to be worshipped will be satisfied. Summary Seemingly, God used the example of two pagan kings, those of Tyre and Babylon, to illustrate the original fall of the angel who became the Devil. Their desire to be worshipped is similar to his own desire. Consequently, the fall of this angel from his lofty position, is a lesson for all who would attempt to take the place of God.

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QUESTION 81 How Has The Devil Attempted To Thwart God’s Plan Of The Ages? The Devil has tried to thwart the plan of God from the beginning. He has attempted to do it in five different ways. His five target areas of destruction have been as follows. 1.

The Human Race

2.

The Nation Israel

3.

The Promised Line

4.

Jesus Christ

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The Church

TARGET 1: THE HUMAN RACE When God created humanity, He made them according to His image and likeness. Adam and Eve were created perfect, and placed in a perfect environment. Yet Satan tempted them to sin, and they gave in to the temptation. The race that was created perfect would now have to be judged. Sin continued to have its way. Satan attempted to corrupt the human race to the point where God would destroy everything that He had made. It almost came to that. The Bible says. The LORD saw that the wickedness of humanity was great in the earth, and that every inclination of the thoughts of their hearts was only evil continually. And the LORD was sorry that he had made humanity on the earth, and it grieved him to his heart (Genesis 6:5,6). God sent a Flood to destroy the entire world, except for eight persons. The human race was spared Satan’s attempt to annihilate it. TARGET 2: THE NATION ISRAEL A second target of the Devil has been the nation Israel. Four thousand years ago God gave a man named Abram a number of promises. The LORD had said to Abram, “Leave your country, your people and your father’s household and go to the land I will show you. “I will make you into a great nation and I will bless you; I will make your name great, and you will be a blessing. I will bless those who bless you, and whoever curses you I will curse; and all peoples on earth will be blessed through you” (Genesis 12:1-3). Among other things, God promised that the descendants of Abraham would exist forever. If the nation that came from Abraham’s descendants, Israel, were ever annihilated as a nation, then the Word of God would be untrue. It is for this reason that Satan has paid special attention to Abraham’s descendants.

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An Attempt To Destroy The Nation In the Book of Esther we have an example of the attempted destruction of the entire nation. A decree went out to destroy all the Jews. Then were the king’s scribes called in the first month, on the thirteenth day thereof; and there was written according to all that Haman commanded unto the king’s satraps, and to the governors that were over every province, and to the princes of every people, to every province according to the writing thereof, and to every people after their language; in the name of king Ahasuerus was it written, and it was sealed with the king’s ring. And letters were sent by posts into all the king’s provinces, to destroy, to slay, and to cause to perish, all Jews, both young and old, little children and women, in one day, even upon the thirteenth day of the twelfth month, which is the month Adar, and to take the spoil of them for a prey. A copy of the writing, that the decree should be given out in every province, was published unto all the peoples, that they should be ready against that day (Esther 3:12-14). God providentially intervened and saved the nation from annihilation. If Satan had been able to destroy the nation Israel, then the promises of God would not be true. TARGET 3: THE LINE OF THE M ESSIAH From the beginning, Satan has attempted to destroy the chosen line of the Messiah. If the chosen line were destroyed, then God’s plan would be thwarted. God promised to judge Satan through the promised Messiah. I will put enmity between you and the woman, and between your offspring and hers; he will crush your head, and you will strike his heel (Genesis 3:15). This Has Been From The Beginning He has persisted in this effort from the very beginning. Cain, the first child born to Adam and Eve, killed his brother Abel. The Bible says of Cain. We must not be like Cain who was from the evil one and murdered his brother. And why did he murder him? Because his own deeds were evil and his brother’s righteous (1 John 3:12). When Abel was killed, another son was born to Adam and Eve. His name was Seth. He was in the promised line of the Deliverer. Throughout history, the serpent has continued his attempt, with no success, to destroy the promised line. TARGET 4: J ESUS CHRIST A fourth way, in which Satan has attempted to stop the plan of God, is in the mission of Jesus. Satan attempted to keep Jesus from fulfilling His destiny. The Slaughter Of The Innocents We find Satan behind Herod in the slaughtering of the innocent babies in Bethlehem. In attempting to kill the baby Jesus, Satan was trying to keep Jesus from fulfilling His mission.

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The Temptation Of Jesus At the temptation of Jesus, Satan attempted to thwart God’s plan by having Jesus worship him. And he said unto him, “All these things will I give you, if you will fall down and worship me” (Matthew 4:9). Jesus refused, and Satan was again defeated. He Wanted Jesus To Bypass The Cross When Peter attempted to get Jesus to bypass the cross, Jesus rebuked him, and declared that Satan was behind such talk. And Peter took him aside and began to rebuke him, saying, “God forbid it, Lord! This must never happen to you.” But he turned and said to Peter, “Get behind me, Satan! You are a stumbling block to me; for you are setting your mind not on divine things but on human things” (Matthew 16:22,23). Jesus Accomplished His Mission The mission that Jesus set out to do was indeed accomplished. Right before He died, He uttered these words. When Jesus therefore had received the vinegar, he said, “It is finished: and he bowed his head, and gave up his spirit” (John 19:30). Jesus came as promised and fulfilled His mission - in spite of all the efforts by Satan. TARGET 5: THE CHURCH Jesus said He would build His church and nothing would stop it. And I tell you, you are Peter, and on this rock I will build my church, and the gates of Hades will not prevail against it (Matthew 16:18). The Church Continues To Carry Jesus’ Message The church, the true believers, in Jesus, is carrying out His plan to spread His message throughout the earth. However, from the very first mention of the church by Jesus, a warning was given that Satan would oppose it. The Book of Acts, as well as two thousand years of church history, gives testimony to the fact that Satan has tried to stop its mission. But just like in all the other cases, the Devil has failed to stop the plan of God. Before Christ returns, the dragon, or Satan, will still attempt to destroy the people, and the plan of God. Then the dragon was angry with the woman, and went off to make war on the rest of her children, those who keep the commandments of God and hold the testimony of Jesus (Revelation 12:17). However, like all other attempts, he will miserably fail. God’s Word will not be contradicted.

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Summary From the beginning, Satan has attempted to thwart the plan of God. First, he has attempted to destroy the human race, then the chosen people - Israel. Next, he has tried to cut off the Promised line of the Messiah. He has sought to interfere with the mission of Jesus to the earth. Finally, Satan has tried to destroy the work of God in the world today, the church. In all of these attempts, he has miserably failed. Satan has lost; the Lord has prevailed!

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QUESTION 82 In What Ways Did Jesus Achieve Victory Over The Devil? God pronounced sentence on the Devil in the Garden of Eden. I will put enmity between you and the woman, and between your offspring and hers; he will strike your head, and you will strike his heel (Genesis 3:15). The offspring of the woman would someday crush the serpent’s head. This was a prophecy of the coming of the Messiah - Jesus Christ. When Jesus came to earth, He came as the last Adam - the last perfect man. Thus it is written, “The first man, Adam, became a living being; the last Adam became a life-giving spirit” (1 Corinthians 15:45). The first Adam miserably failed and brought sin into the world, but the last Adam succeeded in defeating sin and Satan in the following ways. 1.

His Silent Years

Jesus defeated Satan in His silent years. Though He gave no sermons, performed no miracles, and was unknown to the public, He lived all these years without sin, doing everything that was pleasing to God the Father. At His baptism, the Father said of Jesus. And behold, a voice out of the heavens, said, “This is my beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased” (Matthew 3:17). The Father was well-pleased with His Son. 2.

The Temptation

Jesus did not succumb to the temptation of the Devil (Matthew 4:1-11). Though Satan tested Jesus in various ways, there was no giving in to these temptations. Scripture says of Jesus. For we have not a high priest that cannot be touched with the feeling of our infirmities; but one that has been in all points tempted like as we are, yet without sin (Hebrews 4:15). John wrote. And you know that he was manifested to take away sins; and in him is no sin (1 John 3:5). 3.

Throughout His Public Ministry

Jesus was tempted during His public ministry - by those who believed in Him, such as Simon Peter (Matthew 16:22,23), and by those who did not believe in Him, such as His brothers and the religious rulers. His half-brothers tempted Jesus to reveal Himself as the Messiah before the appointed time.

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The Unseen World So his brothers said to him, “Leave here and go to Judea so that your disciples also may see the works you are doing; for no one who wants to be widely known acts in secret. If you do these things, show yourself to the world.” (For not even his brothers believed in him.) (John 7:3-5).

The religious leaders tempted Jesus, for the purpose of bringing charges against Him. They said this to test him, so that they might have some charge to bring against him. Jesus bent down and wrote with his finger on the ground (John 8:6). All of these attempts failed. At the end of His public ministry, Jesus was still without sin. He asked His disciples. Which of you convicts me of sin? If I say truth, why do you not believe me? (John 8:46). 4.

At The Cross

Satan was also defeated by Jesus at the cross. Shortly before His death, Jesus said. The ruler of this world has been judged (John 16:11). 5.

At The Resurrection

Not only did Jesus give His life for the sins of the world, He rose from the dead - breaking Satan’s power over fallen humanity. Since, therefore, the children share flesh and blood, he himself likewise shared the same things, so that through death he might destroy the one who has the power of death, that is, the Devil (Hebrews 2:14). 6.

In The Lives Of Believers

Finally, Jesus has defeated Satan through the lives of those who have believed in Him. Who delivered us out of the power of darkness, and translated us into the kingdom of the Son of his love (Colossians 1:13). The Bible says that believers look forward to the time when Satan’s defeat will be for all to see. Paul wrote. And the God of peace shall bruise Satan under your feet shortly. The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with you (Romans 16:20). 7.

At The Second Coming

When Christ comes again, He will have Satan bound and placed into the bottomless pit. And I saw an angel coming down out of heaven, having the key of the abyss and a great chain in his hand. And he laid hold on the dragon, the old serpent, which is the Devil and Satan, and bound him for a thousand years (Revelation 20:1,2).

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The Lake Of Fire - The Ultimate Judgment

Eventually, Satan will be cast into the lake of fire, marking the final end to his inglorious career. And the Devil that deceived them was cast into the lake of fire and sulfur, where are also the beast and the false prophet; and they shall be tormented day and night for ever and ever (Revelation 20:10). Summary The defeat of Satan, by the Lord Jesus Christ, is complete. Jesus has defeated Satan through His silent years, His temptation, public ministry, death, and resurrection. He continues to defeat Satan today through the lives of believers who have been delivered from the kingdom of darkness and transformed into the kingdom of light. When Christ returns, He will have Satan bound in the bottomless pit and then eventually thrown into the lake of fire. Jesus, therefore, will thoroughly defeat Satan.

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QUESTION 83 How Has Satan Attempted To Destroy The Church? Satan has attempted to destroy the church in two ways - from the inside and from the outside. HE ATTACKS FROM WITHIN One of the methods of Satan is to destroy the church from within. This is accomplished with the introduction of false teaching. Paul wrote. The Spirit clearly says that in later times some will abandon the faith and follow deceiving spirits and things taught by demons (1 Timothy 4:1). Jesus warned us about this. The field is the world, and the good seed are the children of the kingdom; the weeds are the children of the evil one, and the enemy who sowed them is the Devil; the harvest is the end of the age, and the reapers are angels (Matthew 13:38,39). Satan is the one who sows the bad seed with these false teachings. 1.

He Has His Ministers

Satan has his own ministers. Paul warned. It is no great thing therefore if his ministers also fashion themselves as ministers of righteousness, whose end shall be according to their works (2 Corinthians 11:15). Consequently his ministers move in religious circles. They pose as ministers of righteousness but are, in reality, ministers of the Devil. 2.

He Has Already Infiltrated

We find these false teachers already infiltrating the church in the early years. Jude wrote. For certain intruders have stolen in among you, people who long ago were designated for this condemnation as ungodly, who pervert the grace of our God into licentiousness and deny our only Master and Lord, Jesus Christ (Jude 4). 3.

He Has Been Successful

In the past Satan has been successful in getting Christians to sin. He got Ananias to lie. “Ananias,” Peter asked, “Why has Satan filled your heart to lie to the Holy Spirit and to keep back part of the proceeds of the land?” (Acts 5:3).

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HE DOES IT B Y PERSECUTION A second way in which Satan has attempted to destroy the work of the church is by means of persecution. From the beginning, he has been the persecutor of the church of God. Jesus said. Do not fear what you are about to suffer. Beware, the Devil is about to throw some of you into prison so that you may be tested, and for ten days you will have affliction. Be faithful until death, and I will give you the crown of life (Revelation 2:10). 1.

He Cannot Ultimately Win

Though the Devil attempts to destroy the church, he knows that he cannot win. Sometimes he will win a particular battle with believers, but he will lose the war. The true believer in Jesus will always prevail because Christ will see them through until the end. The Bible says. For a righteous man falls seven times, and rises up again; but the wicked are overthrown by calamity (Proverbs 24:16). 2.

The Promise Of Jesus That The Church Will Survive

We also have the promise of Jesus that the church will survive. I will build my church, and the gates of Hades will not prevail against it (Matthew 16:18). Summary The church has been the object of attack from Satan from both within and without. Within, he has attacked the church by introducing false teaching and false teachers. We find them already infiltrating the church at an early time in its history. From without, he has persecuted God’s people. Persecution also began at an early date in the history of the church. Yet infiltration and persecution will not stop the work of the Lord. The church will continue to prosper because Jesus said nothing would stop its advancement.

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QUESTION 84 How Will Satan Work Through The Man Of Sin? Satan will eventually have his wish and will be worshipped by humanity. The Bible speaks of a person coming on the scene of history who will be energized by Satan and will deceive many. He is known in Scripture by a variety of names such as “the beast,” the “man of lawlessness,” and the “man of sin.” This “man of sin” will be totally energized and controlled by the Devil. Paul wrote. The coming of the lawless one is apparent in the working of Satan, who uses all power, signs, lying wonders, and every kind of wicked deception for those who are perishing, because they refused to love the truth and so be saved (2 Thessalonians 2:9,10). THE ANTICHRIST The most well-known designation of this person is that of “Antichrist.” The word Antichrist is only found in the writings of the Apostle John. Little children, it is the last hour; and as you have heard that the Antichrist is coming, even now many antichrists have come, by which we know that it is the last hour. . . Who is a liar but he who denies that Jesus is the Christ? He is antichrist who denies the Father and Son (1 John 2:18,22). John also wrote. And every spirit that does not confess that Jesus Christ is come in the flesh is not of God. And this is the spirit of Antichrist, which you have heard is coming, and is now already in the world (1 John 4:3). In 2 John we read. For many deceivers have gone out into the world who do not confess Jesus Christ is come in the flesh. This is a deceiver and an antichrist (2 John 7). Observations On The Antichrist From these verses we can deduce the following. 1.

The spirit which characterizes the future Antichrist was at work at the time of the Apostle John.

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A final Antichrist is expected at the end of the age.

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The spirit of Antichrist is that of apostasy - departing from the truth.

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The spirit of Antichrist is that of a lia r - denying that Jesus is the Christ.

The Warning Of Jesus Jesus warned that false Christ’s would appear.

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Then if anyone says to you, ‘Look, here is the Christ! or ‘there!’ Do not believe it. For false Christ’s and false prophets will arise and show great signs and wonders, so as to deceive, if possible, even the elect (Matthew 24:23,24). He Will Claim To Be God The Bible says the man of sin will claim to be God. He that opposes and exalts himself against all that is called God or that is worshipped; so that he sits in the temple of God, setting himself forth as God (2 Thessalonians 2:4). COMPARISON WITH J ESUS CHRIST This final Antichrist can be compared with Christ in the following ways. 1.

One Is In Satan’s Image, The Other In The Name Of The Father

The Antichrist will come in image of Satan, while Jesus came in the name of the Father. Jesus warned us about this one coming in His own name. I am come in my Father’s name, and you do not receive me: if another shall come in his own name, him you will receive (John 5:43). 2.

There Is A False Trinity

As God is a Trinity, there will be a false trinity with Satan, the Antichrist, and the False Prophet. And the Devil that deceived them was cast into the lake of fire and sulfur, where are also the beast and the false prophet; and they shall be tormented day and night for ever and ever (Revelation 20:10). 3.

One Is From Above The Other Is From Beneath

Christ came from above, Antichrist is from below. Jesus made this clear. And he said unto them, you are from beneath; I am from above: you are of this world; I am not of this world (John 8:23). 4.

One Is A Lamb The Other Is A Beast

Christ was a lamb; Antichrist is called a beast. The next day he saw Jesus coming toward him and declared, “Here is the Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world!” (John 1:29). 5.

One Is Empowered By Satan, The Other Is Empowered By The Father

Christ was empowered by God the Father, but Satan is the driving force behind Antichrist. Even he, whose coming is according to the working of Satan with all power and signs and lying wonders (2 Thessalonians 2:9).

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Antichrist has a possible fake resurrection while Christ actually did rise from the dead. And I saw one of his heads as if it had been slain, and his fatal wound was healed. And the whole earth was amazed and followed after the beast (Revelation 13:3). 7.

One Receives The Worship Of Unbelievers, The Other Receives Godly Worship

Antichrist will receive the worship of unbelievers; Christ received the worship of believers. And there was given to him to give breath to the image of the beast, that the image of the beast might even speak and cause as many as do not worship the image of the beast to be killed. And he causes all, the small and the great, and the rich and the poor, and the free men and the slaves, to be given a mark on their right hand, or on their forehead (Revelation 13:15,16). 8.

One Will Destroy The Other

The man of sin will be destroyed at Christ’s coming. And then the lawless one will be revealed, whom the Lord Jesus will destroy with the breath of his mouth, annihilating him by the manifestation of his coming (2 Thessalonians 2:8). John wrote. And the beast was captured, and with it the false prophet who had performed in its presence the signs by which he deceived those who had received the mark of the beast and those who worshiped its image. These two were thrown alive into the lake of fire that burns with sulfur (Revelation 19:20). Summary Satan has always wanted worship. He began his career by wishing to change places with God. That did not work. He will finally get his chance as he energizes the “man of sin” or the Antichrist. This man will counterfeit Christ in a number of ways, but will eventually be destroyed when Christ comes again.

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QUESTION 85 Will God Release The Devil For A Short Time After Christ Returns? One of the events that occurs after the Second Coming of Christ has caused some question in the minds of believers. After Christ returns, He has Satan bound for a thousand years. However at the end of the thousand years, He releases Satan for a short period of time. And when the thousand years are finished, Satan shall be loosed out of his prison, and shall come forth to deceive the nations which are in the four corners of the earth, Gog and Magog, to gather them together to the war: the number of whom is as the sand of the sea. And they went up over the breadth of the earth, and compassed the camp of the saints about, and the beloved city: and fire came down out of heaven, and devoured them (Revelation 20:7-9). Why would God do something like this? Once Christ has returned and Satan has been bound, why allow him to be released for a short time and deceive the nations? VIEW 1 HE IS ALREADY B OUND First, there are some who believe that Satan has already been bound. They argue that his release will be soon before Christ comes again, and not after the Millennium - the thousand year reign of Christ. Usually, those who hold this view do not believe there will be a literal one thousand year reign of Christ upon the earth. VIEW 2 HE HAS NOT B EEN B OUND Other believers see the binding of Satan as something future. They believe that a literal millennium will occur. If this is the case, then the Bible gives us no reasons as to why this happens. There have been several different answers that have been offered to this question. Humanity Has One Last Chance Many see the release of Satan as one last chance to show humanity that they have no real excuse for rejecting the truth of God. The excuse that is often used is as follows: if people only knew that God existed, then they would believe in Him. During this last rebellion of Satan, there will be no one denying God’s existence. Even though people know that God exists, and that He is a loving and caring God, some will still refuse to follow Him. By allowing this scenario, God will once-and-for-all show humanity that rejecting Him is not based upon the fact that we cannot see Him. Even when people know that God exists, they will still reject Him. Sin Still Remains In The Human Heart This shows that sin remains in the human heart apart from any influence of the Devil. Not now, and not in the future, can all evil be blamed upon Satan and his evil forces. Sin is found in the human heart. The Bible says. The heart is devious above all else; it is perverse - who can understand it? (Jeremiah 17:9).

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Therefore with this one last release of Satan it because clear to everyone that sin can only be blamed upon those who consciously choose to sin, not Satan or anyone else. Summary There is a question as to whether Satan will be released after Christ returns. Some feel that he is already bound and will not be bound after Christ returns. Others believe that he is yet to be bound. Those with that particular view hold that after Christ returns, Satan will be released for a short time to deceive the nations. As to why, we are not told. Some feel that it is to demonstrate, once and for all, that the problem of sin is ultimately one of the human heart and not other influences.

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QUESTION 86 What Is The Ultimate Destiny Of The Devil? From the start, God predicted the eventual fate of the angel who became Satan. 1.

His Destiny Was Announced At His Rebellion

When Satan rebelled in heaven, his ultimate destiny was announced. Through your widespread trade you were filled with violence, and you sinned. So I drove you in disgrace from the mount of God, and I expelled you, O guardia n cherub, from among the fiery stones. Your heart became proud on account of your beauty, and you corrupted your wisdom because of your splendor. So I threw you to the earth; I made a spectacle of you before kings by the multitude of your iniquities, in the unrighteousness of your trade, you profaned your sanctuaries. Therefore I have brought fire from the midst of you; it has consumed you, and I have turned you to ashes on the earth in the eyes of all who see you. All who know you among the peoples are appalled at you; you have become terrified, and you will be no more (Ezekiel 28:16-19). 2.

It Was Predicted In Eden

In the Garden of Eden, God prophesied the final destiny of Satan. I will put enmity between you and the woman, and between your offspring and hers; he will crush your head, and you will strike his heel (Genesis 3:15). The seed of the woman, who is Jesus, will crush the head of the snake. The judgment upon the snake is ultimately upon Satan. 3.

He Will Eat Dust

Satan would have to eat dust - a prophetic picture of his final degradation. Eating dust carries with it the idea of total defeat. The prophet Micah wrote. They shall lick dust like a snake, like the crawling things of the earth; they shall come trembling out of their fortresses; they shall turn in dread to the LORD our God, and they shall stand in fear of you (Micah 7:17). 4.

At The Cross He Was Defeated

The crushing of the serpent’s head was accomplished at the cross. The Bible says. He that does sin is of the Devil; for the Devil sinned from the beginning. To this end was the Son of God manifested, that he might destroy the works of the Devil (1 John 3:8). The Devil knows that he has been defeated. 5.

He Will Be Confined To Abyss

After Christ returns, Satan will be confined to the abyss.

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The Unseen World And I saw an angel coming down out of heaven, having the key of the abyss and a great chain in his hand. And he laid hold on the dragon, the old serpent, which is the Devil and Satan, and bound him for a thousand years (Revelation 20:1,2).

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He Will Ultimately Go Into The Lake Of Fire

Ultimately, he will spend eternity in the lake of fire. And the Devil that deceived them was cast into the lake of fire and sulfur, where are also the beast and the false prophet; and they shall be tormented day and night for ever and ever (Revelation 20:10). 7.

He Will Be Punished Forever

Contrary to popular belief, Satan will not be in charge in hell. There will be no organized sin there with him as the leader. Everyone there will be punished, including Satan. Summary Satan’s destiny was pronounced the moment he rebelled against God. He will eventually be judged - sent to the lake of fire. It was created as a place for his judgment, as well as for those angels who followed him. He will be punished there forever.

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QUESTION 87 What Is The Extent Of Satan’s Power? It is very important to understand who our adversary the Devil is, and what he is able to do. We must be careful not to attribute to him abilities and honors that belong to God and Him alone. The Bible says the following about the limitations of the Devil. 1.

He Is Not The Opposite Of God

While he would like people to think so, Satan is not the opposite of God. God is all-powerful, everywhere present, and all-knowing. Satan is none of these. He does not have unlimited power, he cannot be everywhere at once, and he does not know everything. He is a created, limited being. He depends upon God for his existence. 2.

He Does Not Know The Future

Only God knows what is going to occur in the future. God has said. Remember the former things of old, for I am God, and there is no other; I am God, and there is none like me, declaring the end from the beginning, and from ancient times things that are not yet done, saying, ‘My counsel shall stand, and I will do all my pleasure’ (Isaiah 46:9,10). Neither Satan, angels, or demons know what will happen next. 3.

He Does Not Know What We Dream

Only someone speaking through the power of God can know what people dream. Daniel answered the king, “No wise men, enchanters, magicians, or diviners can show to the king the mystery that the king is asking, but there is a God in heaven who reveals mysteries, and he has disclosed to King Nebuchadnezzar what will happen at the end of days. Your dream and the visions of your head as you lay in bed were these” (Daniel 2:27,28). Satan has no such power. 4.

He Cannot Read Our Thoughts

Because he is a created being, Satan cannot read our thoughts. He is not all-knowing like the LORD. It is God alone that knows everything - including our thoughts. Isaiah wrote. Have you not known? Have you not heard? The LORD is the everlasting God, the Creator of the ends of the earth. He does not faint or grow weary; his understanding is unsearchable (Isaiah 40:28). In First Kings we read. Then hear in heaven your dwelling place, forgive, act, and render to all whose hearts you know according to all their ways, for only you know what is in every human heart - (1 Kings 8:39).

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The Psalmist wrote. The LORD knows our thoughts (Psalm 94:11). Jesus, who is the LORD, also knew people’s thoughts. But Jesus, knowing their thoughts, said, “Why do you think evil in your hearts?” (Matthew 9:4) The lack of being able to know our thoughts is another limitation in the character of Satan. 5.

He Approaches As A Subordinate

When Satan approached God, he did not come as an equal, but rather as a subordinate. Now there was a day when the sons of God came to present themselves before the LORD, and Satan also came among them (Job 1:6). 6.

He Cannot Tempt Without God’s Permission

Satan was unable to tempt Jesus without the permission of the Holy Spirit. Then Jesus was led up by the Spirit into the wilderness to be tempted by the Devil (Matthew 4:1). He also could not tempt Job without God’s permission. And the LORD said to Satan, “Behold, all that he has is in your power; only do not lay a hand on his person.” So Satan went out from the presence of the LORD (Job 1:12). 7.

He Cannot Influence Nature Without God’s Permission

When it came to influencing nature, Satan was not able to do it without God’s permission. And the Lord said unto Satan, “Behold, all that he has is in your power; only upon himself put not forth your hand.” So Satan went forth from the presence of the Lord. . . . While he [a servant] was yet speaking, there came also another, and said, the fire of God is fallen from heaven, and has burned up the sheep and the servants, and consumed them; and I only am escaped alone to tell you. . . . And, behold, there came a great wind from the wilderness, and struck the four corners of the house, and it fell upon the young men, and they are dead; and I only am escaped alone to tell you (Job 1:12,16,19). 8.

He Cannot Physically Harm Without God’s Permission

When Satan wanted to physically harm Job, he had to first ask God’s permission. The LORD said to Satan, “Where have you come from?” Satan answered the LORD, “From going to and fro on the earth, and from walking up and down on it.” The LORD said to Satan, “Have you considered my servant Job? There is no one like him on the earth, a blameless and upright man who fears God and turns away from evil. He still persists in his integrity, although you incited me against him, to destroy him for no reason.” Then Satan answered the LORD, “Skin for skin! All that people have they will give to save their lives. But stretch out your hand now and touch his bone and his

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flesh, and he will curse you to your face.” The LORD said to Satan, “Very well, he is in your power” (Job 2:2-6). 9.

He Cannot Kill Without God’s Permission

Satan cannot take a human life without first getting God’s permission. The LORD said to Satan, “Very well, he is in your power; only spare his life” (Job 2:6). The Bible does say that Satan has the power of death. Since the children have flesh and blood, he too shared in their humanity so that by his death he might destroy him who holds the power of death, that is, the Devil (Hebrews 2:14). However this does not mean that he has the ultimate authority to cause people to die, only God has that authority. 10. He Cannot Touch Anything Without God’s Permission Satan cannot even touch a believer without the permission of God. Satan complained to the Lord about this. Have you not put a fence around him and his house and all that he has, on every side? You have blessed the work of his hands, and his possessions have increased in the land (Job 1:10). God has placed a fence around each believer protecting them from the Devil. We know that those who are born of God do not sin, but the one who was born of God protects them, and the evil one does not touch them (1 John 5:18). 11. He Cannot Force Believers To Do Anything In addition, Satan has no power unless it be granted him by God. Those who have trusted in Jesus Christ have been freed from the authority of the Devil. God said. To open their eyes, in order to turn them from darkness to light, and from the power of Satan to God, that they may receive forgiveness of sins and an inheritance among those who are sanctified by faith in me (Acts 26:18). Satan, therefore has no authority over the believer. 12. He Is A Coward In spite of all his bluster and rage, he is a coward. The Bible says: Be subject therefore unto God; but resist the Devil, and he will flee from you (James 4:7). 13. Believers Are Victorious Over Satan Because Of Christ Scripture says that believers are ultimately victorious.

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Summary Satan is not the opposite of God. His power is limited. He cannot create or search the human heart. Satan cannot read thoughts, does not know what people dreamed, and does not know the future. He has to approach God as a subordinate. Without God’s permission, he is not able to do anything. For example, he cannot tempt believers unless God permits him. He cannot influence nature or cause any physical harm. In fact, he cannot touch anyone at all unless the Lord allows it. He is not able to mention the names of believers or force believers to do anything without God’s permission. Actually he is a coward. The good news from Scripture is that believers will be ultimately victorious over Satan. Therefore the conflict between God and Satan is not really a struggle between two great equal and opposing powers with the outcome still in doubt. All power and authority belongs to God and Him alone.

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QUESTION 88 Is Satan Able To Perform Miracles? Satan has many powers. Is the ability to perform miracles one of them? What does the Bible say? 1.

Good Angels Can Perform Miracles

We know that good angels, through the power of God, have the ability to perform miracles. An example of this would be the blinding of the evil men at Sodom. And they [the angels] struck with blindness the men who were at the door of the house, both small and great, so that they were unable to find the door (Genesis 19:11). 2.

The Testimony Of Jesus Concerning Genuine Miracles

When John the Baptist sent messenger to Jesus to confirm that He was the Messiah, Jesus answered as follows. Jesus answered them, “Go and tell John what you hear and see: the blind receive their sight, the lame walk, the lepers are cleansed, the deaf hear, the dead are raised, and the poor have good news brought to them. And blessed is anyone who takes no offense at me” (Matthew 11:4-6). To demonstrate that He was the Messiah, Jesus performed miracles. John the Baptist, as well as the rest of the people, could now be certain that Jesus was whom He claimed to be - because genuine miracle working ability belongs to God and Him alone. Satan, a created being, does not have that power. 3.

Satan Performs Counterfeit Signs

Though Satan does not have the ability to perform genuine miracle s, he is able to produce counterfeit miracles or lying wonders. And then shall be revealed the lawless one, whom the Lord Jesus shall slay with the breath of his mouth, and bring to nothing by the manifestation of his coming; even he, whose coming is according to the working of Satan with all power and signs and lying wonders (2 Thessalonians 2:8,9). These are deceptive works - not the real thing. We see Satan performing his false signs before the Exodus of the children of Israel from Egypt. The sorcerers from Egypt duplicated some of the signs that God performed through Moses. Then Pharaoh also called for the wise men and the sorcerers: and they also, the magicians of Egypt, did in like manner with their enchantments (Exodus 7:11). Their power to duplicate God’s signs was limited - they could only go so far in their deceit. 4.

He Has No Power Over Nature

We find that Satan needed to make a request of the Lord when he touched Job’s family. He had no power over nature until the Lord allowed him to act.

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Satan used the forces of nature against Job only after he was granted God’s permission. Summary Satan is not the opposite of God - he cannot do miracles. Since he is the master deceiver he will do counterfeit miracles, but he does not have the ability to do the real thing. Jesus proved that He was the genuine Messiah by His miracles. The so-called miracles of Satan are nothing but counterfeit.

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QUESTION 89 How Does Satan Keep Unbelievers In Spiritual Darkness? According to Scripture, Satan does the following things to keep those who have not believed in Christ in spiritual darkness. 1.

He Wants People To Deny His Existence

One of the favorite ways in which Satan operates is to get people to deny that he exists. He seems to be most effective when people do not believe there is such a creature as the Devil. If he can get people to doubt his existence, then he can do much of his work without their knowing. We find from the Bible that Satan has often approached people in disguise. For example, in the Garden of Eden he came in the form of a serpent to Adam and Eve (Genesis 3). Paul warned the Corinthians that he appears as an angel of light. And no wonder, for Satan himself masquerades as an angel of light (2 Corinthians 11:14). This unbelief in his existence works to Satan’s advantage. When people are either uniformed or misinformed about the existence of the Devil they are an easy target for him to manipulate. 2.

He Blinds People To God’s Truth

The truth of the gospel is what sets people free. Satan attempts to blind people from that truth. And even if our gospel is veiled, it is veiled to those who are perishing. In their case the god of this age has blinded the minds of the unbelievers, to keep them from seeing the light of the gospel of the glory of Christ, who is the image of God (2 Corinthians 4:3,4). 3.

He Energizes His Own Ministers

Satan gives power to his own ministers. It is no great thing therefore if his ministers also fashion themselves as ministers of righteousness, whose end shall be according to their works (2 Corinthians 11:15). 4.

He Controls People ’s Hearts And Minds

Satan has the ability to control hearts and minds. And Satan entered into Judas who was called Iscariot, being of the number of the twelve (Luke 22:3). 5.

He Hinders The Gospel

The message of the gospel is hindered by the Devil.

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He Prevents People From Hearing The Gospel

Satan’s main goal is to prevent people from hearing the good news about Jesus. The message of forgiveness offered through Jesus Christ sets people free. Jesus said. So if the Son makes you free, you will be free indeed (John 8:36). Satan wants to keep people bound in the slavery of sin. 7.

He Misrepresents The Truth

Satan lies, denies, and misrepresents the truth. To Eve he said. And the serpent said unto the woman, “You shall not surely die” (Genesis 3:4). Satan lied to Eve about what would happen if she ate the forbidden fruit. 8.

He Takes Away The Gospel

He also takes away that which the unbeliever has heard. And those by the way side are they that have heard; then comes the Devil, and takes away the word from their heart, that they may not believe and be saved (Luke 8:46). Satan attempts to get the unbeliever to think about subjects other than the gospel of Christ. 9.

He Encourages False Trust In Religion

Finally, Satan attempts to get people to falsely place their trust in themselves, religion, or good works. He wants people to feel religiously satisfied, but without having a saving knowledge of Christ. The Bible says. There is a way which seems right unto a person, but the end thereof are the ways of death (Proverbs 16:25). 10. His Goal Is Destruction His ultimate goal is the destruction of people. Jesus said. And be not afraid of them that kill the body, but are not able to kill the soul: but rather fear him who is able to destroy both soul and body in hell (Matthew 10:28). 11. There Is Hope For Escape Fortunately, there is hope for unbelievers to escape the traps of the Devil. Paul wrote. And a servant of the Lord must not quarrel but be gentle to all, able to teach, patient, in humility correcting those who are in opposition, if God perhaps will grant them repentance, so that they may

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know the truth, and that they may come to their senses and escape the snare of the Devil, having been taken captive by him to do his will (2 Timothy 2:24-26). Summary Satan has his methods with unbelievers. He wants to keep them from hearing the good news about Christ - the forgiveness of sins. To accomplish this he prevents people from hearing, blinds them to the good news, takes away the good news once they have heard it, and has them falsely trust in something apart from Christ and His gospel. This is his strategy to keep people from hearing and believing the truth about Christ.

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QUESTION 90 What Are The Methods Of The Devil Toward The Believer? The Bible tells us that Satan works in a number of ways toward believers. They include the following. 1.

He Tempts With Evil

The Devil tempts people with evil. For this reason, when I could stand it no longer, I sent to find out about your faith. I was afraid that in some way the tempter might have tempted you and our efforts might have been useless (1 Thessalonians 3:5). He wants the believer to fail. 2.

He Inspires Wicked Thoughts

Satan inspires evil thoughts. But Peter said, “Ananias, why has Satan filled your heart to lie to the Holy Spirit, and to keep back some of the price of the land?” (Acts 5:3). This is the opposite of what the Lord wants us to think about. Paul wrote. Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable - if anything is excellent or praiseworthy - think about such things (Philippians 4:8). 3.

He Opposes Those Who Are In God’s Service

The Devil is opposed to all that is good - particularly those who are in service to God. Because we would have come unto you, I Paul once and again; and Satan hindered us (1 Thessalonians 2:18). He wants to stop the work of God. 4.

He Makes Accusations Against God’s People

Satan makes accusations against the people of God. Then he showed me the high priest Joshua standing before the angel of the LORD, and Satan standing at his right hand to accuse him (Zechariah 3:1). 5.

He Intimidates God’s People

Satan acts as an intimidator.

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Be sober, be watchful: your adversary the Devil, as a roaring lion, walks about, seeking whom he may devour (1 Peter 5:8). He wants to intimidate God’s people from doing what they know is right. 6.

He Seduces Believers To Sin

Satan by his craftiness can seduce believers to sin. But I fear, lest by any means, as the serpent beguiled Eve in his craftiness, your minds should be corrupted from the simplicity and the purity that is toward Christ (2 Corinthians 11:3). He knows out weaknesses and attempts to exploit them. 7.

He Diverts From God’s Truth

Satan tries to turn the minds of believers to the temporal things, not the eternal. Paul encourages believers to set their minds on things eternal For our light affliction, which is for the moment, works for us more and more exceedingly an eternal weight of glory; while we look not at the things which are seen, but at the things which are not seen: for the things which are seen are temporal; but the things which are not seen are eternal (2 Corinthians 4:17,18). 8.

He Gets Believers To Compromise

Satan attempts to get believers to compromise their convictions. Jesus made it clear that we can only have one master. No one can serve two masters; for a slave will either hate the one and love the other, or be devoted to the one and despise the other. You cannot serve God and wealth (Matthew 6:24). 9.

He Places Doubt

Satan places doubt in the minds of believers. Now the serpent was more crafty than any beast of the field which the LORD God had made. And he said to the woman, “Indeed, has God said, ‘You shall not eat from any tree of the garden’?” (Genesis 3:1). Doubt will stop believers from being effective in the Lord’s service. 10. He Wants Believers In Spiritual Darkness Satan attempts to get the believer to feel separated from God in a state of darkness. When a person trusts the Lord, they walk in the light. Who among you fears the LORD and obeys the voice of his servant, who walks in darkness and has no light, yet trusts in the name of the LORD and relies upon his God? (Isaiah 50:10).

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11. He Assaults Believers With Unfounded Criticism Believers can be the beneficiary of unfounded criticism. This is ultimately the work of the Devil, as Job found out. After he went through all of his terrible suffering - losing family, wealth, and physical health he was told the following by one of his “frie nds.” Think now, who that was innocent ever perished? Or where were the upright cut off? As I have seen, those who plow iniquity and sow trouble reap the same (Job 4:7-8). His friend assumed his sufferings were a result of some sin in his life. This criticism of Job was unfounded. Summary There are a number of things that Satan does to the believer in an attempt to get them off the straight and narrow. He tempts believers to do evil. He also inspires wicked thoughts. Satan is in opposition to those who are in God’s service. The Devil also makes accusations against God’s people. He also intimidates Gods’ people. The Bible says Satan seduces believers to sin and divert them from God’s truth. He also causes compromise and doubt in the minds of believers. He attempts to keep them in spiritual darkness. The devil also assaults believers with unfounded criticism. Believers should not be ignorant of these devices for the methods of the Devil have been the same from the beginning. Fortunately, the Bible warns us ahead of time about these devices.

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QUESTION 91 Can Satan Cause Physical Harm To Believers? While Satan does not have the power to work miracles, and has no power over nature, he can employ physical forces against believers, if God allows it. These forces can cause harm to the believer - both physically and emotionally. Scripture provides three examples of this occurring. 1.

The Story Of Job

We find five different examples in the life of Job of Satan being able to touch a believer. Scripture tells us that God allowed Satan to cause both physical and emotional harm to this man of God. A messenger came to Job and said, “The oxen were plowing and the donkeys were feeding beside them, and the Sabeans fell on them and carried them off, and killed the servants with the edge of the sword; I alone have escaped to tell you.” While he was still speaking, another came and said, “The fire of God fell from heaven and burned up the sheep and the servants, and consumed them; I alone have escaped to tell you.” While he was still speaking, another came and said, “The Chaldeans formed three columns, made a raid on the camels and carried them off, and killed the servants with the edge of the sword; I alone have escaped to tell you.” While he was still speaking, another came and said, “Your sons and daughters were eating and drinking wine in their eldest brother’s house, and suddenly a great wind came across the desert, struck the four corners of the house, and it fell on the young people, and they are dead; I alone have escaped to tell you” (Job 1:14-19). His children were killed, his property was destroyed, his livelihood was stolen, and his servants were killed. Scripture tells us that Satan was behind these losses (Job 1:1-13). After these things, Job suffered physically with painful boils. So Satan went out from the presence of the LORD, and inflicted loathsome sores on Job from the sole of his foot to the crown of his head (Job 2:7). God allowed Satan, within certain limits, to bring these problems to Job. 2.

The Woman With The Infirmity

Another such case is the woman whom Jesus healed of a difficult physical ailment. And just then there appeared a woman with a spirit that had crippled her for eighteen years. She was bent over and was quite unable to stand up straight (Luke 13:11). Jesus explained why He was going to heal her on the sabbath day. And ought not this woman, a daughter of Abraham whom Satan bound for eighteen long years, be set free from this bondage on the sabbath day? (Luke 13:16). This woman, who is called a daughter of Abraham, was attending a place of worship. Scripture indicates that she was a believer, not someone demon-possessed. There is nothing in this account suggests that she was an evil person, or someone engaged in immorality. She was a believer who had a physical problem that had an evil origin.

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Jesus came to set her, and others like her, free from this bondage. The Bible says of His ministry. How God anointed Jesus of Nazareth with the Holy Spirit and with power; how he went about doing good and healing all who were oppressed by the Devil, for God was with him (Acts 10:38). 3.

Paul’s Thorn In The Flesh

Finally, we have the case of the Apostle Paul. He had what he called a “thorn in the flesh.” To keep me from becoming conceited because of these surpassingly great revelations, there was given me a thorn in my flesh, a messenger of Satan, to torment me. Three times I pleaded with the Lord to take it away from me. But he said to me, “My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.” Therefore I will boast all the more gladly about my weaknesses, so that Christ’s power may rest on me (2 Corinthians 12:7-9). The “thorn in the flesh” was some type of unexplained physical ailment. We must not overlook the origin of the “thorn in the flesh.” Paul called it a “messenger of Satan” We also note that three times he asked the Lord to take it away. Each time God said no. The Bible promises that God will provide a way to endure any testing that a believer may experie nce. No testing has overtaken you that is not common to everyone. God is faithful, and he will not let you be tested beyond your strength, but with the testing he will also provide the way out so that you may be able to endure it (1 Corinthians 10:13). No testing will be beyond the ability of the believer to cope. God’s Glory Was The Result As was the case in all three instances, each situation ultimately resulted in God being glorified. While we might not understand why we go through these times of physical and emotional distress, believers can be confident that God has a plan behind all of it. Ultimately it will glorify Himself and further His program for this world. Summary From the accounts of Job, the woman with the physical infirmity, and Paul, we find that God, at times, does allow Satan to physically harm believers. As we have stressed, it is always within limits - God will never test believers beyond what they can endure.

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QUESTION 92 When Does Satan Spiritually Attack The Believer? While the Devil may attack at any time, he will always do it when he thinks it is to his advantage. We see this method, time and time again, in the Scriptures. 1.

After A Great Spiritual Experience

We find that Satan attacked Jesus right after His baptism. And when Jesus had been baptized, just as he came up from the water, suddenly the heavens were opened to him and he saw the Spirit of God descending like a dove and alighting on him. And a voice from heaven said, “This is my Son, the Beloved, with whom I am well pleased.” Then Jesus was led by the Spirit into the desert to be tempted by the Devil (Matthew 3:16,17; 4:1). This should teach us a lesson. After a great spiritual experience we should be ready for spiritual attacks from the enemy. 2.

At The Beginning Of A New Spiritual Endeavor

Satan also will attack when someone is beginning a new spiritual quest. Right after Jesus was attacked by the Devil, He began His public ministry. From that time Jesus began to proclaim, “Repent, for the kingdom of heaven has come near” (Matthew 4:17). Knowing Jesus was about to begin His ministry, Satan attacked Him. 3.

When Believers Are Physically Vulnerable

We also find Satan coming when believers are in a weak position - either physically or emotionally. Jesus was attacked after He had fasted for forty days. He fasted forty days and forty nights, and afterwards he was famished. The tempter came and said to Him, “If indeed you are the Son of God, command these stones to become loaves of bread” (Matthew 4:2,3). 4.

When A Believer Is Alone

We also find Satan attacking when people are alone. Then Jesus was led up by the Spirit into the wilderness to be tempted by the Devil (Matthew 4:1). 5.

From An Unexpected Source

Often times Satan will attack us from an unexpected source - someone from whom we do not think. After Jesus had told His disciples that He was going to Jerusalem to die and then be raised the third day, He was rebuked from an unexpected source.

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This is an unfortunate occurrence, but it happens too often. Satan comes to the believer through the sin of another believer. These are the attacks that hurt the most. 6.

He Always Comes Back And Attacks Again

After Satan attacks a believer and then leaves, he always returns again. When the Devil had finished every test, he departed from him until an opportune time (Luke 4:13). Though the believer may win a temporary victory over the Devil in their spiritual battle, Satan will return to fight at another time. While Satan does attack, and sometimes entices believers to fall into sin, ultimately we are victorious through Christ. This is the promise of God! The Apostle Paul declared. The Lord will rescue me from every evil attack and save me for his heavenly kingdom. To him be the glory forever and ever. Amen (2 Timothy 4:18). Summary We should be well-aware of the various ways in which Satan works. He attacks believers when he thinks it will be to his advantage. This includes the time after a great spiritual experience, or right before someone is going to begin a new spiritual venture. He also attacks when believers are vulnerable either physically and/or mentally. Satan also likes to attack believers when they are alone. Christians, therefore, must always be on guard.

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QUESTION 93 Can Believers Be The Unwitting Tools Of Satan? Though believers have trusted Christ as their Savior, and have committed their lives to Him, they can become unwitting tools of Satan. The Bible provides some examples of this unfortunate occurrence. David Numbering Israel The Bible gives the account of David numbering Israel. And Satan stood up against Israel, and moved David to number Israel (1 Chronicles 21:1). Satan was the motivating force behind David numbering the people. David’s sin caused divine judgment against the nation. We find that the ultimate permission for David to number Israel came from the Lord. And again the anger of the Lord was kindled against Israel, and he moved David against them, saying, Go, number Israel and Judah (2 Samuel 24:1). Again, Satan could not incite David unless he was given divine permission. Yet David chose to be a tool of Satan in his numbering of Israel. Peter And Jesus We also have the account of Jesus rebuking Peter and calling him “Satan.” And Peter took him, and began to rebuke him, saying, be it far from you, Lord: this shall never be unto you. But he turned, and said unto Peter, Get behind me, Satan: you are a stumbling-block unto me: for you mind not the things of God, but the things of men (Matthew 16:22,23). When Peter attempted to get Jesus to bypass the cross, he was speaking as an instrument of the Devil. Jesus addressed him in that manner. Summary Believers can unwittingly become tools of the Devil. We discover this with the case of David numbering Israel, as well as Peter rebuking Jesus for speaking of the cross. Therefore believers can come under satanic influence, and do things that are contrary to God’s will and plan.

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QUESTION 94 How Can The Believer Have Victory Over The Devil? While the Bible presents the Devil as a powerful and cunning opponent, it also tells us that Christians can have victory over this enemy. John wrote. You are from God, little children, and have overcome them; because greater is he who is in you than he who is in the world (1 John 4:4). John also wrote. We know that those who are born of God do not sin, but the one who was born of God protects them, and the evil one does not touch them (1 John 5:18). THINGS WE M UST REMEMBER ABOUT THE B ELIEVER AND SIN There are a couple of important points we must remember about the believer and sin. 1.

It Is Our Own Choice Whether Or Not We Sin

It must be emphasized that Satan cannot make the believer do anything! When a Christian sins, it is because they have chosen to sin. It is not the responsibility of anyone else. Satan can entice someone to sin, but he cannot force them to sin. 2.

We Are In Christ: Satan Cannot Harm Us

Satan cannot recapture that person who is “in Christ.” Therefore, Satan is a defeated enemy, one who ultimately will be thrown into the lake of fire. However, until that time, he is still very active in our world. Consequently the believer must take the proper steps to win victory over this enemy. 3.

We Will Have Some Victories And Some Defeats

While believers are living in this world-system, and battling the attacks of the Devil, it is possible to achieve temporary victories over this foe. These victories can only come through faith in Christ. While victory is always possible, occasional defeat will occur, if the believer fails to do their part. Though these defeats do not affect the final outcome, they can hinder a person’s Christian testimony, as well as their spiritual growth. Therefore we need to discover how victory over the Devil can be achieved. THERE ARE STEPS TO TAKE The following are some steps that the believer should take. 1.

We Must Understand Our Enemy

It is important that we understand our enemy. We need to know what he is able to do, his limitations, and the various ways in which he works. The Bible says.

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Put on the full armor of God so that you can take your stand against the Devil’s schemes (Ephesians 6:11) This can only be found from a study of God’s Word. Satan takes advantage of those who are spiritually immature and ignorant. 2.

We Need To Know His Methods

We also need to know how the Devil works - we are not to be ignorant of his methods. The Bible says. That no advantage may be gained over us by Satan: for we are not ignorant of his devices (2 Corinthians 2:11). 3.

We Must Test The Spirits

Believers have a responsibility to test the spirits. Beloved, do not believe every spirit, but test the spirits to see whether they are from God; for many false prophets have gone out into the world (1 John 4:1). This is something we must actively do, we are not to sit by passively. 4.

We Need To Be Actively Watching

The Bible tells us to be watching for these tricks of the Devil. Be sober, be watchful: your adversary the Devil, as a roaring lion, walks about, seeking whom he may devour (1 Peter 5:8). We should be on guard against his attacks. 5.

We Must Resist Him When He Comes

The Bible tells believers to resist the Devil. Be subject therefore unto God; but resist the Devil, and he will flee from you (James 4:7). Resist has the idea of withstand, or to stand our ground. By standing our ground, Satan can be overcome. John wrote to believers. I am writing to you, fathers, because you know Him who is from the beginning. I am writing to you, young people, because you have conquered the evil one (1 John 2:13). 6.

We Need To Realize Our Weak Areas

Every human being has areas in their life in which they are vulnerable. Satan knows these areas. Consequently believers should be especially alert from attacks in the areas where they are the weakest. The Bible commands us not to give any opportunity to the Devil to work. Neither give place to the Devil (Ephesians 4:27).

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We learn a valuable lesson from Michael the archangel in dealing with Satan. But when the archangel Michael, contending with the Devil, disputed about the body of Moses, he did not presume to pronounce a reviling judgment upon him, but said, “The Lord rebuke you” (Jude 9). We should not personally defy the Devil. We need to respect his power and should neither underestimate or overestimate him. 8.

We Must Avoid The Situation

As much as possible, believers should avoid any situation that can cause them to sin - we should separate ourselves from the source of the temptation. Paul wrote. Abstain from every form of evil (1 Thessalonians 5:22). By separating ourselves from a particular sin, both morally and geographically, a temporary victory can be won. However, all victories are only temporary because temptation will always come as long as we are in these bodies. 9.

We Need To Put On The Full Armor Of God

The believer has authority over the unseen realm by putting on the spiritual armor that God has provided. For our struggle is not against enemies of blood and flesh, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the cosmic powers of this present darkness, against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly places. Therefore take up the whole armor of God, so that you may be able to withstand on that evil day, and having done everything, to stand firm (Ephesians 6:12,13). The armor consists of spiritual realities that believers need to appropriate every day. By daily surrendering ourselves to the Lord, and placing our faith in Him, we can take advantage of these spiritual realities because it is a spiritual battle in which we are fighting. The Bible says. The weapons we fight with are not the weapons of the world. On the contrary, they have divine power to demolish strongholds (2 Corinthians 10:4). These realities are compared to the outfit a Roman soldier would wear. One of our weapons of warfare in the spiritual realm is the belt of truth. Stand therefore, and fasten the belt of truth around your waist (Ephesians 6:14). The belt of truth refers to the truth of the Word of God as well as the truthfulness we should display in our daily lives. Since Satan is always a liar (John 8:44) we need to concern ourselves with the truth. We are told to put on the breastplate, or coat, of righteousness. And put on the breastplate of righteousness (Ephesians 6:14).

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This refers to doing the right thing. We can only do the right thing after we have put on the righteousness of Jesus Christ. This happens when a person trusts Christ as Savior. Therefore, since we are justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ (Romans 5:1). Believers are now able to do that which is right in the sight of the Lord. Our feet also need to be covered by God’s armor. As shoes for your feet put on whatever will make you ready to proclaim the gospel of peace (Ephesians 6:15). This speaks of spreading the good news about Jesus. Our job is to testify to the lost that there is forgiveness of sin in the Person of Jesus Christ. We are to be ready to go wherever He will send us. Those who do this are said to have “beautiful feet.” And how are they to proclaim him unless they are sent? As it is written, “How beautiful are the feet of those who bring good news!” (Romans 10:15). When the wicked one attacks, there is a shield for believers. With all of these, take the shield of faith, with which you will be able to quench all the flaming arrows of the evil one (Ephesians 6:16). We are to place our faith in God’s promises when we are attacked with fear and doubt. The Bible also speaks of armor that protects the head. Take the helmet of salvation (Ephesians 6:17). The head speaks of knowledge. We need to understand that we have been given assurance of salvation seeing that it is God who will carry us through. While Satan wants to keep believers ignorant of these truths, and to keep them in continual doubt and bondage, Jesus wants to set them free. So if the Son makes you free, you will be free indeed (John 8:36). Scripture now speaks of an offensive weapon in the armor of the believer. The sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God (Ephesians 6:17). The believer needs to understand how to use the Bible effectively when the attacks of the enemy come. 10. We Must Maintain Constant Communication With God We are also told to constantly be in prayer to God. Pray in the Spirit at all times in every prayer and supplication. To that end keep alert and always persevere in supplication for all the saints (Ephesians 6:18).

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Talking to God on a constant basis can help stop the progress of the Devil. commanded to pray unceasingly.

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Pray continually (1 Thessalonians 5:17). 11. We Need To Realize Whose Family We Are Part Of The Bible speaks of two families of humanity - those who are the children of God, and those who are the children of the Devil. Those who are in the family of God have their lives molded after Him. Those who belong to the Devil act like their spiritual father. Believers ought to realize which family they are a part of and act accordingly. The Bible says. For everyone born of God overcomes the world. This is the victory that has overcome the world, even our faith (1 John 5:4). 12. We Are To Rest In God’s Promises Finally, we need to rest in the promises of God. Satan has been overcome and the victory is ours! No testing has overtaken you that is not common to everyone. God is faithful, and he will not let you be tested beyond your strength, but with the testing he will also provide the way out so that you may be able to endure it (1 Corinthians 10:13). Paul said. I can do all things through him who strengthens me (Philippians 4:13). Summary The Bible gives us a way in which we can deal with the Devil. Though the Devil has been defeated, and eventually will be thrown into the lake of fire, he is still actively spreading evil. Christians need to understand who he is, and what he is able to do while he is still active. As long as one looks to Christ, victory can be achieved.

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Summary On Satan (Topic 4) From our study on the topic of Satan we have learned the following. Question 64. Satan is not a mere force, a symbolic figure of evil, or the figment of someone’s imagination. He is a real personage. We discover this in the following ways. Scripture always treats him as a personal being - never some impersonal force, or mere symbol of evil. In His dialogue with Satan, Jesus treated him as someone who has real substance. We also find the Devil in conversation with the Lord in the Book of Job. Personal pronouns such as “he,” “you,” and “himself,” are attributed to the Devil. He has the characteristics of one who has personality. He has also demonstrated personal actions. The existence and the personality of the Devil is tied to the acceptance of the Scripture as God’s revelation to humanity. We conclude Satan is a real being that exists. There is no evidence whatsoever that we should understand him as some sort of illusion or symbol of evil. Question 65. Satan, or the Devil, was a created angel who was perfect in all his ways. When he decided to rebel against God, he brought sin into the universe. He was judged for that sin and lost his favored position with God. Satan has tempted humanity as long as the human race has existed. Adam, and Eve, the first humans listened to his temptation and brought sin into this world. Sin and Satan were defeated by Jesus’ death on the cross. Although he continues to deceive humanity his doom is sealed. He will be thrown down to the earth before the Second Coming of Christ. At Christ’s return he will be placed in a bottomless pit. He will be released from that pit for a short time to deceive the nations once more. After that is the final judgment where he will be thrown into the lake of fire. This ends his inglorious career. Question 66. As we examine the characteristics that the Bible attributes to the Devil, we obtain much insight into his character. We find the Scripture saying that he is proud, arrogant, powerful, cruel, fierce, deceitful, and subtle. In other words, he is total evil. Question 67. Contrary to the popular view of the Devil, he is not an ugly creature. Since he is a spiritbeing, he has no physical form. When he does appear, it is as a beautiful creature, an angel of light. Question 68. Satan, the great counterfeiter, has attempted to imitate and pervert Christ. He has done so by counterfeiting the Trinity, and the unique Father-Son relationship that God has. His followers, like God’s, are called children. Satan has his own false apostles, and he marks his own with a symbol of ownership as the Lord has done. In so many ways, he has attempted to counterfeit the true character and works of God. Question 69. There are a number of contrasts that the Bible gives between Satan and the Holy Spirit the Third Person of the Trinity. Satan is the serpent, while the Holy Spirit is the dove. The Holy Spirit is the Spirit of truth, while Satan is a liar. The Holy Spirit searches the deep things of God, while Satan also has his deep things. The Holy Spirit is a life-giving Spirit, while Satan is a murderer. Satan is the slanderer of God’s people, while the Holy Spirit is the Advocate of the believer. Question 70. Satan offered Jesus the kingdoms of this world because he claimed to have authority over them. The question as to whether his claim was legitimate has divided believers. Some say Satan has been totally defeated by Christ on the cross, and has no kingdom to offer. Others, while acknowledging Satan’s defeat on the cross, do not believe it will be fully realized until Christ returns. During this interval period, Satan is ruling this evil world system as the god of this age, and the ruler of the authority of the air. Question 71. God did not create Satan. Everything that He created in the universe was perfect. Though every creature was created perfect, each one was given choice. One particular creature chose to rebel

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against God by trying to impose his own will, rather than following God’s will. When this occurred this angel became the adversary, or Satan. God did not create this creature in this manner, nor did He wish him to rebel. It was his own choice. Question 72. The fall of the angel who became the Devil seems to be rooted in two basic sins - pride and selfish ambition. These sins caused his downfall, as well as the downfall of those angels who went with him. It has also been the downfall of many people since that time. Question 73. There were a number of results that occurred when Satan fell. Satan was the first sinner in the universe. He is also the author of sin. We also find that his great wisdom was corrupted through sin. We also find that he was completely taken over by sin. His sin caused him to be condemned and to be sent down to the earth. Eventually he will experience the ultimate judgment - eternal separation from God. Question 74. Satan presently dwells in the heavenly realm. The Bible teaches that he does have access to the LORD. Whether he has already been thrown out of heaven or whether this judgment is still future is an area in which Bible students disagree. Question 75. There are several questions about the origin, fall, and continued existence of the Devil that we would like to understand. God has not revealed to us the answers to these questions. Much of this has to do with the main message of Scripture - God and humanity. Though people have speculated as to why God allowed these things to happen, ultimately we do not know the answer - He has not chosen to reveal it to us. We do know that God has all knowledge, and that He did know that this angel would rebel and would cause so much grief and suffering. Because the Lord tells us that His ways are past finding out, we should rest in the fact that God has an overall plan that took into consideration the rebellion and the sin of the Devil. Question 76. The reason Lucifer has been understood to be a proper name of the Devil has to do with the Latin translation of the Hebrew term Helel. This word was understood, by some, to be a proper name for the king of Babylon. It means “light bearer,” or Lucifero in Latin. The Latin title became a popular name for this evil figure. When the King James translators rendered the Hebrew term into English, they kept the popular term “Lucifer” for the Devil. Question 77. Satan, or the Devil, is known by a number of names in Scripture. They include the following. Satan, day star, son of the morning, the anointed cherub, the Devil, tempter, ruler of demons, Beelzebub, the evil one, enemy, liar, father of lies, murderer, ruler of this world, god of this age, angel of light, Belial, ruler and authority of the air, adversary, roaring lion, the angel of the abyss, Apollyon, Abbaddon, dragon, old serpent, deceiver of the whole world, accuser of God’s people. All of these names point to his evil character. The chief characteristics we find in this creature are his hostility, cunning, power, and evil intent toward God and His people. Question 78. Though in the immediate context of Isaiah the subject is the king of Babylon, behind him seems to be the personage of the Devil. This can be seen by some of the statements that seemingly could not be referring to the earthly king of Babylon. If this is true, then we gain insight into this angel’s motivation for his original sin. Five times in this passage the words, “I will” are used. This indicates the sin of pride caused the downfall of this personage. Question 79. In Ezekiel 28 there is a description of the fall of the King of Tyre. From this passage there seems to be a description of the original fall of Satan. However not all interpreters agree with this interpretation. They believe it refers solely to the King of Tyre. If it does refer to Satan, then we learn much about him in this passage. He was the anointed cherub who had a special place next to the throne of

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God. Because of his special place, and his extraordinary beauty, he was lifted up with pride. This caused him to rebel against God, and to be judged for his sin. He was thrown out of God’s presence awaiting ultimate judgment. Question 80. Seemingly, God used the example of two pagan kings, those of Tyre and Babylon, to illustrate the original fall of the angel who became the Devil. Their desire to be worshipped is similar to his own desire. Consequently, the fall of this angel from his lofty position, is a lesson for all who would attempt to take the place of God. Question 81. From the beginning, Satan has attempted to thwart the plan of God. First, he has attempted to destroy the human race, then the chosen people - Israel. Next, he has tried to cut off the Promised line of the Messiah. He has sought to interfere with the mission of Jesus to the earth. Finally, Satan has tried to destroy the work of God in the world today, the church. In all of these attempts, he has miserably failed. Satan has lost; the Lord has prevailed! Question 82. The defeat of Satan, by the Lord Jesus Christ, is complete. Jesus has defeated Satan through His silent years, His temptation, public ministry, death, and resurrection. He continues to defeat Satan today through the lives of believers who have been delivered from the kingdom of darkness and transformed into the kingdom of light. When Christ returns, He will have Satan bound in the bottomless pit and then eventually thrown into the lake of fire. Jesus, therefore, will thoroughly defeat Satan. Question 83. The church has been the object of attack from Satan from both within and without. Within, he has attacked the church by introducing false teaching and false teachers. We find them already infiltrating the church at an early time in its history. From without, he has persecuted God’s people. Persecution also began at an early date in the history of the church. Yet infiltration and persecution will not stop the work of the Lord. The church will continue to prosper because Jesus said nothing would stop its advancement. Question 84. Satan has always wanted worship. He began his career by wishing to change places with God. That did not work. He will finally get his chance as he energizes the “man of sin” or the Antichrist. This man will counterfeit Christ in a number of ways, but will eventually be destroyed when Christ comes again. Question 85. There is a question as to whether Satan will be released after Christ returns. Some feel that he is already bound and will not be bound after Christ returns. Others believe that he is yet to be bound. Those with that particular view hold that after Christ returns, Satan will be released for a short time to deceive the nations. As to why, we are not told. Some feel that it is to demonstrate, once and for all, that the problem of sin is ultimately one of the human heart and not other influences. Question 86. Satan’s destiny was pronounced the moment he rebelled against God. He will eventually be judged - sent to the lake of fire. It was created as a place for his judgment, as well as for those angels who followed him. He will be punished there forever. Question 87. Satan is not the opposite of God. His power is limited. He cannot create or search the human heart. Satan cannot read thoughts, does not know what people dreamed, and does not know the future. He has to approach God as a subordinate. Without God’s permission, he is not able to do anything. For example, he cannot tempt believers unless God permits him. He cannot influence nature or cause any physical harm. In fact, he cannot touch anyone at all unless the Lord allows it. He is not able to

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mention the names of believers or force believers to do anything without God’s permission. Actually he is a coward. The good news from Scripture is that believers will be ultimately victorious over Satan. Therefore the conflict between God and Satan is not really a struggle between two great equal and opposing powers with the outcome still in doubt. All power and authority belongs to God and Him alone. Question 88. Satan is not the opposite of God - he cannot do miracles. Since he is the master deceiver he will do counterfeit miracles, but he does not have the ability to do the real thing. Jesus proved that He was the genuine Messiah by His miracles. The so-called miracles of Satan are nothing but counterfeit. Question 89. Satan has his methods with unbelievers. He wants to keep them from hearing the good news about Christ - the forgiveness of sins. To accomplish this he prevents people from hearing, blinds them to the good news, takes away the good news once they have heard it, and has them falsely trust in something apart from Christ and His gospel. This is his strategy to keep people from hearing and believing the truth about Christ. Question 90. There are a number of things that Satan does to the believer in an attempt to get them off the straight and narrow. He tempts believers to do evil. He also inspires wicked thoughts. Satan is in opposition to those who are in God’s service. The Devil also makes accusations against God’s people. He also intimidates Gods’ people. The Bible says Satan seduces believers to sin and divert them from God’s truth. He also causes compromise and doubt in the minds of believers. He attempts to keep them in spiritual darkness. The devil also assaults believers with unfounded criticism. Believers should not be ignorant of these devices for the methods of the Devil have been the same from the beginning. Fortunately, the Bible warns us ahead of time about these devic es. Question 91. From the accounts of Job, the woman with the physical infirmity, and Paul, we find that God, at times, does allow Satan to physically harm believers. As we have stressed, it is always within limits - God will never test believers beyond what they can endure. Question 92. We should be well-aware of the various ways in which Satan works. He attacks believers when he thinks it will be to his advantage. This includes the time after a great spiritual experience, or right before someone is going to begin a new spiritual venture. He also attacks when believers are vulnerable either physically and/or mentally. Satan also likes to attack believers when they are alone. Christians, therefore, must always be on guard. Question 93. Believers can unwittingly become tools of the Devil. We discover this with the case of David numbering Israel, as well as Peter rebuking Jesus for speaking of the cross. Therefore believers can come under satanic influence, and do things that are contrary to God’s will and plan. Question 94. The Bible gives us a way in which we can deal with the Devil. Though the Devil has been defeated, and eventually will be thrown into the lake of fire, he is still actively spreading evil. Christians need to understand who he is, and what he is able to do while he is still active. As long as one looks to Christ, victory can be achieved.

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Our Next Course – Humanity, Sin, Salvation Our next course will focus on the object of the battle between God and Satan – the human race. Who are human beings? Where did we come from? Why are we in the evil state that we find ourselves? What is the remedy for the problem in which we find ourselves? In the coming course we will look at the biblical teaching of humanity, sin, and salvation. It will explain how the human race got itself in the predicament that it finds itself as well as the response from God to our need and the way of escape from the coming judgment.