In recent years there has been a massive surge of interest in the existence function of angels. One can find angel figurines, angel jewelry, angel greeting cards, even angel web-sites where groups discuss their experiences with regards to angelic activity. In the midst of such heightened interest in spiritual beings, Christians must examine the scriptures to determine a biblical theology of angels. For the purpose of this paper, the author will be focusing on a New Testament theology of angels.
In examining this subject, there are three major areas that must be addressed. First, one must determine if the New Testament teaches the existence of angels. If so, then one must ask , what are the nature and function of these angelic beings? If the first premise is found to be affirmative, then one must determine if all angels are still in a state of grace or if some have fallen from that original state. If some have fallen from grace, then it must be determined if these fallen angels are under the leadership of any specific power or authority and if so, who/what is that power.
Existence of angels:
The most foundational question that must be asked is, “does the Bible teach the existence of angels?” The answer to this is a resounding, “Yes!” Angels are found in thirty-four books of the Bible in two hundred seventy-five references. Christ taught the existence of angels (Matt. 18:10; 26:53).
What then does the Bible mean when it speaks of angels? The angels are a distinct order of creation and have been given a heavenly position, or sphere, above the sphere of man (Heb. 2:7-9 and Rev. 5:11; 7; 11). Angel means "messenger." In the New Testament, they are always referred to in the masculine gender.
Creation of Angels
Since we see that the Bible teaches that angels exist, we must then look at their origin. Angels are not a race but a host. They are the sons of God (Job 1:6), not of other angels. They were created (Job 38:6,7) at some point in time before the creation of the physical world. The angels were created in a state of holiness (Jude 6). They are innumerable (Heb. 12:22).
The nature of angels:
The New Testament also reveals much regarding the nature of angels. They are spirit beings (Heb. 1:14). They do not reproduce (Mark 12:25). They are masculine (except in Zech. 5:9 ). They do not lie (Luke 20:36). They have great power (II Pet. 2:11). We also see that angels are not merely vague entities, but each has a distinct personality. They each have an intellect (I Pet. 1:12). The can be seen to have emotions (Luke 2:13). They also have a will, or the ability to choose, as they were able to leave their first estate (Jude 6).
The ministry of angels:
What then is the purpose of these created beings? The New Testament seems to show their purpose to be multi-fold in that they are seen as interacting with the rest of creation in multiple ways. For the purpose of this paper, the actions of angels will be examined in relationship to their interactions with Christ, with believers, and with unbelievers.
First, the New Testament shows angels ministering to Christ on at least seven occasions. An angel predicted His birth to the priest Zecharias (Luke 1:26-33). An host of angels announced His birth (Luke 2:13). They protected Him as a baby by instructing Mary and Joseph to flee to Egypt (Matt. 2:13). They strengthened him after His temptation in the wilderness for forty days (Matt. 4:11). At the time of the crucifixion, angels were prepared to defend Him (Matt. 26:53). After Christ had risen from the dead, they rolled away the stone and announced His resurrection (Matt. 28:2,6). Finally, we see angels announcing Christ’s future return at His ascension (Acts 1). Through all these, one can see that angels played an integral part in the life and ministry of Christ while He was on Earth.
The second function we see of angels is one of agents involved in the lives of and assisting Christians. First we see that angels help believers in general (Heb. 1:14). They are involved in answering prayer (Acts 12; 7). They give encouragement (Acts 27:23-24). They serve as guardians and protectors of believers (Heb. 1:14; Matt. 18:10). Angels observe Christians' experiences (I Cor. 4:9; I Tim 5:21). They are interested in evangelistic efforts (Luke 15:10; Acts 8:26). They also care for believers at death (Luke 16:2; Jude 9).
Scripture also teaches that angels are active with relationship to unbelievers. The are involved in executing the judgments of the tribulation period (Rev. 8,9 and 16). They bring punishment to unbelievers (Acts 12:23). Finally, they are involved when the Lord returns to establish His kingdom (Matt. 13:39).
Classification of angels:
While scripture does not give a detailed delineation, it does reveal that there are different classifications of angels. The first classification is archangel (or chief angel). The only one of these specifically named is Michael whose name means "Who is like unto God" (Jude 9). Many also believe that Gabriel is an archangel, however scripture does not explicitly state this (Luke 1:19). It is also commonly held by Protestants that Lucifer was also an archangel, since he was the highest created being prior to his fall. Roman Catholicism adds a Raphael, and a Uriel as well. The apocryphal book of Enoch, gives the names of some seven archangels: Uriel, Raphael, Raguel, Michael, Sarakiel, Gabriel, and Phanuel. (Cope)
While no explanation as to the meaning of the designation, some angels are referred to as elect angels (I Tim. 5:21). Scripture also appears to suggest there is a hierarchy amongst angels, naming them principalities and powers -- this is used of all angels and sometimes of only the fallen angels (Eph. 1:21; 3:10).
THE DOCTRINE OF SATAN
An interesting point in the study of angels is that scripture teaches more about fallen angels than those who maintained their original state. One of those fallen angels, Lucifer, or Satan, is discussed at length by various biblical writers.
His existence:
Some liberal scholars would attempt to deny the existence of a personal Satan, instead proposing that references to Satan are merely an allegory to the existence of evil. Contrary to this, his existence is taught in seven Old Testament books and acknowledged by every New Testament writer. Christ also acknowledged and taught the existence of Satan (Matt. 13:39; Luke 10:18 and 11:18).
His personality:
Like all angelic beings, Satan is shown by the biblical writers as having a distinct personality. Scripture shows that Satan has an intellect (Matt. 4; II Cor. 11:3) -- he quotes Scripture. He is also show as having emotions (anger) (Rev. 12). He is also shown as having a distinct will (II Cor. 2:26; Isa. 14; Matt. 25:41 and II Tim. 2:26) -- and therefore is morally responsible.
His nature:
Scripture is very clear, that like all angels, Satan is a created being (Ezek. 28:14,15)--Therefore he must answer to His creator. He is a spirit being (Eph. 6:11,12). He was a cherubim (Ezek. 28:14) and the highest of all angelic beings (Ezek. 28:12).
Unlike God, Satan does have limitations. He is a creature and therefore, not omnipotent, omnipresent or omniscient. He can be resisted by the Christian (James 4:7). We also see in certain situations, God has placed certain limitations on him (Job 1:12).
The biblical authors also give specific insights into Satan’s personality traits. He is a murderer (John 8:44). He is a liar (John 8:44). He is a confirmed sinner (I John 3:8). He is an accuser (Rev. 12:10). Finally, he is an adversary (I Pet. 5:8).
Principle names:
Much of the character of Satan is revealed through the various names given to him in scripture. These names are as follows:
1. Satan -- adversary (II Cor. 11:14).
2. Devil -- slanderer (Matt. 4:1).
3. Serpent -- deceitful (Rev. 12:9).
4. Lucifer -- son of the morning (Isa. 14:12).
5. Evil one (I John 5:19).
6. Dragon (Rev. 12:17).
7. Prince of this world (John 12:31).
8. God of this world (I Cor. 2:4).
9. Accuser of the brethren (Rev. 12:10).
10. Beelzebub -- prince of the demons (Matt. 12:24).
11. Belial (II Cor. 6:15).
Satan's fall:
What then could cause such degradation in the very nature of Satan’s being? The New Testament does not address this issue, as it is clearly outlined in Old Testament writings-- primarily Ezekiel 28 and Isaiah 14. Here we see Satan’s fall from his original position due to his sin summed in 5 "I wills. . . ."
a. I will ascend into Heaven (I will take God's place).
b. I will exalt my throne above the stars of God (above the angels).
c. I will sit on the mount of the assembly in the far north.
d. I will ascend above. . . clouds (the glory of God).
e. I will be like the most high. (Satan wanted to be the possessor of heaven and earth.) -his sin was pride (I Tim. 3:6) and it may be characterized as counterfeiting God (like the Most High).
Due to his sin, Satan received multiple punishments. First, he was cast out of his original position in Heaven (Ezek. 28:16). In the Garden of Eden, a second punishment was meted out (Gen. 3:14-15). At the cross, we see Satan being judged yet again (John 12:31). He is also barred from all access to Heaven during the tribulation period (Rev. 12:7-13), confined to the abyss (Rev. 20:2) and finally cast into the Lake of Fire (Rev. 20:10).
Satan's work
How then does Satan respond to God as a result of this change of status? He tries to thwart the plan of God in every area and by every means possible. He seeks to counterfeit God's program. He tempted Christ (Matt. 4) and even possessed the body of Judas to betray Christ (John 13:27).
Relating to unbelievers, Satan works to blind their minds (II Cor. 4:4). He snatches the word out of their hearts (Luke 8:12). He uses unbelievers to oppose the work of God (Rev. 2:13). He will gather them to the battle of Armageddon (Rev. 16:13-14). He deceives them now (Rev. 20:3).
Satan also works against believers. He tempts believers to lie (Acts 5:3) He accuses and slanders believers (Rev. 12:10). He can hinder the work of a Christian (II Thess. 2:18). He tries to defeat us through demons (Eph. 6:12). He tempts us to immorality (I Cor. 7:5). He sows counterfeits among believers (Matt. 13:38,39). Finally, he incites persecutions against believers (Rev. 2:10).
Defense of the believers against Satan
What then can a believer do in the face of supernatural attacks by such a spiritual being? The first defense of the believer is the intercession of Christ (Heb. 7:25; John 17:15). The believer should maintain a proper attitude toward Satan (I Pet. 5:8 and Jude 8,9). He should be on guard against Satan (I Pet. 5:8). Believers should take a stand against Satan, although at times we should flee (James 4:7 and II Tim. 2:22). Finally, he should use the spiritual armor (Eph. 6:11-18).
THE DOCTRINE OF DEMONS
Once it is established that Satan is a real personal entity, one must then examine the doctrine of demonology. If Satan is indeed a fallen angel, and the chief of fallen angels, what then of those other angels who fell from grace? Are these what the biblical writers refer to as demons? If not, what role do these fallen angels play?
Views on origin of demons
First, one must determine the origin of demons. There are several different views held as to the origin of demons. The Greeks believed that demons are the souls of wicked men who have died. Others hold that they are the spirits of a pre-Adamic race. Some propose demons are the offspring of the fallen angels and the women before the flood (Gen. 6:1-4). The biblical position however is that they are those angels who followed Satan at his fall.
Characteristics of demons:
What then are the characteristics of these fallen angels? First, one must recognize that they do not have physical bodies as they are spirit beings (Matt. 17:18, cp to Mark 9:25). Even in their fallen state, they know Jesus Christ (Mark 1:24), know their own end (Matt. 8:29), and know the plan of salvation (James 2:19). They have a system of doctrine (I Tim. 4:1-3). They are immoral, wicked, unclean (I Tim. 4:1-3).
Activities of demons:
Demons attempt to thwart the work of God (Rev. 16:13-16 and Daniel 10:11-14) and extend the authority of Satan (Eph. 6:11,12). Demons may be used by God in carrying out His purpose (II Cor. 12:7; I Tim. 1:19; I Cor. 5:5 and I Sam. 16:14). In particular, they can inflict disease (Matt. 9:33), possess humans (Matt. 4:24), and can even possess animals (Mark 5:13). They spread false doctrine (I Tim. 4) and oppose the spiritual growth of God's children (Eph. 6:12).
Demon possession:
This leads to the issue of demon possession. First one must define “demon possession.” For the purpose of this paper, demon possession is defined as a demon residing within a person, exerting direct control of that person's mind and/or body. The end result of demonic possession is physical disease or handicaps (Matt. 9:32,33) and/or mental derangement (Matt. 17:15).
One can see several marks of demon possession from Mark 5 (the demoniac of Gadarene):
a. Indwelling of an unclean spirit (verse 2).
b. Unusual physical strength (verse 3).
c. Fits of rage (verse 4).
d. Disintegration or splitting of the personality (verses 6 and 7). The demoniac ran to Jesus for help, yet cried out in fear.
e. Resistance to spiritual things (verse 7).
f. Clairvoyant powers (verse 7) -- knew immediately who Jesus was.
g. Alteration of voice (verse 9).
h. Occult transference (verse 13) -- the demons left the man and entered into the swine.
Destiny of demons:
What is the ultimate destiny of demonic beings? Temporarily some are confined. For instance, some who were free during the lifetime of Christ were cast into the abyss (Luke 8:31) and will be loosed to do their work during the coming tribulation days (Rev. 9:1-11 and 16:13-14). Eventually all demons will be cast with Satan into the Lake of Fire forever (Matt. 25:41 and Rev. 20:10).
Conclusion
One can see then, that there is a great host of spiritual beings. Those angels who maintained their original state are ever at work to see the kingdom of God established both in the lives of believers and unbelievers. Those angels that fell from grace, now known as demons, follow their leader Satan in working to destroy God’s kingdom.
How then should the believer live in the light of these things? First, one must allow oneself to come to a realization that there are spiritual forces at work around one at all times, even though these forces may not always be clearly seen. Believers must be diligent to resist the works of the Satan and his minions both in one’s own life, and in the lives of others. Believers must be aware that some illnesses, both physical and mental, are the result of demonic activity and the only way to bring healing is to drive out the demonic influence.
One must also be receptive to the work of angels in the life of the believer to bring about the will of God. While many believers today who report the activity of angels in their lives are often marginalized, the pattern of scripture shows angelic activity as a normal occurrence for the believer. They are to be recognized as servants of God and vessels through which God may impart his grace.
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