Angels, Demons & The Human Nature

Consider if you will, the doctrine of Angels & Demons and the Nature of Man. It is important to be aware of the world we live in. We should not dismiss the reality of both angels, demons and the knowledge of who we are. Angels exist for purpose including the assignment to carry God’s messages to us. They minister to us, protecting, guarding, providing comfort. They are actively carrying out God’s providential judgments (very necessary), and battle against the demonic world (intentionally working to defeat us). We are empowered with the knowledge of how God uses His created beings to accomplish His will. This works for both angels, demons and the awareness of who we are – (1) Both spirit and body, (2) We are unique creatures, created in God’s image [we represent the very nature of God], (3) We are created to have dominion over the earth [Gen. 1:26]. Knowledge is power as it governs our worldview. 

Since right doctrine brings with it right behavior, I feel it is essential to equip oneself with knowledge of both the natural and spiritual world. The issues we face daily are not just physical – It is not just me saying something horrible to upset my wife. The real question is “What motivated my action?” It is not just that a person is depressed and feel like they can’t go on anymore – What’s behind all that? The Apostle Paul said it well “For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the powers, against the world forces of this darkness, against the spiritual forces of wickedness in the heavenly places” [Eph.6:12]. Knowing that God has provided support through ministering angels, understanding the work of evil spirits and their nature, empowers me as I am aware of my enemy. Understanding and knowledge then gives me wisdom to act in faith. 

So how do we practically make use of our knowledge of this doctrine? Many of us are familiar with the subject matter through pop culture, but the Christian should seek to move beyond the secular worldview. Revelation  12: 11a comes to mind - "And they overcame him by the blood of the Lamb and by the word of their testimony…”. Because we have the righteousness of God, we are already  winners amidst anything the demonic world my throw our way.  We overcome by the “Word”. Speak life to your situation, especially with the understanding of who you are and who the enemy is. 

How does all this play a role in our world (reality)? 

The Work of Evil Spirits

Satan’s MAIN STRATEGY is to attack our minds through false teaching  [John 8:44; 2 Cor 4:4; 2 Cor. 2:11]  Attack our wills through temptation [John 13:12]  Attack our bodies

How can we prevent or lessen the attacks? 

Strategy against the enemy

Be alert [1 Peter 5:8]  Resist the devil [James 4:7]  Don’t give the devil an opportunity [Eph. 4:27]  Be clothed with the full armor of God [Eph. 6:10-17]  Know the truth [2 Thes. 2:10-12]

Don't discount the power that lies within you as an authorized God-image bearer (Gen. 1:27). Truth about yourself (rooted in spiritual transformation), and the knowledge of the enemy can and will set you free. 

                                                                         

References:

Jack Cottrell, The Faith Once For All, (Joplin, MO: College Press, 2002),174-177. 

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Written by Pastor Kevin A. Hall.