God's Ministry - Entertaining Angels Unawares

GOD'S MINISTRY
THROUGH HIS SON JESUS CHRIST OF NAZARETH
BY THE POWER OF THE HOLY SPIRIT

Revs. Mr. and Mrs. H. Dean Daniels

E-mail: gods-ministry@hdd-gods-ministry.com

Web-site: http://www.hdd-gods-ministry.com/

ENTERTAINING ANGELS UNAWARES - PART II

Hebrews 13:2 Be not forgetful to entertain strangers: for thereby some have entertained angels unawares.

[some have entertained angels unawares]

Appearances of Angels to Men

Scripture records at least 104 appearances of angels to human beings. They have appeared to:

1. Hagar (2 times, Genesis 16:7-11; Genesis 21:17)

2. Abraham (3 times, Genesis 18:2; Genesis 22:11,15)

3. Lot and Sodomites (Genesis 19:1-22)

4. Jacob (3 times, Genesis 28:12; Genesis 31:11; Genesis 32:1)

5. Moses (Exodus 3:2)

6. Balaam (Numbers 22:22-35)

7. Joshua (Hebrews 5:15; Exodus 23:20-23; Exodus 32:34)

8. Israel (Judges 2:1-5)

9. Gideon (Judges 6:11-22)

10. Manoah's wife (Judges 13:3-5)

11. Manoah and his wife (Judges 13:9-21)

12. David (2 Samuel 24; 1 Chron. 21)

13. Elijah (4 times, 1 Kings 19:5-7; 2 Kings 1:3,15)

14. Elisha and servant (2 Kings 6:16-17)

15. Assyrians (2 Kings 19:35; Isaiah 37:36)

16. Hebrew children (Daniel 3:25-28)

17. Nebuchadnezzar (Daniel 3:24-25)

18. Daniel (5 times, Hebrews 6:22; Daniel 8:16; Daniel 9:21; Daniel 10:5-21; Daniel 12:5-7)

19. Zechariah (7 times, Hebrews 1:8-19; Zechariah 2:3; Zechariah 3:1-6; Zechariah 4:1-5; Zechariah 5:5-10; Zechariah 6:4-5; Zechariah 12:8)

20. Joseph (3 times, Matthew 1:20; Matthew 2:13,19)

21. Mary (Luke 1:26-38)

22. Zacharias (Luke 1:20-38)

23. Shepherds (Luke 2:9-14)

24. Jesus (2 times, Matthew 4:11; Luke 22:43)

25. Some women (Matthew 28:1-5)

26. The disciples (Acts 1:11)

27. Peter and John (Acts 5:19)

28. Philip (Acts 8:26)

29. Cornelius (Acts 10:3,30-32)

30. Peter (Acts 12:7-11)

31. Paul (Acts 27:23)

32. John (52 angels in Revelation)

Psalm 8:5 For thou hast made him a little lower than the angels, and hast crowned him with glory and honour.

Psalm 68:17 The chariots of God are twenty thousand, even thousands of angels: the Lord is among them, as in Sinai, in the holy place.

Psalm 78:49 He cast upon them the fierceness of his anger, wrath, and indignation, and trouble, by sending evil angels among them.

[evil angels among them]

What is referred to here is not stated. It could be the pestilences of murrain and boils, for Satanic agents propagate sickness and disease (Exodus 9:1-12; Acts 10:38).

Exodus 9:1 Then the Lord said unto Moses, Go in unto Pharaoh, and tell him, Thus saith the Lord God of the Hebrews, Let my people go, that they may serve me. [2] For if thou refuse to let them go, and wilt hold them still, [3] Behold, the hand of the Lord is upon thy cattle which is in the field, upon the horses, upon the asses, upon the camels, upon the oxen, and upon the sheep: there shall be a very grievous murrain.

[4] And the Lord shall sever between the cattle of Israel and the cattle of Egypt: and there shall nothing die of all that is the children's of Israel.

[5] And the Lord appointed a set time, saying, To morrow the Lord shall do this thing in the land. [6] And the Lord did that thing on the morrow, and all the cattle of Egypt died: but of the cattle of the children of Israel died not one.

[7] And Pharaoh sent, and, behold, there was not one of the cattle of the Israelites dead. And the heart of Pharaoh was hardened, and he did not let the people go. [8] And the Lord said unto Moses and unto Aaron, Take to you handfuls of ashes of the furnace, and let Moses sprinkle it toward the heaven in the sight of Pharaoh. [9] And it shall become small dust in all the land of Egypt, and shall be a boil breaking forth with blains upon man, and upon beast, throughout all the land of Egypt. [10] And they took ashes of the furnace, and stood before Pharaoh; and Moses sprinkled it up toward heaven; and it became a boil breaking forth with blains upon man, and upon beast. [11] And the magicians could not stand before Moses because of the boils; for the boil was upon the magicians, and upon all the Egyptians. [12] And the Lord hardened the heart of Pharaoh, and he hearkened not unto them; as the Lord had spoken unto Moses.

[Go in unto Pharaoh, and tell him, Thus saith the LORD God of the Hebrews, Let my people go, that they may serve me. For if thou refuse to let them go, and wilt hold them still, Behold, the hand of the LORD is upon thy cattle which is in the field, upon the horses, upon the asses, upon the camels, upon the oxen, and upon the sheep: there shall be a very grievous murrain. And the LORD shall sever between the cattle of Israel and the cattle of Egypt: and there shall nothing die of all that is the children's of Israel. And the LORD appointed a set time, saying, Tomorrow the LORD shall do this thing in the land.] Exodus 9:1-5, fulfilled!.

Eight Predictions of Moses

1. Murrain upon the cattle (Exodus 9:3)

2. Murrain upon the horses

3. Murrain upon the asses

4. Murrain upon the camels

5. Murrain upon the oxen

6. Murrain upon the sheep

7. However, no death to the stock of Israel (Exodus 9:4)

8. Tomorrow this will happen (Exodus 9:5)

Acts 10:38 How God anointed Jesus of Nazareth with the Holy Ghost and with power: who went about doing good, and healing all that were oppressed of the devil; for God was with him.

Psalm 91:9 Because thou hast made the Lord, which is my refuge, even the most High, thy habitation; [10] There shall no evil befall thee, neither shall any plague come nigh thy dwelling. [11] For he shall give his angels charge over thee, to keep thee in all thy ways.

Psalm 91:11 For he shall give his angels charge over thee, to keep thee in all thy ways.

Psalm 103:20 Bless the Lord, ye his angels, that excel in strength, that do his commandments, hearkening unto the voice of his word.

[For he shall give his angels charge over thee, to keep thee in all thy ways]

[[[[[[Partially quoted by Satan in Matthew 4:6; Luke 4:10. Satan omitted the phrase "in all thy ways," but added the phrase "at any time," showing how he misquotes and misapplies Scripture. Also, Psalm 91:13 is omitted by Satan, because it predicts his own crushing defeat (Genesis 3:16; Luke 10:19). The verse has a double reference.]]]]]]

Psalm 104:4 Who maketh his angels spirits; his ministers a flaming fire:

[angels spirits]

The Spirit World

The word "spirit" is found 551 times in Scripture. From these references, the 297 times "angel" is found, and from over 20,000 others about God who is a spirit being, we learn all there is to know about the spirit world - all the various kinds of spirit beings that inhabit the unseen material worlds in space and under the earth (Phil. 2:10; Rev. 5:3, 13).

Ten Kinds of Spirit Beings Besides God:

1. Seraphim (Isaiah 6:1-7)

2. Cherubim (Genesis 3:24; Ezekiel 1:5-28; Ezekiel 8:1-4; Ezekiel 10:1-22)

3. Zoa, or Living Creatures (Rev. 4:6-5:14; Rev. 6:1-8; Rev. 7:11; Rev. 14:3,9-11; Rev. 15:7; Rev. 19:4)

4. Spirit animals shaped like the fleshly ones we have on earth (2 Kings 2:11-12; 2 Kings 6:13-17; Zech. 1:8-11; Zech. 6:1-8; Romans 1:20; 2 Cor. 12:1-4; Rev. 19:11-21)

5. Archangels, or chief angels who rule kingdoms and planets (Col. 1:15-18; 1 Thes. 4:16; Jude 1:9)

(1) Michael, one of the chief princes, the prince of Israel (Daniel 10:13, 21; Daniel 11:1; Daniel 12:1; 1 Thes. 4:16; Jude 1:9; Rev. 12:7-9)

(2) Gabriel, who stands before God (Daniel 8:16-19; Daniel 9:20-23; Daniel 10:8-11:1; Luke 1:19, 26)

(3) Lucifer, the original ruler of the planet earth and present pseudo-ruler of man's dominion on earth (Isaiah 14:12-14; Ezekiel 28:11-17; Matthew 4:1-11; Luke 10:18; Ephes. 2:2; Rev. 12:7-9).

(4) Unnamed princes of Persia and Grecia (Daniel 10:13-11:1; Rev. 11:7; Rev. 17:8)

6.Common angels (see Psalm 106:37 Yea, they sacrificed their sons and their daughters unto devils)

[devils]

Demons or Unclean Spirits

1.Definition and usage of the terms devil and demon:

(1) Two Hebrew words are translated "devil": shed (HSN-7700), "a spoiler"; "destroyer"; "a malignant, evil spirit" (Deut. 32:17; Psalm 106:37); and sa€iyr (HSN-8163), "shaggy, hairy one"; "kid"; "goat"; "satyr"; "devil" (Leviticus 17:7; 2 Chron. 11:15). Devils are the "familiar spirits" of the O.T. (Leviticus 19:31; Leviticus 20:6; Deut. 18:11; 1 Samuel 28:3, 9; 2 Kings 21:6; 2 Kings 23:24; Isaiah 8:19; Isaiah 19:3), and the supernatural spirits behind witchcraft

(2) The word "demon" is not found in the King James Version of Scripture, but the Greek verb daimonizomai (GSN-1139) (to be possessed (to be possessed by an evil spirit; be demonized) and the nouns daimon (GSN-1142) and daimon (GSN-1140) refer to evil spirits, demons, or devils.

(3) The word "devil" is also used of Satan, the prince of demons (Matthew 9:34; Matthew 12:24). He is the chief devil and the original source of evil in the universe. There are many demons, but only one prince of demons. The Greek word for devil used in connection with Satan is diabolos (GSN-1228), meaning adversary, false accuser, slanderer, devil. It is used of men and translated false accuser and slanderer in 1 Tim. 3:11; 2 Tim. 3:3; Titus 2:3. It is translated "devil" once as applying to Judas when he became an adversary of Christ (John 6:70). In 34 other places it is translated "devil" and used of Satan as the chief adversary of God. Satan has an angelic body and cannot physically enter anyone (see Luke 22:3), but demons are disembodied spirits capable of possessing the bodies of both animals and men.

2. The nature of demons:

(1) They are evil (Judges 9:23; 1 Samuel 18:9-10).

(2) They are intelligent and wise (1 Kings 22:22-24; Acts 16:16).

(3) They are powerful (Mark 5:1-18).

(4) They are disembodied spirits (Rev. 16:13-16).

(5) They are not angels (Acts 23:8-9).

(6) They are not human, for they possess men and can be cast out (Matthew 10:8; Mark 16:17).

(7) They are individuals (Mark 16:9).

(8) They have knowledge (Matthew 8:29; Luke 4:41; Acts 19:15).

(9) They have faith (James 2:19).

(10) They have feelings (Matthew 8:29; Mark 5:7).

(11) They have fellowship (1 Cor. 10:20-21).

(12) They have doctrines (1 Tim. 4:1).

(13) They have wills (Matthew 12:43-45).

(14) They have miraculous powers (Rev. 16:13-16).

(15) They have emotions (Acts 8:7).

(16) They have desires (Matthew 8:28-31).

(17) They have other soul and spirit faculties.

3. The work of demons:

(1) They possess people and cause dumbness and deafness (Matthew 9:32-33; Mark 9:25)

(2) Blindness (Matthew 12:22)

(3) Grievous vexation (Matthew 15:22)

(4) Lunacy and mania (Matthew 4:23-24; Matthew 17:14-21; Mark 5:1-18)

(5) Uncleanness (they are called unclean spirits 20 times; Luke 4:36)

(6) Supernatural strength (Mark 5:1-18)

(7) Suicide (Matthew 17:16; John 10:10)

(8) Convulsions (Mark 9:20)

(9) Lusts (John 8:44; Ephes. 2:1-3; 1 John 2:15-17)

(10) Counterfeit worship (Leviticus 17:7; Deut. 32:17; 2 Chron. 11:15; Psalm 106:37; 1 Cor. 10:20; Rev. 9:20)

(11) Error (1 John 4:1-6; 1 Tim. 4:1)

(12) Sicknesses and diseases (Matthew 4:23-24; Acts 10:38)

(13) Torments (Matthew 4:23-24; Matthew 15:22)

(14) Deceptions (1 Tim. 4:1-2; 1 John 4:1-6)

(15) Lying (1 Kings 22:21-24)

(16) Enchantments and witchcraft (2 Chron. 33:6)

(17) Heresies (1 Tim. 4:1)

(18) Wickedness (Luke 11:26)

(19) Fear (2 Tim. 1:7)

(20) Love of the world (1 John 2:15-17; 1 Cor. 2:12)

(21) Bondage (Romans 8:15)

(22) Discord (1 Kings 22:21-24; Matthew 13:36-43)

(23) Violence (Matthew 17:15)

(24) Betrayals (John 13:2; 1 Kings 22:21-23)

(25) Oppression (Acts 10:38)

(26) Sin (John 8:44; 1 John 3:8)

(27) Persecution (1 Peter 5:8; Rev. 2:10)

(28) Jealousy (1 Samuel 16:14; 1 Samuel 18:8-10)

(29) False prophecy (1 Samuel 18:8-10; 1 Kings 22:21-24)

(30) Every other evil they possibly can, to work against man and God.

4. The abilities of demons:

(1) They can teach (1 Tim. 4:1).

(2) They can steal (Matthew 13:19; Luke 8:12).

(3) They can fight (Ephes. 4:27; Ephes. 6:10-18; 1 Peter 5:8).

(4) The can become fierce and wrathful (Matthew 8:28; Rev. 12:12).

(5) They can tell fortunes (Leviticus 20:27; Acts 16:16).

(6) They can be friendly (they are called familiar spirits 16 times; Leviticus 20:6, 27).

(7) They go out and come back into people as they will, unless cast out and rejected (Matthew 12:43-45).

(8) They travel (1 Kings 22:21-24; Mark 5:7,12).

(9) They speak (Mark 1:34; Mark 5:12; Acts 8:7).

(10) They imitate the departed dead (2 Samuel 28:3-9; 1 Chron. 10:13; Isaiah 8:19; Deut. 18:11).

(11) They can do many other things when in possession of bodies.

5. They are called:

(1) Devils (Mark 16:17)

(2) Familiar spirits (Leviticus 20:6)

(3) Unclean spirits (Mark 1:27)

(4) Evil spirits (Luke 7:21)

(5) Seducing spirits (1 Tim. 4:1).

6. General facts about demons:

(1) They are subject to Christ and made subject to believers by the atonement, the name of Jesus, and the Holy Spirit (Matthew 8:16-17; Matthew 12:28; Mark 16:17; Luke 10:17; Acts 19:15).

(2) Thousands of them can enter into and take possession of one man at the same time (Mark 5:9).

(3) They must be discerned, tested, resisted, and rejected by believers (1 John 4:1-6; 1 Cor. 12:10; Ephes. 4:27; Ephes. 6:10-18; 1 Peter 5:8-9).

(4) They have more than ordinary intelligence (Matthew 8:29).

(5) Their rightful place is in the abyss (Luke 8:31; Rev. 9:1-21).

(6) They have personality (Luke 8:26-33).

(7) They are disembodied (Matthew 12:43-45).

(8) They are Satan's emissaries (Matthew 12:26-29).

(9) They are numerous (Mark 5:9).

(10) They can enter into and control both men and animals (Mark 5:1-18), and they seek embodiment (Matthew 12:43-45; Luke 8:32).

(11) Demon possession and demon influence are different (cp. Matthew 4:23-24 with Matthew 16:21-23).

(12) Demons know their fate (Matthew 8:31-32) and recognize those who have power over them (Acts 19:13-17).

(13) They fear God (James 2:19).

(14) They inflict physical maladies (Matthew 12:22; Matthew 17:15-18).

(15) They wage war on saints (Ephes. 6:10-18).

(16) They influence men (1 Tim. 4:1-5; 2 Peter 2:10-12).

(17) All unbelievers are more or less in league with them (Ephes. 2:1-3).

(18) The only resources against them are prayer and the whole armor of God (Matthew 17:21; Ephes. 6:10-18).

(19) There are demon spirits for every sickness, unholy trait, and doctrinal error known among people.

(20) They must be cast out or resisted in order to experience relief from them.

7. Traffic or association with demon spirits is forbidden in both testaments (Leviticus 19:31; Leviticus 20:6; Deut. 18:10; 1 Chron. 10:13-14; Isaiah 8:19; Luke 4:41; Acts 16:16; 1 Tim. 4:1-5; 2 Peter 2:1-3; 1 John 4:1-6).

7. Demons (Psalm 106:37)

8. Demon locusts (Rev. 9:1-11)

9. Demon horsemen (Rev. 9:12-21)

10. The inner man, or soul and spirit of human beings.

Definition and Usage of "Angel":

The word literally means messenger and is used of Christ, angels, and people.

1. Christ, the second Person of the Trinity appeared to men as the messenger of God (1 Cor. 10:4,9; 1 Cor. 11:3). He is called:

(1) The angel of God (Genesis 21:17; Genesis 31:11; Exodus 3:2; Judges 6:20; Judges 13:9; Acts 27:23)

(2) The angel of the Lord (Genesis 16:7-11; Genesis 22:11,15; Exodus 14:19; Numbers 22:22-35; Judges 2:1,4; Judges 6:11-12,21-22; Judges 13:3-6,13-21; 2 Kings 1:3,15; 2 Kings 19:35; 1 Chron. 21:12-30; Psalm 34:7; Psalm 35:5-6; Isaiah 37:36; Zech. 1:9-19; Zech. 3:1-6; Zech. 12:8; Acts 7:30-38). In all other places where "the angel of the Lord" is found, the term refers to ordinary angels, as in Matthew 1:20, 24; Matthew 2:13, 19; Matthew 28:2-5; Luke 1:11-38; Luke 2:9-21; Acts 5:19; Acts 8:26; Acts 10:3; Acts 12:7-23.

(3) His angel (Genesis 24:7, 40; Exodus 23:20; Exodus 33:2; Numbers 20:16; 2 Chron. 32:21; Daniel 3:28; Daniel 6:22)

(4) The angel (Genesis 48:16; Eccles. 5:6; Hosea 12:4)

(5) Mine angel (Exodus 23:23; Exodus 32:34)

(6) Angel of His presence (Isaiah 63:9)

(7) Angel (Rev. 8:3-5; Rev. 10:1-11:3)

2. The word angel is used of common angels in Psalm 104:4.

3. It is used of men in Rev. 1:1,20; Rev. 2:1,8,12,18; Rev. 3:1,7,14; Rev. 19:9,10; Rev. 22:6-8,16. In other places it is nearly always clear that common angels who are spirit beings and heavenly creatures are referred to.

Common Angels:

1. The nature of angels. They are heavenly spirit beings with:

(1) Personal spirit bodies with bodily parts, as hands, feet, eyes, heads, voices, mouths, hair, faces, and other parts which men have (Genesis 18:2,4,8; Genesis 19:1-22; Judges 13:6). See Appearances of Angels to Men.

(2) Personal souls with emotions (Luke 15:1-10), passions (^§Genesis 6:1-4, notes; Jude 1:6-7); appetites (Genesis 18:8; Genesis 19:3); anger (Rev. 12:12); enmity (Genesis 3:15); lusts (John 8:44); vengeance (1 Peter 5:8); desires (1 Peter 1:12); pride (Ezekiel 28:17; 1 Tim. 3:6); and other soul passions, feelings, and desires

(3) Personal spirits with intelligence and wisdom (2 Samuel 14:20; 2 Samuel 19:27; Matthew 24:36; Ephes. 3:10); patience (Numbers 22:22-35); meekness (2 Peter 2:11; Jude 1:9); modesty (1 Cor. 11:10); holiness (Mark 8:38); obedience (Psalm 103:20; Matthew 6:10); knowledge (Mark 13:32; 1 Peter 1:12); willpower (Isaiah 14:12-14); ability to speak languages (1 Cor. 13:1); and other spirit faculties

2. General facts about angels. They are glorious (Luke 9:26); immortal (Luke 20:36); powerful and mighty in body (Isaiah 37:36; 2 Thes. 1:7-10; Rev. 18:1); heavenly spirit beings (Psalm 104:4; Matthew 18:10; Matthew 22:30; Matthew 24:36; Hebrews 1:14); not demons (Acts 23:8-9); limited in knowledge (Mark 13:32); and higher than man (Psalm 8:5).

They need no rest (Rev. 4:8); can eat food (Genesis 18:8; Genesis 19:3; Psalm 78:25); appear visible and invisible (Numbers 22:22-35; John 20:12; Hebrews 13:2); operate in the material realms (Genesis 18-19; Genesis 22:11; 2 Samuel 24; 2 Kings 19:35; Acts 1; Acts 12); travel at inconceivable speed (Ezekiel 1; Rev. 8:13; Rev. 9:1) ascend and descend (Genesis 28:12; John 1:51); speak languages (1 Cor. 13:1); and can do anything man can do, including sin.

They were created by Christ before the earth (Job 38:4-7; Psalm 148:2-5; Col. 1:16); are not to be worshiped (Col. 2:18); are organized into principalities and powers with thrones (Col. 1:16; Col. 2:18; Romans 8:38; Ephes. 6:10-18; 1 Peter 3:22); are innumerable (Luke 2:13; Hebrews 12:22); to be judged or ruled by saints (1 Cor. 6:3); are subject to God (Matthew 22:30); interested in earthly affairs (Luke 9:26; Luke 15:7-10; 1 Tim. 5:21; 1 Peter 1:12); and are being taught wisdom by the church (1 Cor. 4:9; Ephes. 3:10). They desire to look into the things of salvation (1 Peter 1:10-12); observe us (1 Cor. 4:9); can cook (1 Kings 19:5-7); wear garments (John 20:12); appear unawares (Hebrews 13:2); have been tested (Job 4:18; 1 Tim. 5:21); dwell in heaven (Rev. 12:12; Rev. 13:6); stand before God (2 Chron. 18:18). Christ is better than angels (Hebrews 1:5-2:16).

3. The work of angels. They carry on work daily and meet responsibilities that only beings with personal bodies, souls, and spirits are capable of:

(1) They drive spirit horses (2 Kings 2:12; 2 Kings 6:13-17; Zech. 1:7-11; Zech. 6:1-6).

(2) They guard gates (Rev. 21:12).

(3) They wage war in actual physical combat (2 Thes. 1:7-10; Rev. 12:7-9).

(4) They execute judgments (Genesis 19; 2 Samuel 24; 2 Kings 19:35; 2 Chron. 32:21; Psalm 78:49; Matthew 13:41-42; Acts 12:23; Rev. 8:1-9:21; Rev. 15:1-16:2).

(5) They minister to saints (1 Kings 19:5-7; Daniel 6:22; Matthew 4:11; Acts 10; Hebrews 1:14).

(6) They rule nations (Daniel 10:13-21; Daniel 12:1).

(7) They help each individual (Matthew 18:10).

(8) They sing, praise, and worship God (Psalm 103:20; Psalm 148:2; Luke 2:13; Rev. 5:11).

(9) They strengthen in trial (Matthew 4:11; Luke 22:43).

(10) They lead sinners to gospel workers (Acts 10:3).

(11) They direct preachers (Acts 8:26; Acts 27:23).

(12) They appear in dreams (Matthew 1:20-24; Matthew 2:13-19).

(13) They minister before God (Rev. 8:2; Rev. 14:15-19).

(14) They bind Satan (Rev. 20).

(15) They guard the abyss (Rev. 9:1; Rev. 20:1-3).

(16) They re-gather Israel (Matthew 24:31).

(17) They protect saints (Psalm 34:7; Psalm 91:11; Acts 12:7-10).

(18) They separate the good and bad (Matthew 13:39-41).

(19) They accompany Christ to earth (Matthew 16:27; Matthew 25:31; 2 Thes. 1:7-10).

(20) They witness confessions (Luke 15:8-9).

(21) They receive departed spirits (Luke 16:22).

(22) They give laws (Acts 7:53; Hebrews 2:2).

(23) They guard the tree of life (Genesis 3:24).

(24) They give revelations (2 Kings 1:15; Daniel 8:19; Daniel 9:21-23; Daniel 10:10-20).

(25) They impart God's will (Acts 5:19-20; Acts 10:1-6).

(26) They bring answers to prayers (Daniel 9:21-23; Daniel 10:12-13; Acts 10).

4. Angels are called:

(1) Watchers (Daniel 4:13-23)

(2) Sons of the mighty (Psalm 89:6)

(3) Sons of God (Genesis 6:1-4; Job 1:6; Job 2:1; Job 38:7)

(4) Congregation of the mighty (Psalm 82:1)

(5) Saints (Psalm 89:7)

(6) Hosts (Psalm 33:6; Psalm 103:21; Luke 2:13)

(7) Spirits (Hebrews 1:14)

(8) The elect (1 Tim. 5:21)

5. Satan's angels. They are made subject to Christ (1 Peter 3:22); are sinful and rebellious (Job 4:18; 2 Peter 2:4; Jude 1:6-7; Rev. 12:7-9); evil (Psalm 78:49); to be punished (Isaiah 24:21-23; Isaiah 25:7; Matthew 24:41; Jude 1:6-7); to be cast out of heaven (Rev. 12:7-9); will fight against Christ at Armageddon (Isaiah 24:21-23; Isaiah 25:7; Rev. 12:7-9; Rev. 19:11-21); are organized into principalities and powers (Ephes. 1:21; Ephes. 3:10; Ephes. 6:10-17; Col. 2:10,15; Rev. 12:7-12). They deceive men (2 Cor. 11:14); oppose saints (Romans 8:38; Ephes. 6:10-18); fell originally with Lucifer (Isaiah 14:12-14; Ezekiel 28:11-17; Matthew 24:41; Rev. 12:7-12); hell is prepared for them (Matthew 24:41).

6. There are two classes of fallen angels: those bound (2 Peter 2:4; Jude 1:6-7; Rev. 9:11,14; Rev. 11:7; Rev. 17:8) and those who are still loose with Satan and who will be cast down to the earth in the middle of Daniel's seventieth week in the future tribulation (Rev. 12:7-12; Ephes. 6:10-17). See the reason some of Satan's angels are now bound (Genesis 6:1-4; 2 Peter 2:4; Jude 1:6-7).

7. Appearances of angels to men

[ministers]

Hebrew: sharath (HSN-8334), servants. Human ministers of God is the reference, not angels. The word is translated servant 5 times and minister (62 times as verb, and 17 times as a noun). Almost without exception it is used of the priests and Levites of the tabernacle and temple worship, and of the servants of Israel's kings (Psalm 104: Psalm Psalm 4; Psalm 103:21; Ezra 8:17; Isaiah 61:6; Jeremiah 33:21; Ezekiel 44:11; Ezekiel 45:4-5; Ezekiel 46:24; Joel 1:9,13; Joel 2:17). Ministers of the gospel are successors of the O.T. ministers (Luke 1:2; 1 Cor. 3:5; 1 Cor. 4:1; 2 Cor. 3:6; 2 Cor. 6:4; Hebrews 1:7).

[flaming fire]

Ministers a Flame of Fire

The word for "flaming" here is Hebrew: lahat (HSN-3857), to blaze or set on fire. The word is used of the flaming sword of the cherubim who guarded the way of the tree of life (Genesis 3:24); of the wicked being burned up at Armageddon (Malachi 4:1); of fire burning the wicked rebels in Israel (Psalm 106:18); of a flame burning up trees (Psalm 83:14; Joel 1:19); of hell fire punishing the wicked (Deut. 32:22); of bitter anger speaking forth (Psalm 57:4); of bitter anger in battle (Isaiah 42:25); and of the fury of Satan (Job 41:21). It can be seen from these uses that God's ministers being a flame of fire means that they are to be so full of zeal and the anointing of the Spirit that nothing can stand before them (John 2:17). Those in ministry are to have absolute authority and power over all the works of the devil (Matthew 18:18; Mark 16:17-18; Luke 10:19; Luke
24:49; John 14:12-15; Acts 1:4-8; 1 Cor. 4:20; 1 Cor. 12:4-8) and represent God among men, as exemplified by Christ, the apostles and early believers.

The Doctrine of Satan

What He Is Not:

Satan is not evil principle, an error of the mortal mind, an abstract power, or a being with hoofs, horns, and tail, holding a pitchfork and presiding over a lake of fire and the realm of the dead.

What He Is:

1. Satan is a real person (1 Chron. 21:1; Job 1:6-12; Job 2:1-7; Psalm 109:6; Zech. 3:1-2; 1 Peter 5:8-9; Rev. 12:7-12)

2. Jesus dealt with him as with a person (Matthew 4:1-11; Luke 4:1-13)

3. Jesus waged war on Satan as on a person (Luke 13:16; Acts 10:38; 1 John 3:8)

4. Christ taught that Satan was a real person (Luke 10:18; Rev. 12:7-12; Rev. 13:1-4; Rev. 20:1-10)

5. The apostles fought with Satan as with a real person (Ephes. 6:10-18; 1 Thes. 2:18; 1 Peter 5:8-9)

6. The apostles warned men against a personal devil (Ephes. 4:27; Ephes. 6:11; James 4:7; 1 Peter 5:8-9)

7. Personal singular pronouns are used of Satan (Matthew 4:7-11; Matthew 12:26; Luke 11:18)

8. Personal statements are made to him (Job 1:6-12; Job 2:1-7; Isaiah 14:12-14; Ezekiel 28:11-17; Zech. 3:1-2; Matthew 4:1-10; Jude 1:9)

9. Personal conversation is carried on with him (Job 1:6-12; Job 2:1-7; Isaiah 14:12-14; Matthew 4:1-10; Jude 1:9)

10. Personal descriptions are given of him (Isaiah 14:12-14; Ezekiel 28:11-17)

11. The personal names and titles that are given to him:

(1) Lucifer (Isaiah 14:12-14)

(2) The Devil and Satan (Rev. 12:9)

(3) Beelzebub (Matthew 10:25; Matthew 12:24)

(4) Belial (2 Cor. 6:15)

(5) The adversary (1 Peter 5:8-9)

(6) The dragon (Rev. 12:3-12; Rev. 13:1-4; Rev. 20:1-3)

(7) The serpent (2 Cor. 11:3; Rev. 12:9)

(8) The god of this world (2 Cor. 4:4)

(9) The prince of this world (John 12:31)

(10) The prince of the power of the air (Ephes. 2:1-3)

(11) The accuser of our brethren (Rev. 12:10)

(12) The enemy (Matthew 13:39)

(13) The tempter (Matthew 4:3)

(14) The wicked one (Matthew 13:19,38)

(15) That wicked one (1 John 5:18)

12. Personal acts and attributes are ascribed to him (see The Work of Satan, below.)

13. He is an angel with a body, soul, and spirit like all other angels (Ezekiel 28:11-17; Rev. 12:7-12)

14. He is described as a most beautiful creature who fell through personal pride over his own beauty (Ezekiel 28:11-17; 1 Tim. 3:6)

15. He has been seen with a body (1 Chron. 21:1; Job 1:6-12; Job 2:1-7; Psalm 109:6; Zech. 3:1-2; Matthew 4:1-11; Rev. 20:1-3)

16. He will be bound physically with a chain and cast into a prison (Rev. 20:1-3)

17. He has a heart (Isaiah 14:12-14); pride (Ezekiel 28:17; 1 Tim. 3:6); speech (Job 1:6-12; Job 2:1-7; Matthew 4:1-11); knowledge (Job 1:6-12; Job 2:1-7; Matthew 4:1-11; Rev. 12:12); power (Job 1:6-22; Job 2:1-7; Acts 10:38; Acts 26:18; 2 Thes. 2:8-12; Rev. 13:1-4); desires (Luke 22:31); lusts (John 8:44; Ephes. 2:1-3); and many other physical parts, soul passions, and spirit faculties

18. He goes from place to place in a body like anyone else (Job 1:6-12; Job 2:1-7; Matthew 4:10-11; Mark 4:15)

19. He has a kingdom (Mark 3:22-26)

20. He has access to heaven (Job 1:6-12; Job 2:1-6; Rev. 12:9-12)

21. He is a great celestial and terrestrial ruler (John 12:31; 2 Cor. 4:4; Ephes. 2:2; Ephes. 6:10-18)

22. He rules the business, social, political, and religious activities of the majority of mankind

23. His realm is divided into organized principalities and powers in the heavenlies (Daniel 10:12-11:1; Matthew 12:24-30; Ephes. 6:10-12)

24. His subjects are fallen angels, fallen men, and demons of various kinds (Matthew 25:41; John 8:44; James 2:19; 1 John 3:8-10; Rev. 12:7-12)

25. He is head of some religions and is a leader in religious affairs (2 Cor. 11:14; 2 Cor. 2:9; 2 Cor. 3:9)

The Origin of Satan:

Satan was created by Christ along with other beings, principalities and powers in heaven and earth (Job 38:4-7; Ezekiel 28:11-17; Col. 1:15-18).

Satan First Ruler of Earth:

According to Isaiah 14:12-14; Jeremiah 4:23-26; Ezekiel 28:11-17; Luke 10:18; 2 Peter 3:4-8 and other passages, Satan (also known as Lucifer) had a kingdom on earth long before the six days of Genesis 1:3-2:25 and the creation of Adam. These passages reveal that he fell, led an invasion into heaven and was defeated. At that time the earth was cursed and all life (living things) destroyed by the first flood (Genesis 1:2). Satan regained rulership over the earth in Adam's day, usurping man's dominion by causing his fall. His relationship to man through the ages has been that of a usurper; and as long as man tolerates his dictatorship he will remain subject to Satan.

Each person can now, by the power of the gospel of Jesus Christ and by the Blood of Jesus Christ, defeat Satan and rid himself of all demon relationship. This is what God demands, and He (God of Heaven) has provided means whereby it can be attained (Mark 16:17-18; Luke 10:19; Luke 24:49; Acts 1:8; Ephes. 6:10-18; James 4:7; 1 Peter 5:8-9). Satan's present position as ruler of this world's system and as the prince of this world will be ended forever when Christ comes (Rev. 19-20), and man can inherit the New Heaven and New Earth and live on it for forever (upon meeting God’s qualifications and conditions’).

The Fall of Satan:

Several clear scriptures describe this. He fell through pride over his own beauty (Ezekiel 28:11-17; 1 Tim. 3:6), and trying to exalt himself above God (Isaiah 14:12-14).

The Work of Satan:

In general, his (Satan) work opposes Almighty God Jehovah continually. For this reason his work varies in some respects with the purposes of God in different ages and dispensations. In O.T. times, Satan's work caused the fall of man, usurp his dominion, and try to prevent the coming of the Messiah into the world in order to avert his own defeat and pending doom. See Genesis 6:1-4. Note the following regarding Satan and his activities:

Twenty-six Branches of Satan's Work:

1. He is the deceiver of all mankind (2 Cor. 11:14; Rev. 12:9; Rev. 20:1-10).

2. He exercised the power of death until Christ defeated Satan and conquered death, hell, and the grave (Hebrews 2:14; Rev. 1:18).

3. He is the leader of all sinners and backsliders of the human race (1 John 3:8-10; 1 Tim. 5:15), and all spirit rebels (Matthew 9:34; Ephes. 6:10-18).

4. He causes all sickness, disease, and physical and mental maladies in the human race (Luke 13:16; Acts 10:38).

5. He takes advantage of all adversities of men to further their rebellion and hold them captive (2 Cor. 2:11; 1 Tim. 1:20; 1 Tim. 5:11-15).

6. He tempts men (Mark 1:13; 1 Cor. 7:5).

7. He provokes to sin (1 Chron. 21:1).

8. He causes offense (Matthew 16:23).

9. He transforms himself into an angel of light (2 Cor. 11:14).

10. He resists others (Zech. 3:1-2).

11. He enters into union with others against God (Luke 22:3; John 13:2).

12. He sends messengers to defeat saints (2 Cor. 12:7).

13. He hinders the gospel (Acts 13:10; 1 Thes. 2:18).

14. He steals the Word of God from men lest they should believe it (Matthew 13:19; Luke 8:12).

15. He works miracles (2 Thes. 2:9).

16. He contends with messengers of God, endeavoring to hold them captive (Daniel 10:12-21; Jude 1:9).

17. He hinders answers to prayer (Daniel 10:12-21).

18. He sets snares for men to fall into sin (1 Tim. 3:7; 2 Tim. 2:26).

19. He causes diversion and blinds men to the gospel (2 Cor. 4:4).

20. He causes double-mindedness (James 1:5-9).

21. He causes doubt and unbelief (Genesis 3:4-5; Romans 14:23).

22. He causes darkness and oppression (2 Cor. 4:4; 2 Peter 1:4-9).

23. He causes deadness and weakness (Hebrews 6:1; Hebrews 9:14).

24. He causes delay and compromise (Acts 24:25; Acts 26:28).

25. He causes divisions and strife (1 Cor. 3:1-3; 1 Peter 5:8).

26. He makes war on the saints (Ephes. 6:10-18).

War on the Saints:

The greatest and most important work of Satan among men now is to counterfeit the doctrines and experiences of God as revealed in Scripture, in order to deceive saints (2 Cor. 11:14-15; Ephes. 6:10-18; 1 Tim. 4:1-7; Rev. 12:9-12). Men are commanded to prove and test all doctrines and experiences in the spirit realm to see if they are of God or of Satan (1 Cor. 2:12-16; Phil. 1:9-10; 1 Thes. 5:21-22; 1 John 4:1-6). It is certain that every religion, doctrine, and experience among men cannot be of God. We must, therefore, judge them by the written Word of God. The knowledge of truth is the first essential in warfare against demons and error. Great is the danger when believers accept anything and everything in the spirit realm as being from the Lord. The fact that the believer is a child of God does not stop the devil from trying in every conceivable way to deceive God’s children to confuse them. Believers are the ones Satan concentrates on and wars against. However, Satan is not as concerned about the non-believer because he (Satan) already has them in his grip.

There are definite ways outlined in Scripture whereby one can detect what kind of spirit is seeking to control him. But if one neglects to study the Word he may fall prey to one of Satan's demons through ignorance. It must be realized that ignorance is no guarantee against workings of evil spirits. In fact, one of the chief means by which Satan and his forces try to control men is through ignorance. It accounts for their widespread success in getting men to accept their suggestions, doctrines, ideas, leadings, and guidance. Among the guiding principles useful in detecting good and evil spirits, and their operations and doctrines, the outstanding ones are these:

1. Any doctrine that denies or causes doubt and unbelief concerning anything taught in Scripture is from Satan and his demons (1 Tim. 4:1-8). Any religion denying the inspiration of the Bible; the reality of God as a person; the virgin birth and divinity of Christ; His miraculous power and supernatural ministry; the death, burial, physical resurrection, and physical manifestation of Christ after His resurrection; the physical ascension to heaven and coming again of Jesus Christ to set up a kingdom in the world forever; the necessity of the new birth, cleansing from sin and living free from sin; and the numerous other experiences of the Bible—any religion denying these fundamental truths is yielding to "the spirit of error," not "the spirit of truth" (1 John 4:1-6).

2. Any power, influence, or doctrine that causes one to become passive, inactive, submissive, and unresisting to the workings of supernatural spirits seeking to control his life contrary to the teachings of Scripture, is not of God. The Bible says, "Resist the devil" (James 4:7; 1 Peter 5:8-9). An inclination to approve sin and ignore the necessity of repentance and holy living, and a tendency to remove the penalty for sin or doubt that hell is literal and eternal, is promoted by Satan, not God. Just as God requires truth in the mind for the true working of the Holy Spirit in a life, so the devil requires the believing of lies in the minds of men to hold them in bondage. See 1 Cor. 6:9-11; 1 Cor. 10:12-13; 2 Cor. 11:3-15; Galatians 5:19-21; Galatians 6:7-8; Ephes. 6:10-18; 1 Tim. 4:1-9; James 1:22; James 2:10.

3. The Holy Spirit can be recognized by the fruit of the Spirit: love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith, meekness, and temperance (Galatians 5:22-23).

Six Earmarks of a Manifestation of the Holy Spirit:

(1) A Christ-like spirit of love, patience, and faith in God

(2) Soberness and keenness of spirit vision

(3) Deep humility of heart and meekness of spirit, with a lion-like courage against sin, sickness, poverty, disease, discouragement, failure, and everything else causing defeat in the Christian life

(4) Absolute clearness of the mental faculties and intelligent action in carrying out Biblical instructions concerning known duty and personal life as a Christian

(5) Freedom from faultfinding, surmising, whispering, and slander; and freedom from all the works of the flesh listed in Mark 7:19-21; Romans 1:24-32; 1 Cor. 6:9-11; Galatians 5:19-21; Col. 3:5-10

(6) Freedom from any ignorance concerning the divine will. When one is moved upon to act quickly and urgently without knowing whether the act will glorify God or not, it is better to wait and pray until it is clear beyond all doubt that God approves such action. Always remember that 1 John 4:1 commands: "Try the spirits whether they are of God."

The Character of Satan:

The names and various descriptions of Satan reveal his true character as follows:

1. He is the enemy of all good and the accuser of God and man (Ezekiel 28:11-17; Matthew 13:28; Rev. 12:9-12).

2. The father of lies (John 8:44)

3. A murderer (John 8:44)

4. A sower of discord (Matthew 13:39)

5. An adversary (1 Peter 5:8-9)

6. The first sinner, the first rebel, and the first to consecrate himself to self-gratification and to wage war against all society (Isaiah 14:12-14; Ezekiel 28:11-17; Rev. 12:9; Rev. 20:7-10)

7. He is cunning (2 Cor. 2:11; 2 Cor. 11:14; Ephes. 6:11-12).

8. Wicked (Matthew 13:18,38; John 8:44; 1 John 3:8; 1 John 5:18)

9. Malignant (Luke 8:12; 2 Cor. 4:4; 1 Peter 5:8-9)

10. Cowardly (James 4:7)

11. Tempter (Matthew 4:1-11)

12. Thief (John 10:10)

13. Without principle in taking advantage of people in their weak moments (Matthew 4:1-11; Luke 22:40; 2 Cor. 2:11; 2 Cor. 11:3); in tempting people after great success (John 6:15); in suggesting the use of right things in a wrong way and at a wrong time (Matthew 4:1-11); in slandering God to man and man to God (Genesis 3:1-10; Job 1:6-12; Job 2:1-7); in appearing as an angel of light to deceive (2 Cor. 11:14); and in deluding his followers as to their eternal end (2 Thes. 2:8-12; Rev. 12:9; Rev. 20:7-10)

14. Presumptuous (Job 1:6-12; Job 2:1-7)

15. Proud (Ezekiel 28:17; 1 Tim. 3:6)

16. Deceitful (2 Cor. 11:14; Rev. 12:9; Rev. 20:10)

17. Fierce and cruel (Luke 8:29; Luke 9:39; 1 Peter 5:8-9)

18. Aggressive (Ephes. 4:27; Ephes. 6:10-18; 1 Peter 5:8-9)

Satan has never been known to be merciful, good, loving, kind, gentle, pitiful, patient, or to have any of the graces of God since he became the enemy of God and man. In Scripture he is compared to a fowler (Psalm 91:3); fowl (Matthew 13:4,19); a wolf (John 10:12); a destroyer (John 10:10); a roaring lion (1 Peter 5:8-9); a serpent (Rev. 12:9; Rev. 20:3); and a dragon (Rev. 12:3-12).

The methods of Satan:

1. He uses every conceivable means to hold men in subjection to himself and keep them from turning to God. If he fails in this, he tries to kill the believer's testimony and ruin his influence for God.

2. If one falls he tries to make him stay fallen or commit suicide. He endeavors to cause men to end their lives by insisting it is the best way out; but he hides the true fact that this will be only the beginning of real torment in eternal hell.

3. Satan tries to get others in a lukewarm condition and, if he succeeds, urges them to stay in that condition so that God will cut them off in the end.

4. He dares men to do many things which they would not do under ordinary circumstances; and men are foolish enough to think they are not brave if they do not accept his dares.

5. Makes people think they are missing everything in life if they do not go into all kinds of sins which, in the end, will damn their souls.

6. He emphasizes sin and sinful pleasures as innocent enjoyment.

7. He stirs unholy passions in men and women, causing them to throw away all restraint and live a life of revelry.

8. He tries to make people think there is no joy in serving the Lord. This is one of his greatest errors. Serving Christ and winning souls pays the greatest dividends and offers the greatest pleasures known.

9. He preaches to the diligent in business that he needs to invest all his time in getting rich before serving the Lord. The fact is that if one will truly serve the Lord, he can be abundantly prosperous with God's help.

10. He urges churches and their leaders to make religion a paying proposition by appealing to the rich and influential through lowering the standards of holy living, making salvation easy for all, and compromising essentials of the faith; and by feeding the sheep messages on current events and book reviews instead of the infallible Word of God.

God's Purpose in Allowing Satan to Continue:

1. To develop character and faith in the believer (James 1:12; 1 Peter 1:7-13; 1 Peter 5:8-9; 2 Peter 1:4-9; Jude 1:20-24)

2. To keep the believer humble (2 Cor. 12:7)

3. To provide a conflict for saints that they may be rewarded through overcoming (1 John 2:13; 1 John 4:1-6; Rev. 2:7,11,17,26-28; Rev. 3:5,12,21)

4. To demonstrate the power of God over the power of Satan (Mark 16:17-20; 2 Cor. 4:7-11; Ephes. 2:7; Ephes. 3:10)

5. To use him in afflicting people to bring them to repentance (1 Cor. 5:1-6; 2 Cor. 2:5-11; Job 33:14-30)

6. To purge man of all possibility of falling in the eternal future (Rev. 21)

The Doom of Satan:

1. Predicted in Genesis 3:15

2. Accomplished:

(1) At the first advent (John 19:30; Col. 2:14-17)

(2) At the second advent (Rev. 20:1-3)

(3) At the battle of Gog and Magog (Rev. 20:7-10)

The purpose of the thousand-year reign of Christ after the second coming will be to suppress all rebellion (1 Cor. 15:24-28); and the final defeat of Satan and his hosts at the end of the Millennium must be accomplished before the earth is entirely rid of rebels. They must be confined to the lake of fire forever before rebellion is finally and eternally overcome. The earth will be purified by fire and made perfect the third time; and the kingdom of God will be universal over all free moral agents, as it was before rebellion was started by Satan and Adam in their respective kingdoms.

Duty of Saints Regarding Satan:

When one is born again he enters the realm of the supernatural and spiritual; he should begin a study of the Bible to see what it teaches regarding how he should walk and conduct himself in spiritual warfare with Satan and demons. Saints are to:

1. Put on the whole armor of God (Ephes. 6:11-18).

2. Know Satan's devices (2 Cor. 2:11).

3. Give him no place (Ephes. 4:27).

4. Resist him (James 4:7; 1 Peter 5:8-9).

5. Be sober and vigilant lest he devour them (1 Peter 5:8-9).

6. Overcome him by the Word (Matthew 4:1-11; 1 John 2:14).

7. Overcome him by the blood of Christ and testimony (Rev. 12:11).

8. Overcome him by Christ and His name (Ephes. 1:19-22; Ephes. 2:6; 2 Cor. 2:15).

9. Overcome him by birth of the Spirit and faith (1 John 2:29; 1 John 3:9; 1 John 5:1-4,18).

10. Overcome him by the Holy Spirit (Romans 8:1-13; Galatians 5:15-26).

We are overcomers in & by the name of our Lord & Saviour Jesus Christ of Nazareth.

When we became a new creation in Christ Jesus (Luke 5:37) our newness in Christ which

put off the old sinful nature through our accepting salvation from Jesus, caused us to become an overcomer at that time. If we fail to resist the devil, he can walk about seeking to devour us again as he devoured us in the past. We have the authority, through Jesus’ sacrifice on the cross, to overcome the devil. Not in our name

but in HIS NAME (JESUS)! Alleluia!

Luke 10:19 Behold, I give unto you power to tread on serpents and scorpions, and over all the power of the enemy: and nothing shall by any means hurt you.*

Revs. Mr. & Mrs. H. Dean Daniels, Sui Juris

*If you are NOT a child of God & have NOT accepted Jesus Christ as your Lord & personal Saviour then you are NOT one of those given the “…power to tread on serpents and scorpions, and over all the power of the enemy…”! Accept Jesus as your Lord & personal Saviour & THEN you will have the authority mentioned in Luke 10:19.