Fallen Angels

by ELLIOTT, M.S. | Category: The Ministry Of Angels | Mar 2007

When referring to faith and works James says, ‘You believe that there is one God. You do well. Even the demons believe - and tremble!’ (2:19); the thought behind the word being to bristle, shudder or fear. As we begin to look at our subject of fallen angels we ask, "How did the demons, referred to by James and the host of other fallen angelic creatures come to such a situation as to be terrified when acknowledging the power and authority of God?" It is true of them as said of others, "How the mighty have fallen!" (2 Sam.1:19). It is a profound subject we are looking at and, whilst Scripture provides some detail, other aspects are far beyond our understanding.

Satan and all angels were created by God. Psalm 148:5 tells us, ‘Let them (the angels) praise the name of the LORD, for He commanded and they were created’. They were created perfect and holy for the purpose of worshipping God and serving as His servants and messengers.

Lucifer and his sin

Satan, sometimes called 'Lucifer', was created having unparalleled glory and beauty. In summary we read (in Ezek.28:15): "You were perfect in your ways from the day you were created …”. Yet the final part of the verse records the solemn words, "... till iniquity was found in you."

How could it be that such a perfect and magnificent created being, as described in these verses, could and did sin? This is indeed a profound question beyond human reasoning but a second portion in the Old Testament, Isaiah 14, provides some help. This portion seems to have dual application referring both to the fall of the king of Babylon and that of Lucifer.

There are five 'I will' phrases in verses 13-14 which indicate the reason for, and the nature of, Satan's rebellion. 'I will ascend into heaven, I will exalt my throne above the stars of God; I will also sit on the mount of the congregation on the farthest sides of the north; I will ascend above the heights of the clouds, I will be like the Most High.' Satan's motives and intentions are perfectly clear and God's judgment is equally clear, "Yet you shall be brought down to Sheol, to the lowest depths of the Pit" (Is.14:15).

Consequence

Satan was cast out of God's presence along with the multitudes of angels that had joined him in his rebellion. It is possible that perhaps a third of the angelic beings joined Satan in his heavenly rebellion (see Rev.12:4). Not only were they removed from heaven, they all lost their original holiness becoming corrupt in nature and conduct (Mat.10:1; Luke 7:21; Eph.6:11-12). Not all the fallen angels were free to roam this earth. Some are in prison awaiting God's judgment, being cast down to hell (Tartarus) and held in chains until the day of judgment (2 Pet.2:4). Jude 6 represents their sin as of leaving their own principality and proper habitation. Other fallen angels are active demons who serve their master and whose end too will be the Lake of Fire. They oppose God and His purposes at every stage.

Demon activity on earth

Without a doubt there was increased demonic activity during the time of the Lord's ministry on earth. It is seen at the time when Satan came to tempt the Lord (Luke 4:1-13) but right through the Lord's life Satan was actively working through individuals and circumstances in an attempt to hinder Him.

There are many references in the gospels to people being possessed by demons. How the Lord's heart went out to such in all their need when He commanded the unclean demons to come out from them! The Lord was always in complete control and the demons always had to do as He instructed. Whatever their power and work presently, we know that they will be judged by their Creator. We refer to the powerful words spoken by the Lord concerning the eternal destiny of Satan and his angels in Mat.25:41: '... the everlasting fire, prepared for the devil and his angels'. A salutary thought confirmed by the words of Rev.20:10. Little wonder, ‘the demons believe - and tremble’.

Victory assured

For the fallen angels there can be no forgiveness. We, by contrast, have come to know God's forgiveness through the death of Christ. So, although we face a fearful adversary, be thankful he and his angels are indeed our enemy not our friend and that God through Christ has made every provision for our victory.

ELLIOTT, M.S. | Mar 2007
The Ministry Of Angels