Are aliens and UFOs real?

WHAT DOES THE BIBLE SAY?

When it comes to the existence of sentient beings from other planets, Scripture is decidedly silent. The only mention of other-worldly beings is when people encounter the angels of God. Scripture does tell us the gospel as it relates to mankind. There are angels who serve as God’s ministers (Hebrews 1:14), demons/fallen angels (Mark 1:34), and human beings. If there are other beings in existence, God does not make mention of them; therefore, even if they exist, they would change nothing about our redemptive history.

FROM THE OLD TESTAMENT

• In the beginning, God created the entire known universe (Genesis 1:1-31).
• Only two classes of beings are mentioned as being sentient and aware of God: angels (Psalm 103:20) and mankind (Genesis 1:27).
• Mankind was made in God’s image. Genesis 1:27 teaches, "So God created man in his own image, in the image of God he created him; male and female he created them." Even if life forms exist on other planets, this would not contradict the uniqueness of the earth and human life (Acts 17:24-26).
• Throughout Scripture, God takes a great deal of time and care with humanity, making us His special focus (Psalm 8:3-8). We are unique – even if we are not alone – in the universe.

FROM THE NEW TESTAMENT

• Christ became a human being to dwell among us (John 1:14). He did not become an angel or some other being.
• Jesus came to seek and save a lost mankind (Mark 10:45). His specific redemption is only for humanity.
• The only other beings Jesus mentioned were angels (Matthew 25:31) and demons (Matthew 10:8).

IMPLICATIONS FOR TODAY

Some suggest demonic spirits or forces may be involved in certain alien and UFO sightings. The idea is that if an alien encounter is real, what is the source? Experiences of those who claimed contact with aliens often resemble accounts of communication with spirits of the dead, fortune telling, and similar activities. Many concluded that if the UFO experience was real, then a demonic spirit must be the cause or source of it. Not all Christians agree on this issue, but it is a possible explanation of the numerous accounts of alleged alien abductions, not only in the past century, but also alien encounter stories found throughout human history.

In the end, the Bible neither explicitly affirms nor denies the possibility of alien life forms. However, Scripture is clear regarding the uniqueness of the earth and human life, warns against being led astray by lies, and teaches we are to "test everything; hold fast what is good. Abstain from every form of evil" (1 Thessalonians 5:21-22).

UNDERSTAND

• According to the Bible, two types of beings were created as sentient and aware of God: angels and humans. There is no mention or denial of aliens or other intelligent extraterrestrial life.
• Humans are created in God's image; this is not dependent on extraterrestrial life or its nature.
• Salvation and God’s plan of redemption was offered to humans exclusively through Christ; what redemption He might offer to aliens is not part of the Bible.

REFLECT

• How do you understand the Bible's silence on extraterrestrial life? Reflect on how you balance scientific curiosity with your faith.
• How might the demonic aspect of aliens and UFOs influence your approach to unexplained phenomena or popular culture's portrayal of aliens?
• Humanity is unique in God's creation. How does this understanding affect your sense of purpose and responsibility as a steward of Earth?

ENGAGE

• Many claims of aliens and UFOs have a natural or human explanation. For example, UFO sightings have often been found to be military aircraft, the sighting of planets at certain times of the year, or something similar. Other claims are simply fabricated or exaggerated.
• If aliens visited Earth tomorrow, how would it impact world religions, especially Christianity? Would it challenge or reinforce your faith?
• Some theories suggest UFO sightings could be demonic in nature. In our technologically advanced world, how do we distinguish between potential supernatural phenomena and cutting-edge human or natural occurrences?