Christian Demonology – What is it?

WHAT DOES THE BIBLE SAY?

Christian demonology is the study of demons based on the teachings found in the Bible. Christian demonology helps provide important answers regarding what demons are, their activities, their identity, their power, and their final destiny.

FROM THE OLD TESTAMENT

• Angels were created with some ability of choice, similar to humans. God did not force angels to rebel, but some chose to do so (Isaiah 14:12–15; see also 2 Peter 2:4).
• Satan and many angels rebelled against God and were removed from heaven. Scripture records this yet does not state exactly when these events took place (Isaiah 14:12–15).
• Genesis 6 mentions a group called the Nephilim, who were offspring of "the sons of God" and the "daughters of men." The term "Nephilim" means "fallen ones" or "giants." Their existence is mentioned just prior to the Noah's ark account and is evidently demonstrative of the wickedness on earth at that time. Though the identity of the "sons of God" is disputed, many argue they were fallen angels.

FROM THE NEW TESTAMENT

• Demons are often understood as fallen angels who rebelled against God (Revelation 12:7–9). They are spiritual beings without physical bodies, seeking to oppose God's purposes.
• Demons can influence individuals, leading them toward sin, deception, and destruction. They may cause physical ailments (Matthew 9:32–33) and promote false teachings or beliefs (2 Corinthians 11:13–15).
• Jesus demonstrated authority over demons during His ministry, casting them out and healing those afflicted (Mark 5:1–20; Luke 4:33–36). His power over demons affirmed His divinity and mission.
• The Bible records accounts of people who were possessed or controlled by evil spirits. However, there are no records of Christians who were possessed by a demon. Demons cannot control or possess those who have God's Spirit living within them. Demons can, however, continue to tempt believers. Even Jesus was tempted in the wilderness by Satan (Matthew 4:1–11).
• While believers cannot be possessed by demons, due to the indwelling of the Holy Spirit (2 Corinthians 1:22; 1 John 4:4), they can experience oppression or spiritual attacks. Believers are called to rely on God's strength and the armor of God for protection against demons (Ephesians 6:10–18).
• First Peter 5:8 teaches that Satan continues to work to cause problems in our world today. Fallen angels do as well.
• The Bible indicates that demons will ultimately face judgment and punishment. Revelation describes a future time when Satan and his demons will be cast into the lake of fire (Revelation 20:10).

IMPLICATIONS FOR TODAY

Today, many people deny the existence of Satan and demons or believe that Satan is only a personification of evil. A study of Christian demonology helps in understanding the Bible's teachings regarding the reality and activities of demons. Further, Ephesians 6:12 is clear that the Christian life is a spiritual battle in the heavenly realms: "For we do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the cosmic powers over this present darkness, against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly places." Yet 1 John 4:4 reminds us that God's power far exceeds that of any demon: "Little children, you are from God and have overcome them, for he who is in you is greater than he who is in the world."

UNDERSTAND

• Demons are fallen angels who oppose God and can influence people toward sin.
• Demons will ultimately face judgment and punishment for their rebellion.
• Studying about demons helps us know what is true about them, their limits, and how to stay vigilant against their attacks and deception.

REFLECT

• How does understanding the reality of demons influence your daily spiritual practices and vigilance?
• How can you better equip yourself to rely on God's strength in the face of spiritual attacks?
• What role do you believe personal choices play in inviting or resisting spiritual influences in our lives?

ENGAGE

• How do the biblical accounts of demon possession shape our understanding of spiritual warfare today?
• How can acknowledging the existence of demons enhance our understanding of God's power and authority?
• How might the teachings on demons challenge or reaffirm contemporary beliefs about evil and spiritual forces in the world?