Angels
- Are angels really in the world today?
- Are demons dead people or fallen angels?
- Is Satan a demon?
- Can demons control my life?
- Are there guardian angels?
Are angels really in the world today?
The scripture is clear on this matter. Angels are not only in the world, but are actively involved in the believer's life. In Hebrews 1:13 it says, "But to which of the angels has He ever said, 'Sit at My right hand, until I make Thine enemies a footstool for Thy feet?' 14 Are they not all ministering spirits, sent out to render service for the sake of those who will inherit salvation?" You can readily see that the angels have a service to those of us who have inherited salvation. The specifics of that ministry are not specified here, but there nevertheless exists this ministry.
We find in several passages we have been given specifics as to the ministry of angels. 1) Ministering to believers in crisis, Acts 12:7; 2) Observe Christians, 1 Corinthians 4:9, 1 Timothy 5:21; 3) Bring comfort in times of fear, Acts 27:23,24; 4) Rejoices in the salvation of a sinner, Luke 15:10; 5) Gives direction in special circumstances, Acts 8:26.
Are demons dead people or fallen angels?
Speculation leads to bad doctrine. The Word of God tells us that angels were created by God as a unique creation for the purpose of the worship of God. They give adoration to him and protect His creation. When someone dies, they face the judgment. There is no time of “out-of-body” experience. People are immediately transported to the presence of God or to separation from God.
Satan is the prince of the demons. He is the great deceiver and but not considered a demon as such, but is the authority behind their work.
Demons have given the ability to influence but not control thoughts of the believers. We are to defend ourselves with the truth of God's Word. This will thwart their negative influence.
The only scripture that seems to support this concept is Acts 12:15 "And they said to her, 'You are out of your mind!' But she kept insisting that it was so. And they kept saying, 'It is his angel.'" This was the second alternative of the disciples about the report that Peter had been released from prison. It was a popular Jewish belief that each man had a guardian angel. Luke takes no position about it. No scripture teaches it.