Misinformation and a growing public
curiosity have combined to create much misunderstanding about angels and
their function in God's creation. Fortunately the Bible has much to say
about what angels are and are not and what their purpose is in today's
world.
We believe that angels are a class of spiritual beings created by God,
each having personality and immortality. Each angel was created directly
by God since angels do not engage in procreation. They were all originally
holy but with the moral freedom to sin. Satan made this decision to sin in
rebellion against God and convinced a large number of the angels to join
him. He and the other rebellious angels were cast from Heaven and allowed
to rule this world as an adversary of God and His people. As such, Satan
serves the greater purpose in God's plan. Eventually, Satan and the other
rebellious angels will be cast into Hell eternally. We believe that Hell
was created for Satan and the fallen angels, not for man.
We believe that the unfallen angels were confirmed in their holiness
because of their decision not to rebel against God and, therefore, will
never sin. They are referred to as cherubim and seraphim and serve as
messengers, protectors, and worshippers of God. They have been accurately
described as "administrators of the universe." In relationship
to believers they serve as protectors, revealers of truth, for guidance
and answering prayer, and as a test of hospitality.
We believe that the fallen angels were confirmed in their sin and will
never be redeemed. They are seen today as demons. Demons have the ability
to oppress carnal believers and possess unbelievers. This possession
involves the demon controlling and dominating the victim in such a manner
that cannot be resisted. While we do think demonic possession is possible
today, we do not think Christians should engage in exorcisms. The only
valid response to demonic possession is prayer.
This information is also available in a
detailed outline suitable for study.
