2012-2-28 14:28
2010-3-13 03:49
APRIL,1999
CHRISTOLOGY
I.THE PERSON OF CHRIST
Pre-existenceof Christ
Christexisted before his incarnation (John 1:14-15; 8:58), and even beforethe creation of God (Mic. 5:2; John 1:1-3; Col. 1:10; 1 Pet 1:20).
Deityof Christ
Christis God. The origin of Christ is from heaven (John 1:15; 3:13). The"begotten" in John 1:14 and 3:16 means "only-begotten"or "unique" more than "begotten." He involved inthe creation of God (John 1:3; Col. 1:16; Heb. 1:2, 10). Christexercised what only God can do or have: to forgive sin (Matt. 2:5),to judge the world (Mark 2:27-28), to have power over life and death(John 5:21), and to the sovereignty of Sabbath (Mark 2:27-28). Hisdisciple Thomas claimed that Jesus is God (John 20:28). He appliedthe title "son of God" in a unique way (John 10:30;14:7-9), and it was understood that he is equal with God (John 5:18;8:59). He is God in the flesh (John 1:1, 14; Is. 9:6; Tit. 2:13). Herepresents God's person (Heb. 1:3).
Humanityof Christ
Christis a human, too (1 Tim. 2:5). He has a human body (Matt. 26:26; Mark14:22; Luke 22:19; Rom. 7:4; 1 Cor. 11:24). He was born (Matt. 1:16;Luke 1:14; Gal. 4:4), grew in wisdom and physically (Luke 2:52), hadphysical needs (hungry: Matt. 4:2; thirsty: John 19:28; tired: John4:6), had human emotions (cry: John 11:35; grieve: Mark 3:5;troubled: Matt. 26:37), was seen (1 John 1:1), and died (John 19:34).
HynostaticUnion
Theterm "hypostatic union" literally mean "the union ofessences." Christ has two nature, divine and human, in oneperson. The union of both natures perfectly fit together (Phil.2:6-7), and have no conflict (Luke 22:42). He is a God-man (John1:1-14; Phil. 2:7). Hence, Christ is God and man at the same time. Hehas divine nature so that he may live a sinless life and be theperfect offering to God, and also he has human nature so that he mayexperience human difficulties, demonstrate God's grace and powerthrough his obedience, and die on the cross for our sin.
Kenosis
Kenosisdescribes that Christ humbled himself before God though he is equalwith God (Phil. 2:6). He voluntarily withheld some of his divineattributes in order to become a truly man because some in bothnatures are mutually exclusive (ex.., infinity of God and finity ofman). He takes a human nature upon himself permanently though he isin a form of resurrected human.
Incarnation
Incarnationdescribes that Christ is conceived in the womb of virgin Mary (Luke1:35; 3:23; Matt. 1:16, 23) under the power of the Holy Spirit inorder that God may have a human body (John 1:1-2, 14), and be a manwithout sin (1 Pet. 2:22). He becomes a person of union of god andman. His incarnation made him the heir to David’s throne throughthe line of Joseph, and fi3lfllied the promised seed of Abraham forpurpose of our salvation (Gen. 22:18; Matt. 1:1).
VirginBirth
Thevirgin birth of Christ leaves him without original sin or sinfulnature out of Adam
(Rom.5:12). It was a miracle of God without any human contribution to thebirth of Christ.
Christwas conceived in the womb of virgin Mary without the involvement of ahuman male (Is.
7:14;Luke 3:23). Mary is claimed to be a virgin who has had no sexualcontact with anyone. She
waspregnant before marrying Joseph.
Impeccability
Thoughhe could be tempted (Heb. 4:15), Christ Jesus did not sin and alsocould not sin with any possibility. Though he is fully human, sin isnot a part of the original human nature. Due to virgin birth he hasno original sin or sin nature. Furthermore, he is God also and it isimpossible for God to sin (1s. 6:3).
TheSonship of Christ
Jesushas the titles of "Son of Man" and "Son of God."His sonship is eternal (John 17:1-5). His sonship refers to hisincarnation, resurrection, and Davidic kingship. It refers to hisrole to be the savior and king more than his deity.
Davidicking. Jesus will reign over the nations on earth for ever. Jesus is adescendant of David (Matt. 1:6-16; Luke 3:23-31; Rom. 1:3). He is thepromised son in Davidic covenant to be the Davidic king of theeverlasting throne (2 Sam. 7:12-14; Psalm 2:6-7). That his sonship ofGod is his kingship of God is proved in the NT (Matt.17:5; Heb.1:5-8). He is the resurrected king (Acts 13:22-23, 33), the ascendedhigh priest before God (1{Heb. 5:5-6), and the king who will rule thenations for ever (Psalm 2:8),
Sonof God. Being the son of God refers that Jesus is the God in theincarnation with the human form (Luke 1:35), the messiah king (Luke4:41; John 1:49; 11:27; 20:31), the resurrected king (Rom. 1:4; Col.1:13-18), and identified with his deity (John 1:1, 14, 18; 8:38, 42,58; 10:30, 36, 38; 17:1, 5, 22).
Sonof Man. Being the son of man refers that Jesus is not only a man butalso the divine messianic king. Though the usage of "son of man"in the OT refers to the human nature of man (Psalm 8:4; 80:15-17;Ezek. 3:16; 6:1-2; Dan. 8:17), its use in the NT refers to thevictorious king in the Book of Daniel (Dan. 7:13-14; Matt. 13:37-41;16:13, 27; Luke 22:67-70; 21:27; Acts 7:56).
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II.THE WORK OF CHRIST
Hislife and Work. First Appearance
Thefirst appearance of Jesus is to demonstrate God himself in the humanform of Jesus, pay the penalty of man's sin and make reconciliationbetween God and man. He lived a sinless life (1 Pet. 2:33). He was toestablish his kingship of Israel (Luke 1:32) but he was rejected byhis own people (Matt. 27:34).
Jesuswas born under the law (Gal. 4:4), started his ministry about the ageof thirty,
traineddisciples (Matt. 4:19), performed miracles (John 14:11), preached thekingdom of God
(Mark1:14, 15; Matt. 13), and died on the cross. He is the sufferingservant in the prophecy of
Isaiah(Is. 42:1-4; 49:5-7; 53:5, 10). He lived a sinless life (1 Pet. 2:22;1 John 3:5; Heb. 4:15;
9:14;2Cor. 5:21).
HisPassion
Thepassion of Christ refers to his suffering from the last supper to thecrucifixion. He demonstrated his love, obedience and humility at thetime of pain, sorrow and spiritual separation from God.
Thepassion began with the Passover meal. Later he struggled with thecoming sufferings, was betrayed and arrested in the garden He wassent for examination, and sentenced to crucifixion. Finally he diedon the cross for the sin of the world. On the cross he was separatedfrom God (Matt. 27:46), but brought salvation to the world ('Heb.9:27; 1 Pet. 2:24). He died on the cross physically (Rom. 5:6-9; 1Cor. 11:23-26) and spiritually (15.53:10-12; Luke 23:46). In thetraditional view he was crucified on Friday (Matt. 27:62; Mark 15:42;Luke 23:56; John 19:31).
TheNature of His Death and the Atonement
ImportantTerms
Atonement.The atonement of Christ stands for all work Jesus made on the crossfor sinners. His death for sinners paid the penalty of their sin,pacified the wrath of God over sinners (or, removed sinners fromGod's wrath), broke the barrier of sin between God and man (or,reconciled God and man), and made justified believers in him (or,erased the sin guilt of sinners). The term "atonement" illthe Old Testament means to cover (Lev. 1:4; 17:11). Israel offeredblood sacrifices in order to cover their sin. The OT sacrifice didnot remove the guilt of their sin (Heb. 10:4), but the sacrifice madeby Christ did so.
Expiationand Forgiveness. Expiation of Christ means that the deathof Christ removed the debt or penalty of a sinner by paying the debtor beating the penalty. Forgiveness of God is his grace not to holdbelievers accountable for their sin but forget forever on the meritof Christ (Eph. 1:7). The main focus of expiation and forgiveness isto remove the guilt of a sinner.
Vicariousand Substitutionary. Vicarious and substitutionary aresynonymous, and both mean that Christ died in place of sinners. Godimputed the guilt of sinners to Christ on the cross, poured his wrathof sin to him, and punished him to death. Christ surrendered himselfand was voluntary to be the sacrifice in this substitution (1 Pet.3:18).
Satisfactionand Propitiation. Satisfaction and propitiation both meanthat the death of Christ turns away God's wrath of man's sin by meansof meeting all requirements of God's justice (Rom. 3:25; 1 John 2:2).Both deal with God (God of wrath) or his wrath (righteous wrath tosin).
Redemption.Redemption is that the death of Christ paid the penalty of believersand sets believers free from the penalty of their sin (1 Cor. 6:20).Christ released believers from slavery under sin to freedom inrighteousness.
Reconciliation.Reconciliation means to change or restore the relationship of God toman from hostility to peace (Rom. 5:1, 9). The death of Christremoved the barrier of sin for all humans (Rom. 5:8-10; 6:6-11).
Justification.Justification is that God declares righteous a believer in view ofthe righteousness of Christ (Rom. 3:24; 5:1). The sin of a believeris removed from God's account, and the righteousness of Christ isimputed on a believer. The believer becomes innocent of his or hersin.
TheExtent of the Atonement
Theatonement of Christ is unlimited. He died for all (2 Cor. 5:14-15;Col. 1:20; 1 Tim. 2:6; 4:10; Tit. 2:11; Heb. 2:9-10; 2 Pet. 3:9), andthe world (John 1:10, 29; 3:15-19; 3:17; 4:42; 2 Cor. 5:19; 1 John2:2; 4:14). Since it is unlimited, his atonement includes whosoeverbelieves in Christ (John 3:16; Rom. 10:13; Rev. 22:17).
Theargument of the limited atonement is mainly based on Romans 5:12-19and Ephesians 5:25, but both passages lie in the context of acontrast type of argument. The former emphasizes the stronger effectof Christ's atonement than the effect of Adam1ssin to all men. The atonement of Christ affects more than “all”.The latter depicts the solid relationship of Christ and his church asthe marriage of a couple. The terms "all" and "world"could not be confined to believers alone, otherwise it would becomereluctant in the context and uses of words, and limit theoverabundant love and grace of God (Matt. 5:45).
Theatonement made by Christ is finished and complete because theatonement is not equal to the salvation. The salvation of a believerhas been started but not completed yet. The atonement is a part forthe salvation like the ground for a house to build up. The houseneeds the ground to be its foundation, but the ground may not needany house on its surface. The atonement for all makes the salvationof believers available to start rather than completed. One atonementof Christ is made for many cases of salvation of individualbelievers.
TheResurrection
Themeaning of "resurrection" in Greek is to stand again.Christ was raised physically the third day after his physical death.There are three kinds of evidence: the empty tomb, his appearances tohis disciples, and his physical needs. His resurrected body isimmortal (Luke 24:39; John 20:19). His resurrection was the victoryover death (Rom. 6:9; 1 Cor. 15:26), the result of sin (Rom. 5:17;6:23), and fulfilled his prediction (1 Cor. 15:3-8).
TheAscension and Present Work of Christ
Afterhe completed his ministry on earth, Christ ascended to heaven infront his disciples (Acts 1:9) to ask the Father to send the HolySpirit (John 16:7; Acts 1:5; 2:33) and prepare a place for hisbelievers (John 14:2). Now he is sitting at the right hand of theFather (Heb. 1:3; 10:12; 12:2; Rev. 3:21), and serves as our priestbefore God (1 Tim. 2:5; Heb. 4:14-16).
TheFuture Work of Christ
Christwill return to reign over the earth (Matt. 25:31). He will raise hissaint from the dead (John 5:28), and reunite with them (Tit. 2:14).He will judge the dead and living, believers and unbelievers (John5:22, 27; 1 Cor. 3:11-15; 2 Cor. 5:10; Rev. 20:11-15; Rev. 19:11-21).He will reign on the earth with his saints (Rev. 20:4-6), and saveIsrael (Zech 9:10), and his throne will last forever (Rev. 20:4; 1Tim. 1:17; 1 Cor. 15:24-28).
<a name="chap-05"> CHAPTERV
[Back to the index]PNEUMATOLOGY
I.The Person of the Holy Spirit
TheHoly Spirit is a person because he has intelligence (John 14:26; 1Cor 2:10-11), emotions (Eph. 4:30), mind (Rom. 8:27), and will (1Cor. 12:11). He can be the object of an action: to be lied to (Acts5:3-4), to be obeyed (Acts 10:19-21), to be resisted (Acts 7:51), tobe quenched (1 Thess. 5:19), to be blasphemed (Matt. 12:31; Mark3:29), and to be insulted (Heb. 10:29) He can be the subject of anaction: he teaches (John 14:26), he testifies (John 15:26), he guides(John 16:13), he convinces (John 16:8), he intercedes (Rom. 8:26),and he commands (Acts 13:2). He is a counselor (John 14:26; 15:26;16:7) as Jesus was (1 John 2:1; John 14:16). He is linked with theFather and the Son in analogy of their personality (Matt. 28:19; cfMatt. 3:16-17; Rom. 8:9-11; 1 Cor. 12:4-6; 2 Cor. 1:21-22; 13:14; 1Pet. 1:2; Jude 20-21). lie is masculine (John 15:26; 16:13-14).
Therefore,the Holy Spirit is different from and independent of the Father andthe Son. He is not a vague thing of power, but a person who possessesand uses power, and works with the Father and the Son in divineministries.
II. TheDeity of the Holy Spirit
TheHoly Spirit is God as the Father and the Son are because he isself-existent (Gen. 1:2), eternal (Heb. 1:10-12; 9:14), omniscient(Is. 40:13; John 16:13), omnipresent (Psalm 139:7-10), and omnipotent(Job 33:4; Psalm 104:30; Luke 1:35). The references to the HolySpirit are interchangeable with references to God (Acts 5:3-4; 1 Cor.3:16-17; 6:19-20). He is referred to "the Spirit of Jesus"(Acts 16:7) and "the Spirit of our God" (1 Cor. 6:11). Theusual expression "the Spirit of God" in the Old Testamentis synonymous with the term "the Holy Spirit" in the NewTestament (cf Acts 1:8; 2:18). He was involved in the specialministries of God: creation of God (Gen. 1:2; Job 26:13; Psalm104:30), incarnation of Christ (Matt. 1:20; Luke 1:35), inspirationof the Bible (2 Pet. 1:21), regeneration of sinners (Tit. 3:5), andsanctification of believers (1 Pet. 1:2).
III. TheMinistry of the Holy Spirit InCreation
Theterm "spirit" in Hebrew and Greek can mean "breath"and "wind." The Spirit was involved in the creation of God(Gen. 1:2; Job 26:13; Psalm 33:6; 104:30; Is. 32:15) and brought lifeto creatures (Gen. 2:7; 6:3; Psalm 104:29). His involvement shows hismighty power, and close relationship with God.
InRevelation
Beforethe completion of the Bible, God delivered his messages through humanagents whom the Spirit of God came upon (Acts 1:16; 2 Pet. 1:21) andtaught (1 Cor. 2:13). They were the prophets in Israel (Ezek. 2:2;3:24; 8:3; 11:1, 24; Micah 3:8), and persons outside of Israel'sprophetic office (Num. 24:2; 2 Sam. 23:2; Mark 12:36; Acts 1:16;4:25; 15:28). The Holy Spirit is the real mediator of God's messagebetween God and man.
InInspiration
Thebiblical writers were inspired by the Holy Spirit when they werewriting the scriptures (2 Tim. 3:16; 2 Pet. 1:21). The Holy Spiritsuperintended the thoughts, theology and words of those writers.Though the writing style and language of each writer is personal,there is no error in aspects of word and teaching.
InIllumination
TheHoly Spirit illuminates the truth of God to help believers tounderstand it (John 14:26; 15:26; 16:13-14; 1 Cor. 2:10-11, 14-15;Eph. 1:17-19). After ascension of Christ, the Holy Spirit was sent toconvince the world of sin and righteousness (John 16:8-11), and guidebelievers into the truth which was told (John 16:13-15; John 14:26)rather than he brings the new revelation. He plays the essential roleto help believers to understand the teachings in the Bible, and thegreatness of God.
InEvangelism
TheHoly Spirit comes to convince the world of sin (John 16:8-11), bearwitness of Christ (John 15:26), empower believers to witness ofChrist (Acts 1:8), and initiate believers for evangelism (Acts 8:29;10:19-20; 13:2), and decide the timing of the gospel spread (Acts16:6).
InSalvation
TheHoly Spirit initiates the Christian life of a person with conversion(Matt. 16:16-17; 1 Cor. 12:3) and regeneration (John 3:3-6) Inconversion he convinces one of sin and of righteousness (John 16:8),and causes the one to repent (acknowledge and abandon personal sin)and believe (accept the redemptive work of Christ) so as to turn toGod. In regeneration he miraculously transforms one (John 3:8), andimplants spiritual life (John 3:3-6). He gave physical life to man increation (Gen. 2:7). Since man sins, he is spiritually dead in sin(John 3:6; Col. 2:13). In regeneration the Holy Spirit gives a newlife, a spiritual life to an individual to begin a spiritual life, alife of sanctification.
ToBelievers in the Old Testament
Inthe Old Testament the Holy Spirit did not work on every believer noron some person all the time, and his presence was temporary. The HolySpirit equipped selected individuals for specific tasks:craftsmanship (EX. 31:3-5), administration (Gen. 41:38), ruling (Num.11:25;
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27:18;Judges 3:10; 6:34), and strength (Judges 14:19). In addition, heinstructed the people (Neh. 9:20), and empowered the chosen kings ofIsrael (1 Sam. 10:1, 6-7; 16:13-14). It is noticeable that theempowerment of the Holy Spirit was irrelated to the spiritualcondition of the empowered persons (Num. 24:2; Judges 11:29; 14:6)but the purpose of divine justice.
ToBelievers in the New Testament
Inthe church age the ministry of the Holy Spirit is universal andpermanent in the community of believers. The Holy Spirit dwells withall the believers (John 14:16-17; Eph. 4:22), baptizes believers intothe body of Christ (1 Cor 12:13), gives the gifts to edify the body(1 Cor. 12:1-12), intercedes for them when they are weak (Rom.8:26-27), and witnesses that believers are children of God (Rom8:16).
InSanctification
Insanctification the Holy Spirit continues transforming a convertedbeliever to be like Jesus Christ in the moral and spirit aspects.Believers should obey the guidance of the Holy Spirit in order tomortify the flesh and produce the fruit of the Holy Spirit (Rom.8:1-5; Gal 5:16, 22-26).
TheBaptism of the Holy Spirit
Thebaptism of the Holy Spirit separates believers from flesh tospiritual, free believers from sin (Rom. 6:6-7), and regenerates anew life to each believer (Matt. 3:11; John 3:3-8),. It happens uponthe conversion (John 3:3-5; 1 Cor. 12:3), and places a new believerinto the body of Christ (Gal. 3:27-28; 1 Cor. 12:13), which is theunion with Christ (Rom. 6:3) and with other believers.
Onthe contrary, the water baptism is different. A believer should takethe water baptism, but it may not happen since the personalconversion to the salvation of Jesus is made (Acts I 8:24-28). Thebeliever decides and knows the time for the water baptism. The waterbaptism is the public confession in front of other believers and aqualification of membership of a local church.
TheIndwelling of the Holy Spirit
Theindwelling of the Holy Spirit is permanent (John 14:16), and extendedto all believers
(Eph.2:22). It is a sign as a guarantee of the salvation of a believer (2Cor. 1:22; Eph. 1:13-14).
Thephysical and spiritual existence are dependent of the presence of theHoly Spirit (Gen. 2:7,
14).He himself is the seal of salvation in the head of each believer(Rom. 8:14-17; 2 Cor. 1:22;
Eph.1:13; 4:30).
TheFilling of the Holy Spirit
Thefilling of the Holy Spirit is for believers to act under the controlof the Holy Spirit (cf Luke 1:15, 67). The filled believers willunderstand the things of God (1 Cor. 2:10-16), edify others about God(Acts 2; 4:8, 31; 7:55-56; 9:17-20; 11:44-46), and boldly live a holylife (Rom. 8:4-11; Eph. 5:18-21). Believers are encouraged to befilled with the Holy Spirit (Eph. 5:18).
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Thepresent tense of "be filled" implies that the filling ofthe Holy Spirit is a started and ongoing action rather than a seekingaction.
Speakingin tongues is thought a gift when believers are converted and filledby the Holy Spirit. Nevertheless, the conversion of a believers doesnot have to be followed by a sign of the filling (Acts 2:37-41;8:35-39), nor the fillingness have to come with the gift of tongues(Acts 4:31; 9:17-19; Eph. 5:19-21). Furthermore, the tongues are thehuman languages understandable to the listeners and are to preach theword of God (Acts 2:3-6; 10:46-47; 19:6). Though, besides tongues ofangels (1 Cor. 13:1), mentioned are the tongues unknown to human butGod (1 Cor. 14:2, 14), they are later pointed to be the humanlanguages in the Sam. chapter (1 Cor. 14:21, 23-24). Hence, theunknown tongues are unknown to some people with little understandingof these languages.
SpiritualGifts
TheNature of the Gifts. The spiritual gifts aregiven by the Holy Spirit at his will instead of human desire (1 Cor.12:11; Heb. 2:4; cf Acts 2, 8, 10, 19) though we are encouraged todesire spiritual gifts (1 Cor. 14:1). The gifts should be used alongwith love (1 Cor. 13:1-3; 14:1). The time of endowment of the gifts,at birth or conversion, is unknown. Natural talents may form thebasis of spiritual gifts, but they may or may not serve for spiritualpurpose.
TheExtent of the Gifts. Every believer receives at least agift (1 Cor 12:11; 12:7-11;
Eph.4:7; 1 Pet. 4:10). No one gift is given to everyone (Rom. 12:6; 1Cor. 12:28-30), and no
onepossesses all of gifts (1 Cor. 12:14-21). AU. gifts are important toeach other (1 Cor.
12:22-26).There are lists of the gifts in epistles of Paul and Peter (Rom.12:6-8; 1 Cor. 12:4-11;
Eph.4:11; 1 Pet. 4:11).
ThePurpose of the Gifts. The purpose of the spiritual giftsis to edify the whole church through the gifted persons (1 Cor. 12:7;14:5, 12; Eph. 4:11-13; 1 Pet. 4:10). The gifts are bestowed on thechurch, and different gifts on different believers in the church towork together, grow together, and edify the whole church.
Temporaryversus Permanent Gifts. Permanent gifts refer to those giftsthat can be found throughout the church age, and that continue edifythe body of Christ, such ministering, teaching, ruling, exhortation(Rom. 12:6-8).
Temporarygifts are those that existed in the early church when the foundationof Christianity was founded. They are miraculous sign gifts toauthenticate the authority of those who preached the message of diegospel prior to the completion of the written word of God (John 3:2;Heb. 2:3-4). The primary examples of the temporary gifts are those ofmiracles and healing (1 Cor. 12:28). They are usually associated withthe apostles (Acts 4:21-22; 5:15-16; 9:33-34, 40; 14:8-10; 19:11-12;20:10) to validate their authority (2 Cor. 12:12; Eph. 2:20). Sincethe foundation of the universal church was established, it isunnecessary that die temporary gifts exist any more (Phil. 2:26-26:1Tim. 5:23; 2 Tim. 4:20; cf. 1 Cor. 13:8; 2 Cor. 12:7-9).
CHAPTERVI
[Back to the index]ANGELOLOGY
I. EXISTENCEAND CREATION OF ANGELS
Angelsexist. The term "angel" originally means "messenger"in Hebrew and Greek. It could be a human agent (EX. 3:2; Matt. 28:2).The Bible assumes their existence (Psalm 148:1-5; Col. 1:16). Thereare thirty three records of "the angel of God," "theangels of God," or "the angel of the Lord." The angelscame to serve Christ alter his temptation by Satan (Matt. 4:11). Hementioned angels in the issue of the resurrection (Matt. 22:29-30).All the angels shall come with Him in His glory (Matt. 25:31). TheBible implies the organization of angels by the assemblies of angels(Job 1:6, 2:1, Ps 89:5-6), warfare terminology (Rev 12:7-9, Rev9:11), authority terms applied to angels (Rom 8:38, 1 Cor 15:24, Eph1:21, 3:10, 6:12), and rank (archangel, etc., Dan 10:13,21, 12:1,Jude 9, Rev 12:7-8, 1 Th 4:16)
Thoughthere is no explicit passage for their creation, angels should becreated by God during the creation because God created all things inthose six days and all of them were claimed good (Gen. 1; 2:1-2
salm 148:5; Ezek. 28:13-15; Neh. 9:6; Col 1:16). They were createdall at one time because they cannot reproduce themselves (Matt.22:30). Their number is numerous (Deut. 33:2; Psalm 68:17; Dan. 7:10;Matt. 26:53; Heb. 12:22; Rev. 5:11). They were created in hierarchy(Job 1:6, 2:1, Ps 89:5-6; 1 Thess. 4:16; Jude 9). They are created tominister to God (Heb. 1:7; Rev. 4:6-11) and men (Heb. 1:14).
II. THENATURE OF ANGELS
Angelsare spirits (Heb. 1:7,14). They have a spirit kind of nature (Luke24:37-39). Their spirit nature is unique (John 4:24; 1 Cor 2:11;comp. Luke 24:4, Matt. 28:2-3, Dan 10:5-6). Normally, angels areinvisible (comp Num 22:22-31, 2Ki 6:17, Ps 34:7), but they haveability to appear and disappear at will (comp. Acts 12:7,10).However, they do not function as human beings in terms of marriage(Mk. 12:25), nor are they subjective to death (Luke 20:36).
Angelsare a little higher than mankind, including the incarnate Lord (Heb2:7,9). They are not subject to death as man (Luke 20:36, Heb12:22-23, Matt. 25:41,46). They have greater wisdom than man (2 Sam.14:20), but it is limited about the day of the fulfillment day (Matt.24:36). They have greater power than man (2Pet 2:11, Matt. 28:2, Acts5:19; Ps 103:20, 2Pet
2:11,comp 2Ki 19:35, Acts 5:19,23), but it is limited in time and space(Dan 10:13). Nevertheless, at the consummation of the age, theredeemed man will be exalted above angels (1 Cor 6:3).
Angelsare persons. They are self-awareness (Dan 10:11-14),self-determination (Acts 12:7-8, Rev 22:8-9), moral awareness (Matt.13:41, Luke 15:10), perpetuity (Matt. 25:41), as well as intelligence(2 Sam. 14:20, Rev. 22:16), learning (Eph 3:10, 2:7; 1 Pet 1:12),desire (1 Pet 1:12), emotion (Job 38:7, Rev. 12:12) andaccountability (1 Cor. 6:3). They are also ascribed by the masculinegender (Rev 10:1-3).
III. ACTIVITIES OF ANGELS
Angelspraise God before him (Ps 148:2, Rev 5:11-12). They were mediators ofthe law (Acts 7:53). They communicate God's message to man (Luke1:13-20; 26-38; Acts 7:53). They often minister to believers,protecting people from harm (Acts 5:19), and meeting spiritual needs(Heb 1:14) Some of them are evil, this is, fallen angels (Eph. 6:17).
Angelsminister to God. They come to present themselves before God (Job 1:6,2:1). The cherubim have a ministry to God in defending the holinessof God (Gen 3:24); Seraphim have a ministry to God in surrounding thethrone of God as they attend to His holiness (Is 6:2). They areworshipers of God (15 6, Rev 5:5, Job 1:6, 2:1), ministers to God(Heb 1:7,14), messengers of God (Ps 103:20, Luke 1,2), warriors ofGod (2Ki 6:17, Dan 10, Rev 12), and executioners for God (Gen 19, Ps78, Matt. 25, Ex 12).
Angelsminister to Christ. Angels predicted His birth (Luke 1:26-38).Gabriel came to Mary explaining for her new child. Angels protectedHim in infancy (Matt. 2:13). An angel warned Joseph of Herod'sintention and told Joseph to flee to Egypt. Angels ministered to Himafter the temptation (Matt. 4:11), probably included encouragementafter the exhaustion of forty days of temptation, as well assupplying him with food. Angels strengthened Him at Gethsemane (Luke22:43) in which Christ had a spiritual battle concerning the cross.Angels announced His resurrection (Matt. 28:5-7, Mk 16:6-7, Luke24:4-7, Jo 20:12-13). The angels invited the women to enter the emptytomb, and reminded the women of Jesus earlier promise. Angelsattended His ascension (Act 1:10). Angels will prepare the world ofthe return of the Son by regathering Israel to the land preparatoryfor their Messiah's return. As the Son returned to earth He will beattended by a host of angels, adding to the splendor and glory of hisTribulation return (Matt. 25:31).
Angelsminister to believers. Physical protection (Dan 3, 6:20,22, 2Ki 6)
avid experienced physical protection by the angel when he was forcedto flee to the Philistines (Ps 34:7). They released the apostles fromprison (Acts 5:19) and Peter from prison (Acts 12:7-11). They willprotect 144,000 in the Tribulation (Rev 7:1-14). Physical provision(Rev 7:1, Job 1:4,17,19, Dan 10:12,20, 12:1): An angel broughtphysical nourishment for Elijah in a lengthy journey (1 Ki 19:5-7).Encouragement: During the storm at sea an angel encouraged Paul (Acts17:23-25). Direction: An angel directed Philip to witness theEthiopian eunuch (Acts 8:26), and the meeting of Cornelius and Peter(Act 10:3,22). Assist in answering to prayer: The angels releasedPeter from prison in response to the prayer for Peter's release. Theangel explained for Daniel the visions (Dan 9:20-27, 10:10-12:13).Carry believers home: The angels carried Lazarus to Abraham's bosom(Luke 16:22). They are the carriers of Revelation (Matt. 1, Mk 7,Luke 1, Heb 2:1; Rev, Dan 7; Acts 7).
Angeldeal with unbelievers, too. Angels announce the coming destructionabout people's sin (Gen 19:12-13), and worship to the beast (Rev14:4,7,8-9,15,17-18). They sound the trumpet judgments during theTribulation (Rev 8:2-12, 9:1,13, 11:15). Angels are instrumental injudgment. For example, they killed the people of Jerusalem (Ezk9:1-11), stroke Herod Agrippa I for his blasphemy (Acts 12:23), castunbelievers into the furnace of fire (Matt. 13:39-42), and poured outthe bowl judgment upon the earth (Rev 16:2-17).
IV.THE FALL OF ANGELS
Historyof the Fall
Atsome time between the creation of goodness (Gen. 1) and the fall ofman (Gen. 3), a group of angels sinned and was cast out of thepresence of God (2 Pet. 2:4; Jude 6). Satan, the leader of the fallenangels, sinned in his pride and self-elevation (Ezek. 28:17; Is.14:13-14). The rest of them followed Satan in his rebellion againstGod (Man. 25:41, Rev 12:4,7-9). Some of them are now confined (2 Pet2:4, Rev 9:1-10, Rom 10:7), others are free.
Satan’soriginal state: He enjoyed an exalted position in the presence of God(Ezk 28:12-15), was called the "anointed covering cherub",the highest honor before God, next to the throne of God (Ezk 1:26),and was referred by Israel as "star of the morning (KJV,Lucifer), son of the dawn". He was perfect before he sinned (Ezk28:15).
Satan'sfall (Ezk 28:16-1; Is 14:12-14): Satan was cast out because of hissin: his proud heart of his beauty, his corrupted wisdom, and hisdesire for God's throne. Some angels left their place and went aftera different kind of flesh for immoral purposes (2Pet 2:4, Jude 6-7).Satan fell from his place of prominence, and led with himlower-ranking angels, as many as a third of the angelic host (Rev12:4).
Satan'smoral responsibility (Job 1:7): He does not have freedom in anunrestricted sense but is subordinate to and restricted by God.
TheJudgment of Fallen Angels
Theirjudgement is that they were cast out of the presence of God down tothe earth (2 Pet 2:4; Jude 6; Rev. 12:9).
TheJudgment of Satan: Satan fell from his original exalted position (Ezk28:16-17, Rev 12:4, 9). Satan's ultimate defeat was pronounced inEden (Gen 3:15). Satan was rendered powerless through the cross (Heb2:14). Satan will be cast out of heaven during the Tribulation (Rev12:13). Satan will be bound in the pit for 1,000 years (Rev 20:2-3).Satan will finally be cast into the lake of fire (Rev 20:7-10).
TheJudgment of Demons: Through the cross the power of demons has beenconquered (Col 2:15). At the return of Christ the demons and Satanwill be judged and cast into the lake of fire (Man. 25:41, rev 12:9,Rev 19:19-21).
TheOrganization of Fallen Angels
Thefallen angels retain the rank system of angels. Satan (Job 1:6; Mall.4:10; 12:24-27; 16:23; Luke 10:18; Rev. 20:2) is the leader of demons(Matt. 12:24-27; John 12:31; Eph. 2:2; cf.
2Cor. 4:4). The organization of Satan is referred by "the deviland his angels" (Matt. 25:41), "the dragon and his angels"(Rev 12:7). Satan in Hebrew means the adversary. Satan has othernames, such as the devil (only in the NT, Mall. 4:1, 13:39, 25:41,Rev 12:9, 20:2, etc.), the serpent (Gen 3:1, 14, 2Cor 11:3, Rev 12:9,20:2), Be-elzebul (Matt. 10:25,12:24,27, Luke 11:15), the ruler ofthis world (Jo 12:31, 14:30, 16:11), the prince of the power of theair (Eph 2:2), or the evil one (Matt. 13:19, 1 Jo 2:13).
Demonsserve for Satan. Their number is enormous (Matt. 26:53; Rev. 5:11).These evil angels actively oppose God and His people and influenceworld affairs (Rev 12:7-9, Jo 14:30, Eph
6:12),and they are recognized as demons and spirits (Matt. 3:16).
TheActivities of Fallen Angels
Theytempt and deceive human beings to turn away from God. They causephysical disorders such as dumbness (Mk 9:17), deafness (Mk 9:25),blindness (Matt. 12:22), and convulsions (Mk 1:26). More importantly,they struggle against the Christian in an attempt to stunt spiritualgrowth.
Theactivities of Satan: Satan was the attempter of sin (Gen 3:1-6, 2Cor11:3, Jo 8:44, 1 Jo 3:3). Demons oppose and try to destroy every workof God (Gen 3:1-6, Matt. 4:1-11, Jo 3:44, Rev 12:9, Ps 106:37, Jo3:44, 2Cor 4:4, Gal 4:3). Yet demons are limited by God's control andhave limited power (Job 1:12, 2:6, Jude 6, Jam 4:7, Is 46:9-10, Mk13:32) because Jesus knows people's thoughts (Matt. 9:4,12:25, Mk2:8, Luke 6:3, 11:17), and God knows, too (Gen 6:5, Ps 139:2,4,23, Is66:13, Dan 2:17-23).
Thedevil is a murderer (Jo 3:44). The devil is a liar; the father oflies (Jo 3:44). Satan deceives people in schemes and craftiness (Eph6:11, Rev 12:9, Matt. 4:5-6, 1 Pet 5:3), exalts himself (Is 14:12-17,14:13-14) through the trap (1 Tim 3:6), tempts people to wrath (Rev12:12), and sin (Man. 4:3), and accuses against believers (Rev12:9-10, Zech 3:1).
TheActivities of demons: Major activities of demons are to serve Satan(Man. 9:24; 12:14; Eph 6:4)), to oppose God about created order (Gen.3), and redemptive order (Rev. 12; Matt. 4), to oppose man (Job 1, 2;Eph. 6), and to oppose good angels (Dan. 10:13; Jude 9; Rev 12, Dan10:13). The demon possession means to have evil spirit (Mk 1:23), tobe demonized by demon (Luke 5:13), to have demon enter in people(Luke 22), to have demon live in (Li 1:14-23), and to be housed ordwelled by demon (Matt. 12:29, Luke 11:14-23).
Demonsoppose and try to destroy every work of God (Gen 3:1-6, Matt. 4:1-11,Jo 3:44, Rev 12:9, Ps 106:37, Jo 3:44, 2Cor 4:4, Gal 4:3). Yet demonsare limited by God's control and have limited power (Job 1:12, 2:6,Jude 6, Jam 4:7, Is 46:9-10, Mk 13:32) because Jesus knows people'sthought (Matt. 9:4, 12:25, Mk 2:3, Luke 6:3, 11:17), and God knows,too (Gen 6:5, Ps 139:2,4,23, Is 66:13, Dan 2:17-23). In the area ofknowledge, demons cannot know the future or read our mind or know ourthoughts. God alone know the future (Is 46:9-10). Demons inflictdisease (Mk 9:17, Luke 13:11; Job 1:12, 2:6,; 2Cor 12:7-10),blindness and deafness (Matt. 12:22), convulsions (Mk 1:26, 9:20,Luke 9:39), paralysis or lameness (Acts 3:7). Demons influence thedie mind (Gen 3:1-5, 2Cor 4:4,11:3). They oppose the spiritualprogress of God's people (Eph 6:12). The solution to demonicinfluence of the mind is to bring the thought progress to subjectionto Christ (2Cor 10:5). Demons deceive people (1Th 3:5). Satan Alsodeceives the unbelievers (Eph 2:2, Man. 13:19). Demons deceivesnations (Rev 16:14).
Therehave been differing stages of demonic activity in the history ofredemption. The people of Israel sinned be serving false Gods, and werealize that the these false gods were really demonic forces. (Dt32:16-17, Ps 106:35-37, 1Cor 10:20, cf 1 John 5:19, 1Sam. 16:23, Ps106:35-37, 1Ki 13:23, cf Dt 14:1, Dt 23:17, iKi 14:24, Hos 4:14).During the ministry of Jesus demons were cast out by Christ withabsolute authority, and Christ demonstrated the reign of the kingdomof God inaugurated in a new and powerful way (Matt. 1:27, 12:28-29,4:1-11). During the new covenant age Christ gave similar authority tothe Twelve and seventy disciples over unclean spirits. (Man. 10:3, Mk5:15, Luke 10:17,13, Ac 8:7, 16:18, Jam 4:7, 1Pet 5:8-9, 1Jo
3:8).During the millennium the activity of Satan and demons will befurther restricted, and sin and rebellion grow in the hearts of theunbelievers (Rev 20:1-3,8-9,7). At the final judgment Satan will beloosed and will gather the nations for battle, but he will bedecisively defeated and thrown into the lake of fire and sulfur, andwill be tormented day and night for ever and ever. (Rev 20:10).
TheDestiny of Fallen Angels
Theywill be defeated in the end. These evil angels will be judged (lCor6:3), 2 Pet 2:4) and will experience the conscious torment in hellforever (Matt. 25:41, Rev 20:10). They are aware of the doom thatawaits them (Matt. 8:29, Mk 5:7, Luke 8:28; Col 1:20). There will bemany of anticipation of that final victory (Matt. 24:27; Luke 10:18;John 12:31; 14:30; 16:11; Rom. 16:20; Heb. 2:14-15; 1 John 2:13; 3:8;5:18; Rev 12).
Thestruggles between Satan with his forces and Christ with his followersgot intensive, but Christ had a victory over the temptation of Satanand many encounters with demons (Matt. 4:1-11, Luke 22:31-34, Gal5:16-17, Eph 6:10-20). Satan with his angels will fight with Michaelwith his angels on account of Satan's attack on the church. Satanwill be bound for a thousand years, and will release for a timebefore being cast into the lake of fire forever (Rev 20). Thedecisive spirit war was won by Christ in the crucifixion andresurrection (Luke 10:18, Jo 12:31, 14:30, 16:11, Rom 16:20, Heb2:14-15, 1 Jo 2:13, 3:8, 5:18).
V. DEMONPOSSESSION
Demonpossession is the indwelling of a demon (Mark 1:23) or a multitude ofdemons (Mark 5:9) in a human individual to control over him (Mark9:18). Believers and unbelievers could be influenced spiritually andafflicted physically by demons, but demonized individuals areincapable to control themselves or disengage the possessed demon bythemselves. The genuine believers have the Holy Spirit dwelling inthe heart (2 Cor. 1:22), and it seems impossible for them to bepossessed.
CHRISTOLOGY
I.THE PERSON OF CHRIST
Pre-existenceof Christ
Christexisted before his incarnation (John 1:14-15; 8:58), and even beforethe creation of God (Mic. 5:2; John 1:1-3; Col. 1:10; 1 Pet 1:20).
Deityof Christ
Christis God. The origin of Christ is from heaven (John 1:15; 3:13). The"begotten" in John 1:14 and 3:16 means "only-begotten"or "unique" more than "begotten." He involved inthe creation of God (John 1:3; Col. 1:16; Heb. 1:2, 10). Christexercised what only God can do or have: to forgive sin (Matt. 2:5),to judge the world (Mark 2:27-28), to have power over life and death(John 5:21), and to the sovereignty of Sabbath (Mark 2:27-28). Hisdisciple Thomas claimed that Jesus is God (John 20:28). He appliedthe title "son of God" in a unique way (John 10:30;14:7-9), and it was understood that he is equal with God (John 5:18;8:59). He is God in the flesh (John 1:1, 14; Is. 9:6; Tit. 2:13). Herepresents God's person (Heb. 1:3).
Humanityof Christ
Christis a human, too (1 Tim. 2:5). He has a human body (Matt. 26:26; Mark14:22; Luke 22:19; Rom. 7:4; 1 Cor. 11:24). He was born (Matt. 1:16;Luke 1:14; Gal. 4:4), grew in wisdom and physically (Luke 2:52), hadphysical needs (hungry: Matt. 4:2; thirsty: John 19:28; tired: John4:6), had human emotions (cry: John 11:35; grieve: Mark 3:5;troubled: Matt. 26:37), was seen (1 John 1:1), and died (John 19:34).
HynostaticUnion
Theterm "hypostatic union" literally mean "the union ofessences." Christ has two nature, divine and human, in oneperson. The union of both natures perfectly fit together (Phil.2:6-7), and have no conflict (Luke 22:42). He is a God-man (John1:1-14; Phil. 2:7). Hence, Christ is God and man at the same time. Hehas divine nature so that he may live a sinless life and be theperfect offering to God, and also he has human nature so that he mayexperience human difficulties, demonstrate God's grace and powerthrough his obedience, and die on the cross for our sin.
Kenosis
Kenosisdescribes that Christ humbled himself before God though he is equalwith God (Phil. 2:6). He voluntarily withheld some of his divineattributes in order to become a truly man because some in bothnatures are mutually exclusive (ex.., infinity of God and finity ofman). He takes a human nature upon himself permanently though he isin a form of resurrected human.
Incarnation
Incarnationdescribes that Christ is conceived in the womb of virgin Mary (Luke1:35; 3:23; Matt. 1:16, 23) under the power of the Holy Spirit inorder that God may have a human body (John 1:1-2, 14), and be a manwithout sin (1 Pet. 2:22). He becomes a person of union of god andman. His incarnation made him the heir to David’s throne throughthe line of Joseph, and fi3lfllied the promised seed of Abraham forpurpose of our salvation (Gen. 22:18; Matt. 1:1).
VirginBirth
Thevirgin birth of Christ leaves him without original sin or sinfulnature out of Adam
(Rom.5:12). It was a miracle of God without any human contribution to thebirth of Christ.
Christwas conceived in the womb of virgin Mary without the involvement of ahuman male (Is.
7:14;Luke 3:23). Mary is claimed to be a virgin who has had no sexualcontact with anyone. She
waspregnant before marrying Joseph.
Impeccability
Thoughhe could be tempted (Heb. 4:15), Christ Jesus did not sin and alsocould not sin with any possibility. Though he is fully human, sin isnot a part of the original human nature. Due to virgin birth he hasno original sin or sin nature. Furthermore, he is God also and it isimpossible for God to sin (1s. 6:3).
TheSonship of Christ
Jesushas the titles of "Son of Man" and "Son of God."His sonship is eternal (John 17:1-5). His sonship refers to hisincarnation, resurrection, and Davidic kingship. It refers to hisrole to be the savior and king more than his deity.
Davidicking. Jesus will reign over the nations on earth for ever. Jesus is adescendant of David (Matt. 1:6-16; Luke 3:23-31; Rom. 1:3). He is thepromised son in Davidic covenant to be the Davidic king of theeverlasting throne (2 Sam. 7:12-14; Psalm 2:6-7). That his sonship ofGod is his kingship of God is proved in the NT (Matt.17:5; Heb.1:5-8). He is the resurrected king (Acts 13:22-23, 33), the ascendedhigh priest before God (1{Heb. 5:5-6), and the king who will rule thenations for ever (Psalm 2:8),
Sonof God. Being the son of God refers that Jesus is the God in theincarnation with the human form (Luke 1:35), the messiah king (Luke4:41; John 1:49; 11:27; 20:31), the resurrected king (Rom. 1:4; Col.1:13-18), and identified with his deity (John 1:1, 14, 18; 8:38, 42,58; 10:30, 36, 38; 17:1, 5, 22).
Sonof Man. Being the son of man refers that Jesus is not only a man butalso the divine messianic king. Though the usage of "son of man"in the OT refers to the human nature of man (Psalm 8:4; 80:15-17;Ezek. 3:16; 6:1-2; Dan. 8:17), its use in the NT refers to thevictorious king in the Book of Daniel (Dan. 7:13-14; Matt. 13:37-41;16:13, 27; Luke 22:67-70; 21:27; Acts 7:56).
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II.THE WORK OF CHRIST
Hislife and Work. First Appearance
Thefirst appearance of Jesus is to demonstrate God himself in the humanform of Jesus, pay the penalty of man's sin and make reconciliationbetween God and man. He lived a sinless life (1 Pet. 2:33). He was toestablish his kingship of Israel (Luke 1:32) but he was rejected byhis own people (Matt. 27:34).
Jesuswas born under the law (Gal. 4:4), started his ministry about the ageof thirty,
traineddisciples (Matt. 4:19), performed miracles (John 14:11), preached thekingdom of God
(Mark1:14, 15; Matt. 13), and died on the cross. He is the sufferingservant in the prophecy of
Isaiah(Is. 42:1-4; 49:5-7; 53:5, 10). He lived a sinless life (1 Pet. 2:22;1 John 3:5; Heb. 4:15;
9:14;2Cor. 5:21).
HisPassion
Thepassion of Christ refers to his suffering from the last supper to thecrucifixion. He demonstrated his love, obedience and humility at thetime of pain, sorrow and spiritual separation from God.
Thepassion began with the Passover meal. Later he struggled with thecoming sufferings, was betrayed and arrested in the garden He wassent for examination, and sentenced to crucifixion. Finally he diedon the cross for the sin of the world. On the cross he was separatedfrom God (Matt. 27:46), but brought salvation to the world ('Heb.9:27; 1 Pet. 2:24). He died on the cross physically (Rom. 5:6-9; 1Cor. 11:23-26) and spiritually (15.53:10-12; Luke 23:46). In thetraditional view he was crucified on Friday (Matt. 27:62; Mark 15:42;Luke 23:56; John 19:31).
TheNature of His Death and the Atonement
ImportantTerms
Atonement.The atonement of Christ stands for all work Jesus made on the crossfor sinners. His death for sinners paid the penalty of their sin,pacified the wrath of God over sinners (or, removed sinners fromGod's wrath), broke the barrier of sin between God and man (or,reconciled God and man), and made justified believers in him (or,erased the sin guilt of sinners). The term "atonement" illthe Old Testament means to cover (Lev. 1:4; 17:11). Israel offeredblood sacrifices in order to cover their sin. The OT sacrifice didnot remove the guilt of their sin (Heb. 10:4), but the sacrifice madeby Christ did so.
Expiationand Forgiveness. Expiation of Christ means that the deathof Christ removed the debt or penalty of a sinner by paying the debtor beating the penalty. Forgiveness of God is his grace not to holdbelievers accountable for their sin but forget forever on the meritof Christ (Eph. 1:7). The main focus of expiation and forgiveness isto remove the guilt of a sinner.
Vicariousand Substitutionary. Vicarious and substitutionary aresynonymous, and both mean that Christ died in place of sinners. Godimputed the guilt of sinners to Christ on the cross, poured his wrathof sin to him, and punished him to death. Christ surrendered himselfand was voluntary to be the sacrifice in this substitution (1 Pet.3:18).
Satisfactionand Propitiation. Satisfaction and propitiation both meanthat the death of Christ turns away God's wrath of man's sin by meansof meeting all requirements of God's justice (Rom. 3:25; 1 John 2:2).Both deal with God (God of wrath) or his wrath (righteous wrath tosin).
Redemption.Redemption is that the death of Christ paid the penalty of believersand sets believers free from the penalty of their sin (1 Cor. 6:20).Christ released believers from slavery under sin to freedom inrighteousness.
Reconciliation.Reconciliation means to change or restore the relationship of God toman from hostility to peace (Rom. 5:1, 9). The death of Christremoved the barrier of sin for all humans (Rom. 5:8-10; 6:6-11).
Justification.Justification is that God declares righteous a believer in view ofthe righteousness of Christ (Rom. 3:24; 5:1). The sin of a believeris removed from God's account, and the righteousness of Christ isimputed on a believer. The believer becomes innocent of his or hersin.
TheExtent of the Atonement
Theatonement of Christ is unlimited. He died for all (2 Cor. 5:14-15;Col. 1:20; 1 Tim. 2:6; 4:10; Tit. 2:11; Heb. 2:9-10; 2 Pet. 3:9), andthe world (John 1:10, 29; 3:15-19; 3:17; 4:42; 2 Cor. 5:19; 1 John2:2; 4:14). Since it is unlimited, his atonement includes whosoeverbelieves in Christ (John 3:16; Rom. 10:13; Rev. 22:17).
Theargument of the limited atonement is mainly based on Romans 5:12-19and Ephesians 5:25, but both passages lie in the context of acontrast type of argument. The former emphasizes the stronger effectof Christ's atonement than the effect of Adam1ssin to all men. The atonement of Christ affects more than “all”.The latter depicts the solid relationship of Christ and his church asthe marriage of a couple. The terms "all" and "world"could not be confined to believers alone, otherwise it would becomereluctant in the context and uses of words, and limit theoverabundant love and grace of God (Matt. 5:45).
Theatonement made by Christ is finished and complete because theatonement is not equal to the salvation. The salvation of a believerhas been started but not completed yet. The atonement is a part forthe salvation like the ground for a house to build up. The houseneeds the ground to be its foundation, but the ground may not needany house on its surface. The atonement for all makes the salvationof believers available to start rather than completed. One atonementof Christ is made for many cases of salvation of individualbelievers.
TheResurrection
Themeaning of "resurrection" in Greek is to stand again.Christ was raised physically the third day after his physical death.There are three kinds of evidence: the empty tomb, his appearances tohis disciples, and his physical needs. His resurrected body isimmortal (Luke 24:39; John 20:19). His resurrection was the victoryover death (Rom. 6:9; 1 Cor. 15:26), the result of sin (Rom. 5:17;6:23), and fulfilled his prediction (1 Cor. 15:3-8).
TheAscension and Present Work of Christ
Afterhe completed his ministry on earth, Christ ascended to heaven infront his disciples (Acts 1:9) to ask the Father to send the HolySpirit (John 16:7; Acts 1:5; 2:33) and prepare a place for hisbelievers (John 14:2). Now he is sitting at the right hand of theFather (Heb. 1:3; 10:12; 12:2; Rev. 3:21), and serves as our priestbefore God (1 Tim. 2:5; Heb. 4:14-16).
TheFuture Work of Christ
Christwill return to reign over the earth (Matt. 25:31). He will raise hissaint from the dead (John 5:28), and reunite with them (Tit. 2:14).He will judge the dead and living, believers and unbelievers (John5:22, 27; 1 Cor. 3:11-15; 2 Cor. 5:10; Rev. 20:11-15; Rev. 19:11-21).He will reign on the earth with his saints (Rev. 20:4-6), and saveIsrael (Zech 9:10), and his throne will last forever (Rev. 20:4; 1Tim. 1:17; 1 Cor. 15:24-28).
<a name="chap-05"> CHAPTERV
[Back to the index]PNEUMATOLOGY
I.The Person of the Holy Spirit
TheHoly Spirit is a person because he has intelligence (John 14:26; 1Cor 2:10-11), emotions (Eph. 4:30), mind (Rom. 8:27), and will (1Cor. 12:11). He can be the object of an action: to be lied to (Acts5:3-4), to be obeyed (Acts 10:19-21), to be resisted (Acts 7:51), tobe quenched (1 Thess. 5:19), to be blasphemed (Matt. 12:31; Mark3:29), and to be insulted (Heb. 10:29) He can be the subject of anaction: he teaches (John 14:26), he testifies (John 15:26), he guides(John 16:13), he convinces (John 16:8), he intercedes (Rom. 8:26),and he commands (Acts 13:2). He is a counselor (John 14:26; 15:26;16:7) as Jesus was (1 John 2:1; John 14:16). He is linked with theFather and the Son in analogy of their personality (Matt. 28:19; cfMatt. 3:16-17; Rom. 8:9-11; 1 Cor. 12:4-6; 2 Cor. 1:21-22; 13:14; 1Pet. 1:2; Jude 20-21). lie is masculine (John 15:26; 16:13-14).
Therefore,the Holy Spirit is different from and independent of the Father andthe Son. He is not a vague thing of power, but a person who possessesand uses power, and works with the Father and the Son in divineministries.
II. TheDeity of the Holy Spirit
TheHoly Spirit is God as the Father and the Son are because he isself-existent (Gen. 1:2), eternal (Heb. 1:10-12; 9:14), omniscient(Is. 40:13; John 16:13), omnipresent (Psalm 139:7-10), and omnipotent(Job 33:4; Psalm 104:30; Luke 1:35). The references to the HolySpirit are interchangeable with references to God (Acts 5:3-4; 1 Cor.3:16-17; 6:19-20). He is referred to "the Spirit of Jesus"(Acts 16:7) and "the Spirit of our God" (1 Cor. 6:11). Theusual expression "the Spirit of God" in the Old Testamentis synonymous with the term "the Holy Spirit" in the NewTestament (cf Acts 1:8; 2:18). He was involved in the specialministries of God: creation of God (Gen. 1:2; Job 26:13; Psalm104:30), incarnation of Christ (Matt. 1:20; Luke 1:35), inspirationof the Bible (2 Pet. 1:21), regeneration of sinners (Tit. 3:5), andsanctification of believers (1 Pet. 1:2).
III. TheMinistry of the Holy Spirit InCreation
Theterm "spirit" in Hebrew and Greek can mean "breath"and "wind." The Spirit was involved in the creation of God(Gen. 1:2; Job 26:13; Psalm 33:6; 104:30; Is. 32:15) and brought lifeto creatures (Gen. 2:7; 6:3; Psalm 104:29). His involvement shows hismighty power, and close relationship with God.
InRevelation
Beforethe completion of the Bible, God delivered his messages through humanagents whom the Spirit of God came upon (Acts 1:16; 2 Pet. 1:21) andtaught (1 Cor. 2:13). They were the prophets in Israel (Ezek. 2:2;3:24; 8:3; 11:1, 24; Micah 3:8), and persons outside of Israel'sprophetic office (Num. 24:2; 2 Sam. 23:2; Mark 12:36; Acts 1:16;4:25; 15:28). The Holy Spirit is the real mediator of God's messagebetween God and man.
InInspiration
Thebiblical writers were inspired by the Holy Spirit when they werewriting the scriptures (2 Tim. 3:16; 2 Pet. 1:21). The Holy Spiritsuperintended the thoughts, theology and words of those writers.Though the writing style and language of each writer is personal,there is no error in aspects of word and teaching.
InIllumination
TheHoly Spirit illuminates the truth of God to help believers tounderstand it (John 14:26; 15:26; 16:13-14; 1 Cor. 2:10-11, 14-15;Eph. 1:17-19). After ascension of Christ, the Holy Spirit was sent toconvince the world of sin and righteousness (John 16:8-11), and guidebelievers into the truth which was told (John 16:13-15; John 14:26)rather than he brings the new revelation. He plays the essential roleto help believers to understand the teachings in the Bible, and thegreatness of God.
InEvangelism
TheHoly Spirit comes to convince the world of sin (John 16:8-11), bearwitness of Christ (John 15:26), empower believers to witness ofChrist (Acts 1:8), and initiate believers for evangelism (Acts 8:29;10:19-20; 13:2), and decide the timing of the gospel spread (Acts16:6).
InSalvation
TheHoly Spirit initiates the Christian life of a person with conversion(Matt. 16:16-17; 1 Cor. 12:3) and regeneration (John 3:3-6) Inconversion he convinces one of sin and of righteousness (John 16:8),and causes the one to repent (acknowledge and abandon personal sin)and believe (accept the redemptive work of Christ) so as to turn toGod. In regeneration he miraculously transforms one (John 3:8), andimplants spiritual life (John 3:3-6). He gave physical life to man increation (Gen. 2:7). Since man sins, he is spiritually dead in sin(John 3:6; Col. 2:13). In regeneration the Holy Spirit gives a newlife, a spiritual life to an individual to begin a spiritual life, alife of sanctification.
ToBelievers in the Old Testament
Inthe Old Testament the Holy Spirit did not work on every believer noron some person all the time, and his presence was temporary. The HolySpirit equipped selected individuals for specific tasks:craftsmanship (EX. 31:3-5), administration (Gen. 41:38), ruling (Num.11:25;
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27:18;Judges 3:10; 6:34), and strength (Judges 14:19). In addition, heinstructed the people (Neh. 9:20), and empowered the chosen kings ofIsrael (1 Sam. 10:1, 6-7; 16:13-14). It is noticeable that theempowerment of the Holy Spirit was irrelated to the spiritualcondition of the empowered persons (Num. 24:2; Judges 11:29; 14:6)but the purpose of divine justice.
ToBelievers in the New Testament
Inthe church age the ministry of the Holy Spirit is universal andpermanent in the community of believers. The Holy Spirit dwells withall the believers (John 14:16-17; Eph. 4:22), baptizes believers intothe body of Christ (1 Cor 12:13), gives the gifts to edify the body(1 Cor. 12:1-12), intercedes for them when they are weak (Rom.8:26-27), and witnesses that believers are children of God (Rom8:16).
InSanctification
Insanctification the Holy Spirit continues transforming a convertedbeliever to be like Jesus Christ in the moral and spirit aspects.Believers should obey the guidance of the Holy Spirit in order tomortify the flesh and produce the fruit of the Holy Spirit (Rom.8:1-5; Gal 5:16, 22-26).
TheBaptism of the Holy Spirit
Thebaptism of the Holy Spirit separates believers from flesh tospiritual, free believers from sin (Rom. 6:6-7), and regenerates anew life to each believer (Matt. 3:11; John 3:3-8),. It happens uponthe conversion (John 3:3-5; 1 Cor. 12:3), and places a new believerinto the body of Christ (Gal. 3:27-28; 1 Cor. 12:13), which is theunion with Christ (Rom. 6:3) and with other believers.
Onthe contrary, the water baptism is different. A believer should takethe water baptism, but it may not happen since the personalconversion to the salvation of Jesus is made (Acts I 8:24-28). Thebeliever decides and knows the time for the water baptism. The waterbaptism is the public confession in front of other believers and aqualification of membership of a local church.
TheIndwelling of the Holy Spirit
Theindwelling of the Holy Spirit is permanent (John 14:16), and extendedto all believers
(Eph.2:22). It is a sign as a guarantee of the salvation of a believer (2Cor. 1:22; Eph. 1:13-14).
Thephysical and spiritual existence are dependent of the presence of theHoly Spirit (Gen. 2:7,
14).He himself is the seal of salvation in the head of each believer(Rom. 8:14-17; 2 Cor. 1:22;
Eph.1:13; 4:30).
TheFilling of the Holy Spirit
Thefilling of the Holy Spirit is for believers to act under the controlof the Holy Spirit (cf Luke 1:15, 67). The filled believers willunderstand the things of God (1 Cor. 2:10-16), edify others about God(Acts 2; 4:8, 31; 7:55-56; 9:17-20; 11:44-46), and boldly live a holylife (Rom. 8:4-11; Eph. 5:18-21). Believers are encouraged to befilled with the Holy Spirit (Eph. 5:18).
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Thepresent tense of "be filled" implies that the filling ofthe Holy Spirit is a started and ongoing action rather than a seekingaction.
Speakingin tongues is thought a gift when believers are converted and filledby the Holy Spirit. Nevertheless, the conversion of a believers doesnot have to be followed by a sign of the filling (Acts 2:37-41;8:35-39), nor the fillingness have to come with the gift of tongues(Acts 4:31; 9:17-19; Eph. 5:19-21). Furthermore, the tongues are thehuman languages understandable to the listeners and are to preach theword of God (Acts 2:3-6; 10:46-47; 19:6). Though, besides tongues ofangels (1 Cor. 13:1), mentioned are the tongues unknown to human butGod (1 Cor. 14:2, 14), they are later pointed to be the humanlanguages in the Sam. chapter (1 Cor. 14:21, 23-24). Hence, theunknown tongues are unknown to some people with little understandingof these languages.
SpiritualGifts
TheNature of the Gifts. The spiritual gifts aregiven by the Holy Spirit at his will instead of human desire (1 Cor.12:11; Heb. 2:4; cf Acts 2, 8, 10, 19) though we are encouraged todesire spiritual gifts (1 Cor. 14:1). The gifts should be used alongwith love (1 Cor. 13:1-3; 14:1). The time of endowment of the gifts,at birth or conversion, is unknown. Natural talents may form thebasis of spiritual gifts, but they may or may not serve for spiritualpurpose.
TheExtent of the Gifts. Every believer receives at least agift (1 Cor 12:11; 12:7-11;
Eph.4:7; 1 Pet. 4:10). No one gift is given to everyone (Rom. 12:6; 1Cor. 12:28-30), and no
onepossesses all of gifts (1 Cor. 12:14-21). AU. gifts are important toeach other (1 Cor.
12:22-26).There are lists of the gifts in epistles of Paul and Peter (Rom.12:6-8; 1 Cor. 12:4-11;
Eph.4:11; 1 Pet. 4:11).
ThePurpose of the Gifts. The purpose of the spiritual giftsis to edify the whole church through the gifted persons (1 Cor. 12:7;14:5, 12; Eph. 4:11-13; 1 Pet. 4:10). The gifts are bestowed on thechurch, and different gifts on different believers in the church towork together, grow together, and edify the whole church.
Temporaryversus Permanent Gifts. Permanent gifts refer to those giftsthat can be found throughout the church age, and that continue edifythe body of Christ, such ministering, teaching, ruling, exhortation(Rom. 12:6-8).
Temporarygifts are those that existed in the early church when the foundationof Christianity was founded. They are miraculous sign gifts toauthenticate the authority of those who preached the message of diegospel prior to the completion of the written word of God (John 3:2;Heb. 2:3-4). The primary examples of the temporary gifts are those ofmiracles and healing (1 Cor. 12:28). They are usually associated withthe apostles (Acts 4:21-22; 5:15-16; 9:33-34, 40; 14:8-10; 19:11-12;20:10) to validate their authority (2 Cor. 12:12; Eph. 2:20). Sincethe foundation of the universal church was established, it isunnecessary that die temporary gifts exist any more (Phil. 2:26-26:1Tim. 5:23; 2 Tim. 4:20; cf. 1 Cor. 13:8; 2 Cor. 12:7-9).
CHAPTERVI
[Back to the index]ANGELOLOGY
I. EXISTENCEAND CREATION OF ANGELS
Angelsexist. The term "angel" originally means "messenger"in Hebrew and Greek. It could be a human agent (EX. 3:2; Matt. 28:2).The Bible assumes their existence (Psalm 148:1-5; Col. 1:16). Thereare thirty three records of "the angel of God," "theangels of God," or "the angel of the Lord." The angelscame to serve Christ alter his temptation by Satan (Matt. 4:11). Hementioned angels in the issue of the resurrection (Matt. 22:29-30).All the angels shall come with Him in His glory (Matt. 25:31). TheBible implies the organization of angels by the assemblies of angels(Job 1:6, 2:1, Ps 89:5-6), warfare terminology (Rev 12:7-9, Rev9:11), authority terms applied to angels (Rom 8:38, 1 Cor 15:24, Eph1:21, 3:10, 6:12), and rank (archangel, etc., Dan 10:13,21, 12:1,Jude 9, Rev 12:7-8, 1 Th 4:16)
Thoughthere is no explicit passage for their creation, angels should becreated by God during the creation because God created all things inthose six days and all of them were claimed good (Gen. 1; 2:1-2
salm 148:5; Ezek. 28:13-15; Neh. 9:6; Col 1:16). They were createdall at one time because they cannot reproduce themselves (Matt.22:30). Their number is numerous (Deut. 33:2; Psalm 68:17; Dan. 7:10;Matt. 26:53; Heb. 12:22; Rev. 5:11). They were created in hierarchy(Job 1:6, 2:1, Ps 89:5-6; 1 Thess. 4:16; Jude 9). They are created tominister to God (Heb. 1:7; Rev. 4:6-11) and men (Heb. 1:14).II. THENATURE OF ANGELS
Angelsare spirits (Heb. 1:7,14). They have a spirit kind of nature (Luke24:37-39). Their spirit nature is unique (John 4:24; 1 Cor 2:11;comp. Luke 24:4, Matt. 28:2-3, Dan 10:5-6). Normally, angels areinvisible (comp Num 22:22-31, 2Ki 6:17, Ps 34:7), but they haveability to appear and disappear at will (comp. Acts 12:7,10).However, they do not function as human beings in terms of marriage(Mk. 12:25), nor are they subjective to death (Luke 20:36).
Angelsare a little higher than mankind, including the incarnate Lord (Heb2:7,9). They are not subject to death as man (Luke 20:36, Heb12:22-23, Matt. 25:41,46). They have greater wisdom than man (2 Sam.14:20), but it is limited about the day of the fulfillment day (Matt.24:36). They have greater power than man (2Pet 2:11, Matt. 28:2, Acts5:19; Ps 103:20, 2Pet
2:11,comp 2Ki 19:35, Acts 5:19,23), but it is limited in time and space(Dan 10:13). Nevertheless, at the consummation of the age, theredeemed man will be exalted above angels (1 Cor 6:3).
Angelsare persons. They are self-awareness (Dan 10:11-14),self-determination (Acts 12:7-8, Rev 22:8-9), moral awareness (Matt.13:41, Luke 15:10), perpetuity (Matt. 25:41), as well as intelligence(2 Sam. 14:20, Rev. 22:16), learning (Eph 3:10, 2:7; 1 Pet 1:12),desire (1 Pet 1:12), emotion (Job 38:7, Rev. 12:12) andaccountability (1 Cor. 6:3). They are also ascribed by the masculinegender (Rev 10:1-3).
III. ACTIVITIES OF ANGELS
Angelspraise God before him (Ps 148:2, Rev 5:11-12). They were mediators ofthe law (Acts 7:53). They communicate God's message to man (Luke1:13-20; 26-38; Acts 7:53). They often minister to believers,protecting people from harm (Acts 5:19), and meeting spiritual needs(Heb 1:14) Some of them are evil, this is, fallen angels (Eph. 6:17).
Angelsminister to God. They come to present themselves before God (Job 1:6,2:1). The cherubim have a ministry to God in defending the holinessof God (Gen 3:24); Seraphim have a ministry to God in surrounding thethrone of God as they attend to His holiness (Is 6:2). They areworshipers of God (15 6, Rev 5:5, Job 1:6, 2:1), ministers to God(Heb 1:7,14), messengers of God (Ps 103:20, Luke 1,2), warriors ofGod (2Ki 6:17, Dan 10, Rev 12), and executioners for God (Gen 19, Ps78, Matt. 25, Ex 12).
Angelsminister to Christ. Angels predicted His birth (Luke 1:26-38).Gabriel came to Mary explaining for her new child. Angels protectedHim in infancy (Matt. 2:13). An angel warned Joseph of Herod'sintention and told Joseph to flee to Egypt. Angels ministered to Himafter the temptation (Matt. 4:11), probably included encouragementafter the exhaustion of forty days of temptation, as well assupplying him with food. Angels strengthened Him at Gethsemane (Luke22:43) in which Christ had a spiritual battle concerning the cross.Angels announced His resurrection (Matt. 28:5-7, Mk 16:6-7, Luke24:4-7, Jo 20:12-13). The angels invited the women to enter the emptytomb, and reminded the women of Jesus earlier promise. Angelsattended His ascension (Act 1:10). Angels will prepare the world ofthe return of the Son by regathering Israel to the land preparatoryfor their Messiah's return. As the Son returned to earth He will beattended by a host of angels, adding to the splendor and glory of hisTribulation return (Matt. 25:31).
Angelsminister to believers. Physical protection (Dan 3, 6:20,22, 2Ki 6)
avid experienced physical protection by the angel when he was forcedto flee to the Philistines (Ps 34:7). They released the apostles fromprison (Acts 5:19) and Peter from prison (Acts 12:7-11). They willprotect 144,000 in the Tribulation (Rev 7:1-14). Physical provision(Rev 7:1, Job 1:4,17,19, Dan 10:12,20, 12:1): An angel broughtphysical nourishment for Elijah in a lengthy journey (1 Ki 19:5-7).Encouragement: During the storm at sea an angel encouraged Paul (Acts17:23-25). Direction: An angel directed Philip to witness theEthiopian eunuch (Acts 8:26), and the meeting of Cornelius and Peter(Act 10:3,22). Assist in answering to prayer: The angels releasedPeter from prison in response to the prayer for Peter's release. Theangel explained for Daniel the visions (Dan 9:20-27, 10:10-12:13).Carry believers home: The angels carried Lazarus to Abraham's bosom(Luke 16:22). They are the carriers of Revelation (Matt. 1, Mk 7,Luke 1, Heb 2:1; Rev, Dan 7; Acts 7).Angeldeal with unbelievers, too. Angels announce the coming destructionabout people's sin (Gen 19:12-13), and worship to the beast (Rev14:4,7,8-9,15,17-18). They sound the trumpet judgments during theTribulation (Rev 8:2-12, 9:1,13, 11:15). Angels are instrumental injudgment. For example, they killed the people of Jerusalem (Ezk9:1-11), stroke Herod Agrippa I for his blasphemy (Acts 12:23), castunbelievers into the furnace of fire (Matt. 13:39-42), and poured outthe bowl judgment upon the earth (Rev 16:2-17).
IV.THE FALL OF ANGELS
Historyof the Fall
Atsome time between the creation of goodness (Gen. 1) and the fall ofman (Gen. 3), a group of angels sinned and was cast out of thepresence of God (2 Pet. 2:4; Jude 6). Satan, the leader of the fallenangels, sinned in his pride and self-elevation (Ezek. 28:17; Is.14:13-14). The rest of them followed Satan in his rebellion againstGod (Man. 25:41, Rev 12:4,7-9). Some of them are now confined (2 Pet2:4, Rev 9:1-10, Rom 10:7), others are free.
Satan’soriginal state: He enjoyed an exalted position in the presence of God(Ezk 28:12-15), was called the "anointed covering cherub",the highest honor before God, next to the throne of God (Ezk 1:26),and was referred by Israel as "star of the morning (KJV,Lucifer), son of the dawn". He was perfect before he sinned (Ezk28:15).
Satan'sfall (Ezk 28:16-1; Is 14:12-14): Satan was cast out because of hissin: his proud heart of his beauty, his corrupted wisdom, and hisdesire for God's throne. Some angels left their place and went aftera different kind of flesh for immoral purposes (2Pet 2:4, Jude 6-7).Satan fell from his place of prominence, and led with himlower-ranking angels, as many as a third of the angelic host (Rev12:4).
Satan'smoral responsibility (Job 1:7): He does not have freedom in anunrestricted sense but is subordinate to and restricted by God.
TheJudgment of Fallen Angels
Theirjudgement is that they were cast out of the presence of God down tothe earth (2 Pet 2:4; Jude 6; Rev. 12:9).
TheJudgment of Satan: Satan fell from his original exalted position (Ezk28:16-17, Rev 12:4, 9). Satan's ultimate defeat was pronounced inEden (Gen 3:15). Satan was rendered powerless through the cross (Heb2:14). Satan will be cast out of heaven during the Tribulation (Rev12:13). Satan will be bound in the pit for 1,000 years (Rev 20:2-3).Satan will finally be cast into the lake of fire (Rev 20:7-10).
TheJudgment of Demons: Through the cross the power of demons has beenconquered (Col 2:15). At the return of Christ the demons and Satanwill be judged and cast into the lake of fire (Man. 25:41, rev 12:9,Rev 19:19-21).
TheOrganization of Fallen Angels
Thefallen angels retain the rank system of angels. Satan (Job 1:6; Mall.4:10; 12:24-27; 16:23; Luke 10:18; Rev. 20:2) is the leader of demons(Matt. 12:24-27; John 12:31; Eph. 2:2; cf.
2Cor. 4:4). The organization of Satan is referred by "the deviland his angels" (Matt. 25:41), "the dragon and his angels"(Rev 12:7). Satan in Hebrew means the adversary. Satan has othernames, such as the devil (only in the NT, Mall. 4:1, 13:39, 25:41,Rev 12:9, 20:2, etc.), the serpent (Gen 3:1, 14, 2Cor 11:3, Rev 12:9,20:2), Be-elzebul (Matt. 10:25,12:24,27, Luke 11:15), the ruler ofthis world (Jo 12:31, 14:30, 16:11), the prince of the power of theair (Eph 2:2), or the evil one (Matt. 13:19, 1 Jo 2:13).
Demonsserve for Satan. Their number is enormous (Matt. 26:53; Rev. 5:11).These evil angels actively oppose God and His people and influenceworld affairs (Rev 12:7-9, Jo 14:30, Eph
6:12),and they are recognized as demons and spirits (Matt. 3:16).
TheActivities of Fallen Angels
Theytempt and deceive human beings to turn away from God. They causephysical disorders such as dumbness (Mk 9:17), deafness (Mk 9:25),blindness (Matt. 12:22), and convulsions (Mk 1:26). More importantly,they struggle against the Christian in an attempt to stunt spiritualgrowth.
Theactivities of Satan: Satan was the attempter of sin (Gen 3:1-6, 2Cor11:3, Jo 8:44, 1 Jo 3:3). Demons oppose and try to destroy every workof God (Gen 3:1-6, Matt. 4:1-11, Jo 3:44, Rev 12:9, Ps 106:37, Jo3:44, 2Cor 4:4, Gal 4:3). Yet demons are limited by God's control andhave limited power (Job 1:12, 2:6, Jude 6, Jam 4:7, Is 46:9-10, Mk13:32) because Jesus knows people's thoughts (Matt. 9:4,12:25, Mk2:8, Luke 6:3, 11:17), and God knows, too (Gen 6:5, Ps 139:2,4,23, Is66:13, Dan 2:17-23).
Thedevil is a murderer (Jo 3:44). The devil is a liar; the father oflies (Jo 3:44). Satan deceives people in schemes and craftiness (Eph6:11, Rev 12:9, Matt. 4:5-6, 1 Pet 5:3), exalts himself (Is 14:12-17,14:13-14) through the trap (1 Tim 3:6), tempts people to wrath (Rev12:12), and sin (Man. 4:3), and accuses against believers (Rev12:9-10, Zech 3:1).
TheActivities of demons: Major activities of demons are to serve Satan(Man. 9:24; 12:14; Eph 6:4)), to oppose God about created order (Gen.3), and redemptive order (Rev. 12; Matt. 4), to oppose man (Job 1, 2;Eph. 6), and to oppose good angels (Dan. 10:13; Jude 9; Rev 12, Dan10:13). The demon possession means to have evil spirit (Mk 1:23), tobe demonized by demon (Luke 5:13), to have demon enter in people(Luke 22), to have demon live in (Li 1:14-23), and to be housed ordwelled by demon (Matt. 12:29, Luke 11:14-23).
Demonsoppose and try to destroy every work of God (Gen 3:1-6, Matt. 4:1-11,Jo 3:44, Rev 12:9, Ps 106:37, Jo 3:44, 2Cor 4:4, Gal 4:3). Yet demonsare limited by God's control and have limited power (Job 1:12, 2:6,Jude 6, Jam 4:7, Is 46:9-10, Mk 13:32) because Jesus knows people'sthought (Matt. 9:4, 12:25, Mk 2:3, Luke 6:3, 11:17), and God knows,too (Gen 6:5, Ps 139:2,4,23, Is 66:13, Dan 2:17-23). In the area ofknowledge, demons cannot know the future or read our mind or know ourthoughts. God alone know the future (Is 46:9-10). Demons inflictdisease (Mk 9:17, Luke 13:11; Job 1:12, 2:6,; 2Cor 12:7-10),blindness and deafness (Matt. 12:22), convulsions (Mk 1:26, 9:20,Luke 9:39), paralysis or lameness (Acts 3:7). Demons influence thedie mind (Gen 3:1-5, 2Cor 4:4,11:3). They oppose the spiritualprogress of God's people (Eph 6:12). The solution to demonicinfluence of the mind is to bring the thought progress to subjectionto Christ (2Cor 10:5). Demons deceive people (1Th 3:5). Satan Alsodeceives the unbelievers (Eph 2:2, Man. 13:19). Demons deceivesnations (Rev 16:14).
Therehave been differing stages of demonic activity in the history ofredemption. The people of Israel sinned be serving false Gods, and werealize that the these false gods were really demonic forces. (Dt32:16-17, Ps 106:35-37, 1Cor 10:20, cf 1 John 5:19, 1Sam. 16:23, Ps106:35-37, 1Ki 13:23, cf Dt 14:1, Dt 23:17, iKi 14:24, Hos 4:14).During the ministry of Jesus demons were cast out by Christ withabsolute authority, and Christ demonstrated the reign of the kingdomof God inaugurated in a new and powerful way (Matt. 1:27, 12:28-29,4:1-11). During the new covenant age Christ gave similar authority tothe Twelve and seventy disciples over unclean spirits. (Man. 10:3, Mk5:15, Luke 10:17,13, Ac 8:7, 16:18, Jam 4:7, 1Pet 5:8-9, 1Jo
3:8).During the millennium the activity of Satan and demons will befurther restricted, and sin and rebellion grow in the hearts of theunbelievers (Rev 20:1-3,8-9,7). At the final judgment Satan will beloosed and will gather the nations for battle, but he will bedecisively defeated and thrown into the lake of fire and sulfur, andwill be tormented day and night for ever and ever. (Rev 20:10).
TheDestiny of Fallen Angels
Theywill be defeated in the end. These evil angels will be judged (lCor6:3), 2 Pet 2:4) and will experience the conscious torment in hellforever (Matt. 25:41, Rev 20:10). They are aware of the doom thatawaits them (Matt. 8:29, Mk 5:7, Luke 8:28; Col 1:20). There will bemany of anticipation of that final victory (Matt. 24:27; Luke 10:18;John 12:31; 14:30; 16:11; Rom. 16:20; Heb. 2:14-15; 1 John 2:13; 3:8;5:18; Rev 12).
Thestruggles between Satan with his forces and Christ with his followersgot intensive, but Christ had a victory over the temptation of Satanand many encounters with demons (Matt. 4:1-11, Luke 22:31-34, Gal5:16-17, Eph 6:10-20). Satan with his angels will fight with Michaelwith his angels on account of Satan's attack on the church. Satanwill be bound for a thousand years, and will release for a timebefore being cast into the lake of fire forever (Rev 20). Thedecisive spirit war was won by Christ in the crucifixion andresurrection (Luke 10:18, Jo 12:31, 14:30, 16:11, Rom 16:20, Heb2:14-15, 1 Jo 2:13, 3:8, 5:18).
V. DEMONPOSSESSION
Demonpossession is the indwelling of a demon (Mark 1:23) or a multitude ofdemons (Mark 5:9) in a human individual to control over him (Mark9:18). Believers and unbelievers could be influenced spiritually andafflicted physically by demons, but demonized individuals areincapable to control themselves or disengage the possessed demon bythemselves. The genuine believers have the Holy Spirit dwelling inthe heart (2 Cor. 1:22), and it seems impossible for them to bepossessed.
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