Question
This assignment addresses how the principles that you have learned throughout this course can be applied to your understanding of what it means to be a Christian.
1. Describe the course concepts that are related to your topic, demonstrating your reflection and analysis. Do not simply summarize what was presented in the course.
2. Demonstrate real ownership of the ideas that you present by providing unique insight as evidence of your careful consideration of the topic.
3. Provide a logical link between the description of the concepts from the course and the conclusions or implications that you draw in your reflection. In other words, your conclusion should be logically derived from the application of the course concepts to the description of your topic.
4. Demonstrate learning initiative by exploring conclusions and implications beyond the boundaries of your classroom discussion.
5. Focus on depth of understanding, rather than breadth of coverage.
Sample paper
Angels and Demons
Introduction
An intriguing subject in the Christian circles revolves around angels and demons. The Bible clearly acknowledges the existence of the two heavenly powers. A number of angels paid homage to select individuals as documented in the Bible. On the other hand, the Bible also talks about demons, with their ability to torment or even haunt individuals. The two powers relate in opposing ways, with angels created to love and adore God, while on the other hand the demons reject God in totality. As such, there exist a warfare between angels and demons, a warfare whose roots are not clearly established. Majority of people in the U.S. alone hold beliefs on the existence of demons, and their ability to possess people. This is regardless of whether these individuals subscribe to any religious affiliations. This paper will examine the concept of angels and demons in line with teachings of the Bible and other relevant sources.
Part One: Angels
Theological definition
The theological definition of an angel is God’s messenger. Angels are heavenly beings or superhuman who were created to serve God (Wallace, 2014). The theological definition also includes human beings who act as God’s messengers. The word “angel” is thus used to refer to particular spiritual beings. Under the theological definition, messengers who exude supernatural powers qualify as angels. Messengers who exude supernatural powers are no doubt, heavenly beings and thus qualify as angels. Angels are important beings since they help God in fulfilling His will on earth. According to Hopko (n.d), human beings will be like angels upon resurrection – having only the spiritual dimension and thus no bodies.
Biblical definition
The Bible provides definition of angels in numerous chapters. For instance, Hebrews 1:14, describe angels as messengers who “render service for the sake of those who will inherit salvation.” In Hebrews 1:14, is clear that angels are spirit in form, “are they not ministering spirits…” Hebrews 12:22-23 clearly outlines the difference between angels and human. The chapter shows that angels and humans are two separate groups, and thus humans do not become angels when they die. In Mathew 22:30, it is clear that angels belong to no particular sex, but are immortal beings. Deriving from the many descriptions of angels in the Bible, angels can generally be defined as spiritual beings that serve God through various ways such as by becoming messengers.
Practical Application
Angels’ main role is to serve God through various ways. For instance, Angel Gabriel is depicted in the Bible as a messenger. In Daniel 8:16, it is written that a loud voice called out and said “Gabriel, give this man an understanding of the vision.” Angels execute the will of God. Three angels are mentioned in the Bible, including Angel Michael and Lucifer. Although they were all meant to serve God, Lucifer rebelled against God, and later became Satan, forever opposing God. Angels play a number of roles which includes answering prayers, messengers, to worship and praise God, to guide, to strengthen and encourage, to deliver people from danger, and among others. These roles are evident in various chapters of the Bible
Part 2: Demons
Theological definition
The theological definition depicts demons as spiritual beings that rejected God entirely. Demons were once angelic beings that rejected God (Wallace, 2014). Theologically, demons and angels share the similar powers, only that demons are opposed to God. Demons, just like angels, are spirit beings. However, demons are immoral and seek to corrupt human beings. Demons have the power to possess individuals. When demons possess individuals, the spirits command everything that the person does. Demons are immortal, just like angels. However, their spirits wander from place to place, the reason they seek to possess individuals.
Biblical definition
From a Biblical perspective, demons are unclean spirits that seek to possess man. In the Old Testament, mentioning of the term demons is rare, appearing only twice. The New Testament contains various instances where demons are mentioned as unclean spirits that possess individuals and cause harm or suffering. In Judges 9: 23-24, God sent a demon to Saul, which tormented him for a period. In 1st Kings 22:19-23, Ahab’s prophets were possessed by lying spirits. Jesus also encountered demons during his ministry. The Bible records that Jesus has power over demons, and thus the ability to cast out demons that possess individuals.
Practical Application
Demons possess human beings by entering the bodies of human beings and taking their form. Demons play a significant role in hindering human beings from receiving salvation, and therefore eternal life. Demons prevent people from receiving the word or acting in accordance to what the Bible teaches. Demons exist to cause anguish among human beings, they seek opportunities to strike and cause despair among individuals.
Conclusion
To conclude, the Bible clearly highlights the existence of angels and demons. Both are spiritual beings created by God. However, they work in opposing ways. Angels bring the message of hope to human beings; they encourage people; and serve God just as human beings should do. On the other hand, demons seek ways to attack human beings, to enter their bodies, and to prevent human beings from gaining salvation. God forewarns human beings about evil, cautioning them to stay away from evil so as to inherit His Kingdom.
References
Hopko, T. (n.d). Orthodox Christianity and the world. A Russian Orthodox Church Website. Retrieved from http://www.pravmir.com
Wallace, J. W. (2014). Seven important differences between angels and demons. Cold-Case Christianity. Retrieved from http://coldcasechristianity.com/2014/seven-important- differences-between-angels-and-demons/
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