Position Paper:  The Enemy Of Our Soul

What We Believe About the Devil and Demons
After many years of researching and teaching on the subject of spiritual warfare the following is a summary of some of the conclusions we have come to concerning this subject.

The Devil is a real person originally named Lucifer (Isa 14:12 KJV). Initially, he was an exalted angel, perhaps in charge of worship in heaven. His name means “Light Bearer” or “Shining One.” Because of his own rebellion (Ezek 28) he lost his position in heaven and as a result of a war with Michael and his angels (Rev 12:7) was cast down to earth (Luke 10:18).

There is only one devil (Lucifer) but many demons. Demons are fallen angels and come in ranks. Paul refers to them as “Principalities,” “Powers,” the “Rulers of the Darkness of this World,” and “Spiritual Wickedness in High Places.” (We realize there are other explanations concerning the nature of demons, including the theory that they were born out of intimacy between women and fallen angels [Gen 6:4].)

Today, the word Satan is used to describe Lucifer. The name means “accuser” or “adversary.” Other names describe his character: murderer, liar, thief, prince of the power of the air, and prince of darkness. He is only in one place at one time and not omnipresent as some seem to think. His seemingly universal presence is accomplished through the presence of numerous demons.

The word influence best describes the way demons affect people.

Demons teach doctrines (1 Tim 4:1).

Demons need an open door in order to influence people. Those doors include such things as unforgiveness, drugs, alcohol, immorality, fear, trauma, pornography, negativism, bitterness, and a critical spirit.