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Demons and Evil Spirits in Scripture: Dr. Michael Heiser 2019

The Remnant Radio・70 minutes read

Dr. Heiser and Miller discuss demonology and fallen angels, emphasizing the unique content of Heiser's book "Unseen Realm" and the importance of understanding biblical texts deeply to discern between scholarly and church interpretations. The concept of spiritual warfare, the three rebellions, and the authority of believers in confronting spiritual entities are highlighted, with a focus on the unique perspective presented by the upcoming book "Demons: What the Bible Really Says About the Powers of Darkness."

Insights

  • Dr. Heiser's upcoming role as executive director of The Awakening school of theology and ministry in Jacksonville, Florida, aims to provide biblical theology training without seeking accreditation, emphasizing the unique content of his book "Unseen Realm" and the need for deeper study in biblical interpretation.
  • The new book titled "Demons: What the Bible Really Says About the Powers of Darkness" explores the unique perspective of three rebellions in Genesis 3, 6, and 11, framing the discussion on evil and opposition to God, shedding light on the ontological difference between demonic spirits and the sons of God.
  • The concept of spiritual warfare is elucidated as a conflict between two kingdoms, highlighting believers' authority, the importance of contextualizing biblical texts with ancient knowledge, and the significance of sharing the gospel within cultural contexts to confront spiritual challenges effectively.

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Recent questions

  • What is the significance of the three rebellions in understanding supernatural enemies?

    The three rebellions, focusing on Genesis 3, Genesis 6, and Babel (Genesis 11), provide a unique perspective on supernatural enemies of God. These events frame discussions on evil, opposition to God, and their impact on humanity throughout the Bible. By exploring these rebellions, one can gain insights into the ontological difference between demonic spirits and the sons of God, shedding light on their nature and purpose. This approach offers a deeper understanding of the biblical narrative surrounding supernatural entities and their interactions with humanity.

  • How do early church fathers' interpretations influence biblical texts?

    Early church fathers and intertestamental Judaism offer insights into biblical interpretations that differ from later views influenced by figures like Augustine. Their writings up to the 8th century provide valuable perspectives on passages like Deuteronomy 32, shaping how biblical texts were understood in the early Christian community. By studying these interpretations, one can gain a richer understanding of the historical context and theological nuances present in the biblical texts.

  • What is the difference between demonic spirits and principalities and powers?

    Demonic spirits, considered the lowest tier of demonic powers, are the disembodied spirits of the Nephilim from Genesis 6. On the other hand, principalities and powers are sons of God who transgressed after the Babel event. Understanding this distinction is crucial in comprehending the hierarchy of supernatural entities in the biblical narrative and their roles in spiritual warfare. By recognizing the differences between these entities, one can navigate the complexities of biblical demonology more effectively.

  • How does the concept of rising from the dead render Satan powerless?

    The concept of rising from the dead and being part of Christ's body signifies believers' victory over Satan's power. By aligning themselves with Christ and participating in His resurrection, believers are no longer subject to Satan's rule. This understanding highlights the authority and victory that believers have in Christ, emphasizing their position in a kingdom where Satan holds no power. Through this perspective, believers can approach spiritual warfare with confidence and assurance in their identity in Christ.

  • Why is contextualizing biblical texts with ancient cultures important?

    Contextualizing biblical texts with knowledge from various ancient cultures and texts is essential for gaining a deeper understanding of scripture. By exploring the cultural, historical, and linguistic contexts in which the biblical texts were written, one can uncover layers of meaning and nuances that may not be immediately apparent. This approach allows for a more comprehensive interpretation of the Bible, enriching one's grasp of the message and themes conveyed in the sacred texts.

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Summary

00:00

"Dr. Heiser Explores Demonology and Fallen Angels"

  • Dr. Michael Heiser and Michael Miller discuss demonology, fallen angels, and evil spirits on the Remnant Radio show.
  • Dr. Heiser shares his background as a scholar and his upcoming role as the executive director of The Awakening school of theology and ministry in Jacksonville, Florida.
  • The school aims to provide biblical theology training for ministry without seeking accreditation.
  • Dr. Heiser emphasizes the unique content of his book "Unseen Realm" and its impact on understanding scripture.
  • He explains the difference between scholarly and church interpretations of biblical texts, highlighting the need for deeper study.
  • Early church fathers and intertestamental Judaism offer insights into biblical interpretations that differ from later views influenced by figures like Augustine.
  • The importance of contextualizing biblical texts with knowledge from various ancient cultures and texts is emphasized.
  • The discussion on the Remnant Radio show covers topics like angels, theosis, and the fallen system, preparing to address the concept of waging war against fallen principalities.
  • Dr. Heiser mentions the three rebellions, including Genesis 6 and Deuteronomy 32, and the significance of early church fathers' interpretations on these passages.
  • Research into early church fathers' writings up to the 8th century provides valuable insights into their views on biblical texts like Deuteronomy 32.

15:29

"Demons: Unveiling Supernatural Enemies in April"

  • The new book titled "Demons: What the Bible Really Says About the Powers of Darkness" is set to be released in April.
  • The book focuses on the unique perspective of three rebellions: Genesis 3, Genesis 6, and Babel (Genesis 11) in understanding supernatural enemies of God.
  • This approach has never been explored in books accessible to seminary students or laypeople.
  • The three rebellions frame the discussion on evil, opposition to God, and the impact on humanity throughout the Bible.
  • The book delves into the ontological difference between demonic spirits and the sons of God.
  • Demonic spirits are considered the lowest tier of demonic powers and are disembodied spirits of the Nephilim from Genesis 6.
  • The sons of God, also known as the Watchers, transgressed the boundary between heaven and earth, fathered the Nephilim, and taught humans destructive practices like warfare, seduction, and idolatry.
  • The flood was sent to cleanse the earth of these problems caused by the sons of God and the Nephilim.
  • The disembodied spirits of the Nephilim became known as demons or unclean spirits, seeking re-embodiment through possession.
  • The origin of demons as the spirits of the Nephilim is explored in various Jewish traditions and the New Testament, shedding light on their nature and purpose.

31:19

"Defeat of Satan's Power Through Christ"

  • Demons are distinct from principalities and powers, with the latter being sons of God who transgressed after the Babel event.
  • The sons of God appointed by God at Babel are not inherently bad but have free will, leading some to become corrupt.
  • God is angry with the sons of God for sowing chaos among nations, as seen in Psalm 82 and Deuteronomy 32.
  • Deuteronomy 32 refers to territorial entities as "demons," who seduce Israelites into idolatry, contrary to God's desire for just rule.
  • Humans, as image-bearers of God and part of Abraham's Covenant, are meant to lead others back to worship the Most High.
  • The authority of principalities and powers is nullified in the New Testament through the resurrection and Ascension of Christ.
  • The already-but-not-yet concept is crucial, indicating that Satan's fall and loss of authority are already in motion but not fully realized.
  • The statement "I saw Satan fall like lightning from heaven" signifies the arrival of God's kingdom and the defeat of Satan's power.
  • Believers in Christ are part of a kingdom where Satan has no authority, as seen in the casting out of demons and sending out of the 70.
  • The concept of rising from the dead and being part of Christ's body renders Satan powerless, as believers are no longer subject to his rule.

46:42

Understanding Spiritual Warfare and Authority in Evangelism

  • The speaker discusses a conversation with someone about the worldview presented in the Bible, focusing on the God of the Bible's intentions.
  • The speaker explains the significance of Deuteronomy 30, the covenant with Abraham, and the Messiah in understanding Paul's approach to Gentile communities.
  • The conversation delves into the idea of lesser gods and the authority of the Most High to change rules and demand allegiance.
  • The speaker highlights the importance of sharing the gospel within cultural contexts, such as in India, to address beliefs in lesser deities and spiritual bondage.
  • The discussion touches on the revelation of Deuteronomy 32:8 in the Dead Sea Scrolls and its implications for believers fulfilling the Great Commission.
  • The speaker emphasizes the need for believers to understand their authority as children of God in confronting spiritual entities and speaking truth to lies.
  • The concept of spiritual warfare is explained as a conflict between two kingdoms, with the fulfillment of the Great Commission being a pivotal point.
  • The speaker warns against self-aggrandizing approaches to dealing with spiritual entities and stresses the importance of proclaiming the gospel and trusting in Jesus' authority.
  • The conversation addresses the role of prayer and fasting in building spiritual endurance, trust, and dependence on God in confronting spiritual challenges.
  • The speaker discusses the evolution of deliverance ministry approaches, emphasizing the need to focus on speaking truth to lies and avoiding blame-shifting tactics.

01:02:38

Transitioning Deliverance Ministry: Speaker's Insightful Assistance

  • Fern and Audrey were transitioning out of deliverance ministry before meeting the speaker.
  • The speaker provided intellectual and theological insights to Fern and Audrey, aiding their transition.
  • The speaker did not initiate Fern and Audrey's shift but assisted them in determining their next steps.
  • A lady practicing necromancy and clairvoyance was demonized, requiring her to walk away from sin for freedom.
  • Deliverance ministry is often negatively stereotyped for theatrical performances rather than genuine help.
  • Fern and Audrey encountered a higher-tier evil spirit, leading Fern to quote Jude for effective deliverance.
  • The desert and wilderness symbolize darkness and death in biblical imagery, associated with demonic powers.
  • Casting demons into the sea symbolizes chaos and destruction, their natural habitat.
  • The speaker encountered a woman at an academic conference discussing supernatural worldviews, encouraging dialogue.
  • Believers cannot be owned by demonic forces due to their belonging to the Lord, distinguishing possession from oppression.

01:19:22

Dr. Brown's Divine Healing and Demons Book

  • Dr. Brown will discuss miraculous divine healing as depicted in Scripture, based on his book expanding on Israel's delight dealer, which is his dissertation.
  • Mike, who will be featured in an upcoming episode, needs to submit a blurb for Dr. Brown's demons book, with an episode on the sacraments filmed by Michael set to release around Christmas, and discussions on evangelism planned for January.
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