Spiritual Beings in the Bible

Introduction

• Main characters: God and humans
• Larger cast: Elohim, angels, the Satan, demons
• Misunderstandings about spiritual beings

Ancient Biblical Worldview

• Genesis 1-2: God brings order
• Earth: Human domain
• Heavens: God's domain
• Overlapping domains: Garden of Eden as a high mountain garden

Creation of Creatures

• Sun, moon, and stars:
  • Seen as heavenly creatures by biblical authors
  • Represent spiritual realities
  • Stars as images of God reflecting Creator's glory

Hierarchy of Beings

• Heavenly host: God's staff team
• Humans ("Adam"): Made from dirt, appointed to rule creation
• Psalm 8: Humans' high calling to rule in God's love and power

Spiritual Rebellion

• Spiritual being opposing human rule
• Deception leading to humanity's fall
• Exile from Eden
• Babylon: Anti-Eden project by human and spiritual rebels

Full Cast in the Biblical Story

• God, humans, and spiritual beings

Upcoming Exploration

• Heaven's staff team: Divine Council
• Angels and cherubim
• Angel of the Lord
• Spiritual rebels: The Satan and demons
• Jesus' role in overcoming evil, reuniting heaven and earth