A Brief Study of Angels
What is the destiny of demons?
Regarding fallen angels, this is probably the question with the shortest and most straightforward answer. There are only a couple of considerations to pose about the future of demons. One of them has to do with whether or not there is a possibility they can change. We also looked at this when we were studying the same issue about the holy angels except in reverse. There we asked if it is possible or likely that angels could experience another time where some decide to rebel against God and fall from their holy state. Here we would turn it around and wonder whether some or all of the demons might repent of their disobedience and be restored to God’s service. As before, we assert that this possibility seems highly unlikely. Though we cannot assume that the angelic experience and the human experience are similar in this regard, it seems logical to assume that as death marks the place of no return for a human so the choice to follow Satan was also irrevocable for the angels who chose to do so. Though obviously we cannot know everything that happens in the spiritual, supernatural realm, it is significant that there is not even a hint in the Bible that such a repentance by demons is conceivable. In all the recorded meetings between Jesus and fallen angels, the contention seems to be absolute and final. There is no mention at all of a possible reconciliation.
Another aspect of the destiny of demons involves something we have previously discussed and will only mention quickly here. Some fallen angels will apparently be released from imprisonment to participate in the coming Tribulation period (Rev. 9:1-11; 13-19). We mention this because it is future, however, it only involves certain demons (though others currently free will no doubt be extremely active during that time) and it is for a very short time before their final destination.
Which brings us to that truth which is made abundantly clear about the destiny of demons, namely, that they are doomed. We see in Revelation 12:9 that they are connected with Satan and cast out of heaven. But in Matthew 25:41 as He was describing the fate of the goats (people who did not serve Him), Jesus reveals the final fate of these evil beings who have opposed Him for at least thousands of years. It is described as a place of “everlasting fire” that people generally refer to as Hell. They are not going there to rule, neither will it be a place where they thrive. It is a place of punishment and torment for all who are consigned there, whether human or angelic. Though it satisfies God’s justice, still it is sad to contemplate that any being must go there. It must be terrifying to know that your future in such a place is sealed with no hope of avoiding it. I guess that explains James 2:19.