Expert: Dr. Ronald E. Shultz - 12/2/2007

Question
   I see here and there artists renderings of "demons" or artists renderings of sci-fi creatures that are obviously of an evil and hostile disposition. Now as I know that no human other than perhaps Eve has ever seen a demon or knows what one looks like, nevertheless I wonder if demons can "manifest" actual and genuine demon-source and demon-intense attitudes through these artists. (with or without the artists realizing it) Or is this all just chance human imagination and activity. Thank you.

Answer
It is probably a bit of both as some people do have vivid imaginations.  However,if there is demonic influences then it is a safe bet to assume that none look like that.  Some people have seen demons without knowing it because they look for things like that or the devil with a tail, horn and pitch fork.

2 Cor 11:13-15

13 For such are false apostles, deceitful workers, transforming themselves
into the apostles of Christ.

14 And no marvel; for Satan himself is transformed into an angel of light.

15 Therefore it is no great thing if his ministers also be transformed as
the ministers of righteousness; whose end shall be according to their works. KJV

Remember satan was once the covering Cherub, the most beautiful and most powerful of the angels.  However, it is great cover if you are portrayed as one thing because you can show up in your natural form and no one would know you.

We always portray angels with wings but it may only be the seraphim with wings and they have six not two.  Maybe they can retract them but the seraphim are the only ones described as having wing though angels have been seen throughout the OT and at Jesus' tomb.  

Satan is a deceiver so would he give those lads false images of demons so that the real ones could work unhindered? Of course! He doesn't always want to frighten people.  He can woo them as good as any Casanova.  In this age of skepticism fear is not always the best protocol. It may work in third world countries still but in the 1st world showing up as a charismatic person offering power, wealth and youth is a better tactic.  In fact, it may depend upon the person.  If a person will submit to fear then appear to them as the thing they fear most or their conception of what the devil looks like.  if they respond beter to greed or lust then appear as a being of wealth or beauty.  It is mostly a mind game so if he can get your emotions to kick in enough to numb the reason then he can control the will.  Paul said we are not ignorant of the devil's devices.  Despair is one but imagination is another tool among others.

Keep studying and may God bless you as you study His Word and do His will.