Expert: Scott Talbot - 4/17/2011

Question
Hi,

I'm an author who is writing a book on an Angel who is pushed from Heaven because of a sin. I'm working with a very basic idea at the moment, and I'm trying to flesh it out. The Fallen Angel will be the main character in this book so I'd like to get her character right.

Could you share your thoughts on Fallen Angels? What do you think would cause one to be cast out of Heaven?

I'm working on the idea that she killed another angel and was cast out because of this. I'm just not sure that it's the right thing for the book. I'd like a less overt sin, but I'm not really sure what else would be bad enough.

I'm also thinking that the trauma of being thrown out of everything she has ever known turns her bad and that she gradually redeems herself over the course of the book. (In the book's world, it turns her into a kind of demon, but one who has a purpose on Earth.)

I'm sorry- I'm rambling a little bit. (One of the downsides of being an author. We tend to use ten words when two will do.)

To sum up my question:

-Can you give me your general thoughts on Fallen Angels?
-Could you suggest a sin that would get an Angel cast out of Heaven?
-What are your thoughts on a Fallen Angel turning bad, and then working towards redemption over the course of the book?

I understand that it's an unusual question and realise that you may not be comfortable answering it. Thank you for taking the time to read this.

Erin

Answer
Hi Erin,

Your premise sounds very interesting. One thing you might want to consider is whether you want your book to be theologically accurate, or you want to base it loosely on fact.

According to the Bible, Lucifer was the highest-ranking and most glorious angel in heaven. He sinned when he rebelled against God by trying to make himself equal to or superior to God. When he fell, he took 1/3 of the angels with him. Through their support of Lucifer (who became Satan), these angels were demoted from angels to demons.

Perhaps in your book, you could depict your angel as one who buys into the idea that Lucifer, a respectable and powerful angel--one who has a high level of honor and glory--is actually justified in rebelling against God and gives allegiance to him, viewing God as the unfair villain rather than the Sovereign and holy God He is.

This would be a very interesting story line. When Lucifer earned the allegiance of 1/3 of the angels and persuaded them to side with him instead of God, his premise had to be very compelling--enough for him, as well as a significant number of angels, to side against God.

Redemption for the fallen angel? If you want to be theologically correct, you would have to acknowledge that there is no redemption for those who sided with Lucifer. Perhaps, in your story, you could focus on the eventual remorse of the fallen angel, along with her inevitable demise and judgment--a tragic, yet deserving end.

I hope this helps. Feel free to write back concerning further discussion. I love your premise, and I think you can really make something of it.

Scott