The Return of the Nephilim: Unveiling Biblical Prophecies

The Return of the Nephilim

The topic of the return of the Nephilim is often associated with the alien craze and has been discussed by various Christian preachers and researchers. One such preacher is Chuck Missler, who has connected the Nephilim mentioned in Genesis 6 with the idea of aliens. In this article, we will explore the theological perspective on Chuck Missler's teachings and shed light on the ministry of Chuck Missler.

The Theological Standpoint

When it comes to Chuck Missler's work on the UFO phenomenon, many find it useful, including Gary Bates, author of "Alien Intrusion: UFOs and the Evolution Connection." Although Gary Bates cannot comment on other aspects of Chuck Missler's ministry, he has found his book on the subject helpful and has referenced it in his own work. It is important to note that differing views exist on the identity of the "sons of God" mentioned in Genesis 6 and their offspring, the Nephilim.

Exploring Different Views

There are four common views regarding the identity of the "sons of God" and the Nephilim:

1. They refer to fallen angels.
2. They represent the godly descendants of Seth.
3. They were human kings or rulers described as "gods."
4. They were human beings possessed by demonic fallen angels.

Gary Bates shares Chuck Missler's view that the "sons of God" are fallen angels who cohabited with human women, resulting in the birth of the Nephilim. However, he disagrees with Missler's contention that the Nephilim reappear after the Flood. According to Bates, there is no biblical evidence to support this claim.

The Promised Land and Giants

In Numbers 13, prior to entering the Promised Land, Moses sent twelve spies to gather information about its inhabitants. When the spies returned, they reported that the people in the land were strong, and they mentioned the presence of the "children of Anak" or the giants. Some suggest that these giants were a reappearance of the Nephilim. However, Bates argues against this interpretation.

Bates points out that the descendants of Anak, known as the Anakim or Anakites, were a group of large people. While Numbers 13:33 mentions a possible connection between the Anakites and the Nephilim, it is important to note that these Anakim were post-Flood descendants and could not be related to the pre-Flood Nephilim. The Table of Nations in Genesis 10, which records the descendants of Noah's sons, does not mention Anak or the Nephilim after the Flood.

A False Report

It is crucial to understand that the report brought back by the spies in Numbers 13 was a false report. Only Joshua and Caleb were willing to enter and possess the land, while the other ten spies instilled fear in the hearts of the Israelites. As a result, God planned to strike them down with a plague. Moses interceded on their behalf, but those who brought the false report died by the plague.

No Connection to Goliath

Some people try to connect Goliath with the Nephilim mentioned in Numbers 13. However, there is no need for such speculation. Bates explains that there are large individuals all over the world today, and some tribal groups are known for their size. Goliath, being a giant, could not be related to the pre-Flood Nephilim as they were all destroyed.

Theological Implications

Bates concludes by stating that he does not believe the Nephilim will reappear again. If we accept the fallen angel view of the "sons of God," then Jude 6–7 can be used to show that these fallen angels, capable of cohabitation with humans, have been imprisoned and cannot reoffend. This view aligns with the traditional rabbinical Jewish historical perspective.

Why This Matters

The topic of the return of the Nephilim and its connection to aliens has gained attention in recent years. Understanding different theological perspectives can help Christians navigate these discussions and discern the biblical truth.

Think About It

Consider the implications of different interpretations of Genesis 6 and the presence of the Nephilim. How might these interpretations impact our understanding of other biblical passages and theological concepts?

In conclusion, while Chuck Missler's work on the UFO phenomenon is valued by many, there are differing views on the reappearance of the Nephilim after the Flood. Gary Bates disagrees with this notion and argues that the giants encountered in the Promised Land were not a reappearance of the Nephilim but rather post-Flood descendants. Understanding these perspectives can aid Christians in engaging with the topic of the Nephilim and discerning biblical truth.