Angels

Angels have captured human curiosity across millennia. They appear in the texts and artistic expressions of various global faiths and traditions.

Today, fascination with angels remains strong. However, alongside this widespread interest, there exists a range of beliefs about their nature and purpose. Some suggest humans transform into angels after death. Others believe everyone is watched over by a guardian angel. There are also beliefs in angels of different genders, including infants.

Navigating between fact and fiction

Amid the multitude of perspectives on angels, where can we find reliable answers? The Holy Bible stands alone as the authoritative source for understanding these celestial entities.

References to angels span across 34 books of the Bible, providing a substantial foundation to comprehend their roles and the divine intent behind their creation.

What are angels according to the Bible?

In the New Testament, the word "angel" originates from the Greek term "aggelos," which simply translates to "messenger." Similarly, in the Old Testament, the Hebrew word "mal'ak" carries the same meaning.

According to Scripture, God created angels (Psalms 33:6; 148:2-5). They exist in a spiritual realm and are referred to as "ministering spirits" (Hebrews 1:14). God's faithful angels are described as holy and chosen (Matthew 25:31; 1 Timothy 5:21).

Angels are depicted as possessing greater power and strength than humans (2 Peter 2:11). Reflecting on this, the psalmist observes that humans are made "a little lower than the angels" (Psalm 8:5). However, in the future Kingdom of God, humans will have authority over angels (1 Corinthians 6:3; Hebrews 2:5-8).

The Role and Purpose of Angels

Why did God create angels? As devoted spirits, they faithfully carry out all tasks entrusted to them (Psalm 103:20-21). Throughout the Bible, we see them serving in God’s presence (Daniel 7:10), offering praise (Ezekiel 3:12; Luke 2:13-14), and executing divine judgments or providing protection for God’s people (Psalms 34:7; 91:11).

Angels are deeply engaged in God’s plan of salvation, eagerly seeking to understand revelations given to His prophets (1 Peter 1:12; Ephesians 3:10). They rejoice when someone turns to God in repentance (Luke 15:10).

One of their primary roles is to assist those who are on the path to receiving salvation (Hebrews 1:14).

The Extensive Host of Angels

God has fashioned an immense assembly of angels, often referred to as the "army of the LORD" and the "heavenly host" (Joshua 5:14; 1 Kings 22:19). Angels predate humanity and witnessed the birth of the world, joining in a chorus of joyous song (Job 38:7).

Though their exact numbers remain undisclosed, the Bible hints at their vast multitude, reaching into the millions (Daniel 7:10; Revelation 5:11). Jesus mentioned His ability to summon more than twelve legions of angels from God if needed (Matthew 26:53), with each legion comprising 6,000 soldiers in Roman times.

Notable Angels in Scripture

Among the angels mentioned in the Bible, three hold prominent positions. Gabriel and Michael are named in the book of Daniel (Daniel 9:21; 10:13). Another, referred to as "Lucifer" in Isaiah 14:12, was a highly esteemed angel who later became known as Satan (Luke 10:18). (In Revelation 9:11, "Abaddon" and "Apollyon," Hebrew and Greek names meaning Destruction and Destroyer, are believed to be additional names for Lucifer.)

God's holy angels are intelligent and possess free will, demonstrating their loyalty to God during Lucifer's attempt to lead them astray. After persuading a third of the angels to join him, Lucifer rebelled against God and His heavenly throne (Ezekiel 28:15; Revelation 12:3-4).

Angels: Working Quietly Behind the Scenes

The Bible maintains a veil over the personal details of angels, perhaps to emphasize that such knowledge isn't crucial at this time, and to discourage angel worship.

The apostle Paul condemns the worship of angels as idolatrous (Colossians 2:18), cautioning against false teachers who promote such practices (verse 8).

Angelic beings of righteousness do not seek adoration. When the apostle John, awestruck by a mighty spiritual entity, began to offer worship, the angel admonished him, saying, "Do not do that! ... Worship God!" (Revelation 19:10; 22:8-9).

Varieties of Angels in Scripture

The Bible reveals that angels hold diverse ranks and roles.

In many biblical accounts of angelic interactions with humans, angels appear in human form without wings. This explains how some have "unwittingly entertained angels" (Hebrews 13:2).

Prophet Isaiah saw a distinct class of angels known as seraphim in his vision. These six-winged beings stood in attendance above God's throne (Isaiah 6:2). Similarly, Apostle John witnessed "four living creatures" in his vision, each with six wings and unique appearances (Revelation 4:6-8).

Prophet Ezekiel described another type of angel called cherubim. These creatures possess four faces and four wings each (Ezekiel 1:6, 10; 10:20-21). Lucifer, once an exalted cherub, and his followers were expelled from heaven for rebelling against God (Isaiah 14:12; Ezekiel 28:14; Luke 10:18; Jude 1:6; Revelation 12:4), becoming known as demons.

Described as the "twenty-four elders" in Revelation (Revelation 4:4; 11:16; 19:4), these figures are adorned in white attire and wear golden crowns.

Other angels are depicted in forms resembling horses (2 Kings 2:11; 2 Kings 6:15-17; Zechariah 6:1-6), while seven angels are noted for their continuous surveillance over the earth, reporting back to God (2 Chronicles 16:9; Revelation 5:6).

The angelic realm showcases God's creative diversity. Some angels appear in human form, others like the cherubim possess four wings and four faces (human, lion, ox, eagle), and the seraphim are recognized for their six wings. Additionally, angels are sometimes associated with horses and chariots (2 Kings 6:15-17). Psalm 68:17 depicts, "The chariots of God are twenty thousand, even thousands of thousands."

Alternative Names for Angels in Scripture

Beyond being described as God's ministering spirits, angels are also referred to as "sons of God" and "morning stars" (Job 1:6, 38:7; Revelation 1:20; 12:4). The term "sons of God" underscores their origin as beings created by Him, as noted in Hebrews 12:9 where God is recognized as the "Father of spirits."

The designation "sons of God" is also applied to human beings (Hosea 1:10). The context of each passage clarifies whether it pertains to angels or humans. For example, in Genesis 6:1-4, "sons of God" refers to men who took wives as they chose in ancient times, not angels.

In the New Testament, this same title, "sons of God," is given to Christians who are spiritually born again (Romans 8:14; Galatians 3:26). In the resurrection, faithful believers who enter God's Kingdom will possess spiritual bodies akin to angels (Daniel 12:3; Luke 20:36; Philippians 3:20-21).

Encounters with Angels in Scripture

Angels often appeared in human form when interacting with people outside of dreams or visions. They communicated directly with God's faithful servants such as Abraham (Genesis 18:2), Lot (Genesis 19:15), Jacob (Genesis 32:1), David (2 Samuel 24:17), Peter (Acts 12:7), Paul (Acts 27:23), Mary (Luke 1:28), shepherds (Luke 2:13), the women at Christ's tomb (Matthew 28:2-5), and many others (Hebrews 13:2).

At other times, angels appeared in dreams or visions (Genesis 28:12; Matthew 1:20; Acts 10:3). These encounters were as vivid and real as if the person were awake, engaging in meaningful dialogue with the angel (Acts 12:9).

Gender of Angels in Scripture

In biblical texts, angels are sometimes referred to as "men" and depicted with a male form (Genesis 18:2; Daniel 8:15; 10:18). However, angels do not possess human-like genders, nor do they engage in marriage or reproduction (Matthew 22:30).

Angels are never portrayed as females or infants in the Bible. These notions about angels emerged from Greek and Roman mythology.

While angels are not described with specific physical traits or attire in most cases, witnesses often noted their radiant appearance, clad in bright white garments or emitting a dazzling light (Luke 24:4; Acts 12:7). Their majestic presence often evoked fear in those who saw them, prompting angels to reassure them not to be afraid (Daniel 10:11-12; Luke 2:9-10).

Divine Protection and Angels

Matthew 18:10 mentions angels keeping watch over God's "little ones," those who embrace childlike faith in Christ (verses 3-4).

While angels are tasked with safeguarding God's faithful followers (Psalms 34:7; 91:11), the widespread belief in individual guardian angels assigned to every person, regardless of their faith, lacks biblical support. Instead, God sends angels to assist anyone according to His divine plan for humanity's salvation.

Caution Against Deceptive Angels!

It's crucial to beware of deceptive angels. Satan, masquerading as an angel of light, is the ultimate fabricator of falsehood (John 8:44; 2 Corinthians 11:14). His cohorts, demons, also disguise themselves as righteous angels to mislead many (1 Timothy 4:1).

Even human deceivers follow suit, as Paul warned: "Therefore, it is no surprise if Satan's agents also masquerade as servants of righteousness, but their end will correspond to their deeds" (2 Corinthians 11:15). Numerous reports of angelic sightings abound, yet many of these may be false experiences that play into Satan's grand scheme of deception in the future (2 Thessalonians 2:9-10; Galatians 1:8; Revelation 13:14).

Christians must remain vigilant against religious falsehoods. By deepening our understanding of God (Colossians 1:9-10) and growing in the grace and knowledge of Jesus Christ (2 Peter 3:18), we equip ourselves to discern the deceptive teachings labeled by Paul as "deceitful spirits and doctrines of demons" (1 Timothy 4:1).

The Future Role of Angels

The Bible provides insights into the future tasks assigned to angels. According to Scripture, God's holy angels will join Jesus Christ in His glorious return to earth (Matthew 16:27; 25:31). They will play a crucial role in aiding Christ as He distinguishes between the righteous and the wicked (Matthew 13:39, 41, 49).

Currently, humans are positioned slightly below angels (Psalm 8:5), but in the Kingdom of God, faithful individuals will be transformed into spiritual beings akin to angels (Matthew 22:30). They will also receive authority over all of God's creation, including angels (Daniel 7:27).

In a letter emphasizing our responsibility for sound judgment in life, the apostle Paul wrote, "Do you not know that the saints will judge the world? And if the world is to be judged by you, are you incompetent to try trivial cases? Do you not know that we are to judge angels? How much more, matters pertaining to this life?" (1 Corinthians 6:2-3).

Angels as Servants and Companions

Angels were formed by God to serve as His messengers and representatives in His divine governance of the universe. They are entrusted to minister to those who are heirs to God's spiritual promises, described as "fellow servants" (Hebrews 1:14; Revelation 19:10).

But here's the thing—digging into the stories about angels can be eye-opening. It's like discovering a whole new world of powerful beings who bring messages of hope and protection. These stories have inspired people for centuries, offering wisdom and comfort in difficult times.

As you've read through this article, you've glimpsed into their roles and the impact they've had on people's lives, as God's messengers. It's not just about reading words; it's about connecting with stories that have stood the test of time.

So, why not take the next step? Whether you have a Bible sitting on your shelf or you're thinking about getting one, dive in and explore. You'll find stories that resonate with your own experiences and offer guidance for life's twists and turns.

This isn't just about learning; it's about finding peace and reassurance in the midst of uncertainty. Embrace the journey of discovery that lies ahead. Let these stories enrich your life and deepen your understanding of faith and spirituality.

Open your heart to the wonder of how God uses angels to deliver His message, and the lessons they bring. They're waiting to inspire you and show you a whole new perspective on life.

Keep exploring. Keep learning. The adventure is just beginning!