ANGELS

The Bible tells us that humans are “just a little lower than the angels” (Ps. 8:5). Angels are beings without a physical body. They do not go through an “incarnation” like Christ in order to operate on earth. Angels are created beings. They do not eternally exist by virtue of their own power like the Father, Son, and Spirit.

Angels, since they are not divine, are not to be worshiped. Colossians 2:18 warns against the worship of angels. Angels, like God’s human servants, worship God. The angels worship God continually (Job 38:7; Ps. 103:20; 148:2; Rev. 5:11). Instead of worshiping angels, we should join in their worship of God. Like us, angels learn the truths of God’s plan (Eph. 3:10; 1 Pet. 1:12). In this way, angels exemplify how our lives should be: worshiping and learning about God.

Worshiping and studying God is not enough; we and the angels must also be servants. Angels are “ministering spirits” who are sent out to serve the saved (Heb. 1:14). The angels of Heaven rejoice when sinners are converted (Lk. 15:10). The angels are agents of God’s providence (Ps. 34:7; 91:11).

There are different roles in which the angels are employed. The Old Testament often spoke of “the Angel of the LORD,” which may be a reference to Christ (a Christophany). Gabriel and Michael are described as “archangels” (Dn. 8:16; 10:13, 21; Lk. 1:19, 26; Jd. 9; Rev. 12:7). Cherubim guard the entrance to God’s presence (Gen. 3:24; Ex. 25:18). Seraphim serve in God’s presence (Is. 6:2-6). The NT phrase “rulers and authorities in heavenly places” likely refers to angelic rulers (Eph. 1:21; 3:10).

In short, angels are God’s servants created by him who worship him and serve him. Christians must not worship angels, but we should join in their worship and service to God.