Angels in Scripture

“Angels” are created ontological beings in Scripture. They appear to have four main roles¹: (1) revealers [and interpreters] of God’s word, (2) ministers to God’s people, (3) executioners of God’s judgments, and (4) worshippers of God.²

The most common of the Hebrew terms translated “angel” is mal’ak “messenger, envoy,”which the LXX translates a ἄγγελος, leading to the English word “angel.” As terms denoting functions, both a ¡ggeloß and mal’ak can refer equally to human or angelic beings.³ Some passages, consequently, remain in dispute as to whether the reference is to a heavenly being or a human being. The Hebrew masculine noun mal}aœk occurs 215 times in the OT. The Greek masculine noun a ¡ggeloß occurs 294 times in the LXX.⁴ For human messengers [of various types] there are numerous occurrences⁵, which clearly demonstrates the word had not taken on a technical sense, meaning “angel,” in earlier stages. The remaining OT occurrences do refer to angelic beings however, and there are indications that in the LXX a ¡ggeloß was beginning to take on the quasi-technical meaning for a heavenly being.

In the GNT, a ¡ggeloß occurs 175 times. It occurs six times in reference to human messengers, three of those citing OT passages about human messengers; nine additional occurrences might refer to human messengers, yet not with out debate.⁶ It seems clear, that by the 1st century, the term had taken on the technical sense of “angel.”

Angels were among the created order, i.e., there is no evidence they preexisted creation. The only evidence of preexistence is for the Godhead [Gen 1.1, 26-27; Jn 1.1-18; Col 2.8-9], to whom is attributed the creation of all things “both in the heavens and on earth, visible and invisible…,” which would include angels by implication [Col 1.15-17]. Ps 148.1-5 calls for all those in the heavens—including “his angels” [מַלְאָכָי]—to “Praise the Lord [hÎwh◊y]…For He commanded and they were created […wa∂rVbˆn].” Some have suggested angels were present while the world was being created, thus, their creation preceded that of the world, based on Job 38.4-7. However, there are problems with this view. (1) Stars are also mentioned as present and they were created on the 4th day [Gen 1.16]. There is no need to suppose a strict chronology of any sort here, particularly as the language is poetic. (2) The Hebrew text of Job 38.7 does not refer to “angels” [yDkDaVlAm] as in the NIV, but rather “sons of God” [MyIhølTa y´nV;b] as in the NASB [and most other translations]. Nevertheless, based on Job 1.6; 2.1 [the only other occurrences of the phrase MyIhølTa y´nV;b in Job] and Gen 6.2 [MyIhølTaDh_y´nVb], later Jewish tradition saw these as fallen angels [1 En 6:1ff.; Philo, Gigantibus 6; Jub 4:15; 5:1f.; T. Reub 5:6; Josephus, Ant 1:73]. Likewise, the LXX understands them as oi˚ a‡ggeloi touv qeouv in Job 1.6; 2.1 and pa¿nteß a‡ggeloi÷ mou [“all my angels”] in Job 38.7.⁷

The phrase MyIhølTaDh_y´nVb [“sons of God”] and the English phrase “host of heaven” [“starry host”]—generally the single Hebrew term aDbVx [“army”]—especially in Ps 148.2 where it may be parallel to yDkDaVlAm, are both understood to at least include “angels,” if not exclusively, when one considers no other supernatural heavenly beings are ever described with any detail [as angels].⁸ If “host of heaven” is understood as angels, Neh 9.6 offers another passage referencing the creation of “angels.”

In Mt 22.23-33 Jesus’ answer to a question from the Sadducees designed to stump Jesus, obviously had to depend on supernatural knowledge only, but raises others questions. The concluding clause aÓll jwJß a‡ggeloi e˙n twˆ◊ oujranwˆ◊ ei˙sin [“but they are like angels in heaven”], must not be generalized to mean altogether or in every respect, but only in so far as marriage (and sex?) is concerned; human beings will be like the angels, i.e., not marrying. Jesus’ use of angels contains a double thrust since the Sadducees denied angelic existence [cf. Acts 23.8]. Does this mean angels are “sexless,” although the term [a ¡ggeloß] is masculine? Does this mean the basic procreative drive in humans is absent in glory, and what does this say concerning the most interpersonal human relationships?

As to the character of God’s angels, we can only infer they do not sin,⁹ particularly as they are referred to as “holy” by the Lord and others [Mk 8.38; Lk 9.26; Acts 10.22; Rev 14.10 cf. Job 5.1[LXX]; Tob 11.14; 12.15]. In addition, the fact that they are often referred to as in the presence of God, and no provisions are ever mentioned for atonement on their behalf, sin on their part would appear to be impossible.

The Angel of the Lord

As the first occurrence of a ¡ggeloß/mal}aœk in Scripture [Gen 16.7] is a reference to “[the] angel of the LORD,” this figure must be considered first. “The angel of the LORD” (hwhy Kalm) is mentioned ca. 58 times in the OT, “the angel of God” ca. 10 times. The figure appears frequently in Genesis and Judges, but rarely in literature dealing with later periods. He has been variously understood to be God himself appearing in human form [cf. Gen 12.7; 17.1], the Logos [by the early church Fathers] or a person of the Godhead, or a heavenly creature [being] who represents God.

In Hebrew, the phrase is always anarthrous [hÎwh◊y JKAaVlAm], lit. “[an] angel of Yahweh.”¹⁰ In the LXX [and the GNT] the phrase is generally anarthrous when the figure is introduced [a‡ggeloß kuri÷ou],¹¹ but can be grammatically articular when an anarthrous form is antecedent [Gen 16.7-11; Judg 2.1, 4; 6.11-12, 14-21, but 6.22 is anarthrous!; 13.3, 13, 16a, 20-21a, but 16b and 20b are anarthrous!; 1Chron 21.12, 15, 18; Mt 1.20, 24 (only articular occurrence in GNT)];¹² however, even that grammatical tenet is not always followed [Gen 22.11, 15; 2K 1.3, 15]. Even when first introduced, or with no immediately recognizable antecedent, the phrase can be articular [Judg 5.23; 2Sam 24.16; Zech 1.12; 3.5-6, but see 12.8]. In 1K 19.7 the articular phrase has the antecedent tiß [“someone”] in the LXX, but the anarthrous JKDaVlAm in Hebrew. That the articular phrase oJ a ¡ggeloß kuri/ou can refer to one with no particular significance is seen in Hag 1.13 as it is applied to the prophet Haggai, who certainly need not be understood to be “THE messenger of the Lord” [cf. Mal 2.7].

The Hebrew phrase “angel of God” [MyIhølTa JKAaVlAm] is likewise always anarthrous.¹³ In the LXX the phrase a‡ggeloß touv qeouv is anarthrous in Gen 21.17, and as might be expected, in comparisons [2Sam 14.17, 20; 19.27 cf. Acts 6.15; Gal 4.14], but it is articular in Gen 31.11; Ex 14.19; Judg 13.9. Occasionally, the Hebrew MyIhølTa JKAaVlAm is translated oJ a‡ggeloß touv qeouv[Num 22.22-27, 31, 35; Judg 6.20]. In the GNT the phrase is only anarthrous [Acts 10.3; Gal 4.14].

This brief analysis suggests the nomenclature “THE angel of Yahweh [or God]” as indicating a single peculiar manifestation of God, unique from all other “angelic” manifestations—“one of pre-eminent excellency,” is likely unfounded.

The Superiority of the Christ to the Angels (Hebrews 1-2)

Heb 1.4-2.18 is the most extensive and informative discussion of angels in Scripture.¹⁴ Heb 1.1-4.13 discusses the superiority of the Son of God’s word [at (the) end of these days he spoke to us by a Son (1.2)] to: the prophets [1.1-2], the angels [1.3-2.18], Moses and Joshua [3.1-4.13]. Jesus’ deity determines his superiority to all creation, which includes the angels [1.2-3, 8].¹⁵ It is curious why so much space [1.4-2.18] is dedicated to Jesus’ superiority to “the angels,” particularly when compared with the prophets [1.1-2] and Moses [3.1-6], the most authoritative figures under the old economy. However, Jews commonly understood that angels played a key role in revelation and redemption [Ex 3.2 Is 63.9 etc.], and that they mediated the Law [2.2 cf. Acts 7.38, 53 Gal 3.19]. The fact that the angels dwelt in heavenly realms likewise demonstrates the importance of Christ being superior to them. Thus, he serves and rules “on high…in the heavens” [1.3 8.1-2].

“Having become” [1.4, aorist participle] suggests Jesus’ superiority is related to his completed priestly work and not his enthronement, although the two are nearly inseparable in time [1.3b]; prior to these events the human Jesus was “lower than the angels” [cf. 2.7-9], but never in his eternal existence [particularly as Creator] was he lower than angels.

The “more excellent name” of Jesus than that of the angels [1.4] is “Son” [see 1.5, 8; 3.6; 4.14; 5.5; 7.28 cf. Lk 1.32, 35; 3.22; Mt 3.17; 17.5; Jn 20.31 et al.; on “name” see also Phil 2.9; Eph 1.20]. The superiority of Jesus is not found strictly in his sonship [which was also true of all God’s kings [the LXX even changes “sons of God” to “angels of God” in Job 1.6; 2.1; 38.7], but in the nature of his Sonship [1.2b-3, 8-12; 2.9-18; 4.14-16; 5.7-10; etc.].

The time reference in 1.6 is uncertain. It could refer to the incarnation, understanding “world” in its usual sense of the known inhabited earth. However, the only other time it occurs in Hebrews is 2.5 where it refers to “the world to come.” The “bringing in” of Jesus the Hebrew writer is concerned with is his exaltation—his entering in to heaven [“the world to come”]. It was at this time, it seems, the angels were subject to the human Jesus¹⁶ [1P 3.22¹⁷]. “Let all God’s angels worship [proskune/w] him” is taken verbatim from Dt 32.43[LXX], expanding the Hebrew, which does not include “angels.” The OT context speaks of God avenging the blood of his people; he is the one to be worshipped.

The citation in 1.7 is taken from Ps 104.4[LXX]. Pneu/ma [spirit] is frequently translated “wind(s)” in the LXX, but only rarely in the NT [Jn 3.8a, used as an analogy to “spirit”]. The word a ¡menoß is the regular word for “wind” in both the LXX and NT. In Ps 35.5 a ¡menoß and angels are used in parallel as instruments of God’s judgment upon the Psalmist’s enemies. Similarly in Ps 104.3-4 a ¡menoß is used in the context with angels as pneu/mata [spirits]. Pss 11.6 and 148.8 bring pu/r and pneu/ma [as “wind”] together in judgment. The connection of “ministers” and pneu/mata in 1.14 suggests pneu/mata could be translated “spirits” in 1.7 [KJV, NKJV]. In this passage [1.7] “angels” and “ministers” are parallel, as are “spirits” and “flame,” while “wind” is the better parallel for “flame” than “spirit” [but see Acts 2.3-4].

Rabbinic tradition also interpreted Ps 104.4 as “He who makes his angels into winds.” Even though the angels were viewed as changeable, the emphasis was not on the inferiority of angels. The author of Hebrews, however, is using the passage in such a way as to contrast the superiority of the Son. The contrast lies in the fact that the angels are part of this created world and mutable [unstable, not sharing in the exaltation, capable of reduction to the elemental forces of wind and fire] as opposed to the exalted Son who is sovereign, creator of this world, and immutable [1.8-12]. This contrast is even sharper in light of the fact that angels were considered part of the heavenly realm [Rev 5.11].

In verses 1.8-12 Jesus is clearly declared Creator God in his enthronement, leading to the citation in 1.13, which is verbatim from Ps 110.3[LXX]. The historical context presents some problems. In brief, the Psalm appears to be addressed to a king. The authority with which the writer speaks suggests he is a prophet, or even God himself speaking to the king by the Holy Spirit [see next ¶]. The reference to the king as a priest [4] might be explained by the fact that the king was the leader of the kingdom of priests and thus had a priestly character [Ex 19.6]. He embodied God’s purpose on earth, and could be spoken of in terms far exceeding the personal significant of any particular king, or in terms exceeding the boundaries of the Davidic kingship itself. There could also be an anticipation of the deeper fulfillment of God’s Davidic king in the Messiah [Zech 6.9-15]. The most likely king addressed would be David himself, as the words could indicate. Clearly David was the prototype of the Messiah. The Messianic application is clearly eschatological—“until I put your enemies as a footstool of your feet” [10.13 1Cor 15.24-28]. At least in part, it is the writer’s purpose to demonstrate Jesus’ superiority to the angels through his enthronement.

The writer concludes in 1.14 with an exegetical comment on, or provoked by, 1.7. The words “spirits” and “ministering” are the obvious connections. Having clearly declared the inferiority of angels to the Son, the writer, almost as an afterthought yet nevertheless central to his thesis, underscores the angels’ role is none other than serving “the ones about to inherit salvation.” Angels have their place in God’s scheme of redemption, but not at the Father’s right hand, the place reserved for the Son who secured eternal salvation. Their place is “for [purpose] service [diakoni/a, only here in Heb. cf. ‘deacon’], being sent out [ajposte/llw, only here in Heb., but cf. noun (‘apostle’) in 3.1 in reference to Jesus—the angels are not acting on their own initiative; these are God’s servants on behalf of the saints] on account of the ones about to inherit salvation [i.e., eschatological salvation].” Test Levi 3.5 has the archangels serving as priests before God on behalf of the sins of the righteous ones, although this goes far beyond the writer of Hebrews. There is an anticipation of the writer’s use of Ps 8 in 2.5-9 where the writer works out the relationship of the Son to this salvation. The transition is made in 2.1-4 by a practical warning to the readers not to neglect “so great a salvation.” The angels, as it turns out, are not only inferior to the Son, but in fact, all the saints! The realization of this will not come until the eschaton, but Jesus is the surety of that promise having risen from the dead. Until the eschaton, the angels serve the saints!

In 2.2, the protasis of the conditional sentence contrasts “the word [message] having been spoken through angels” with that of God speaking in the Son [1.1], “the things having been heard” [2.1]. The message [word] of the angels was the Law cf. Dt 33.2 [to which the LXX adds “and on his right hand were his angels”]. The writer’s point is simple; under the Law of Moses violation involved judgment [repentance is not being considered]. The apodosis [2.3a] presents the obvious conclusion based on a word of God given in a superior context [i.e., ejn uiJw/, “in (his) Son,” 1.2 cf. 2.3b].

In 2.5 the Hebrew writer picks up on his discussion of Jesus’ superiority to the angels, but the emphasis shifts from Jesus’ exaltation to his incarnation and death. The central motif in this section is Jesus’ solidarity with humanity as he temporarily shared with humanity a status “lower than angels”—manifested in sharing flesh and blood, opening him to temptation and death. Psalm 8 promised the status “lower than angels” was temporary [“for a short time”] for all humanity. The eschatological fulfillment of that promise is realized now in Jesus, who partook of humanity to guarantee fulfillment for all. Jesus identified with, and died for, God’s creatures in the “flesh and blood” realm, not God’s creatures in the spiritual realm [angels]. As the eternal Word in his preexistent form, he was above the angels, their Creator [1.2c, 10], but “for a short time” made lower in the incarnation. The exaltation reestablished his superiority to the angels, and assured the same for all God’s children. Thus, the focus in this section on angels helps the readers understand the true significance of their own salvation in Christ. In the end, “the coming world” is subjected [2.5, 8 (3)] to humanity; God’s interest is centered in humanity, not the holy angels.

“The coming world” is explained as the world “about which we are speaking,” thus, the context demonstrates that the “coming world” is the world that will ultimately be subjected to humanity, now subject to Jesus. It is a world restored to the edenic ideal [Gen 1.28-31], the eschatological kingdom reminiscent of OT proclamations [cf. Pss 93.1 96.10 which may have been in the author’s mind cf. Heb 12.28], established by the Son [1.5ff], tasted by the community of believers [6.4-5], yet which is yet to come in its fullest [2.5].

There apparently was a tradition that this world was under the governance of angels. Deut 32.8[LXX] states: “When the most high divided the nations, when he separated the sons of Adam, he set the bounds of the nations according to the number of the angels of God” [the Hebrew has “sons of Israel”].

This verse provides a transition between the catena of chapter 1 demonstrating the superiority of the Son and the citations in chapter 2 refuting the possible objection to the Son’s superiority because he was subjected to the angels and death [2.9]. The thrust of the OT quotes, therefore, is not the future superiority of humans to the angels [although true], but rather the present superiority of Jesus to the angels.

The quotation in 2.6-8a is verbatim from Ps 8.5-6, 7b[LXX].¹⁸ In the context of the Psalm, the writer is marveling at the status of humanity over the rest of God’s works. It is humanity that God takes thought of and cares for, crowns with glory and honor, and has rule over the rest of creation. God created humanity, not angels, in his image, and he selected humans, not angels, to subdue and rule creation [Gen 1.26-28].

The statement in 2.16 is essentially parenthetical. Humanity in its natural state is lower than angels, yet in a glorified state, as implied through the glorified Jesus [1.4-2.18] will be higher. The angels throughout Hebrews can only be those who retained their proper place in heaven [cf. 2Pet 2.4; Jude 6]. That Jesus is not ‘concerned’ with them is stated only in relation to the saints who are in need of his help with regard to salvation. This assurance is critical as the saints face ‘fear of death’ and ‘testing’ [2.14-18].

Angels as revealers and interpreters of God’s word

This is the most fundamental role of angels, as they are, by definition, “messengers or envoys” of God. Their immediate access to the presence of God [Dt 33.2; Mt 18.10; Lk 1.19; Rev 5.11; 7.11; 8.2, 6, 10; 14.10; et al.]¹⁹ gives them a natural opportunity to receive words from God and be sent as his messengers into the world.²⁰ The communication of God’s word obviously was not a challenge to the angels. In some Jewish traditions, angels preferred to speak Hebrew, but most Jewish people would have agreed that angels understood [all] human languages, especially since angels were appointed over various nations. In 1Cor 13.1, Paul may be suggesting he too had the ability to speak many foreign languages in contrast to the probability “ordinary” tongue speakers were capable of speaking only those that would have been necessary for their particular missions [Mk 16.15-20]. Perhaps Paul could have said, “Though I be so fluent in tongues as to speak every conceivable language when needed, even as angels can, but do not have love…”

Angels as present before God is implied in the apostle Paul’s declaration that the suffering apostles became a “spectacle,” objects of scorn in the theater of the world, including the unseen world of angels [1Cor 4.9].²¹ The theater included God and Christ Jesus in the audience [1Tim 5.21²² cf. 6.13; 2Tim 4.1; 2.14 (although angels are not included)].

Announcements or invitations are other forms of the role of angels as revealers of God’s word. For example, in Rev 19.17-18 there is an invitation to the “great supper of God.”²³ The angel of 21.9-17 is given an antecedent reference, viz. one of the 7 angels who had the 7 bowls of plagues [Rev 15-16].²⁴ This angel, unlike the “interpreting angel” in 17.1–18, has very little to explain to the author, none of which can be considered interpretive. He is more restricted to the role of inviting the prophet and showing him things, even so, by the use of a “measuring rod” [17.15-19]. This is clearly a direct contrast to the vision of Rev 17—there, John saw the immoral whore of Babylon, here the pure bride of Christ.

As well as presenting themselves in actual physical form,²⁵ in some cases, angels only make their presence known audibly [Gen 21.17; 22.11, 15²⁶], in dreams [Gen 31.1-6, MyIhølTaDh JKAaVlAm; Mt 1.18-25; 2.13-21] or visions [Zech 1.8ff, see below; Lk 24.22-24; Acts 12.9],²⁷ and in some cases visible only to select individuals [Num 22.22-35]. On occasion, angels may work only through a prophet [1Chron 21.18].

It is in this capacity as revealer of God’s word an angel is first encountered in Scripture [Gen 16.7-14]. Certain elements of angelic/human encounters that would become a pattern are already present in Hagar’s encounter [see also Judg 13; et al.]. (1) Initially Hagar did not realize with whom she was speaking. He appeared as just a man who had come to the well [cf. Gen 18-19; Judg 6.7-24; et al.]. The accounts of Jesus’ resurrection reflect this ‘confusion’ of angelic identity. Mt 28.1-8 leaves little doubt for the reader [and apparently the guards] of the angel’s presence. Mk 16.5 has a young man sitting at the right inside the tomb. Lk 24.4 has two men suddenly standing near in dazzling apparel, presumably inside the tomb also.²⁸ The angels, appeared as mere men to the women, as the accounts of Mk and Lk suggest, having previously appeared to the guards in a more glorious state—thus, the different reactions of the guards and the women.²⁹ Nevertheless, the women are immediately obedient to the angels, so they must have manifested angelic authority in some sense. The women typically responded as so many saints in the OT. In Lk 24.22-24 the women must have communicated their experience as a vision of angels, which suggests they eventually understood, if not immediately. (2) Eventually Hagar realizes his identity through the revelations given her. (3) The fact Hagar referred to him as God [lEa, not hÎwh◊y as the author does because the name had not yet been revealed (Ex 3), and Hagar likely did not know to which “god” she was speaking, cf. Gen 48.15-16]. There is often confusion between an angel and God himself [Ex 3³⁰; Judg 6.7-27³¹]. (4) That Hagar was surprised she remained alive after being in his presence suggests why she identified him as deity [Judg 6.22-23; 13.22]. Likewise, Balaam’s response of worship before God’s angel, suggests he believed he was in the presence of deity [Num 22.31].³² Nevertheless, had anyone seen God in his full glory, they would have died [Ex 33.18-23]. (5) The birth oracle was an annunciation that became a hallmark of angelic proclamation in Scripture [Gen 18:9–15; Judg 13:3–7; Is 7:14–17; Mt 1.18-25; Lk 1:8-25, 26–38; 2.8-15, 21³³].³⁴

The Lukan birth oracles introduce the angel Gabriel.³⁵ Gabriel was first introduced in Dan 8.16; 9.21, where he is referred to simply as a “man.”³⁶ He and Michael [Dan 10.13, 21; 12.1³⁷; Jude 9; Rev 12.7] are the only 2 angels named in Scripture. In later Jewish angelology Gabriel and Michael are among four [IEnoch 9.1; 40.2—Michael, Uriel (or Phanuel), Raphael, and Gabriel] or seven [IEnoch 20.1-8 adds Raguel, Saraqael, & Remeil; Tob 12:15; Rev 8:2, 6] angels who stand in the presence of God. Zechariah appears to challenge the authority of Gabriel, so his authority obviously was not that clear to him. Nevertheless, Gabriel responded as if Zechariah should have known. In contrast to Zechariah’s response to the angel, Mary is immediately submissive and obedient.

Some suggest Michael may be the angel who announces the second coming of Christ [1Thess 4.16] as he is the only archangel mentioned in Scripture [Jude 9], however, “archangel” in 1Thess 4.16 is anarthrous and could refer to any archangel or the general class of archangels.³⁸ In Gen 18-19³⁹ similar elements occur as in the Hagar incident. This event [as well as Judg 13] may be the referent of Heb 13.2. To Lot the visitors first seemed to be men [they even eat and drink with Lot’s family], as they did with Abraham when they arrived in Mamre.⁴⁰ The judgment that comes upon Sodom, though announced by the angels [Gen 19.17ff], is not attributed to the angels, only God himself. The announcement of admonishment and coming judgment was an important part of the angels’ role as revealers for God [Judg 2.1-4; 5.23; 2Kings 1.1-4, 15-17; Jn 12.27-33⁴¹].

The classic OT passages of God’s angels as interpreters of his word are found in Zechariah [1.9-19; 2.2-5; 3; 4.1-6⁴²; 5.5, 10; 6.4-5].⁴³ There is an interchange between the man in the vision and an angel speaking to Zechariah, unless the angel is simply showing the vision and utilizes the characters in the vision to explain it. However, the characters in the vision also interact with the angel, who likewise seems to be part of the vision. There is a distinction between the angel and Yahweh as the angel himself inquires of the Lord. Unusual, is the verbal interaction between angels [2.3-5], almost as if one were revealing information from God to the other angel. Zech 3 is reminiscent of Job 1-2.⁴⁴ An [no article in Heb. or Gr.] angel of the Lord seems either to be presiding or have authority, even to pardon sin [cf. Ex 23.20-23].

Revelation has the richest presentation of angels in the NT.⁴⁵ The initial appearance is as a revealer and interpreter of God’s word to his people [1.1]. The presence of the definite article with the term a‡ggeloß in 1.1 suggests John may have had a specific angel in mind, one whom he assumed was known to his audience, the angel primarily responsible for mediating divine revelation from God through Christ to John. A single angelic guide responsible for mediating divine revelation to John is mentioned only in the prologue [1.1–8] and epilogue [22.6–21⁴⁶], while a variety of supernatural revealers are found throughout the document [the exalted Christ, 1.9–20; 4.1; one of the twenty-four elders, 7.13–17; a variety of angels defined in different terms, yet functioning a revealers or interpreters: mighty angels [5.1-2⁴⁷]; the bowl angel(s) [15.1-17.18⁴⁸; 21.9–22.5; etc.].

The seven “angels” [a ¡ggeloß] of the seven churches in Asia Minor [2.1-3.22] present a peculiar problem.⁴⁹ As their role seems clearly to bring the message of Jesus to each of their respective churches, determining their identity continues as a matter of debate. The term a‡ggeloß, like the Hebrew Kalm [mal}aœk], means “messenger” and may refer to a supernatural being or a human being—anyone carrying a message for another. Elsewhere in Revelation a‡ggeloß is used clearly of supernatural beings,⁵⁰ including Satan [9.11] and his angels [12.7, 9].

The major views on the identity of the a‡ggeloi of Rev 1:20; Rev 2–3 can be placed in two broad categories: (1) supernatural beings, perhaps as guardian angels who guide and protect each congregation—akin to the idea of angels as heavenly representatives of nations [cf. Dt 32.8 LXX, “according to the number of the sons (y´nV;b, aÓgge÷lwn in LXX) of Israel”; see Dan 12.1], or (2) human beings. The latter category has been understood a number of ways: (a) Human messengers or emissaries as in the case of John the Baptist’s messengers who came to Jesus asking whether he was the Messiah or not (Lk 7); John the Baptist himself was called an angel in Malachi’s prophecy of him (Mt 11), as were the spies of Israel in Joshua’s time (Jas 2), et al. (b) Christian prophets, perhaps members of a prophetic guild represented in each of the seven communities, or prophetic messengers sent by John from Patmos to each of the churches [cf. Hag 1.13; Mal 3.1]. This is akin to (a). (c) Leaders [like bishops] of each of the seven communities. Since the a‡ggeloi of each church receives blame and condemnation as well as praise, proponents of this view argue that it is ludicrous to suppose these could be good angels sent by God.

Rev 10.1-11.14 presents an interlude before the last of the seven judgments introduced by the seven trumpets of the seven angels. The interlude concerns the testimony of the prophets announcing the victory of the Messianic kingdom over its enemies.⁵¹

Comparing the face of the angel to the sun [10.1] is a metaphor used in theophanies [Rev 1.16; Mt 17.2], of angels [cf. Dan 10.5-6], and to describe the transformed appearance of the righteous in the eschaton [Mt 13.43; Dan 12.3] or as a result of their experience of the presence of God. Moses, whose face shone when he descended from Mount Sinai, is a paradigmatic figure for such imagery [Ex 34.30; 2Cor 3.7]. The reference to the mighty angel’s legs as “pillars of fire” is often considered an allusion to Ex 13.21, where the guiding presence of God is described as a “a pillar of fire,” though it is not clear that this is anything but a formal allusion without material significance. The stance of the angel may symbolically correspond to the oath he takes in 10.5-6, in which he appeals to heaven [toward which he extends his right hand], earth [one foot], and sea [the other foot].⁵²

Certain NT passages suggest angels took part in giving the Law [Acts 7.30-38, 51-53; Gal 4.19; Heb 2.2]. Aside from the angel who appeared to Moses in the bush [Ex 3], the OT does not state God mediated the law through angels; Jewish tradition had added them to heighten reverence for the law and the early church either uses this tradition for its own purposes [see below] or simply reveals such an activity through inspiration in the NT. The Hebrew has no explicit reference to angels being present in the giving of the law at Mt. Sinai. Ex 19.18 portrays God as descending on Mt. Sinai “in fire” accompanied by smoke and the quaking of the mountain. Dt 33.2, however, says that the Lord came to Sinai “from myriads of holiness” [or “with myriads of holy ones”] and “with a fiery law,” while Ps 68.18 [LXX 67.18] refers poetically to an accompanying retinue of chariots in the giving of the law, but not directly to angels. The first explicit association of angels with the giving of the law came about, it seems, with the LXX‘s translation of a textually ambiguous Hebrew phrase “with a fiery law” in Deut 33.2 as “angels [a ¡ggeloi] from his right hand were with him.”⁵³ Such an understanding of angels present at the giving of the Mosaic Law seems to have been the dominant tradition in the first century.

Such a mediatorial role for angels in the giving of the law seems to have been part of the widespread attempt in early Judaism to assign a role for angels in all the major revelatory and redemptive events of Scripture. In rabbinic Judaism, however, there was a rather strong reaction to seeing angels intervening at the critical moments in Israel’s history, with many rabbis arguing God alone acted for the nation at these times.⁵⁴

By itself, of course, Paul’s reference in Gal 3.19-20 to angels at the giving of the law does not necessarily carry a depreciatory connotation. However, from the context of what was said earlier in v 19a and what follows in vv 19b–20, it is almost impossible to read “ordained through angels” in any other way than with the intent “to depreciate the law as not given directly by God." It was probably the case that the Judaizers were citing the angels’ presence at Sinai as evidence of the Law’s glory and God’s approval. Paul, however, turns this tradition in ad hominem fashion against them.

As the birth oracles and other critical events that have angels revealing God’s word make clear, they are generally present at watershed events in God’s scheme of redemption.⁵⁵ Such is true of the Cornelius incident when God used an angel to bring a radical revelation for the faith system of Judaism as well as Christianity; the Jewish Messiah was for all, regardless of ethnic background [Acts 10.1-8, 22 cf. 11.12-14]. This elimination of boundary markers for the people of God would be a source of serious tension in the church at least until Jerusalem fell in AD70, and is reflected in nearly all of the NT.

Angels as ministers to God’s people

Angels may serve as guides for God’s people [Ex 23.20-23; Gen 24.7, 40; 48.15-16; Num 20.16; Zech 12.7-9]. As such, they had authority from God himself, and thus were to be obeyed. In Ex 23 the angel even had power to forgive sins since God’s name [Yahweh?] was in him [cf. Zech 3.3-4], which may well equate this angel with Yahweh.⁵⁶ Perhaps, in many similar passages, “angel” [“messenger”] is just a symbolic representation [manifestation] of Yahweh’s presence.

Angels are also seen as rescuers [Dan 3.28⁵⁷; 6.22; Ps 91.9-16; Mt 26.53⁵⁸] and sustainers of God’s people [1Kings 19.3-9; Mt 4.11; Mk 1.13; Lk 4.10⁵⁹]—on an individual as well as national level.

Lk 16.19-23 may suggest God’s heavenly messengers continue to minister to the faithful, even in death, yet beyond that it is difficult to elaborate.⁶⁰

More generally, the author of Hebrews describes angels as “ministering spirits sent forth to serve for the sake of those who are to obtain salvation” [Heb 1.14; for OT background, cf. Gen 48.16 and esp. Ps 91.11; see also 1QH 5.20–22; 3ApocBar 12.3; StrB 1:781–83; 3:437–40 for rabbinic references]. So important are the disciples of Jesus, the “little ones” of Mt 18.7-14, that they have “their” angels, who presumably look after their welfare primarily through intercession, but perhaps also in other ways. Jewish readers might have the concept of guardian angels; some Jews believed every Jewish person had one.⁶¹ This passage falls short of describing “guardian” angels assigned to each individual Christian, who attempt to keep her or him out of danger. A more general idea is in view, namely, that angels [as a group] represent the “little ones” [as a group] before the throne of God. Nowhere in Scripture is there any suggestion that there is one angel for one person.⁶²

Acts presents angels as intervening in the affairs of the saints, including “jail breaks.” There is a threefold repetition of the motif of the miraculous opening of prison doors in Acts: the apostles [5.17-21], Peter [12.6-11⁶³], and Paul in [16.26f, no mention of an angel, nevertheless, divine intervention is assumed]. It is uncertain why God sometimes used angels and at other times not. Clearly, he does not need an angel’s help; perhaps their presence was reassuring to those being helped.

In Rev 8.3-5 an angel serves the saints by offering up their prayers on the altar before the throne of God, presumably prayers for retribution upon their enemies. See below, as this angel also participates in the judgment upon God’s enemies.

Angels as executioners of God’s judgments

As early as the Jews entrance into the promised land, angels are depicted as executioners of God’s judgments upon the pagan nations [Ex 33.1-3 cf. 32.33-34], and Israel’s enemies throughout their history [2Kings 19.35; Is 37.36]. Such judgment is not restricted to Israel’s enemies, but included Israel herself [2Sam 24.16-17; 1Chron 21].

In Jewish tradition, angels were commonly viewed as administrators of the will of God accomplishing eschatological judgment [cf. IEnoch 46:5; 63:1].⁶⁴ Likewise, in the NT, angels are instrumental in dealing out God’s retribution upon the enemies of his people [2Thess 1.6-8].⁶⁵ In Mt 13.36-43, 47-50, whatever “age” Jesus is referring to [Jewish or Messianic], angels are depicted as the executioners of God’s judgment, both in punishing evil and vindicating righteousness [Mt 16.27-28⁶⁶ cf. 25.31]. In Mt 24.29-36 although angels accompany Christ in his destruction of Jerusalem [AD70], (1) they are as uninformed as to the specific date as the rest of creation⁶⁷ [as even Jesus, although he has specified it would occur in his audience’s generation] and (2) they are seen only on the positive side of judgment [gathering the elect].

The angels in Lk 12.8-9 appear to constitute the heavenly royal court [Rev 3.5; see also Lk 15.10] rather than a court specifically set for judgment. Jesus is not suggesting he answers in any way to the angels; they are merely in the court of judgment where the Father sits [cf. Mt 10.32- 33]. Nevertheless, they are present and long to hear the confession of the Son concerning his disciples, for whom they care deeply [see Lk 15.8-10⁶⁸].⁶⁹

A good example of angels as executioners of God’s judgment on an individual level is recorded in Acts 12.18-24. Herod’s execution by God was at the hand of his avenging angel. Herod had committed the ultimate sin in elevating himself [or at least allowing himself to be elevated] to a god. This event, which was inspired by another of God’s angels ministering to Peter [Acts 12.1-17], presents a good contrast in the way God uses his angels to minister to his saints and to judge his enemies [particularly the enemies of his people].

The most vivid picture of God’s angels involved in God’s judgments is in Revelation. They are introduced in this capacity in chapter 7.1-3. Four angels are about to execute God’s judgment [possibly the first 4 angels of the plagues]. The fifth angel introduced appears to have authority over the four, or at least he has the role of bringing the word directly from God.⁷⁰

“The seven angels who stand before God” in 8.2 is articular; meaning they are either being introduced here for the first time, but are familiar to the readers, or the anaphoric article refers back to the group of angels introduced anarthrously in 1.20 who are referred to individually thereafter with the definite article [2.1, 8, 12, 18; 3.1, 5, 7, 14]. The first possibility is preferable because of the relative clause—“who stand before God”—that defines their ordinary role in the heavenly court. The readers’ familiarity with them may suggest, as some believe, these seven angels are probably the seven archangels who occupy a very particular role in the angelic hierarchy [cf. Lk 1.19]. Some also believe they are identical with the seven spirits of God referred to earlier in Revelation [1.4; 4.5].

Whichever the case, these are the seven angels who execute God’s judgment [8.2, 6, 13; 15.1, 6-8; 16.1; 17.1; 21.9]. The number 7, particularly in apocalyptic literature, is symbolic of totality, completion, and it might not be correct to take these as seven actual angels in reality. Nevertheless, they are pictured as standing before God, probably in his immediate presence to serve him, in whatever capacity, in this case judgment.⁷¹ The three series of seven cycles, which began in 6.1-17 with the seven seals, continued by the sounding of the seven trumpets of judgment by the seven angels in 9.1-9.21; 11.15-19, and are completed in 15.1-16.21 [“It is done,” 16.17] as the seven angels pour out the seven bowls of judgment.⁷² Again, the primary role of the angels is that of pronouncing [18.1-3, 21]⁷³ and executing the [final] judgment of God—in this case on Jerusalem, and/or Rome.

The seven angels of the presence do not officiate at the heavenly incense offering [8.3-5], but this task is assigned to a yet another angel. This angel is also involved in a symbolic act of judgment about to be poured out by the seven angels. While the incense offering is directed toward God, the hot coals are directed toward the earth [cf. Gen 18-19]. This brief scene involving the casting of fire upon the earth is clearly a metaphor anticipating the judgments that attend the blowing of each of the seven trumpets. This divine punishment is implicitly linked with the prayers of the saints offered with the incense to God in v 4, while the prayers themselves might be read in light of the prayer for revenge uttered by the souls under the altar in 6.9–10.

The angels in 9.1, 13-15 represent a continuation of the judgment being executed by the seven angels introduced in 8.1ff. In 9.1b–2a it seems obvious the “star” is a supernatural being, i.e., probably an angel. See also 8.10; 12.4. In early Jewish literature, stars can represent angelic beings [Judg 5.20; Job 38.7; Dan 8.10]. Falling stars often represent evil angelic beings or demons, even Satan [IEnoch 86.1-3; 88.1-3; Jude 13; Lk 10.18; Rev 12.9]. Here the fallen star should be understood as an angelic messenger [cf. 20.1] and probably not be identified with the angel of the abyss named Abaddon or Apollyon in 9.11 or Satan in 12.9.⁷⁴

For a more extended discussion on Rev 12 see “Demons” in Scripture. Nevertheless, this passage as another interlude in the judgments executed by angels upon the earth, along with Jude 9; Dan 10.13, 21; 12.1 are the only ones that mention “Michael” [the archangel]. Here he is clearly involved in a “behind-the-scenes” judgment of Satan and his angels. He is singled out as a commander of “HIS [own] angels”—which suggests there may be other angels not under his command, or at least not in this “war.”⁷⁵ He is also depicted as the godly counter-part of Satan [a roll commonly held by God or Jesus].

In Dan 10.13–21, Gabriel(?) [the only other angel specifically named in the OT, though here it is not certain that he is the angel referred to] claims that he and “the prince of the kingdom of Persia” [i.e, an angel representing Persia] were in conflict for twenty-one days when Michael relieved him. In Dan 10.20, the “prince of Persia” and the “prince of Greece” are mentioned, and again these are likely national angels of Persia and Greece. Beginning with Daniel, Michael is considered “the great prince [Theod, a‡rcwn] who has charge of God’s people [i.e., Israel]” [Dn 12.1]. Though this appears to be a war fought by angels, nothing is mentioned about angelic armies they might lead. Jude 9 alludes to the story of the archangel Michael disputing with Satan over the body of Moses [from the lost ending of the Testament of Moses]. Rev 12 is the earliest evidence that Christians held the view that Michael held the first position in an angelic hierarchy. Since he is depicted as leading an angelic host, he is not simply an archangel but an aÓrcistra¿thgoß, “field marshal,” in function, if not in title [from non-canonical Jewish texts].

In what appears to be a culmination of all the judgments in Revelation [20.1-3], an [anarthrous] a ¡ggeloß, not directly related to any angel seen thus far, extents his authority [power] over the enemy of God [Satan] to the degree of “having the key of the abyss…,”⁷⁶ and so, by implication, this angel is greater than any angel named so far—at least in his role as the gatekeeper of the abyss; this one has power over the force behind all the evil thus far named [cf. 19.20-21], not only in the sense of defeating him, but having complete control over him.⁷⁷

Angels as worshippers of God

The Hebrew OT has no reference that specifically mentions angels worshipping God. However, by the writing of the LXX, the idea was present and included in Dt 32.43 [if pa¿nteß ui˚oi« qeouvis taken parallel to pa¿nteß a‡ggeloi qeouv] and Ps 97.7 [96.7 LXX]—proskunh/sate aujtw◊ˆ, pa¿nteß oi˚ a‡ggeloi aujtouv [“worship him, all [you] his angels”]. It is not until the GNT that angels worshipping God is directly declared, but even here it is rare [Heb 1.6;⁷⁸ Rev 5.11-14⁷⁹; 7.11-12]. Other passages indirectly refer to the worship of God by the angels [Ps 103.19-22; 148.1-2].

Under the old covenant angels were part of the revelatory process, part of that from which the Jews were separated and of which they were fearful [cf. Dt 33.2]. The Hebrews writer suggests the new covenant enables angels and the faithful to gather together to worship God in a joyful gathering [Heb 12.22-24].⁸⁰

In Col 2.18 if the genitive tapeinofrosu/nhØ kai« qrhskei÷aˆ tw◊n aÓgge÷lwn [“self-abasement and worship (religion) of the angels”] is taken as subjective, humility and worship [religion] are taken as practices of the angels. In short, the heretics were in some sense enamored with angelic self-abasement and worship of God.⁸¹ However, the genitive is generally taken as objective, worship directed toward angels. Some Colossians were possibly venerating angels, addressing prayers and petitions to angels, a practice that overlapped with magical spirit invocations. Some Jewish literature, especially the Dead Sea Scrolls, spoke of the earthly community entering into the worship of the heavenly community, and some scholars think Paul attacks that idea here.

Any thought of worship directed toward angels was prohibited in the early church. Rev 22.8-9 clearly demonstrates angels are not to receive worship; see also Rev 19.10. The emphasis on worshiping God rather than the angelic messenger has a parallel in the reaction of Joseph when his brothers did obeisance before him in Gen 50:19, “Do not be afraid! Am I in the place of God?” Similarly, when Barnabas and Paul rejected the worship of the people from Lystra who thought that they were gods, they said, “Gentlemen, why are you doing this? We are people just like you” (Acts 14:15).

Cherubim

The terms bwrk [cherub] and Kalm [angel] never occur together in the Hebrew Scriptures as supernatural beings.⁸² The terms Prc [seraph] and Kalm [angel] likewise do not occur together. Although some refer to cherubim and seraphim as angelic beings, it is only because they appear in the presence of the Lord and perform some angelic-like functions; however, it cannot be argued with any certainty that they constitute an order of angelic beings.⁸³

The term bwrk occurs 96 times in the Hebrew, which the LXX generally translated cerou/b. In the GNT cerou/b occurs one time [Heb 9.5]. The Hebrew and Greek terms mean simply “cherub,” as the creatures so defined in the contexts.

The first occurrence of cherubim in Scripture occurs in Gen 3.24 as guardians of the “tree of life” preventing human access and sinners from taking hold of immortality. They obviously are animated supernatural creatures about which little else is revealed in Genesis. Only in this Genesis passage can cherubim be defined as actual ontological beings. In all the remaining passages they are either handcrafted objects or subjects of visional experiences by Ezekiel the prophet. The usual function of cherubim in Scripture is that of guardians of God’s presence, his people, or his property [as with the forbidden “tree of life”].

Cherubim do not appear again until following the exodus, and only in the books of Exodus and Numbers in the remainder of the Pentateuch [18 occurrences].⁸⁴ In each case, the cherubim are hand crafted three-dimensional ornamental winged figures on each side of the atonement cover of the Ark of the Covenant in the wilderness tabernacle as guardians of God’s presence and possibly preventing human access; they are also embroidered on the curtains and veil of the tabernacle. In the historical documents [38 occurrences]⁸⁵ cherubim are likewise handcrafted figures in Solomon’s temple over the Ark of the Covenant, as well as two-dimensional carvings on the walls of the temple.⁸⁶ It is in connection with the Ark of the Covenant that the only NT reference to cherubim is made [Heb 9.5].

Aside from the one reference to cherubim in the historical section of Isaiah [37.16, parallel to 2Kings 19.15], cherubim do not appear in prophetic literature other than Ezekiel [31 occurrences].⁸⁷ The first occurrence in Ezekiel is in 9.3 where it is simply a reference to the cherubim over the Ark of the Covenant.

The references beginning in chapter 10 of Ezekiel are quite vivid and depict cherubim as animated celestial living beings [creatures][10.15, 17, 20 with 1.5, 13-15, 19-22; 3.13].⁸⁸ They form a throne chariot for God’s glory to evacuate Jerusalem, which will soon [586BC] be judged [cf. 11.22-25]. In 10.1,the articular MyIbürV;kAh [the cherubim] likely find their antecedent in chapter 1;⁸⁹ although the word is not used there, the depictions are similar and the prophet identifies these creatures as “the living beings that I saw by the river Chebar” [10.15, 20-22 with 1.1; see also 3.23; 8.4; 43.2-3].

In 28.14-16 it appears that either God had appointed a cherub as guardian [the primary role of cherubim] of the king of Tyre who later drives the king from power for violence and abuse of trade, or, Tyre’s king had identified himself with the patron deity of Tyre, directly or symbolically as the god’s guardian sphinx [or cherub].

The final occurrences of cherubim in Ezekiel are in the final vision concerning the restoration of Jerusalem following is destruction in 586BC [40-48], and in particular the rebuilt Temple [40-42]. Cherubim are carved in the walls and doors of the Temple [41.18-20, 25]. The depictions of the cherubim—particularly in the four faces and wheels of each—draw forth many characteristics, such as intelligence, perception, power, speed, courage, industry, etc. Their main function seems to have been transporting the throne of God, and God himself. However, all this must be understood in terms of the symbolism before Ezekiel’s eyes. No such creatures are known to have ever existed in the natural realm, and God clearly has no need of transporters or assistants.⁹⁰

Seraphim

The term Prc occurs 126 times in the Hebrew, but only twice in reference to “seraphs” or “seraphim” [Is 6.2, 6]. The verb form means “to burn” [Gen 11.3; 38.24; Ex 12.10; Lev 4.12; Num 31.10; Dt 7.25; Josh 11.6; Is 1.7; 44.16, 19; 47.14; etc.], and the rarely occurring noun form is translated “snake, serpent” [Num 21.8; Is 14.29; 30.6]. In Is 6.2, 6 the LXX effectively transliterates Prc to serafin. The term does not occur in the GNT.

Like the cherubim in Ezekiel, the seraphim in Is 6⁹¹ are symbolic figures in a vision.⁹² They are distinguished from cherubim, not only nominally, but also structurally [“having six wings” in contrast to cherubim each having “four wings,” Ezek 1.6].⁹³ Although they would be in close proximity to the cherubim—IF the visions were expressing a supernatural reality, their rolls are more closely aligned with those of angels.⁹⁴ The seraphim, by covering themselves with their wings, appear to be shielding themselves from God’s glory as they worship. One seraph has the roll of revealing to the prophet forgiveness from God.

If cherubim and seraphim are created ontological beings in the supernatural realm, like angels and separate from them or even an order among them, nothing is revealed concerning their relationship to one another. It cannot be determined with any certainty that one group ranked above the others or that they interacted in any way.

role of angels at Sinai in order to counter the Christian claim that the Law was an inferior revelation because of its mediation by angels.