Angelology

INTRODUCTION

            Angels, angels, angels! The palpable fascination of these invisible creatures is all around; from silly garden statuettes to last minute, impulse buy supermarket checkout lanes where rearview mirror angel dangle ornaments can be purchased for an automobile and its passengers protection-especially if it is blessed by a priest. With the way the world is heading, this scenario may someday qualify for an insurance premium reduction; and, by the way, I'm being facetious!

 The past several years have seen an abnormal increase in the production of television programs and Hollywood movies concerning angels. One popular movie actually portrays a fallen angel that develops an earthly relationship with a woman, giving up his immortality in the name of love.  It even seems as if news media outlets are being bombarded with an unusual appetite and craving for the supernatural.  Simply watch any documentary news program and sooner than later they will provide the television world with a self-proclaimed understanding on the supernatural phenomenon of angels. The highly publicized obsession of the spirit world, and especially angels, has become an exceedingly fanciful subject; this is true of both Christian and secular persons.

            The Internet alone has over 91,000,000 web pages dealing with information about the extraterrestrial, celestial like beings called angels.[1] Christian and secular bookstores alike are lined with books on the mysterious spirit realm and the creatures that make up its atmosphere-namely, angels and demons.  With all the literature and media coverage that this mystical matter has been subjected to, it would seem that people would have gone back to the Bible to investigate and substantiate angels and their operation.  But sadly, this is far from the reality of the situation.  While researching the topic of angelology (the study of angels), I found that very few books had explored and recorded biblical evidence as its supreme judge for truth and legitimacy. Most books were merely published stories that were not even experienced first hand, but information that was past down and collected from outside sources to provide authenticity for the operation and existence of angels. In three of the four books that I thumbed through in the Christian bookstore, I couldn't find one single Scripture reference to back up the individuals supposed "encounters" with angelic beings. There was one book, however, that I discovered was very helpful in providing scriptural support for angels and even described the modern inclination to uncover the mystery of the spirit realm and the revelation of angels. This book, which is highly respected in the theological world, provides a great clue as to the motivation for this unhealthy interest in angels:

We have been invaded by the occult!  Though the roots of Western civilization reach back centuries, occult practices, enhanced by the advance of the New Age movement, have been thrust upon us with great force...Angels are captivating peoples fancy and investigation. Devotees of the angelic fad tell us that angels see all, hear all, and know all...They will guide us unerringly in the way of blessing and prosperity; they show us truth and the meaning of life itself...They watch over the life and death of every single cell of our bodies and they love us.  Attractive isn't it? Satan does not set his traps with unattractive bait, nor does he announce that there is evil and death in every bite. His angels are disguised as "angels of light," and his apostles and prophets as messengers of God (2 Cor. 11:13-15).

                There are really two extremes in most doctrines of theology and it is especially true when it comes to angels.  First, there are those who are fixated on the supernatural, worshiping and greatly adoring angels-something that was just covered.  Secondly, there are those who would rather disregard the spirit realm and operation of angels all together. Both of these views are detrimental to having a firm grasp on the theological doctrine of angels and the plan of God.   It must be understood that God has unquestionably created angels and that they still exist to this day.  The Bible itself states that they are immortal-or incapable of dying (I Tim. 6:16).  God has set angels to be ministers and messengers for the saints, and also for various other reasons (Heb. 1:14).  I think most Christians would agree that angels do exist and are operating for God today.  The problem of believing in the non-existence of angels actually pales in comparison to those who seek masqueraded angelic beings in every human that they encounter.  There is definitely an issue when alleged Christian books are complete with chapters on how to summons, effectively contact and communicate properly with angels.  This is why having a true biblical understanding on this type of subject matter is necessary.

Let no one cheat you of your reward, taking delight in false humility and worship of angels, intruding into those things which he has not seen, vainly puffed up by his fleshly mind.  Colossians 2:18 NKJV

 I often wonder if the people who write about the spirit world, claiming to be Christians, actually read their Bible?  If they did all of their misguiding and misunderstandings would be eliminated.  There are certainly several cases where angels did talk to humans in the Bible (ref. Gen. 19:15; Jud. 13:17-18). But nowhere are Christians encouraged to seek counsel or communicate with them. I sometimes wonder if common sense takes a back seat for those who are extreme in their conclusions on the scriptures that are non-explicit?  When Abraham encountered the angels that spoke with him, he must have had a guidebook that relayed the proper etiquette in getting the most from his relationship with them; now, doesn't that just sound absurd?  The Bible must be the only governing source for adequate information concerning matters of the spirit realm-no other extra biblical material is required.  This is precisely why I am attempting to cite only biblical references when it comes to angelic nature, rank and names.  If people would simply use a concordance or topical bible and study the scriptures mentioning angels, no other resource would be necessary. 

 This article is merely an attempt to provide a basic biblically sound survey on the doctrine of angels.  A fundamental knowledge of angelology will make a well-rounded student of God's Word. This is essential in an era when so-called "Christians" and non-believers have become infatuated with angelic beings with concepts that are propagated from a satanically charged world.

IMPORTANCE OF ANGELS

            I first became aware of the significance of angels during an individual study on the life of Christ.  It was then that I paid particularly close attention to the fact that angels had come to minister to Christ just after His temptation and encounter with Satan in the Judean wilderness. I began to meditate on the passage and realized that if the perfect Son of God, Jesus Christ, had been ministered to by angels after His successful victory over the lust of the flesh, lust of the eyes and the pride of life, then they are highly essential to the believer as well. The very fact that angels came to minister to Jesus after His temptation assures the believer of God's faithful provision to the overcomer in the hour of need.  When the devil comes attacking, the Christian can stand in the victory that Christ has overcome all the temptations within the world that the enemy can employ (John 16:33; Rom. 13:14). Believers can also place their faith in a God who restores after times of testing and tribulation (Matt. 4:11; Job 42:9).

 It is helpful to understand that Satan actually came to Jesus quoting Scripture and tempted Him to use His angels in an unholy manner, yet Jesus knew the proper context of the Scriptures and the reason for the angels and their ministry; Jesus knew that if He were to summons the angels for a selfish reason, that He would have sinned against God and would have succumbed to the devil's temptation.

 Many people today are being tempted to seek angels for unholy purposes; most of which are centered on selfish, hedonistic views, which are contrary to the will of God.  Satan is still using the same tactics as he always has by prodding the individual to use God as a token genie to answer all their wants and desires.  He made the first humans fail when they acted selfishly trying to become like God (Gen. 3).  His motives have always been and always will be contrary to a biblical attitude and the will of God. 

And [Satan] said to Him, "If You are the Son of God, throw Yourself down. For it is written: He shall give His angels charge over you,' and, in their hands they shall bear you up, lest you dash your foot against a stone.'".  Matthew 4:6 NKJV

Then the devil left Him, and behold, angels came and ministered to Him. Matthew 4:11 NKJV

            There are several aspects of angelic involvement during the life of Christ:

Angels foretold His coming (Luke 1:26-38).

Angels annunciated His birth to Mary, Joseph and the shepherds (Luke 1:26-38; 2:10-12; Matt. 1:20-21).

Angels provided a safeguard for Jesus when He was a child (Matt. 2:13).

Angels strengthened Christ when He was praying in the Garden of Gethsemane (Luke 22:43).

Angels oversaw the resurrection and provided comfort to Jesus' relatives and disciples (Matt. 28:2-4).

Angels oversaw the ascension of Christ and provided comforting assurance of His return to the disciples (Acts 1:9-10).

ORIGIN OF ANGELS

            In the opening chapter of John's gospel, quite possibly one of the most popular books of the Bible, it states that the Word was responsible for the creation of all things.  The Word is evidenced as Jesus Christ, being revealed in the fourteenth verse; and all things means exactly that-with the exception of the Father, Holy Spirit and, of course, the Son. This means that the Word-Jesus Christ-was the creative agent in the conception of the angels. Paul himself stated "For by Him [Jesus] all things were created that are in heaven and that are on earth, visible and invisible, whether thrones, or dominions or principalities or powers.  All things were created through Him and for Him.  And He is before all things, and in Him all things consist[2]" (Col. 1:16, 17 NKJV).  One scripture in the Bible indicates that angels sang joyfully at the creation of the foundation of the world by God (Job 38:4-7).

            When God created the angels they were without sex or race.  They are spirit beings that do not procreate (Matt. 22:28-30).  Genetic reproductive abilities happen only in the material realm and therefore exclude angels.  However, angels do take on male humanistic forms from time to time in the Bible (Gen. 18:2; 22:19; Dan 10:18).  It is important to note that angels are an entirely different species than humans.  Some have suggested that angels were once humans that have died; this idea is not scriptural.  Mankind does not become angels when they die. God designed and created the angels, just like He purposed and created man.

ETYMOLOGY

            There are many names, subcategories, and titles of angels which will be studied in another portion of this writing, but the essence of each one is summed up in the English word, angel.  There are two primary Hebrew words for angel that is used in the Old Testament. The first is the word elohim. Elohim is, of course, the most generic Hebrew word that describes God.  It can also refer to judges. The second word that is used is the word malak. Malak is a word that describes angels as messengers of God. Both the Hebrew words elohim and malak are translated as angels in the English Bible.  The primary definition of both of these words designate that angels are sent from God with a specific message for man-they do His heralding. Angels are not the constructors of the message but the carrier of the message that is designed and instituted by God Himself.  It is important to understand that angels have no power of themselves, but is given directly from God to perform a specific function in the will of God for mankind. 

            The Greek word used in the New Testament, which is very similar to the English translation, is angelos. Angelos also denotes one who carries a message from God.  According to Mounce's Complete Expository Dictionary, angelos refers "especially to nonmaterial, spiritual beings-a transcendent power who carries out various missions or tasks for God."[3] 

FALLEN AND ELECT ANGELS

There are basically only two main groupings of angels: the fallen and elect angels. Obviously, this is a broad overview.  These groupings cover both good (those who follow God's will) and evil (those who rebel against God) angels.  Essentially, the fallen angels are those that chose to follow Satan in his rebellion (II Peter 2:4; Jude 9). The elect are the angels that chose to serve God and His will by not heeding the seductive and prideful words of Lucifer (I Timothy 5:21). 

NATURE OF ANGELS

            What exactly are the attributes and nature of angels?  The Bible should be the final authority when it comes to the basic understanding of the essence of angels.

1. Angels are created, immortal spirit beings: First, angels were created as invisible[4] spirit beings. Angels are a created being and were created by God to be ministering spirits. Because God created angels, they are not self-dependant, but co-dependant upon God for their existence. Although angels are eternal in nature, it is only because God has given them this ability.  Man also has an eternal spirit; when he dies, he will either live forever with God or with the devil and his angels. (Ps. 148:2, 5; Col. 1:16; Rev. 4:11; Heb. 1:13-14; 12:22-23; Ps. 104:4; Col. 1:16; Luk. 20:34-36; I Tim. 6:16).

2. Angels exist as a company of innumerable beings:  Angels are not a specific race of beings, but exist as a company.  Angels cannot procreate and are not married like those of the human race. An important note is that angels do not have the ability pass on their sins to others like Adam has to all of humanity.  Angels exist as individuals and fall as individuals, unlike humans who can pass the deadly disease of sin on to other ancestors. Also, angels cannot be counted with the human finite mind-they are innumerable; that simply means that only God knows how many there are. (Luke 20:34-35; Matt. 22:30; Heb. 2:16; Dan. 7:9-10; Luk. 2:13; Ps. 148:2-6; Job 25:3; II Kings 6:17).

3. Angels are higher than man with personalities and a freewill:  The Bible declares that man was made a little lower than the angels. There are several factors involved in this, but one of common sense is a fact that humans are bound to this earth for a specific time and angels are not. While God created angels higher than man, there is no reference to any angel calling God his Father; this is an interpersonal relationship title that shows man's possibility in establishing an intimate communion with God. Angels were also created with a freewill just like humans.  They have the ability to choose to do God's will or to rebel to it. This was evident when Lucifer drew 1/3 of the angels into a rebellion against God, which caused their judgment and fall. Along these same lines, angels have personalities and an intellect. In order to have a freewill, one must have the capacity to operate independently and make individual choices. Angels are not robots that follow God's will without the ability to understand and make the choice to follow or not to follow. (Ps. 8:1-4; 103:20; Heb. 2:7; Isa. 14:12-14; II Pet. 2:4; Jude 6, 9; Matt. 18:10; Rev. 4:8).

4. Angels possess great knowledge, wisdom and strength: Angels are inferior to God in all of these attributes, but greater than man.  Angels have great wisdom, probably from being in the continual presence of Almighty God. They do not, however, possess omniscience. (Eph. 3:9-10; Matt. 24:36; I Pet. 1:12; II Pet. 2:11; Rev. 18:1, 21).[5]

NAMES OF ANGELS

            There are several names in the Bible that are applied to angelic beings; these are the titles that are listed in the Bible:

1. Gods (Psalm 8:5). This is the Hebrew word elohim, which was already covered in the previous section. Angels are compared to God because they are spirits like God. Interestingly, this Hebrew word is also used to describe man for the very same reason; man is a spirit, who has a soul that lives in a body (I Thess. 5:23).

2. Watchers (Daniel 4:13-23). Angels are the reporters for God.  They are ever vigilant and watchful of earthly activities.

2. Elect (I Timothy 5:21). These are angels that did not rebel against God, but choose to continually follow His will.  Because angels were created with a freewill they have a choice in whether they want to serve God or revolt against Him (2 Pet. 2:24). Several have rebelled with Satan and are considered evil (Rev. 12:3-4).

2. Stars or Morning Stars (Job 38:7; Psalm 148:1-5; Rev. 12:3-4). This is a symbolic term that is used for angels.  Angels, just like Satan[6] at one time, are angels of light.  Stars are synonymous with light and therefore symbolically represent angels.

5. Angels (Hebrews 12:22). This is the primary word that is used of the supernatural spirit beings that are God's messengers.

6. Hosts of God or Heavenly Hosts (Psalm 33:6; 103:21; Daniel 7:10).  God has an army of angels at His disposal, just like any other kingdom-with the exception that this army is immortal, and invincible. 

7. Saints (Jude 14). This can also mean "holy ones".  This term is used of both angelic creatures and mankind in the Bible.

8. Ministering Spirits (Psalm 103:21; Heb. 1:14). This is simply a descriptive attribute of angels.

9.  Flames of Fire (Psalm 104:4). This is also a descriptive attribute of angels.

10. Sons of God (Job 1:6; 2:1; 38:7) Angels are considered created sons of God, which is different than the salvation act of man whereby those who accept Christ's atoning work on the cross are adopted into sonship (Rom. 8:15; Gal. 4:5).  Interestingly, if angels, who were created sons of God, can rebel and fall into everlasting damnation, what does that do to those who claim, "Once a son, always a son" in the extreme Calvinist[7] camp?  Undoubtedly, fallen angels are still sons, but that does not negate the necessary eternal punishment for their insurrection.

11.  Sons of the Mighty (Psalm 89:6). Angels are called sons of the Mighty or Mighty Ones (Ps. 29:1).

12. Princes (Daniel 10:13). Angels have responsibilities over specific nations; these are called princes. Interestingly, the archangel Michael is called a chief prince.  It would not be unwise to surmise that he is the direct authority over all princes.  This can also be called principalities (Col. 1:16).

13. Thrones (Colossians 1:16; Romans 8:38).  The scriptures are silent as to the definition of several of these positions in relation to angels.  In some circumstances, it does help to review the Greek words in the New Testament and their definitions; still, there remains much ambiguity concerning these words.

14. Dominions (Colossians 1:16).  Another position of angels. Some have insinuated that this is the hierarchy of order within God's kingdom in relation to His angels.  The throne could be God Himself, dominions could be those who are directly under God, principalities may be rulers underneath them and so on.

15. Powers (Colossians 1:16).  Another position of angels; see numbers 13 & 14. 

CLASSES OF ANGELS

There are two main classes or categories of angels. These categories, although different, are connected with each other; they make up the constituency of the messengers of God:

 A. Cherubim- this is the Hebrew plural form of cherub. The Theological Wordbook of the Old Testament suggests that Cherubim are, "the name of various representations of angelic beings which are represented as part human, part animal."[8] They appear to be of the highest angelic order. Cherubim were first mentioned in Genesis 3:24 where they guard the entrance to the Garden of Eden; they made sure that Adam and Eve never entered the garden again, lest they partake of the fruit of the Tree of Life and live forever in their fallen condition. Cherubim are also mentioned as part of the Ark of the Covenant in the Holy of Holies in the Tabernacle of God and Solomon's Temple. They were made of gold and sat atop the ark in a worshipful position (Exo. 25:17-22).

 The tabernacle (and temple) is where the High Priest would represent the people to atone for their sins each year. This was done in order to reestablish a holy communion with God.  Man's sin separated him from God, but the animal sacrifice and atonement in the Old Testament allowed man to once again have a limited relationship with God. It was in the Holy of Holies, which is the innermost room of the tabernacle, where the High Priest would sprinkle the blood from the unblemished sacrifice on the east side of the Ark of the Covenant. The fact that the Cherubim were located on top of the ark (Mercy Seat) gave man a reminder that this atonement would only be temporary.  Just as the Cherubim protect man from entering the Garden of Eden to enjoy an unadulterated relationship with God, they also protected man from getting any closer to God than the lid of the Ark of the Covenant. 

In the New Testament, Jesus Christ came to atone for the people's sins once and for all (read Heb. 9).  Unlike the tabernacle, where the sins were atoned once per year, Jesus became a little lower than the angels to suffer and die (angels don't die-Jesus had to be made lower than them to die) in our (mankind's) stead (Heb. 2:7; 17). When Jesus became lower than the angels to suffer and die on the cross to become a propitiation[9] and expatiation[10], He provided unhindered access to the heavenly tabernacle and God's presence (Heb. 4:14-16).  In essence, Jesus' sacrifice and becoming lower than the angels removed the Cherubim that guarded full access to God's presence and fellowship. When Jesus died on the cross for sins, the veil that separated the inner court and the Holy of Holies was rent in two from top to bottom (Luke 23:45).  This veil had two Cherubim embroidered upon it. This indicated that man could now come to God by the blood of His Son, Jesus Christ; no longer would animal sacrifices be needed to come into His presence (Heb. 4:15; Heb. 9). Interestingly, in Ezekiel's vision of the millennial temple (Ezk. 41:18-20) the Cherubim were set as decorations, but no ark or the Cherubim that sat atop it are revealed.  Christ's blood removed the angelic order that kept man from coming into complete fellowship with God.

B. Seraphim- The Hebrew root word for Seraphim is saraph; it is described as a fiery or burning creature.[11] Some have suggested that this probably indicates their unyielding devotion to God rather than an outward appearance.[12]  The Bible describes them having human features (hands, feet, faces) in addition to their six wings.  Using a finite imagination, try to comprehend how fast a bird could fly if it had three full sets of wings!  These are fast moving creatures.

            Seraphim are only mentioned one time in the Bible in Isaiah chapter six.  Here they are positioned over the throne of God and crying out, "Holy, Holy, Holy is the Lord of Hosts; the whole earth is full of His glory."  This is one inference to the Trinity of God. In the Isaiah passage, the Seraphim are covering their face as if to indicate that they are incapable of directly beholding the Lord.  Also, their feet are covered which signifies their reverence for YHWH God. Additionally, with the final set of wings the angels hover over God's position declaring His glory. 

            It is not possible to come to an exact conclusion as to the purpose and definition of the Seraphim; exegetically, there is no scriptural support to build a strong case. However, one thing is certain: they seek to honor and revere God. Like any king and kingdom, servants position themselves near the throne to protect, honor, and service the king and his commands; these angelic creatures can be seen as such.

[Note: some believe that there is a third category of angels, called the Living Creatures.  They also have six wings like the Seraphim, and give honor to God by calling Him "holy" continuously (Rev. 4:8). I have refrained from describing these creatures, as I personally believe that they are Seraphim.)

SPECIFIC NAMES OF ANGELS

            There are angels in the Bible that are not merely apart of a broad grouping of angels, but actually have personal names.

A. Michael- Michael is an archangel.  The prefix "arch" simply means chief. He is the only named angel that is given this position (Jude 9). He is mentioned several times in Scripture as being a warrior angel, especially in his first biblical introduction in the book of Daniel (10:13).  In this passage, Michael comes to help bring the message of God's word to Daniel by fighting off the powers of the air.  I like what Lester Sumrall suggests of Michael:

The archangel's name is Michael. That name asks a question: "Who is like God?"  Probably many parents, both Jews and Gentiles, who call their boys Michael have no idea what the name conveys...How appropriate it is that the name Michael, the archangel, invites us to direct our attention to almighty God...It might be appropriate to give Michael the title of general, for each time we see him, it is in connection with some type of spiritual struggle.  In his role as a fighter, Michael has a particular responsibility to Israel.  In Daniel 10:21 and 12:1, he is said to be the prince of that nation. As we read ancient and modern history, I believe we see the hand of Michael defending Israel.  As you know, that little nation has fought four wars with its Arab neighbors since gaining statehood in 1948.  The Arabs have often expressed their determination to drive Israel into the sea, but they have never been able to accomplish this feat. Could it be because Michael is on the side of Israel...?

One important aspect that Sumrall points out is that Michael's name means, "Who is like God?" I prefer to place a question mark at the end of Michael's name as well.  In the original languages of the Bible, punctuation was not used.  It was left up to the English translator to place the appropriate punctuation marks.  If the meaning of Michael's name were concluded with an exclamation mark, instead of a question mark, the suggestion of his name would change. Instead of his name signifying that no one is like God, it would make him as one, "Who is like God!"  Some authors have expressed their ideas that Michael is the one who is closest and most like God.  There are several problems with this ideology.  First, it is humans that were created in God's image; nowhere in the Bible does it ever say that angels were created in God's image. There are actually some Christian theological books that infer that angels are made in God's image, but no scripture references are ever given. The footnote in Graham Cole's He Who Gives Life provides rational insight into this supposed dilemma:

The personhood of angels raises interesting questions.  Some argue that human beings are in the image of God (imago dei) because of certain properties which make human beings substantially different from other creatures (e.g., rationality, self-awareness, and moral sense). However, in the biblical presentation angels display these properties. But nowhere does Scripture suggest that angels are in the image of God and, in fact, according to the apostle Paul, believers (human beings) will judge the angelic order (1 Cor. 6:3). Having these properties may be part of the story of the imago dei, but not sufficiently so. The task of exercising Godlike dominion and the rationality of male and female also need to be incorporated into a full theological account of the image (Gen. 1:26-31). [13]

Regardless of what is taught, and while angels do have a spirit and soul (mind, will and emotions), they do not possess an earthly body which can die; they may possess a body for a very limited time to do God's bidding and relay messages to man (i.e. when they came to Abraham Gen. 18:2), but it is not to live out an earthly existence and finally pass away.  When God came and dwelt among His people, He became a man, Christ Jesus, to take our punishment and die; He had an earthly existence and a body. That would infer that humans are closer to God than angels because angels are not tripartite[14] beings like God.  Secondly, one of Satan's (formerly Lucifer), "I Will" statements in Isaiah 14:12-14 is that he wanted to ascend to the throne of God to be, "Like the Most High".  If Michael were like God, then why wouldn't Satan simply war with Michael for His position?  Indeed, no one is like God, as Michael's name implies. Even humans, who are created in the image of God, are not, "Like" God in either attributes or essence.

B. Gabriel- Although Gabriel is not explicitly mentioned as an archangel in Scripture, some scholars do believe that he should be included as such. Hebrew tradition teaches that there are twelve ranking angels, called archangels, for each of the twelve tribes of Israel. Some of these archangels are mentioned in extra-biblical apocryphal[15] books like Tobit and Enoch[16].  However, this information cannot be biblically substantiated.

            Gabriel's name means "The Strength of God". He is the only named angel along with Michael and Lucifer in the biblical text. Some writers, such as Kevin J. Conner, have suggested that, "Gabriel is a prophetic angel, the messenger and interpreter of the prophetic Word concerning the Christ of God...[His] visitations involve Messianic revelation (Daniel 8:16-19; 9:1-27; 10:8-11; Luke 1:19,26)."[17] 

            Unlike Michael, who is seen in the Bible as more of a commander of hosts (armies), Gabriel stands as one of God's chief messengers. Some have wondered why Gabriel is not mentioned as being a warrior angel like Michael. I think that many people confuse the spirit realm into something that it is not; I believe that it operates much like the natural realm in many aspects.  Thinking logically for a moment, if I were going to build a grass roots militia, I might not want certain individuals to fight along right next to me.  Some people are natural fighters and others are natural "runners"-they tend to run away from obstacles that are facing them.  Everyone has certain gifts that are unique to him or her.  Some men can shoot a sniper rifle and hit a target ¾ of a mile away; others might need help pulling the trigger. I believe that it is this way in the spirit realm as well. 

Gabriel might be considered the trusted liaison of the King.  Every earthly king has had specific couriers that they would send to foreign nations or kingdoms to offer terms in war or establish trade routes and interstate compacts. These messengers had an extremely valuable task; they were to vicariously represent the king. When the king could not personally represent himself in matters of the state, he would choose one of his best delegates to operate in his stead.  Even today, the President of the United States will send some of his best delegates to speak on his behalf to other foreign dignitaries. The angel Gabriel might be considered one of God's best dispatch riders; the post-master general of the message delivery service of God, or God's person web-master in charge of the email system. However he is to be best understood, one thing is for certain: he always came with highly important messages that contained the will and desires of God Himself. 

C. Lucifer- The third and final named angel in the Bible is Lucifer.  Most Christians understand this name to mean, "Bearer of light", which sharply contrasts with his new name, Satan the "Adversary."  Isaiah chapter fourteen is the only place where the name Lucifer appears in the Bible (v. 12).  In Ezekiel 28, the parallel passage to Isaiah 14, Lucifer is understood to be an anointed cherub.  The word cherub is the Hebrew singular form for cherubim.  This means that Satan was once one of the highest ranking angels-and an anointed one as well.  The Bible is very clear that those who are anointed are set-aside for a specific purpose-and this is also evidently true of angels.  It could also be assumed that Michael and Gabriel are anointed for God to carry out specific responsibilities as well, even though it is not precisely mentioned in the Bible.

            Although Ezekiel 28 (and Isaiah 14) is describing a literal demise of a kingdom on this earth, it is also recounting the prideful fall of Lucifer; this is known as a double meaning principle.  Many times, as with this passage, the biblical text is illuminating a literal event in a past, present or future time frame, and an event(s) in the spirit or material realm (also past, present or future).  This may also apply to prophecies.

In Ezekiel 28, the passage is clearly referring to the fall of the king of Tyre, but many scholars and theologians rightly appraise that this passage is indicative of Lucifer's (Satan's) fall.  There are several specific and exclusive components that lead these respectable educators to draw such a conclusion:

1.      He was the seal of perfection and full of wisdom and beauty (v.12). When was the king of Tyre considered perfect?  No man was ever perfect after the fall of Adam. It is true that this passage might refer to Adam, but this will be dispelled further along in this listing.

2.      The workmanship of his timbrels and pipes (v. 13). This is one clue that Lucifer was in charge of worship unto God.

3.      He was the anointed cherub who covered (v. 14).  This is clearly referring to an angel, not a man. Therefore, this could not be Adam. Notice that Lucifer is referred to as "the" anointed cherub-not just "an" anointed angel.

4.      He was on the holy mountain of God (v.14).

5.      Satan was perfect from the day he was created, until he sinned of his own freewill (v.15).

6.      By his abundant trading he was found to be a sinner (v.16). The word for trading here means, "politicking" or "campaigning".  This means he went around drumming up support for his insurrection to the throne of God.  This is probably how he gained the support of one-third of the angels. Many times, even in the earth today, you hear of massive strikes by employees that are trying to get their way by refusing to work and trying to cripple the companies. Sadly, most of these picketers work for a few dollars a day, while the companies forge ahead hiring new laborers. Satan thought if he could get enough support for his selfish desires that he might be able to over throw his Master-God. Of course, it didn't work and Satan was cast to the earth. One important element to this narrative is that although Lucifer was adorned with wisdom, his selfish pride overtook his superior knowledge.  One might be led to think that wisdom (or plain common sense) would have suppressed his desires to overtake command of the throne, but an unbridled pride in knowledge can be the very thing that makes someone fall quicker than anything else (Pro. 16:18; I Tim. 3:6).

Isaiah chapter fourteen reveals what Bible students call Satan's five, "I Will Statements."    Within these statements are the components to his sin:

A.     I will ascend to heaven. This was Satan's selfish will in action; he wanted an "ascension" all right, one that would propel him to the top in position beyond even God.

B.     I will lift up my throne above the stars of God. This is Satan's selfish will in exalting himself-trying to become higher than any other angel or created being.

C.     I will sit upon the mount of the congregation.  Satan was trying to establish his own "political" throne above all others.

D.     I will ascend above the heights of the clouds.  Here Satan reveals his continual desire to be higher than anyone or anything else. Pride has corrupted his mind like a cancer eating away all hope for sanity; there is no turning back from here.

E.      I will be like the Most High. In his final act of insurrection, Satan desires the very position of God. Since Satan was a created angel, he was subjected to the Creator.  In his selfishness, he thought he could make himself to be self-existent; this is an attribute reserved only for God. Satan desired to be more than number one, he wanted to be the creator of number one; he desired the worship that was due only to God. One important note is that Lucifer never desired to be like God in His holiness, integrity, or righteousness; he wanted the praise that came with God's position as Creator and Sustainer, and he wanted to sustain himself.  It might be compared to a person who doesn't want to work for anyone else.  Many times individuals seek to open their own companies so that they can be in charge-they don't want to be told what to do.  One difference, however, is that they are still dependant on someone to keep them at that position (i.e. customers).  As much as Satan desired the throne of God, he never had or will have the capacity to sustain his very existence-that is an attribute reserved for God alone.

After Satan's sin had become full grown (Jas. 1:14-15), God actually gave him five responses to his selfish will and the promise of a not-so-honorable end (Isaiah 14:15-20):

A.     God said that Satan would be brought down to Sheol. Sheol is a Hebrew word for hell. 

B.     God told him that he would be gazed upon or be made into a spectacle (v.16).

C.     God said that he would be considered; this means that he was to be scorned and mocked (v. 16).

D.     God said that he would be cast out of his grave (v. 19). He would not be respected even in death.

E.      God said that he would not be joined by anyone else in death (v. 20). He would die alone.

In the Bible, names often described what a person's character was like or what their parents desired them to become. There are even names in biblical genealogical lists that convey full stories when the meanings are adequately understood.   When it comes to the names for Satan, his various titles actually give the reader clues as to what his nature is really like.  These are some of his titles:

1.   Devil- (Matthew 4 :1).

2.      Satan- (II Corinthians 2 :11).

3.      Serpent- (Revelation 12 :9)

4.      Dragon- (Revelation 12:3-17).

5.      Adversary- (I Peter 5:8).

6.      Thief- (John 10:10).

7.      Roaring Lion- (I Peter 5:8).

8.      Prince of this world- (John 12:31).

9.      Enemy- (Matthew 13:39).

10.  Tempter- (Matthew 4:3).

11.  Wicked One- (Matthew 13:19).

12.  Antichrist- (I John 2:18-22).

13.  Murderer[18]- (John 8:44).

14.  Liar- (John 8:44).

15.  Wolf- (John 10:12).

16.  God of this age (Luke 4:6).

17.  Prince of the power of the air (Ephesians 2:2).

18.  Fowler (Ps. 91:3).

19.  Angel of the bottomless pit (Revelation 9:11).

20.  Son of perdition (2 Thessalonians 2:1-12).[19]

Before this section is completed, I believe that it is imperative to discuss God's glorious wisdom when comes to the progressive judgments that He has handed down to Satan for his rebellion.  Some people have ascertained that God should have dealt with Satan by locking him away in the everlasting doom of hell right from the beginning.  What is not usually deliberated, however, is that God does not operate according to the ways of man-and thankfully so (Isa. 55:8).  Man is usually quick and sharp when it comes to dealing with things that they think are abominable; but where man shows no pity, God extends extensive grace.  What if God used Satan's rebellion as a means to set up man's redemption? After all, Satan was kicked out of heaven and placed on earth where he failed again by tempting the first humans to sin. Did God allow Satan (who brought the presence of sin)[20] to be in the garden to allow man the option to choose between God's will and their own?  If Satan had not rebelled, in which case no sin would exist on earth at all, would man still have freewill and not operate like robots?[21] If there is no choice between a good and an evil, is there a choice at all? Doesn't the basic understanding of love involve a choice?  If God does not allow a choice in serving Him, doesn't that mean that he is spiritually raping His followers-or spiritually murdering those He supposedly chose not to serve Him?  Did God, in His longsuffering, give Satan another chance(s) at, "Getting it right?" These are just some questions to ponder.

 Obviously, what is known is that the fall of Satan fell right into the plan of God.  When he was cast to earth and failed again, God's gavel once more brought swift judgment for his actions. Some scholars hold to a theory that shortly after the first human's fall Satan actually tried to corrupt the human race. He accomplished this by tempting fallen angels (sons of God) to have sexual relations with human women creating a super-hybrid species (which many feel is how the giants originated-like Goliath) in Genesis chapter six.  If this scenario is factual[22], Satan helped to create a new race called the Nephelim, a race that was to wipe out the human seed of the woman and the promised Messiah. (You may recall that the prophecy in Genesis 3:15 foretold the uprising of the seed of the woman which would crush the serpent's head-something that Satan was not happy about).  This might be why God decided to eradicate most of the inhabitants of the earth with a flood.  Through the flood, God judged and chastised the humans for their grotesque sin and obliterated those brood with part human and part angelic natures.

In the very next dispensation, God established multiple deliverers for Israel and Satan continued to try to kill or hinder mankind's seed (i.e. Moses; Exo.1).  Later, God provided a prophecy (2 Sam. 7) that the coming Messiah would be of Davidic lineage. This immediately brought an attack against David's family. God then sent His own Son, the promised Messiah, to be the final deliverer. As soon as Jesus was baptized, anointed and blessed [23]at the Jordan River the devil was again up to his old ways trying to make Him surrender to his sly temptations; he even thought that killing Jesus would bring him what he desired, but this only further propelled God's plans (Matt. 4; Luke 23).  Since Satan can no longer tempt the head (which is Christ), he now comes after the body-the church of God (I Cor. 12:27).  The difference between the Son of God and those in the church, who have been adopted as sons of God, is that the Son already defeated Satan. As sons, our requirement is to stand in the victory that Christ has overcome the devil and the world (Eph. 6; John 16:33).

God has been watching as Satan continues to use his evil to try and stop his immanent demise. He has and ever will be a spirit that is bent on manipulating to get his own way.  He is the father of pride and arrogance and he will not stop until his desires are reached-even though his attempts are wholly futile. God does not mind that the devil is trying to do everything in his power (which is in no way equal or even close to equal with God) to try and reverse what God has set in motion.  Just like the story of Joseph (Gen. 50), what the devil has meant for evil, God has used to redeem man.  Eventually, the judicial arm of God will rest and the gavel will finalize its fall.  Ultimately, Satan will make his abode on a throne of flames and torture in hell where he will be imprisoned for all eternity; along side him will be his angels and those who chose his, or their own will, in this life (Rev. 20:10; Matt. 25:41).

ANGEL OF THE LORD

Who exactly was the Angel of the Lord-or more appropriately stated, "The Angel of Jehovah?"  In many of the scriptures of the Bible, he seems to be much more than simply an angel.  Could he be a theophany,[24] or was he just another high-ranking angel?  Was he the pre-incarnate Christ as some scholars have assumed?  Let's further examine this mystery.

First, the word incarnation means to, "take on flesh". When Jesus came to the earth, this was God clothing Himself in flesh (John 1:14; I Tim. 3:16). He did this to allow temptation, suffering, and death, and to shield humans from His blinding glory (Heb.2:9; Rev. 21:23).  When Jesus was born on this earth (He was born in flesh only-for He always was John 1:1,2) it was more than a theophany; He literally became a man and took on flesh in order to eventually die for all humanity (John 10:17-18).  In the Old Testament, a theophany may have taken on flesh, but this was for a temporary occasion and no death was involved-the body simply vanished away.[25] The incarnation involved living a human life on earth, with all its limitations, and finally suffering death. The Theophanies of the Old Testament were an appearance of the Son of God before He took on His incarnation. 

When the Angel of Jehovah appeared in the Old Testament, this was a theophany or sometimes called a Christophany. This was the eternal Son of God appearing for a divine purpose, which fulfilled some aspect of the will of God. When the attributes of Christ and the Angel of Jehovah are compared, there is no doubt that the Angel is Christ pre-incarnate.  Also, the Angel of the Lord appears in the Scriptures in the Old Testament before Christ's incarnation; He is not mentioned after this.

Zondervan's Pictorial Encyclopedia of the Bible provides biblical students with a wealth on information concerning the Angel of the Lord.  This presentation of the Angel of the Lord is universally accepted among most conservative, evangelical theologians:

Though it was natural for the [Angel of the Lord] terminology to be applied to any good angel (Matt 2:20, 23) there was definitely a theophanic mediator, unique and distinct.  He introduced Himself as the Deity, and yet as distinct from God.  He spoke face to face with early Bible characters as man to man, in whose form He appeared...The question of identity of "the angel of God" has aroused an intriguing interest in Bible students.  The view in which most concur is that He is a distinct personal self-manifestation of God, who may be called the incarnate Logos. The reference in Judges 2:1 shows clearly that the "angel of the Lord" is God in His self-manifestation.[26]  

 Here are some scriptures where the Angel of the Lord appears:

1.      The Lord spoke to Noah (Gen. 6:9).

2.      Abraham was visited by the Angel of the Lord (Gen. 18).

3.      The Angel of the Lord stopped Abraham from sacrificing Isaac (Gen. 22:11).

4.      Jacob wrestled with the Angel of the Lord (Gen. 31:11).

5.      Moses was visited by the Angel of the Lord (Exo. 3:2).

6.      Balaam was engaged by the Angel of the Lord (Num. 22:22-35).

7.      Gideon encountered the Angel of the Lord (Jud. 6:11-22).

CONCLUSION

            Indeed, angels are still operating today.  As Christians, we must be careful not to fall into the trap of extreme thinking when it comes to doctrinal issues-and angelology is a fundamental Christian doctrine that should be reviewed.  As was mentioned in the introduction, however, there are two views that should be avoided:  1) seeing angels everywhere, and 2) not believing in angels at all.  We must realize that the Bible warns us to not worship or highly esteem angels. The Bible even goes as far as to cite angels telling humans that they do not want our worship or adoration. 

Now I, John, saw and heard these things. And when I heard and saw, I fell down to worship before the feet of the angel who showed me these things.  Then he said to me, "See that you do not do that. For I am your fellow servant, and of your brethren the prophets, and of those who keep the words of this book.  Worship God."  Revelation 22:8-9 NKJV

            It is easy to get caught up in the idea that angels should be shown extra attention because of all their unique characteristics that make them different from the race of mankind.  However, from reading just this single scripture, it is evident that angels are ministering spirits who desire to draw worshipful attention to their Maker-Jehovah God-and away from themselves.

            While Christians should not worship angels, we must understand that God uses angels to minister to us.  If a perfect Christ needed ministering to by angels on this earth after His Satanic temptation, it stands to logic and reason that we also need them in our daily lives-if we are prepared to withstand a satanic attack. (It should be noted that most Christians give in to the devil at his first inclination at a temptation, but that is for another writing.) 

[1] http://www.google.com/.

[2] The word consist in this passage actually means to "hold together".

[3] Mounce, William D. Mounce's Complete Dictionary of Old and New Testament Words (Grand Rapids,

           MI. Ó2006 Zondervan  Publishers). p. 20.

[4] Angels are, at least for the most part, invisible to humans.

[5] Conner, Kevin J. Foundations of Christian Doctrine. (Portland, OR. City Bible Publishing Ó1980) p. 89

[6] Lucifer was Satan's name pre-insurrection to the throne.  Lucifer means bearer of light (ref. Isa. 14:12).

[7] This essentially teaches that once you are saved you can never lose salvation-even if you want out. This teaching is not rational or scriptural.

[8] Harris, Laird. Theological Wordbook of the Old Testament (Chicago, IL. Ó1980 Moody Press) p. 454.

[9] Propitiation means to satisfy the demands of a righteous God.  Sinners are alienated from God and provoke His wrath because of their transgressions.  God needed this wrath to be satisfied.  Jesus provided this on the cross.

[10] Expatiation means to cover over or expel sin.  Jesus' blood covers us so that when God looks at us, sinners, all He sees is the work of His perfect Son.

[11] Strong, James. Strong's Exhaustive Concordance of the Bible (Nashville, TN. Ó1996 Thomas Nelson

         Publishers). p. 148.

[12] Dickason, C. Fred. Angels: Elect and Evil  (Chicago, IL. Ó1995 Moody Press). p. 68.

[13] Cole, Graham. He Who Gives Life (Wheaton, IL. Ó2007 Crossway Books). p. 66.

[14] Humans have a spirit, soul and body.  God exists as Father, Son and Holy Spirit.

[15] The Apocrypha is a collection of fourteen books that are considered non-inspired texts for several reasons:  First, they were not considered inspired texts by recognized leaders, such as the Jewish historian, Josephus.  Secondly, they contain historical inaccuracies. Third, Jesus or the apostles never quoted from them. Fourth, they have no known author. Fifth, they were not included in the Jewish Bible; in their Bible, the Tanakh, it contains 22 books, which is a match to the protestant Bible with 39-they are broken up differently to make these number, but the contents are the same. Finally, they contain stories that are mythological in nature.

[16] Tobit 12:15; Enoch 20:1-7.

[17] Conner, Kevin J. Foundations of Christian Doctrine. (Portland, OR. City Bible Publishing Ó1980) p. 88.

[18] Some have wondered how Satan was a murderer from the beginning.  I think that the best way to describe this is to think of perfection.  When Satan sinned, he murdered perfection; it was no more. When he beguiled Adam and Eve to eat of the mystery fruit, he also murdered their spiritual relationship with God.

[19] This list was compiled from Kevin J. Conner's, Foundations of Christian Doctrine.

[20] Did Satan create evil by his rebellion, or did sin also exist in heaven for the necessary ingredient of freewill? Can't evil simply be the thing that twists or misuses the intentions of the good?

[21] How can one know what is absolutely good, without something by which to judge it. Isn't evil something that is necessary to judge the good-or what is good?  How would one know it was good without a bad?  Without evil how could you know that God was perfect unless He simply told you so-and even then how could you accept that fact without an indicator, like evil?

[22] Jude 6 & 7 may refer to this event.  In that scripture, the Greek word used for strange flesh is actally "other" flesh. 

[23] A High Priest in the OT would be completely washed in a ceremonial act of cleansing, anointed in oil and blessed by his father just before entering service to God.  Jesus was baptized in water, anointed in the Holy Spirit (who is symbolized as oil in the Bible) and God the Father spoke a blessing over Him.

[24] A theophany is an OT appearing of God or more particularly an OT appearing of the pre-incarnate Christ.  Theophanies are also known as Christophanies.

[25] Conner, Kevin J. Foundations of Christian Doctrine. (Portland, OR. City Bible Publishing Ó1980) p. 97.

[26] Tenney, Merrill C. Zond. Pictorial Ency. of the Bible (Grand Rapids, MI. Zond. Pub. Ó1976) p. 162.