Topical Bible: Angel (A Spirit): A Celestial Spirit: Created

Bible > Topical > Angel (A Spirit)

◄ Angel (A Spirit): A Celestial Spirit: Created ►

Jump to: Nave's • Library • Subtopics • Terms

Topical Encyclopedia

An angel, in the context of Christian theology, is a celestial spirit created by God to serve as His messengers and to execute His will. The term "angel" is derived from the Greek word "angelos," meaning "messenger." Angels are spiritual beings who exist in the heavenly realm and are distinct from human beings, possessing unique attributes and roles as outlined in the Scriptures.

Creation and Nature of Angels

Angels are created beings, brought into existence by God. They are not eternal like God but were made by Him to fulfill specific purposes. The Bible does not provide a detailed account of their creation, but it is implied that they were created before the foundation of the world. In Colossians 1:16, it is stated, "For in Him all things were created, things in heaven and on earth, visible and invisible, whether thrones or dominions or rulers or authorities. All things were created through Him and for Him."

As spiritual beings, angels do not possess physical bodies like humans, although they can manifest in physical form when necessary to carry out God's commands. They are immortal, not subject to death, and are described as possessing great power and wisdom, though they are not omnipotent or omniscient like God.

Roles and Functions of Angels

Angels serve various roles as outlined in the Bible. Primarily, they are messengers of God, delivering divine revelations and guidance to humans. For instance, the angel Gabriel announced the birth of John the Baptist to Zechariah (Luke 1:11-20) and the birth of Jesus to Mary (Luke 1:26-38).

In addition to being messengers, angels are also depicted as protectors and warriors. Psalm 91:11 states, "For He will command His angels concerning you to guard you in all your ways." Angels are often seen as protectors of God's people, providing guidance and deliverance in times of need.

Moreover, angels are involved in executing God's judgment. In the book of Revelation, angels play a significant role in the unfolding of end-time events, carrying out God's judgments upon the earth (Revelation 8:6-13).

Hierarchy and Organization

The Bible suggests a hierarchy among angels, with different ranks and orders. The archangel Michael is mentioned as a leading figure among the angels, particularly in spiritual warfare (Jude 1:9; Revelation 12:7). Other classifications, such as cherubim and seraphim, are also mentioned, each with distinct roles and appearances (Isaiah 6:2-3; Ezekiel 10:1-22).

Angels in Worship and Service

Angels are depicted as worshippers of God, continually praising and glorifying Him. In Revelation 5:11-12, a multitude of angels is described as encircling the throne of God, singing, "Worthy is the Lamb who was slain, to receive power and riches and wisdom and strength and honor and glory and blessing!"

In their service to God, angels exemplify obedience and devotion, carrying out His commands without hesitation. They serve as models of faithful service and worship, reflecting the glory and holiness of God.

Conclusion

Angels, as celestial spirits created by God, play a vital role in the divine order. They are messengers, protectors, warriors, and worshippers, each fulfilling specific functions as ordained by God. While they are powerful and wise, they remain servants of the Almighty, dedicated to His purposes and glory. Through their actions and presence, angels reveal the majesty and sovereignty of God, pointing humanity toward a deeper understanding of His divine plan.

Nave's Topical Index

Genesis 2:1
Thus the heavens and the earth were finished, and all the host of them.
Nave's Topical Index

Nehemiah 9:6
You, even you, are LORD alone; you have made heaven, the heaven of heavens, with all their host, the earth, and all things that are therein, the seas, and all that is therein, and you preserve them all; and the host of heaven worships you.
Nave's Topical Index

Colossians 1:16
For by him were all things created, that are in heaven, and that are in earth, visible and invisible, whether they be thrones, or dominions, or principalities, or powers: all things were created by him, and for him:
Nave's Topical Index

Library

Apelles and his Followers, Displeased with Our Earthly Bodies ...
... the question whether one who had the spirit, and will ... repentance, since they describe
the said angel by the ... must be the heaven and its celestial (contents), and ...
/.../tertullian/ on the flesh of christ/chapter viii apelles and his followers.htm

The Outpouring of the Holy Spirit
... in rhapsody divine, and in ecstasy celestial, we enjoy ... show the absolute necessity
of the Spirit's work in ... Talk about tying angel's wings with green withes, or ...
/.../spurgeon/spurgeons sermons volume 4 1858/the outpouring of the holy.htm

Of Good Angels
... in the world of spirits.) And cannot that ministering spirit see them ... children of
God may be owing to the ministry of an angel. ... May they celestial joys rehearse ...
/.../wesley/sermons on several occasions/sermon 71 of good angels.htm

Proofs in Continuation, Extracted from St. John's Gospel the ...
... by Him, of whom Gabriel is the angel, who also ... to those feasting, independently of
any created substance, and ... He sent the gift of the celestial Spirit over all ...
/.../irenaeus/against heresies/chapter xiproofs in continuation extracted.htm

Eldad and Medad
... mingles with us meaner things, 'Tis even as if an angel shook his ... anchor laid, remote
from home, Toiling, I cry, 'sweet Spirit, come,' Celestial breeze no ...
/.../milligan/men of the bible some lesser-known/eldad and medad.htm

In the Creation of the World, and all Things in It, the True God ...
... Why one angel in the singular number often spoken of. ... And since the Holy Spirit always
instructs us in what ... at what time other more hidden celestial hosts than ...
/.../calvin/the institutes of the christian religion/chapter 14 in the creation.htm

Alive or Dead --Which?
... and tune their tongues to the music of celestial hosts. ... his conscience; he has done
despite to the Spirit of grace ... Oh, if by some touch of an angel's wand our ...
/.../spurgeon/spurgeons sermons volume 13 1867/alive or deadwhich.htm

On the Angels.
... 2061] and there must also be some angel that encampeth ... or inspiration of the Holy
Spirit, not having ... order of rational creatures among celestial existences is ...
/.../origen/origen de principiis/chapter viii on the angels.htm

The New Nature
... surviving it and triumphantly rising to celestial glory. ... a season; the second is
a quickening spirit, giving out ... than receiving it; like that angel whom some ...
/.../spurgeon/spurgeons sermons volume 7 1861/the new nature.htm

On the Resurrection, and the Judgment, the Fire of Hell, and ...
... and bodies terrestrial; that the glory of the celestial is one ... if this is not to
be understood of the Spirit of God ... is said to be attended by an angel, who is ...
/.../origen/origen de principiis/chapter x on the resurrection and.htm