Topical Encyclopedia The role of angels in the eschatological events surrounding the Second Coming of Christ is a significant theme in biblical prophecy. Scripture provides several references to the presence and function of angels during this climactic event, highlighting their role as divine agents executing God's will.Biblical References 1. Matthew 24:30-31 : "At that time the sign of the Son of Man will appear in heaven, and all the tribes of the earth will mourn. They will see the Son of Man coming on the clouds of heaven, with power and great glory. And He will send out His angels with a loud trumpet call, and they will gather His elect from the four winds, from one end of the heavens to the other." This passage underscores the angels' role in gathering the elect, indicating their participation in the fulfillment of divine promises and the final ingathering of believers. 2. Mark 13:26-27 : "Then they will see the Son of Man coming in the clouds with great power and glory. And He will send out the angels to gather His elect from the four winds, from the ends of the earth to the ends of heaven." Similar to Matthew's account, Mark emphasizes the angels' task of gathering the elect, reinforcing their integral role in the eschatological narrative. 3. 2 Thessalonians 1:7-8 : "And to grant relief to you who are oppressed and to us as well, when the Lord Jesus is revealed from heaven with His mighty angels in blazing fire. He will inflict vengeance on those who do not know God and do not obey the gospel of our Lord Jesus." Here, the angels accompany Christ in a display of divine justice, participating in the execution of judgment upon the unrighteous. 4. Revelation 19:14 : "The armies of heaven, dressed in fine linen, white and pure, follow Him on white horses." While not explicitly mentioning angels, this imagery of the heavenly armies is often interpreted as including angelic hosts, accompanying Christ in His triumphant return. Theological Significance The presence of angels at Christ's Second Coming serves multiple theological purposes. Firstly, it underscores the majesty and authority of Christ as He returns in glory, attended by the heavenly hosts. The angels' participation highlights the cosmic significance of this event, as all of creation witnesses the culmination of God's redemptive plan. Secondly, the gathering of the elect by angels signifies the fulfillment of God's covenant promises. The angels act as divine messengers and agents, ensuring that the faithful are brought into the presence of Christ, thus completing the work of salvation. Lastly, the involvement of angels in executing judgment reflects the righteousness and justice of God. As Christ returns to establish His kingdom, the angels serve as instruments of divine retribution against those who have rejected the gospel, affirming the moral order of the universe. In summary, the attendance of angels at Christ's Second Coming is a profound testament to their role in God's eschatological purposes, as they assist in gathering the elect and executing divine judgment, all while magnifying the glory of the returning King. Torrey's Topical Textbook Matthew 16:27For the Son of man shall come in the glory of his Father with his angels; and then he shall reward every man according to his works. Torrey's Topical Textbook Matthew 25:31 Mark 8:38 2 Thessalonians 1:7 Library The King and his Armies. The Resurrection of Christ; his Last Interview with his Disciples ... Introduction On the Mount of Olives The Investigative Judgment. Facing Life's Record Vision Second. Again, of his Neglect in Chastising his Talkative ... "The Kingdom of God is at Hand" Looking unto Jesus A Great Religious Awakening. Resources How many angels are there? | GotQuestions.orgWhat is the hierarchy of angels? | GotQuestions.org Can angels reproduce? | GotQuestions.org Angels: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Subtopics Angels are Examples of Meekness Angels are Ministering Spirits Angels are of Different Orders Angels: Announced: The Ascension and Second Coming of Christ Angels: Announced: The Birth of Christ Angels: Announced: The Conception of Christ Angels: Announced: The Conception of John the Baptist Angels: Announced: The Resurrection of Christ Angels: Celebrate the Praises of God Angels: Communicate the Will of God and Christ Angels: Created by God and Christ Angels: Execute the Judgments of God Angels: Execute the Purposes of God Angels: Have Charge Over the Children of God Angels: Know and Delight in the Gospel of Christ Angels: Ministration of, Obtained by Prayer Angels: Rejoice Over Every Repentant Sinner Angels: Shall Attend Christ at his Second Coming Angels: Shall Execute the Purposes of Christ Angels: The Law Given by the Ministration of Angels: Worship God and Christ Related Terms |