Topical Encyclopedia Angels, as divine messengers and servants of God, play a significant role in executing the purposes of Christ throughout biblical history and eschatological events. Their involvement is evident in both the Old and New Testaments, where they act under the authority of Christ to fulfill His divine will.Angelic Announcements and Guidance Angels have been instrumental in announcing and guiding key events in the life and ministry of Jesus Christ. The angel Gabriel announced the birth of Jesus to Mary, declaring, "You will conceive and give birth to a son, and you are to give Him the name Jesus" (Luke 1:31). This announcement was a direct execution of God's redemptive plan through Christ. Protection and Strengthening Angels also serve to protect and strengthen those who are part of Christ's mission. After Jesus' temptation in the wilderness, "angels came and ministered to Him" (Matthew 4:11), providing the necessary support and sustenance. This angelic ministry underscores their role in executing the purposes of Christ by ensuring His physical and spiritual well-being during His earthly ministry. Agents of Judgment and Deliverance In the eschatological framework, angels are depicted as agents of both judgment and deliverance, acting under Christ's authority. In the parable of the weeds, Jesus explains that "the harvest is the end of the age, and the harvesters are angels" (Matthew 13:39). Here, angels are tasked with separating the righteous from the wicked, executing Christ's judgment at the end of the age. Furthermore, in the Book of Revelation, angels are frequently depicted as executing divine judgments upon the earth. Revelation 8:6 describes the seven angels with seven trumpets, who are prepared to sound them as part of the apocalyptic events orchestrated by Christ. These actions highlight their role in carrying out the divine purposes as revealed in the prophetic visions given to John. Messengers of the Resurrection Angels also played a crucial role in the resurrection of Jesus, which is central to the Christian faith. They were present at the empty tomb, proclaiming the resurrection to the women who came to anoint Jesus' body. "He is not here; He has risen, just as He said" (Matthew 28:6). This angelic announcement affirmed the fulfillment of Christ's promise and the victory over death. Assisting in the Second Coming The Second Coming of Christ is another significant event where angels will execute His purposes. Jesus Himself stated, "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" (Matthew 24:31). This gathering of the elect demonstrates the angels' role in the final redemption and the establishment of Christ's eternal kingdom. Conclusion Throughout Scripture, angels are depicted as faithful executors of Christ's purposes, whether through announcements, protection, judgment, or the fulfillment of eschatological events. Their actions are always in alignment with the divine will, serving as instruments through which Christ's redemptive and sovereign plans are realized. Torrey's Topical Textbook Matthew 13:41The Son of man shall send forth his angels, and they shall gather out of his kingdom all things that offend, and them which do iniquity; Torrey's Topical Textbook Matthew 24:31 Library The Doctrine of Angels. The Return of Christ to the Earth Itself. The Priesthood of Christ Gifts no Certain Evidence of Grace. "But Whereunto Shall I Liken this Generation?" The Origin of Evil The Origin of Evil. Christ Our Advocate The Sinner Sentenced. Putting God to Work Resources Questions about Angels & Demons (All) | GotQuestions.orgWhat is the purpose of angels? | GotQuestions.org Do angels appear to people today? | 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 |