Angels come up more in Revelation than in any other book of the Bible. They are mentioned repeatedly in this chapter. So for me to not write about them would be a major oversight.
The word angel means “messenger,” and this is the primary role they fill. Angels appear to exist in a dimension other than our own, yet they influence what goes on in our world. At certain critical times they have been known to make themselves visible to select human beings.
Even though I have never encountered an angel, I do believe in them. Mainly that’s because in the Gospels Jesus not only repeatedly affirms their existence, but they play a significant role in His life. They appear often in the events surrounding His birth. Angels also minister to Jesus following His temptation in the wilderness, and strengthen Him in the Garden of Gethsemane. In the accounts of His Resurrection they are present once again.
Angels are created beings who rank higher than humans, with superior strength and intellect. They don’t die. Neither do they marry, and in Scripture they are always presented as male. Their earthly role is to serve those men and women who will inherit salvation. These references verify what I have written and provide additional insights:
- Luke 20:34-36
- Hebrews 13:2
- 2 Peter 2:11
- 2 Samuel 14:20
- Psalm 8:5
- 1 Corinthians 6:3
From a passage like Revelation 19:10 we know that angels are not to be worshiped. Scripture also makes it clear in numerous places (e.g., Hebrews 1:1-14) that Jesus is far greater than the angels.
There are multiplied millions of angels both good and bad. Satan (formerly called Lucifer) is an example of an angel of highest rank who rebelled against his creator.
There are any number of famous Bible passages involving angels. Let me encourage you to read three of my favorites:
- Daniel 6:1-24
- Acts 12:1-19
- 2 Kings 18:17 – 19:37.
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