For in him all things were created: things in heaven and on earth, visible and invisible, whether thrones or powers or rulers or authorities; all things have been created through him and for him.
Are not all angels ministering spirits sent to serve those who will inherit salvation?
This week we will be considering elements of creation which are not often talked about or even believable for some. There are, however, many references in Scripture of unseen beings who hold a certain amount of power and who interact with our physical world including humanity. If you haven’t already guessed, I’m referring to angels and demons. Let us first spend some time considering who and what angels are. It is important to have an understanding about angels before trying to understand anything at all about demons. Before we do, it’s important to be aware of the existence of these beings, but not to get too caught up in focusing on any of them. It is more important to keep our focus only on Christ, the perfect revelation of God.
In culture, many are intrigued by the thought of angels, and we can find renderings about them everywhere. From medieval art to jewelry and even childlike cartoon images, people have attempted to personify what we think angels might look like. But what are they exactly? According to the Scripture passages we read above, angels are created beings. Just as all things were created by God including the earth, the galaxies, the animals, humans, etc. This is significant because angels are subject to the authority, will, and power of God. Angels may have power unavailable to me and you, but their power was given to them by God, their Creator, and is therefore limited.
We learn from the Book of Hebrews that angels are servants. They personally serve God according to His will and direction, and angels also minister to those who follow God. I don’t know about you, but I find it comforting to know God sends angels to help us. An example of this is found in Daniel 10:10-12
Just then a hand touched me and lifted me, still trembling, to my hands and knees. And the man said to me, “Daniel, you are very precious to God, so listen carefully to what I have to say to you. Stand up, for I have been sent to you.” When he said this to me, I stood up, still trembling.
Then he said, “Don’t be afraid, Daniel. Since the first day you began to pray for understanding and to humble yourself before your God, your request has been heard in heaven. I have come in answer to your prayer.
We may never knowingly see an angel in this world as Daniel did, but it can be reassuring to know God’s servants are active on His behalf in this troubled world and for our benefit. Let us give thanks to God for the presence of His angels and their work among us.
