Angelology – What is it?

WHAT DOES THE BIBLE SAY?

Angelology is the section of systematic theology that focuses on the study of angels. Angelology also includes the study of fallen angels or demons, called Demonology, as well as the study of Satan, called Satanology. Angelology explores the nature of angels, their creation before the earth, and their various ranks and roles. It also examines their appearances throughout biblical history, the rebellion of some angels resulting in demons, and their participation in end-times events. Studying angels provides insight into God's sovereign plan and kingdom, encouraging believers to live with greater faith, to align their actions with God's will, and to adopt an eternal perspective.

FROM THE OLD TESTAMENT

• Angelology, the study of angels, involves several key areas and topics that are found in both the Old and New Testaments:
• Nature of Angels: Understanding what angels are, including their characteristics as spiritual beings, their immortality, and their lack of physical bodies (Genesis 19:1–3; Judges 13:6; Psalm 148:2; Daniel 9:21; Zechariah 1:9).
• Creation of Angels: Exploring when and how angels were created, emphasizing their existence before the earth was formed (Job 38:4–7).
• Hierarchy and Classification: Studying the different ranks and orders of angels, such as archangels, cherubim, and seraphim (Ezekiel 10:1–22; Isaiah 6:1–7).
• Roles and Functions: Examining the various roles angels play, including messengers of God, protectors and guardians, and warriors in spiritual battles (Psalm 91:11; Daniel 10:12–13).
• Angelic Worship: Investigating how angels worship and praise God in heaven (Isaiah 6:3).
• Ministering to Humans: Looking at how angels serve and assist believers, acting as ministering spirits (1 Kings 19:5–7).
• Angels in Biblical History: Analyzing significant appearances of angels throughout the Bible, such as their interactions with Abraham, Jacob, and Mary (Genesis 18:1–33; Genesis 32:1–2).
• Fallen Angels and Demons: Studying the rebellion of some angels, their fall from grace, and their current status as demons (Isaiah 14:12–15; Ezekiel 28:12–17).
• End Times Role: Understanding the role of angels in eschatological events, including their participation in the final judgment and gathering the elect (Daniel 12:1).
• Angelic Appearances and Interactions: Exploring accounts of angelic appearances to humans and their interactions with them (Daniel 9:20–23; Judges 6:11–23).

FROM THE NEW TESTAMENT

• Angelology, the study of angels, involves several key areas and topics that are found in both the Old and New Testaments:
• Nature of Angels: Luke 20:36; Hebrews 1:14.
• Creation of Angels: Colossians 1:16.
• Hierarchy and Classification: Colossians 1:16; Ephesians 6:12; 1 Thessalonians 4:16; Jude 1:9.
• Roles and Functions: Luke 1:26–28; Revelation 12:7–9.
• Angelic Worship: Revelation 5:11–12.
• Ministering to Humans: Hebrews 1:14.
• Angels in Biblical History: Luke 1:26–38.
• Fallen Angels and Demons: Revelation 12:3–4.
• End Times Role: Matthew 24:31; Revelation 8:6–13.
• Angelic Appearances and Interactions: Acts 12:7–11.

IMPLICATIONS FOR TODAY

Studying angels gives us insight into the spiritual realm and helps us understand God's plan and kingdom. Studying angels helps us recognize God’s power and sovereignty over both the visible and invisible world, as we see the heavenly hosts actively carry out His divine purposes. His command over a host of heavenly beings helps us see our lives within the larger context of His eternal plan. This deeper understanding transforms our outlook, encouraging us to align our actions and thoughts more closely with God’s will, and bolstering our confidence in His eternal plan for us.

Angelology also provides us with encouragement in how we are to respond to Him. Studying angelology refocuses our perspective on life, reminding us that we are not only made for this earth. Instead, we are to live with an eternal, heavenly perspective. The angels’ constant worship and obedience set an example for how we are to respond to God and have this heavenly perspective.

UNDERSTAND

• Angelology is the study of angels as spiritual beings created by God.
• Angelology examines the different ranks and orders of angels, such as archangels, cherubim, and seraphim, and their specific roles.
• Angelology explores the angels' roles in God’s divine plan and their interaction with humanity.

REFLECT

• How does understanding the nature and roles of angels enhance your perception of God's sovereignty and plan for your life?
• How can the study of angelic worship inspire you to deepen your own worship and relationship with God?
• How does learning about angels' roles as protectors and messengers impact your faith in God's guidance and protection in your daily life?

ENGAGE

• What insights can we gain about the spiritual realm through the study of angelology, and how do these insights influence our understanding of God's purposes and kingdom?
• How can the hierarchy and classification of angels shape our understanding of order and purpose within God's creation?
• How can studying angelic appearances and interactions in biblical history encourage us to recognize and respond to God's presence and activity in our lives today?