What are archangels? Is there more than one archangel?

WHAT DOES THE BIBLE SAY?

The term "archangel," meaning "chief angel," is used specifically only for Michael in the Bible. He is a high-ranking spiritual being highlighted for his prominent role in spiritual warfare and divine intervention. It is uncertain whether there is one archangel—Michael—or multiple archangels. Michael the archangel is an important agent of God's will, contending in spiritual warfare and acting on behalf of God's people in accordance with His will. Ultimately, though, God is the One over the archangels and the One who protects us.

FROM THE OLD TESTAMENT

• In the book of Daniel, Michael is described as one of the chief princes and as the "great prince who has charge of your people [Israel]" (Daniel 10:13, 21; 12:1). Although not mentioned as an archangel in the Old Testament, the New Testament refers to Michael and calls him an archangel.

FROM THE NEW TESTAMENT

• Archangel is a word that occurs only twice in the Bible, both times in the New Testament. Archangel means "chief angel."
• First Thessalonians 4:16 says, "For the Lord himself will descend from heaven with a cry of command, with the voice of an archangel, and with the sound of the trumpet of God. And the dead in Christ will rise first." Here, the chief angel heralds the coming of Christ at the rapture.
• The term archangel also appears in Jude 1:9: "But when the archangel Michael, contending with the devil, was disputing about the body of Moses, he did not presume to pronounce a blasphemous judgment, but said, 'The Lord rebuke you'" In this verse, the archangel is identified as Michael. It is possible he is the only one, since he is called "the archangel." The Bible never says there is one and only one archangel. Daniel 10:13 refers to Michael as "one of the chief princes." If there are more than one archangel, Michael is certainly one of them and likely the head of them. Given the attention given to Michael's name (only one other angel is ever named in the Bible), Michael likely serves as the leader of the holy angels.

IMPLICATIONS FOR TODAY

Although the Bible explicitly mentions only one archangel by name—Michael—this single reference reveals profound truth about God's protection and His overarching plan. Michael's role as an archangel, involved in spiritual battles and defending God's people, highlights how divine protection is an essential part of God's greater plan. While we may not see the full extent of spiritual warfare or divine intervention, God remains our ultimate protector. The archangels, like Michael, act in service to God’s will, ensuring that His plans for our protection and deliverance are carried out. Yet, God is the One who ultimately protects us. Psalm 121:5 says God is our protector and guardian, providing constant watch and shade. In Isaiah 41:10, God assures Israel of His support and protection, promising strength and help. He is the same God today, and in Christ we are also assured of His protection and care (Romans 8:26–39). Proverbs 18:10 tells us that "the name of the LORD is a strong tower; the righteous man runs into it and is safe." This assurance encourages us to trust in God's sovereignty and to rely on His divine protection in our own lives, knowing that He is actively working for our good.

UNDERSTAND

• Only Michael is mentioned as an archangel by name in the Bible.
• Michael the archangel holds a top position among heavenly beings.
• Michael the archangel defends God's people and engages in spiritual battles.

REFLECT

• How does understanding the role of Michael the archangel influence your trust in God's protection?
• How does the Michael the archangel as a divine protector impact your daily reliance on God?
• How can the concept of archangels inspire you to strengthen your faith in God's sovereignty and care?

ENGAGE

• Michael serves God as the one who aided an angelic messenger in coming to Daniel (Daniel 10:13), withstood the Devil (Jude 1:9), will aid Israel in the end times (Daniel 12:1), and will participate in the rapture of believers (1 Thessalonians 4:13–18). Michael enjoys a prominent role in Scripture, but his glory is always subservient to the glory of Jesus Christ (Hebrews 1:13).
• How does Michael's role as an archangel defending God’s people reveal God’s care and sovereignty?
• How does knowing that God, not Michael or any other angel, is our ultimate protector encourage us to deepen our trust in His power and provision?