What different types of angels does the Bible talk about?

Quick answer

The Bible refers to the angels that serve God and fallen angels (known as demons). The variety of angels that serve God encourage us to also worship God and live out His purposes.

WHAT DOES THE BIBLE SAY?

The Bible mentions several types of angels, each with distinct roles. The biggest distinction is between the faithful angels and the fallen angels. God’s faithful, holy angels serve a variety of duties, including worshiping God, relaying messages, performing miracles, facilitating judgment, and ministering to God's people. Seraphim, described in Isaiah 6:1–3, have six wings and serve in God's presence, worshiping Him continuously. Cherubim are found throughout the Old Testament, such as in Genesis 3:24, Exodus 25:18–22, and Ezekiel 10. They are associated with God's glory and guard sacred spaces like the garden of Eden and the ark of the covenant. Michael the archangel, and perhaps additional archangels (1 Thessalonians 4:16) is a warrior angel who leads heavenly armies (Daniel 10:13, 21; 12:1; Jude 1:9; Revelation 12:7–9). Gabriel, appearing in Daniel 8 and 9 and the New Testament (Luke 1:19, 26), delivers key messages from God. Lastly, fallen angels, including Satan, are rebellious beings described in multiple passages, including Revelation 12:9 and Matthew 25:41. They will face ultimate judgment and eternal separation from God (Revelation 20:10). Understanding the different types of angels helps us understand God’s plan over the spiritual world. It also calls us to respond in worship to God, to test the spirits, and to live faithful lives that follow His plans and purposes.

FROM THE OLD TESTAMENT

FROM THE NEW TESTAMENT

IMPLICATIONS FOR TODAY

The different types of faithful angels described in the Bible—such as the seraphim, cherubim, archangels like Michael, and messenger angels like Gabriel—demonstrate unwavering devotion and obedience to God. This serves as a powerful example for us to follow. Just as these holy angels fulfill their divine roles with faithfulness, we are called to worship God wholeheartedly and to live according to His purposes. We face spiritual opposition from fallen angels (Ephesians 6:12), so we are called to test the spirits (1 John 4:1) and to stand firm against Satan (James 4:7; 1 Peter 5:8–9), the one who masquerades as an angel of light (2 Corinthians 11:14). As we align our lives with God's will and Word, we mirror the dedication of His faithful angels and live a life that matches the glory the angels praise God for in heaven.

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