Who Are Angels According to the Bible?

According to the Bible, angels are spiritual beings that God created to serve Him and carry out His will. Scripture does not describe angels as human spirits or divine beings. Instead, the Bible presents angels as powerful servants who act under God’s authority as messengers, protectors, and ministers.

“Praise the Lord, you His angels, you mighty ones who do His bidding, who obey His word.” (Psalm 103:20)

Knowing who angels are helps believers understand how God works, protects, and guides His people.

Angels Exist to Glorify God

God created angels for His glory, and they live in complete obedience to Him.

Angels Existed Before the World Was Formed

The Bible shows that angels were present before God created the earth.

“Where were you when I laid the earth’s foundation… while the morning stars sang together and all the angels shouted for joy?” (Job 38:4–7)

This passage reveals that angels witnessed creation and responded with praise and celebration.

Angels Continually Worship God

In heaven, angels worship God without ceasing and proclaim His holiness.

“Holy, holy, holy is the Lord Almighty; the whole earth is full of His glory.” (Isaiah 6:3)

Their obedience flows from joy, not obligation, as they gladly fulfill God’s purposes.

Angels Act as God’s Messengers and Protectors

Throughout Scripture, angels actively carry out God’s instructions by delivering messages and providing protection.

Angels Deliver God’s Messages

The word angel comes from the Greek term angelos, which means “messenger.” God sends angels to communicate important instructions and promises.

For example, an angel announced the birth of Jesus to Mary (Luke 1:26–31). Another angel warned Joseph and guided him through God’s plan (Matthew 1:20). Each appearance served a clear purpose in God’s redemptive work.

Angels Protect God’s People

Scripture also teaches that angels guard believers according to God’s command.

“He will command His angels concerning you to guard you in all your ways.” (Psalm 91:11)

This protection flows from God’s authority, not from angels acting independently.

Angels Serve God and Must Not Be Worshiped

Despite their power, angels never accept worship.

Worship Belongs to God Alone

The Bible clearly forbids the worship of angels.

“Worship God!” (Revelation 22:9)

Angels consistently direct attention away from themselves and toward God.

Angels Are Not Human Spirits

Many people believe angels were once humans, but Scripture does not support this idea. God created angels as a separate order of beings. Humans bear God’s image and hold a unique role in His plan.

Why a Biblical View of Angels Matters

A correct understanding of angels protects believers from false teaching. Scripture shows that angels serve faithfully while remaining under God’s authority.

Their role reminds believers that God works actively, even when His actions remain unseen.

Conclusion

According to the Bible, angels are created spiritual beings who glorify God and carry out His commands. God uses them as messengers and protectors, but Scripture never elevates them to divine status. Their presence in the Bible always points back to God’s power, care, and sovereignty.

Frequently Asked Questions About Angels in the Bible

Are angels humans who have died?

No. The Bible teaches that God created angels as spiritual beings, separate from humanity.

What purpose do angels serve?

Angels serve God by delivering messages, carrying out His will, and protecting believers when God commands them.

Do angels protect believers today?

Scripture affirms that angels protect believers according to God’s will, as stated in Psalm 91:11.

Should Christians pray to angels?

Christians should pray only to God. The Bible never instructs believers to pray to angels.

What does Revelation 22:9 teach about angels?

Revelation 22:9 shows that angels refuse worship and point all honor to God alone.