GLEANINGS FROM THE SCRIPTURESThe Scriptures and AngelsBy Keith L. EstesAmong the angels are two unique orders, the Cherubim and the Seraphim, which are of the highest order and created with indescribable powers and beauty. They are pro-claimers and protectors of God's glorious presence, His sovereignty, and His holiness. They stood guard at the gate of Eden, cover the mercy seat above the Holy of Holies and attended the glory of God in Ezekiel's vision. They surround the throne of God and are described as each having wings. They praise and proclaim the perfect holiness of God. The Cherubim defend the holiness of God. The Seraphim (meaning burning ones) surround the throne of God as they attend to His holiness. Angels Who Are Governmental Rulers- Ephesians 6:12 refers to "ranking of fallen angels"; rulers are "those who are first or high in rank"; powers are "those invested with authority"; world-forces of this darkness "expresses the power or authority which they exercise over the world"; spiritual forces of wickedness describes the wicked spirits, "expressing their character and nature." Michael the Archangel- He is the only angel designated archangel. The mission of Michael is protector of Israel. The name Michael means "who is like God?" He is called "Michael your prince" in Daniel. Michael is the defender of Israel who will wage war on behalf of Israel against Satan and his hordes in the Tribulation. Michael also disputed with Satan about the body of Moses, but Michael refrained from judgment, leaving that to God. One cult and some Christians identify Michael as Christ; this view, however, would suggest Christ has less authority than Satan, which is untenable. Gabriel- His name means "Man of God" or "God is strong." "Gabriel seems to be God's special messenger of His kingdom program in each of the four times he appears in the Bible record. He reveals and interprets God's purpose and program concerning Messiah and His kingdom to the prophets and people of Israel. In a highly significant passage, Gabriel explained the events of the seventy weeks for Israel. Gabriel told Mary that the One born to her would be great and rule on the throne of David. In Daniel, Gabriel explained to Daniel the succeeding kingdoms of Medo-Persia and Greece as well as the untimely death of Alexander the Great. Gabriel also announced the birth of John the Baptist to Zacharias. LUCIFER - means "son of the morning." He may have been the wisest and most beautiful of all God's created beings who was originally placed in a position of authority over the Cherubim surrounding the throne of God. He has become the archenemy of all mankind. Ref. Eph. 3:10,6:12, Dan. 9:21-27,10:13,12:1, Rev. 12:7-9, Jude 9, Luke 1:26-27, 1:11-20, Isa. 6:2, 14:12, Gen.3:24, Ex.25:17-22, Ezek.1, Isa. 6:3, King James Version. The Handbook of Theology by Paul Enns- Used by permission. |