Angels are spiritual beings that act as messengers and servants of God. Though the full nature and duties of angels are not completely understood, scripture provides some insight into the different responsibilities angels fulfill. Their jobs primarily involve praising and worshipping God, carrying out God’s will, protecting and guiding humanity, and delivering messages.
Praising and Worshipping God
One of the main jobs angels have is to praise and worship God. Scripture refers to angels continuously singing praises to God around his throne. For example, Revelation 5:11 states: “Then I looked and heard the voice of many angels, numbering thousands upon thousands, and ten thousand times ten thousand. They encircled the throne and the living creatures and the elders.” This passage illustrates a vast host of angels surrounding God’s throne and worshipping him.
Angels also shout praises when momentous events occur. When Jesus was born, a heavenly host of angels praised God saying “Glory to God in the highest heaven” (Luke 2:14). The constant praise and adoration from angels demonstrates God’s splendor, majesty and holiness. Angels were created specifically to worship God and give him glory.
Carrying Out God’s Will
Angels also serve God by carrying out his will and performing specific tasks he assigns them. God often gave angels particular messages or instructions to deliver to humans on his behalf. For example, Gabriel delivered messages to the prophet Daniel to provide him visions and insight (Daniel 8:16, 9:21). The angel Michael helped fight spiritual battles for Israel (Daniel 10:13). Angels also executed more practical tasks like tending to Jesus after his temptation in the wilderness (Matthew 4:11), strengthening him before his crucifixion (Luke 22:43), and releasing apostles from prison (Acts 5:19, 12:7-10).
At times, God may use angels to execute judgment and demonstrate his power. Angels guarded the entrance to the Garden of Eden after Adam and Eve’s expulsion (Genesis 3:24). The angel of the Lord destroyed the Assyrian army when they besieged Jerusalem (2 Kings 19:35). An angel from heaven will also bind Satan and lock him away during Christ’s millennial reign on earth (Revelation 20:1-3). Though normally invisible, angels carry out visible, impactful works on behalf of God.
Protecting and Guiding Humanity
Angels often serve as protectors and guides for individuals and nations. God charges his angels with safeguarding those who follow him. Psalm 91:11 states, “For he will command his angels concerning you to guard you in all your ways.” Angels watch over and deliver believers from harm, as when an angel struck down Herod before he could kill the apostle Peter (Acts 12:6-11). Angels also accompanied and protected God’s people in the wilderness after the exodus from Egypt (Exodus 23:20, 23).
Besides protection, angels guide people towards wise choices and destinations. When the prophet Balaam set off to curse Israel, an angel blocked his path and turned him towards the right direction (Numbers 22:22-35). Angels similarly direct missionaries on where to preach the gospel. Philip was guided by an angel to approach an Ethiopian man and tell him about Jesus (Acts 8:26). Lot and his family were led out of Sodom by angels right before its destruction (Genesis 19:15-17). Angels continue shepherding believers today through prompting, opening doors, and directing thoughts and circumstances.
Delivering Messages
One of the most familiar angelic roles is delivering God’s messages to people on earth. The word “angel” literally means “messenger” in Greek. Angels conveyed revelations, instructions, warnings, and promises to individuals, communities, and all humanity. Some examples include:
- Gabriel explaining God’s plan for the Messiah to Mary (Luke 1:26-38)
- Angels informing Joseph to take Mary as his wife and name the child Jesus (Matthew 1:20-21)
- An angel telling Philip the good news about Christ and baptizing the Ethiopian man (Acts 8:26-40)
- Angels revealing future events to Daniel (Daniel 10) and John (Revelation 1:1)
- An angel announcing the birth of Jesus to the shepherds (Luke 2:8-15)
These passages illustrate angels directly interacting with people to convey God’s truth. Their messages illuminated God’s plans, encouraged faith, redirected wandering hearts, and prompted praise and worship. Even when not visibly appearing, angels whisper God’s words to communicators of the gospel today.
Conclusion
Angels occupy an essential position in God’s kingdom as his messengers, protectors, worshippers, and executors of his will. While much mystery surrounds the cosmic hierarchy and total ministry of angels, scripture provides glimpses into angels magnifying God’s glory, guiding humanity, and accomplishing God’s cosmic plans. Their behind-the-scenes work is vital and impactful. One day, the full revelation of angels will bring deeper awe, worship, and inspiration of God’s amazing creativity and sovereignty.