Angels, what are they? Andrew and Jim Osman continue the What We Believe statement from the Striving for Eternity website series discussing Angels. There is much confusion on this subject because of two factors. The first factor is the little amount of biblical information on the subject. The second factor is the fascination and Hollywood hype on the subject.
Angels are created, not eternal, beings (Psalm 148:5); therefore, they are not to be worshiped. Each angel was individually and directly created by God as ministering spirits (Matthew 22:28-30; Hebrews 1:14). They were created before the foundation of the world (Job 38:6-7). Angels, like man, are not eternal but immortal meaning once created, they do not cease to exist. However, unlike man, angels were not created as a race, but a total number (innumerable to man) were created at one time.
Men cannot become angels, and angels cannot become men. Angels are distinct from both man and God and will be for all eternity (1 Corinthians 6:3; Hebrews 1:14; 2:6-8; 12:22-24). Angels are similar to man in having a personality but limited in power and abilities.
Angels were tested for obedience by a one-time confirmation of holiness or unholiness while man’s confirmation occurs at death. Angels are organized and submissive to that organization (Colossians 1:16; Ephesians 1:21; Jude 9; Revelation 12:7).
