In
the Middle Ages the question, "How many angels can dance on
a pinhead?" was hotly debated. While this is typical of the
nonsense written about angels both past and present too often
the extreme of speculation begets that of neglect. In truth,
there is much to be learned in a biblical analysis of angels and
their work.
The
ambiguity of the words translated "angel" causes some
confusion. The same word "angel" in Gen. 22:11 is
translated "messenger" in 1 Sam. 16:19. Likewise, in
Mat. 1:20 we find "angel" while Mat. 11:10 renders the
word as "messenger" speaking of John the baptizer. The
context determines whether it is a human messenger or a divine
messenger (angel).
Observe
some traits of angels. Created by God, they dwell in His
presence (Col. 1:16; Mat. 18:10). Heb. 2:9-10 indicates they are
on a plane above man but below the Godhead. Even in this exalted
state all things have not been revealed to them (Mat. 24:36).
Do
angels have wings? Biblical descriptions usually portray them as
glorious and arrayed in brilliant apparel. However they do not
always don this distinctive clothing for "some have
entertained angels unawares". (Heb. 13:2). The idea of
wings probably came from the winged cherubim atop the ark of the
covenant.
A
common misnomer is that of the guardian angels. This notion is
no where found in scripture. When the saints speak of Peter's
"angel" in Ac. 12:15 they are not necessarily
referring to a guardian angel, neither are their statements
inspired.
