Why Are People So Fascinated With Angels?
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Fascination with Angels
There's been a fascination with angels for a long time. And it's no wonder, for they're creatures of another dimension. Many books are written about angels and angels appear in significant places and times in the Bible (Genesis 19:1-13; Daniel 8:15-27; Luke 1:26-38). Angels also inspired many great works of art throughout history.
Over the past few decades, I’ve seen surges of interest and fascination in angels. This interest ranges from books to art to knick-knacks—those ceramic or plastic figurines many people own. When I was much younger, I remember plastic angel figurines that populated the tops of car dashboards and fireplace mantels.
Various polls demonstrate this fascination with angelic beings. A recent poll reports as many as seven out of ten people in the US believe in angels. But these polls and many books reveal a great confusion and ignorance about angels. Personal opinions often prevail over truth—biblical truth.
However, not all angels are good. Some angels exist on the dark side of the universe as enemies to God and to those who trust in Him. Despite all their wondrous appearances, abilities, and qualities, God is greater than they are. Angels are God’s ministering spirits—messengers and servants for His purposes.
Scripture Text
The Son has become greater than the angels since he has been given a name that is superior to theirs.
God never said to any of his angels, “You are my Son. Today I have become your Father.” And God never said to any of his angels, “I will be his Father, and he will be my Son.”
When God was about to send his firstborn Son into the world, he said, “All of God’s angels must worship him.” (Hebrews 1:4-6 GW)
[Context– Hebrews 1:4-9 GW]
Key Phrase —
“All of God’s angels must worship him [the Son].”
Dig Deeper Into the Text—
Who are we told is higher than the angels? How did He become higher than them?
Whose name is more excellent than the angels?
What does God tell the angels when He brings His Son into the world?
How are the angels described, and what is their role with God?
Things to Consider—
Angels are often held as mysterious beings, who seem to be like God, yet also like humans. Angels are heavenly beings, but they are not equal to God, nor are they human. This is the biblical truth about angels. Not only that but, angels have a fascination with God’s redemption of humanity (1 Peter 1:12).
God's Son Jesus is greater than angels and became human to rescue humanity from the power of sin. The phrase “You are God” in verse 8 emphasizes Jesus’ superiority over the angels.
We're also reminded that the Father placed Jesus "above" them and He is the Anointed One, a reference to Jesus being the Messiah, the Savior now seated on the throne next to the Father (Heb 1:3).
This is the second point of several reminders in the Book of Hebrews of how Jesus is supreme over all—a recurring exhortation in the Book of Hebrews. Not only is Jesus superior to the Old Testament prophets and God’s ministering angels, but the New Covenant Jesus established is greater than the Old Covenant put in force through Moses.
There is far more to come on this, so stay tuned for further devotional studies in Hebrews.
Answer These Questions to Apply God’s Word in Your Life—
What else are we told about the Son’s throne and kingdom?
Are you more clear about the place of Jesus over angels?
How does this relate to your personal life?
Here’s a link to a free study guide for the book of Hebrews— Study Guide and Study Questions for Hebrews
