The Incredible Truth About Angels: Biblical Angels Explained

Are Angels Real? Biblical Angels Explained by Pastor Gary Hilton

Did you know: The angels that appear on earth in the Bible didn't have wings? They looked like humans.

As we explore the concept of Biblical angels explained, we need to take a look at their roles. Angels have always played a significant role in the divine narrative, appearing over 300 times throughout scripture. From the first account of an angel appearing in Genesis to comfort a pregnant Hagar, to their presence in the book of Revelation, angels serve as messengers, protectors, and instruments of God's will. In this blog post, we will explore the profound presence of angels in scripture, their proximity to the heavenly realm, personal encounters with the divine, and how we can recognize God's presence in our lives through these celestial beings.

Exploring Angelic Visitations in Scripture

As we continue our exploration of angelic visitations surrounding the birth narratives, particularly in the Gospel of Luke. Angels appear throughout scripture, from the burning bush to ministering to Elijah in the wilderness. Their presence in the birth narratives and their final appearance in Revelation, where John is instructed not to worship them, underscores their role as fellow servants of God. It's important to note that humans and angels are distinct creations; we do not become angels after death—a common misconception.

The Proximity of the Heavenly Realm

The presence of angels in scripture suggests that God's realm is not far from us. The heavenly realm often intersects with our earthly existence. We may not always recognize it, but angels could be more present than we realize. Like the shepherds in the fields or travelers on the road to Emmaus, we may need the eyes of faith to recognize them when God sends them our way. This divine proximity invites us to remain open and aware of the spiritual dimensions of our lives.

Personal Encounters with the Divine

In my ministry, I've encountered numerous stories of people experiencing what they believe to be angelic encounters. One such story involves George, an elderly church member, who, in his final moments, reached out and exclaimed, "Oh, you look so beautiful," before passing away. Did he see an angel? Similarly, my grandfather, after a motorcycle accident, described a mysterious man who prayed with him, yet no one else saw this figure. These personal experiences highlight the mysterious and often subtle nature of angelic interactions.

Angels in Disguise: Ordinary Appearances with Extraordinary Impact

As we explain Biblical angels, it's important to research them through the lens of scripture.

Angels often appear in various forms, sometimes indistinguishable from ordinary people. For instance, the angel who visited Abraham in Genesis 18 appeared as three men. Hebrews 13:2 encourages believers to practice hospitality, noting that sometimes we may entertain angels unknowingly. This aligns with stories of angels appearing as ordinary people, providing comfort and guidance in times of need. Such encounters remind us that divine assistance can come in the most unexpected forms.

The Angelic Encounter of Mary

Gabriel visits Mary to tell her she will carry the Messiah.

In the quiet town of Nazareth, Mary encountered the Archangel Gabriel, who announced that she would conceive and give birth to Jesus. Gabriel's message fulfilled Old Testament prophecies, affirming Jesus' divine nature and lineage from King David. Mary's response, "I am the Lord's servant," reflects her profound faith and humility. This encounter not only highlights the role of angels in delivering God's messages but also underscores the importance of faith and receptivity to divine will.

Recognizing God's Presence in Our Lives

To perceive God's presence through angels, we must cultivate a heart attuned to the divine. This involves maintaining a healthy prayer life, engaging with scripture, and possessing a spirit of gratitude. Are angels real? Well, by being spiritually open and aware, we can recognize God's messages and guidance, even in ordinary events through angels. Developing such spiritual sensitivity allows us to discern the subtle ways in which angels may be influencing our lives.

Conclusion: Embracing the Divine Connection

The Archangel Gabriel stands ready to serve God in the divine realm. Are angels real? We say yes!

Angels serve as a bridge between the divine and the earthly, embodying God's presence and serving His purposes. By nurturing our spiritual attentiveness, we can see God's hand in greater ways, feel His presence more fully, and experience reassurance, protection, and guidance through His angels. Glory be to the Lord Our God, Jesus the Christ. Amen.