Angels: Myth, Legend, or Heavenly Messengers?

I believe in angels. I have to because one saved my life. Most people, however, are uncertain about their beliefs in this particularly area. I think many want to believe but don't have the faith to do so in light of the fact that these beings can't typically be seen, touched, or communicated with. Others simply dismiss them out of hand because they don't believe in God and they view the two as inextricably linked.

Angels, however, have been linked to multiple religions; not just Christianity. The Jewish religion; that of Islam; and even that of Native Americans are rich in their belief of angels. These creatures have been the source of numerous myths and legends in countries throughout the world.

Books have been dedicated to them. Fables and stories have been told about them. Artists have painted them. Philosophers have debated their existence. Movie and television film directors have attempted to bring them to life on screen. Whether we realize it or not, we have a fascination with these beings.

The meaning of angels and their exact purpose has been speculated about throughout history. Certainly there are several references in the Bible that validate their purpose as messengers of God and carriers of portents and omens. However, it is likely that they also serve other purposes as well. Many people believe that they serve as guides, guardians, and protectors; and not just for those who are from the Christian belief.

There are typically seven orders or classes assigned to angels: powers, principalities, dominions, thrones, archangels, seraphim and cherubim. I will attempt in future articles to deal with each of those classes separately to better explain how they fit into the realm of angels.

Angels are believed to possess unusual powers that include wisdom, freedom, and a kind of super human power or strength. Some even believe that they possess healing powers that range from the ability to alleviate fear to a capability of restoring health.