Topical Encyclopedia Angels, as spiritual beings created by God, play a significant role in the biblical narrative, serving as messengers, warriors, and worshipers. Their existence and activities are woven throughout Scripture, revealing their deep connection to the divine plan of salvation through Jesus Christ. This entry explores the relationship between angels and the Gospel of Christ, highlighting their knowledge and delight in God's redemptive work.Angelic Knowledge of the Gospel Angels possess a profound understanding of God's redemptive plan, as evidenced by their involvement in key events throughout biblical history. They were present at the announcement of Christ's birth, as seen in Luke 2:10-11 : "But the angel said to them, 'Do not be afraid, for behold, I bring you good news of great joy that will be for all the people: Today in the city of David a Savior has been born to you. He is Christ the Lord!'" This proclamation underscores their awareness of the significance of Jesus' incarnation. Furthermore, angels are depicted as eager observers of God's unfolding plan of salvation. In 1 Peter 1:12 , it is written, "It was revealed to them that they were not serving themselves, but you, when they spoke of the things now announced by those who preached the gospel to you by the Holy Spirit sent from heaven—things into which angels long to look." This passage suggests that angels are deeply interested in the mysteries of the Gospel, indicating their desire to comprehend the full scope of God's grace and mercy. Angelic Delight in the Gospel Angels not only know the Gospel but also delight in it, rejoicing in the fulfillment of God's promises. Their joy is evident in the heavenly celebration at the birth of Christ, as described in Luke 2:13-14 : "And suddenly there appeared with the angel a great multitude of the heavenly host, praising God and saying: 'Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace to men on whom His favor rests!'" Moreover, angels rejoice over the repentance and salvation of sinners. In Luke 15:10 , Jesus states, "In the same way, I tell you, there is joy in the presence of the angels of God over one sinner who repents." This joy reflects their delight in witnessing the transformative power of the Gospel and the expansion of God's kingdom. Angelic Role in the Gospel Narrative Throughout the New Testament, angels are depicted as active participants in the Gospel narrative. They ministered to Jesus after His temptation in the wilderness (Matthew 4:11) and strengthened Him in the Garden of Gethsemane (Luke 22:43). Their presence at the resurrection of Christ further underscores their integral role in the Gospel account. In Matthew 28:5-6 , an angel announces to the women at the tomb, "Do not be afraid, for I know that you are looking for Jesus, who was crucified. He is not here; He has risen, just as He said." Angelic Worship of Christ Angels are depicted as worshipers of Christ, acknowledging His divine authority and majesty. Hebrews 1:6 declares, "And again, when God brings His firstborn into the world, He says: 'Let all God’s angels worship Him.'" This command highlights the reverence and adoration angels have for Jesus, recognizing Him as the Son of God and the Savior of humanity. In Revelation, angels are portrayed as part of the heavenly chorus that exalts the Lamb who was slain. Revelation 5:11-12 describes this scene: "Then I looked, and I heard the voices of many angels and living creatures and elders encircling the throne, and their number was myriads of myriads and thousands of thousands. In a loud voice they said: 'Worthy is the Lamb who was slain, to receive power and riches and wisdom and strength and honor and glory and blessing!'" Through their knowledge, delight, and worship, angels serve as celestial witnesses to the Gospel of Christ, reflecting the glory and majesty of God's redemptive plan. Their presence in the biblical narrative offers a glimpse into the heavenly realm, where the Gospel is celebrated and revered by all of God's creation. Torrey's Topical Textbook Ephesians 3:9,10And to make all men see what is the fellowship of the mystery, which from the beginning of the world has been hid in God, who created all things by Jesus Christ: Torrey's Topical Textbook 1 Timothy 3:16 1 Peter 1:12 Library Christ and the Sadduccees All Fulness in Christ Under the Apple Tree. "I Sat Down under his Shadow with Great ... The Glorious Gospel On the Words of the Gospel, Matt. xxi. 19, Where Jesus Dried up ... Of Justification by Christ On the Words of the Gospel, John xvi. 24, "Hitherto have Ye Asked ... Glorious Predestination Christ's Pastoral Prayer for his People Psalm LXXXVII. Resources How many angels are there? | GotQuestions.orgWhat is the hierarchy of angels? | GotQuestions.org Can angels reproduce? | GotQuestions.org Angels: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Subtopics Angels are Examples of Meekness Angels are Ministering Spirits Angels are of Different Orders Angels: Announced: The Ascension and Second Coming of Christ Angels: Announced: The Birth of Christ Angels: Announced: The Conception of Christ Angels: Announced: The Conception of John the Baptist Angels: Announced: The Resurrection of Christ Angels: Celebrate the Praises of God Angels: Communicate the Will of God and Christ Angels: Created by God and Christ Angels: Execute the Judgments of God Angels: Execute the Purposes of God Angels: Have Charge Over the Children of God Angels: Know and Delight in the Gospel of Christ Angels: Ministration of, Obtained by Prayer Angels: Rejoice Over Every Repentant Sinner Angels: Shall Attend Christ at his Second Coming Angels: Shall Execute the Purposes of Christ Angels: The Law Given by the Ministration of Angels: Worship God and Christ Related Terms |