An angel is a spirit being; however, since the word “angel” actually means “messenger” it can also be used for humans. When it is not translated correctly, the meaning of a passage can be changed by implying it is a spirit being rather than a human messenger, such as with the seven churches in Revelation. Context clearly shows it is the human messenger (pastor) of the assembly being addressed, not an angel (spirit being).
Angels only appear to men in the likeness of men (Daniel 9:21, the man Gabriel). They appear in person, in visions (Daniel 8:15-16), or in dreams (Matthew 1:20, an angel appearing to Joseph in a dream).
John the Baptist is referred to as a messenger in Matthew 11:10, which is a quote of Malachi 3:1.
There are different ranks of angels: Archangel (Michael), who is the single highest-ranking angel (Jude 9), Thrones (Colossians 1:16), Dominions (Ephesians 1:21), Principalities (Ephesians 3:10), and Powers (Ephesians 6:12). Demons are from the lower ranks of the angels (Ephesians 6:12 Principalities and powers. The world powers of darkness and spiritual malignant evil in the heavens). They are angels who followed Lucifer (Satan) in his attempt to put his throne up in the third heaven with God (Isaiah 14:13; Revelation 12:4). Therefore, the word “angel” is not exclusively used to describe this type of spirit being.
For the sake of understanding a passage in Scripture, it is important to distinguish between whether a spirit being is referred to or a human, who both can act as messengers. In addition, Lucifer can also disguise himself as a messenger. Therefore, who the messenger is can also be important to identify.
The laws received by Israel were not from angels, but human messengers (Moses and the Prophets), Acts 7:53; Galatians 3:19.
Satan, who is a cherub, can disguise himself as a messenger of light, 2 Corinthians 11:14.
The Angel of Jehovah is the second person of the Godhead prior to His incarnation (Genesis 16:11). It is important to note that “The Angel of Jehovah” is different from “an angel of Jehovah”.
Often context will make it clear as to which type of a messenger is being referred to, spirit or human. Other times it requires a greater level of study to determine who the messenger is, such as in Acts 7:53 which is translated as “angel”; however, Scripture records God using men to bring the law to Israel not angels.
