Theology Terms Explained: “Angelology”
In this series on the blog, we’re providing sound doctrine for everyday people by providing you with clear and simple definitions that will strengthen your theological foundation. Each article covers 4 categories including:
The Term – We lay out how it’s pronounced.
The Definition – We provide the Merriam-Webster definition and an everyday version.
The Biblical Connection – We show you where the term connects with Scripture
Used in an Everyday Conversation – We use it in a basic conversation.
The Term
an·ge·lol·o·gy | \ ˌān-jə-ˈlä-lə-jē \
The Definition
Merriam-Webster: The study of angels.
FTG’s Expanded Explanation:
Angelology is the study of angels as they are revealed in Scripture. Angels are created spiritual beings who were made by God to serve Him and carry out His will. They are not divine, not human, and not eternal. They are powerful, intelligent, and real, but always under God’s authority.
The Bible presents angels as messengers, servants, and worshipers of God. Some angels remained faithful, while others rebelled and fell, becoming demons. Scripture never encourages fascination with angels, communication with angels, or worship of angels. Instead, it consistently places angels in their proper role: servants of God who exist to glorify Him and assist in His redemptive purposes.
A biblical understanding of angelology protects us from two errors: obsessing over angels or ignoring what Scripture clearly teaches about them.
The Biblical Connection
Hebrews 1:14 — “Are they not all ministering spirits, sent out to render service for the sake of those who will inherit salvation?”
Psalm 103:20 — “Bless the Lord, you His angels, mighty in strength, who perform His word, obeying the voice of His word!”
Luke 1:26–27 — “Now in the sixth month the angel Gabriel was sent from God to a city in Galilee called Nazareth, to a virgin engaged to a man whose name was Joseph… and the virgin’s name was Mary.”
Colossians 2:18 — “Let no one keep defrauding you of your prize by delighting in self-abasement and the worship of the angels, taking his stand on visions he has seen, inflated without cause by his fleshly mind.”
From Genesis to Revelation, angels serve God’s purposes but they never replace Christ as Savior, Mediator, or Lord.
Used in an Everyday Conversation
“Angels are real, but they’re servants, not saviors.”
“The Bible teaches us about angels so we don’t ignore them or obsess over them.”
“A right view of angelology keeps the focus on God’s power, not spiritual curiosity.”
“Any theology that elevates angels above Christ has already gone wrong.”
