Angels are also spectators of the joy over repentant sinners (Luke 15:10), Christ’s confession before God on behalf of sinners (Luke 12:8-9), and the eternal woes of those who worship the beast (Rev. 14:10-11). They serve as guides, directing Abraham’s servant (Gen. 24:7, 40), Jacob (Gen. 28:12-15), Israel (Exo. 14:19), Moses (Acts 7:38, 53), Paul (Gal. 3:19), Cornelius (Acts 10:3-5), and Philip (Acts 8:26-40). Angels minister to the needs of Christians (Heb. 1:14), but the Bible does not record them ministering to unbelievers. They ministered to Hagar and Ishmael (Gen. 21:17-21), the Israelites (Exo. 3:7), Elijah (1 Kings 19:5-7), Jesus (Mark 1:13), and Peter (Acts 12:6-11).  

While most angels are unnamed, some are identified by name or special ministry. Lucifer (“the bright one”), another name for Satan, is described in Isaiah 14:12 and 2 Corinthians 11:14 as an angel of light, a counterfeiter of Christ. Michael, the archangel (Jude 9), means “one who is like God” and is possibly the only archangel (1 Thess. 4:16). He is subject to God but has great authority and power, battling the devil (Rev. 12:7-12), protecting Israel (Dan. 12:1), and contending for the body of Moses (Jude 9). Gabriel is associated with special announcements (Luke 1:26-27), such as the birth of John the Baptist (Luke 1:11-19) and Christ (Luke 1:26-38). In the Old Testament, he revealed God’s purpose (Dan. 8:15-27; 9:20-27), including prophecies about Christ’s comings.