What are the different types of angels?

Angels fall into two categories: the “unfallen” angels and the fallen angels. Unfallen angels are those who have remained sinless throughout their existence and accordingly are called “holy angels.” Generally, when angels are mentioned in Scripture, it is the class of holy angels in view. By contrast, the fallen angels are those who sinned and rebelled against God.

Holy angels seem to be divided into special classes, and certain ones are named. Michael the archangel is likely the head of all the holy angels, and his name means “who is like unto God?” (Daniel 10:21; 12:1; 1 Thessalonians 4:16; Jude 1:9; Revelation 12:7–10). Gabriel is one of the principal messengers of God, his name meaning “hero of God.” Gabriel was entrusted with important messages such as those delivered to Daniel (Daniel 8:16; 9:21), Zechariah (Luke 1:18–19), and Mary (Luke 1:26–38).

Most holy angels are not named in the Bible but are described only as “elect angels” (1 Timothy 5:21). The expression “principalities and powers” seems to be used of all angels, whether fallen or holy (Luke 21:26; Romans 8:38; Ephesians 1:21; 3:10; Colossians 1:16; 2:10, 15; 1 Peter 3:22). Some angels are designated as “cherubim” (Genesis 3:24; Exodus 25:18, 20) and others as “seraphim” (Isaiah 6:2–7). The cherubim in Genesis 3:24 are described as having “a flaming sword”; the seraphim in Isaiah 6 have three pairs of wings. Most of the references to holy angels in Scripture refer to their ministries, which are broad. Holy angels are seen delivering messages and protecting God’s people. They were present at creation and involved in the giving of the law. Angels announced the birth of Christ, ministered to Jesus during His sojourn on earth, and were present at His resurrection and ascension. They will be seen again at the rapture of the church and the second coming of Christ.

The fallen angels are confirmed in their wickedness, much like the holy angels are confirmed in holiness. Led by Satan, who was originally a cherub, the fallen angels defected from God’s service, rebelled against Him, and became corrupt in their nature and work. Fallen angels exist in two states: free and bound. Of the fallen angels, Satan alone is given particular mention in the Bible. When Satan fell (John 8:44; Luke 10:18), he drew after him one third of the angels (see Revelation 12:4). Of those, some are chained, awaiting judgment (1 Corinthians 6:3; 2 Peter 2:4; Jude 1:6); the remainder are free for now and aid the devil in his destructive work. The demons, or unclean spirits, are referenced often in the New Testament (Mark 5:9, 15; Luke 8:30; 1 Timothy 4:1). They will share Satan’s doom (Matthew 25:41; Revelation 20:10).