Michael The Archangel Poster
Michael is the most prominent Angel of the angelic realm. He is the first Angel mentioned in the Bible and is called "Archangel" because he is "the prince of all the Angels". The Hebrews referred to him as "your prince" and "the great prince", who has charge over your people. He is the most powerful of God's created beings and is mentioned five times in scripture and is of great importance in the ministry of God.
Traditionally, Michael is referred to as the chief of the order of Virtues, prince of the Presence, prince of Seraphim, Angel of repentance, righteousness, mercy and sanctification, protector of high places, and ruler of the fourth heaven and conqueror Of Satan.
Michael is considered the protector of Israel and the chief of all Angel-princes. He is called the Warrior Angel, figher, general of God's army, winged warrior, and is usually shown with an unsheathed sword. He is a warrior of God and fights against the powers of darkness. Michael is the slayer of the dragon (Satan) when he revolted against God and in single combat hurled him down from heaven.
No adequate explanation of the Holy Angels is complete without reference to Michael the Archangel. He joins Gabriel and Raphael as the trio of Archangels specifically mentioned by name throughout the Church’s history, given their appearance in Sacred.
An angel is similar to God in that he is a spirit; however, he differs from the Creator in that it is a created spirit while only God is the Uncreated Spirit. This angel has from God a name, meaning “who is like unto God.” Michael belongs to the choir of angels called the Archangels, usually listed eighth of the nine choirs.
Defends us in battle
We readily acknowledge that a fierce war is waging-a terrible conflict which has continued unabated since the fall of the angels. Good and evil constantly do battle. Michael is fervently implored for his powerful, fearless assistance against the considerable forces of the underworld.
By asking for his help, the Christian faithfully recognize his longstanding position as protector of God’s holy people.
Devils are the fallen angels who disobeyed God rather than submitting to His commands. Not only are the devils evil but they also want us to become evil. They delight in setting pitfalls for us. Michael vanquishes the demons; he assists us in negotiating the inevitable hurdles which can trip us.
May God rebuke him, we humbly pray
Already we know that God has defeated Satan. Jesus’ Death and Resurrection was the death knell for Hades and its advocates. Yet, we still are to pray that the Lord will rebuke him. Why? Because we are summoned to state our intention, thereby aligning our wills with that of the Lord’s. We desire what God desires, namely, that Satan’s influence will cease over those who seek to become friends of the Master.
And do Thou, O Prince of the Heavenly Host
Michael’s has been granted special command among the angels. Furthermore, it is expected that he will do something. There is a tangible anticipation that this Archangel will act.
By the power of God
The Prince of the Heavenly Host must rely on the strength of the Lord. Michael possesses tremendous power because the Creator believes it appropriate that he has it. Michael, too, bows under God’s almighty hand.
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Cast into Hell Satan and all the evil spirits |
Amen
This often-used word signals belief and acceptance. It underscores what we have now affirmed. Michael indeed serves God and His children in a notable, lasting manner. The Church professes that this Archangel has been chosen by the Lord Himself to help usher in the reign of abiding peace which Christ came, died and rose to establish.
Disciples of Christ may learn much from Michael the Archangel. He is a true servant who surrenders to the divine directive. He is a warrior who willingly spars with the terrors of Hell. He is an example of sanctity who offers the faithful a model of love for God and zeal for souls.
With the scores of good angels, Michael, the champion, protects and defends the Church Militant. The Church is blessed by his presence.
Michael, the Archangel, is the patron angel of Israel. In Daniel 10:13, it is Michael who assists another angel who had been sent to Daniel, to respond to Daniel's prayer. In Daniel 12:1-3, Michael's tasks include the destruction of sinners at The End of Days, he will also praise and glorify the righteous. In Jude 1:9, Michael contended with the Devil over Moses' body, and did not dare to bring a condemnation of slander against him, but said "The Lord rebuke you!" In Revelation 12:7-8, Michael is the angel who leads a battle against evil, which is characterized as a dragon. Michael prevails. The name Michael means "Who is like God?"
Jesus is not Michael the Archangel. The Bible nowhere identifies Jesus as Michael (or any other angel for that matter). Hebrews 1:5-8 draws a clear distinction between Jesus and the angels, “For to which of the angels did God ever say, "You are my Son; today I have become your Father"? Or again, "I will be His Father, and He will be my Son"? And again, when God brings His firstborn into the world, He says, "Let all God's angels worship Him." In speaking of the angels He says, "He makes his angels winds, his servants flames of fire." But about the Son He says, "Your throne, O God, will last for ever and ever, and righteousness will be the scepter of your kingdom.” Angels worship Jesus. The angels are called sons of God (Genesis 6:2-4; Job 1:6; 2:1; 38:7), but Jesus is THE Son of God (Hebrews 1:8; Matthew 4:3-6).
Michael the Archangel is perhaps the highest of all the angels. Michael is the only angel in the Bible who is designated “the Archangel” (Jude 9). Michael the Archangel, though, is only an angel. He is not God. The clear distinction in the power and authority of Michael and Jesus can be seen in comparing Matthew 4:10 and Jude 9. In Matthew 4:10, Jesus rebukes Satan. In Jude 9, Michael the Archangel calls on the Lord to rebuke Satan. Jesus is God incarnate, God in the flesh of man. (John 1:1,14). Michael the Archangel is a powerful angel, but still only an angel. God is God, angels are angels.
