When were the angels created?

WHAT DOES THE BIBLE SAY?

The Bible does not specify when angels were created but indicates they existed before humanity. It is possible the angels were created just prior to God's creation of the earth, or well before it (in our reckoning of time), but we cannot know for sure. What we can know is that the angels were created before humanity because they witnessed God's creation of the foundations of the earth, praising God for the beauty and majesty of His work. Satan, a fallen angel, tempted Adam and Eve in Genesis 3, also showing that angels existed prior to this event. The New Testament further teaches that angels are ministering spirits sent to serve God's people, implying their presence before Adam and Eve, likely by the sixth day of creation. Understanding that God created angels before humanity emphasizes His sovereign plan, distinct roles within creation, and deepens our trust in His provision, knowing everything operates under His will and serves His perfect purpose.

FROM THE OLD TESTAMENT

• The Bible does not specifically mention angels during the creation account of Genesis 1—2.
• The Bible does not give an exact time when angels were created, but it does offer details that reveal the general period in which angels were created. Satan came in the form of a serpent to tempt Adam and Eve in Genesis 3. Since Satan is a fallen angel (Isaiah 14:13), then angels clearly existed prior to this temptation.
• Job 38:4–7 also reveals that angels were created before humanity: "Where were you when I laid the foundation of the earth? Tell me, if you have understanding. Who determined its measurements—surely you know! Or who stretched the line upon it? On what were its bases sunk, or who laid its cornerstone, when the morning stars sang together and all the sons of God shouted for joy?" We find that angels (here described as "sons of God") existed before the earth was developed. Therefore, angels existed on the first day of creation in Genesis 1.

FROM THE NEW TESTAMENT

• The Bible also teaches that angels are ministering spirits who are sent out to serve God's people: "Are they not all ministering spirits sent out to serve for the sake of those who are to inherit salvation?" (Hebrews 1:14). Matthew 18:10 also teaches, "See that you do not despise one of these little ones. For I tell you that in heaven their angels always see the face of my Father who is in heaven." As one of the angels' purposes is to minister to humans, it makes sense that angels existed before Adam and Eve, at least by day six of creation.

IMPLICATIONS FOR TODAY

Understanding that God created angels before humanity emphasizes His detailed and sovereign plan for all creation. This separation of angels from humanity highlights the distinct roles each has within God's grand design. It reassures us that everything, seen and unseen, operates under His good and sovereign will. Recognizing that angels are part of this divine order, ministering to us as directed by God, deepens our trust in His care and provision. Knowing that God created humanity separate from the angels allows us to see His plan of redemption in awe and wonder, knowing that He intentionally created us differently. This awareness can strengthen our faith, reminding us that every aspect of creation serves a purpose in fulfilling God's perfect plan.

UNDERSTAND

• Angels were present to witness the foundation of the earth, indicating they were created before humans.
• The Bible does not specify the exact time of the angels' creation, but they existed before the events in Genesis 3.
• Angels are sent to serve God's people, which implies their presence before the creation of humanity.

REFLECT

• How does knowing that angels were created before humanity shape your understanding of God's sovereignty and His detailed plan for creation?
• How can reflecting on the distinct roles of angels and humans help you appreciate your unique purpose in God's grand design?
• How does the idea of angels as ministering spirits sent to serve God's people affect your trust in God's provision and care in your daily life?

ENGAGE

• What insights do we gain about God's character when we consider that He created angels before humanity with specific purposes?
• How can the understanding of angels being part of God's plan from the beginning influence our perspective on spiritual realities and unseen support in our lives?
• How can recognizing the distinct roles of angels and humans help us understand and appreciate the broader scope of God's redemptive plan?