Why is this the first topic on Roots Reasons Relevance?

Michael the Archangel may be one of the most misunderstood Adventist teachings. Why? Some denominations believe that Michael is literally an angel, and if Jesus is Michael, that must mean He is an angel. If Jesus is an angel, then He cannot be the divine Son of God. If true, this would mean Adventists do not worship God but a created being. For these reasons, I thought this would be an interesting first topic to explore.

Who is Michael the Archangel?

Michael the Archangel is one of Jesus’ titles that explains His diverse divine roles.

If Michael is one of Jesus’ titles, does that mean He is created or isn’t God?

No. The Bible teaches that Jesus is God, the Creator of all that exists, the Son of God, and has existed from eternity. God reserves worship only for Himself, and Adventists (and all Christians) worship and adore Jesus as Savior, Redeemer, and God. If Jesus were a created angel, Christians could not worship Him as God.

What is Michael’s role in the Bible?

In Daniel, Michael appears as Prince and Savior for humanity; in Paul writings, He resurrects the dead; and in Jude and Revelation, Michael defeats Satan’s rebellion.

Why is Michael important now?

The Bible reveals end-time global calamities marked by violence, war, hatred, catastrophes, and religious turmoil. Those who remain faithful to Christ will suffer persecution during this period. Scripture promises, though, that when all seems lost, Michael will “stand” for His people, deliver them, and return. This is good news that is relevant today, as it continually reminds us of Jesus’ redeeming and delivering power.

Is this teaching a fundamental Adventist belief?

No. Adventists have 28 fundamental beliefs, and Michael the Archangel is not among these. This teaching connects with Fundamental Belief 4, Jesus, as it further explains Christ’s heavenly roles and divine attributes. It is a supporting, rather than defining, Adventist belief. Though a fascinating topic shedding deep insight on Jesus’ roles, abilities, and divinity, it is not a foundational or salvatic doctrine.

Do Adventists believe Michael is an angel?

No. Jesus is the divine Son of God and is verily God Himself. As the Book of Hebrews states, at no point did Jesus become an angel. The word archangel simply means the “highest messenger,” and this certainly describes one of Jesus’ roles.

Who developed Adventist teachings on Michael?

The Jesus-Michael connection existed long before Adventism. Some theologians during the Second Great Awakening promoted this teaching, William Miller accepted it, the Millerite movent adopted it, and Adventists absorbed the belief. No single Adventist, including Ellen White, individually perpetuated the teaching. Instead, it recurred throughout the decades in a range of writings by Adventist authors.

Have Adventist teachings on Michael changed?

Mainstream Adventist teachings on Michael remain significantly unchanged since the denomination formed in 1863. On occasion, periphery interpretations emerge. The most prominent of these appeared during the first decade of the 20th century, when the editor of Signs of the Times published articles indicating he believed Jesus may have adopted an angelic nature in order to minister to fallen angels. This represents a minority position, however. Adventist teachings on Michael deepened in theological insight over the decades, but remain essentially unchanged.