Is It Okay to Pray with Images or to Angels?

In the 66 recognized cannon books of the Christian Bible, there is no Scripture that I know of as a layman or have heard from any Pastor or Preacher of the faith that promotes praying with idols or praying to angels. There is instead specific commands against idolatry, and verses on angels show how we should relate to these beings. This article will explore the biblical teachings on prayer with images and praying to angels.

What Does God Say About Graven Images?

Leviticus 26:1 KJV reads, 'Ye shall make you no idols nor graven image neither rear you up a standing image neither shall ye set up any image of stone in your land to bow down unto it: for I am the LORD your God.' The New Testament expands on this in Acts 17:29 KJV, ‘Forasmuch then as we are the offspring of God we ought not to think that the Godhead is like unto gold or silver or stone graven by art and man’s device.’

What about Idolatry?

Idolatry is the practice of putting something or someone else in God's place. It might not be with a graven image, but it is something God explicitly forbids. Exodus 20:3 says, 'Thou shalt have no other gods before Me.' Colossians 3:5 ESV puts it more forcefully, 'Put to death therefore what is earthly in you: sexual immorality, impurity, passion, evil desire, and covetousness, which is idolatry.' God makes it clear that we should only worship and serve Him.

What Does the Bible Say About Praying to Angels?

The Bible does not directly say not to worship angels. However, the central message of the Bible is to worship and serve God exclusively. Angels serve God, and those who did not choose to follow Satan and remained loyal to God, also worship Him. In Matthew 4:10 NIV, Jesus tells Satan, 'Away from Me, Satan! For it is written: "Worship the Lord your God and serve Him only." ' In Revelation 22:8-9 BSB, an angel tells John not to worship him, but God, stating, 'And when I had heard and seen them I fell down to worship at the feet of the angel who had shown me these things. But he said to me, Do not do that! I am a fellow servant with you and your brothers the prophets and with those who keep the words of this book. Worship God!'

Conclusion: When We Pray

Therefore, when we pray, we do not need any images and we do not direct our prayers to anyone but God. As 1 Chronicles 16:11 KJV says, 'Look to the LORD and His strength seek His face always.'