Why do jw think jesus is michael

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Last updated: April 8, 2026

Quick Answer: Jehovah's Witnesses believe Jesus is Michael the archangel based on their interpretation of biblical passages. This identification was formally established in the 1870s by Charles Taze Russell, founder of the Bible Student movement, which later became Jehovah's Witnesses. They cite scriptures like 1 Thessalonians 4:16, which mentions the Lord's descent with an archangel's voice, and Daniel 12:1, linking Michael to resurrection events. This view distinguishes them from mainstream Christianity, which typically sees Jesus as God incarnate, not an angel.

Key Facts

Jehovah's Witnesses officially adopted the belief that Jesus is Michael in the 1870s under Charles Taze Russell
They cite 1 Thessalonians 4:16 and Daniel 12:1 as key biblical evidence for this identification
This belief is part of their rejection of the Trinity doctrine, viewing Jesus as a created being
Michael is described as the only archangel in the Bible (Jude 1:9), which they apply to Jesus
The Watchtower Society has published this teaching since at least the 1920s in publications like 'The Harp of God'

Overview

Jehovah's Witnesses, a Christian denomination with approximately 8.7 million members worldwide as of 2023, hold distinctive beliefs about Jesus Christ's identity. Founded in the late 19th century by Charles Taze Russell (1852-1916), the movement emerged from the Bible Student movement in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. Their teaching that Jesus is Michael the archangel developed in the 1870s, contrasting with mainstream Christian doctrines like the Trinity. This belief is rooted in their interpretation of scripture, particularly passages that associate Jesus with angelic roles or titles. Historically, Jehovah's Witnesses have faced criticism from other Christian groups over this view, which they defend as biblically based. The organization, led by the Governing Body in Warwick, New York, maintains this teaching through publications like The Watchtower, first published in 1879.

How It Works

Jehovah's Witnesses arrive at the identification of Jesus as Michael through a specific hermeneutical approach to biblical texts. They analyze scriptures that mention Michael, such as Daniel 10:13, 21 and 12:1, where Michael is described as a 'prince' involved in spiritual warfare and resurrection. By comparing these with New Testament passages about Jesus, like 1 Thessalonians 4:16 (where Jesus' return is accompanied by an archangel's voice) and Revelation 12:7-9 (where Michael leads angels in battle against Satan), they conclude Michael and Jesus are the same being. This process involves rejecting traditional Trinitarian interpretations, instead viewing Jesus as a created angel who became the Messiah. Their method emphasizes literal reading of scripture, avoiding allegorical interpretations common in other Christian traditions. The teaching is reinforced through systematic study materials, such as the 'What Does the Bible Really Teach?' book used in their evangelism.

Why It Matters

This belief matters because it fundamentally shapes Jehovah's Witnesses' theology and practices. It supports their rejection of the Trinity, influencing doctrines on salvation, worship, and Jesus' role. Practically, it affects their evangelism, as they teach that Jesus is not God but a subordinate angelic being, which distinguishes their message from other Christian groups. This has real-world impacts, such as legal cases over religious freedom and healthcare decisions, where beliefs about Jesus' nature can conflict with medical treatments. Historically, it has led to persecution, including during World War II when Jehovah's Witnesses were targeted for their non-Trinitarian views. Understanding this belief helps explain their strict monotheism and why they do not celebrate holidays like Christmas, which they see as based on Trinitarian concepts.