ANGELS OF THE SEVEN CHURCHES. The seven stars in John’s vision (Rev 1-3) were interpreted to him by the spiritual guest to mean seven angels. They were seen in the right hand of Jesus in the midst of the seven golden lampstands, or churches. The seven letters to the seven churches were addressed directly to the seven angels respectively. Consequently, the critical appraisal, censure and praise, as well as admonition, so identified the angels with the churches that the two were inseparable. Obviously they were spiritual guardians or superintendents, intimately related to the lives of the churches, directing their attitudes and acts, and to be held responsible for them. They were not bishops of presbyteries, but angels.