I'm not a huge fan of Lewis Sperry Chafer, although I do like him. Here's the deal: I think he was one of the most capable and competent theologians of the twentieth century, but his crowning work, which by all rights ought to be considered a mainstay in any serious theologian's library, is too obsessed with defending its dispensational hermeneutic to be brilliant. It shines sure enough, but it is a dull glimmer at best. If Chafer had been willing to simply let the dispensational obsession slide on occasion, and not feel the need to compulsively defend it at every turn with every jot and title of his pen, then his systematic theology could have possibly been one of the greatest compositions and lucid articulations of biblical doctrine since Calvin's Institutes.

With all of that by way of introduction, let me say this: Chafer's treatment of Angelology, or the study of Angels, is brilliant! This is probably owing to the fact that God does not deal differently in different dispensations with the Angels, so there was little opportunity for Chafer to shove that down your throat one more time. Anyway, I sat down and read through his entire account of Angelology in Volume I of His Systematic Theology tonight, and my heart was warmed and encouraged by reflecting on the truth of Angels, those flaming spirits that are sent to minister to the saints. I was turning in my Bible, reading along with Chafer, and having a good time, my understanding being illuminated to some very precious truths. It was terrific!

Am I recommending that you buy his systematic theology? No. Unless of course you are a scholar, teacher, theologian, or pastor of some sort. In that case it must be on your book shelf. Otherwise, don't spend the money. That said, if you ever want a good read on angels, then Chafer's work is great.