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The Ministry of Angels
Article by Martin G. CollinsHoly angels are loyal, powerful spirit beings who have no authority apart from God, so requests for our needs belong to God, not to angels. Popular "spirit guides" are demons deceiving people as angels of light (II Corinthians 11:14-15). Hebrews 1:14 calls the true angels ministering spirits sent forth to do service for those who will inherit salvation. Their ministry to the elect includes guiding, providing for, protecting, delivering, comforting and gathering. God sent an angel before Abraham's servant to make his search for a wife for Isaac succeed, and an angel fed Elijah in the wilderness. An angel comforted Paul during the storm at sea, and at Christ's return angels will gather the elect (Matthew 24:31). Angels also protect and deliver those who fear God and obey Him: Psalm 34:7 and Psalm 91:11-12 promise this, an angel shut the lions' mouths for the innocent Daniel, and an angel freed Peter from Herod's prison. The relationship resembles that of a servant who cares for a rich man's young son; though the angels are older and more powerful, the son will inherit everything. Humans have far greater potential than angels, who will remain servants while the elect become born sons of God. Angels are fellow servants and must not be worshipped; worship belongs to God alone (Revelation 22:8-9). They do much for us that we never see, and God and His loyal angels deserve our praise and thanks.
God's Ministering Angels
Bible Study by Martin G. CollinsAngels are created ministering spirits sent to serve those seeking salvation (Hebrews 1:14), and their service further defines, reflects, and expresses God's love, which is selfless, beneficent action that brings no reciprocal benefit to the doer. As God's peerless agents, they protect, assist, guide, and comfort His creation and Jesus Christ, and they set an example of lives given in service to God and man. They protect: God has charged them to keep His people in all their ways (Psalm 91:11-12), as when an angel shut the lions' mouths for Daniel and angels pulled Lot out of Sodom and away from the mob. They facilitate God's will for the benefit of the elect, as when God sent His angel before Abraham's servant to prosper his journey to find a wife for Isaac. They provide for physical needs, as when an angel gave the despondent Elijah food and water in the wilderness. They comfort and strengthen: an angel told Paul not to fear in the storm at sea, an angel strengthened Jesus before His trial, and Gabriel strengthened Daniel. God's promise to send an Angel before Israel to keep them in the way (Exodus 23:20) reveals His love and the role He designed for angels in expressing it. Together with the superior life of Jesus Christ, their tireless efforts bolster confidence that God is providing all we need to attain eternal life in His Kingdom.
Hebrews (Part Eight): Greater Than Angels (cont.)
Sermon by John W. Ritenbaugh (1932-2023)Angels are created spirit beings whom God employs as ministers, meaning servants who execute the will of another, in governing His creation (Psalm 104:4). They are practical parts of God's administration of the earth, not merely decorative message bearers. They are holy ones, saints of tested character and obedience, yet they are choice-making beings rather than automatons, and some, like Satan, have defected. They excel in strength and in mind, commanding natural forces as God permits and restraining that power for constructive use, as at Sodom, where they blinded the mob and announced the city's destruction. They roll away the stone at the tomb, instruct and calm frightened humans, and travel between heaven and earth, though no human has ascended there except Christ. They participated in the giving of the law at Sinai, being ordained or directing it according to Stephen and Paul. Around God's throne, ten thousand times ten thousand, roughly a hundred million, serve in constant activity. Because the Jews rightly esteemed angels from the Old Testament revelation, Hebrews opens by showing that, however exalted, angels are mere creatures. Christ, their Creator, ruled them even as a man, and was appointed High Priest at His death for sins. God never called an angel His Son, and He commands all angels to worship Christ.
Angelic Responsibilities
Sermon/Bible Study by Martin G. CollinsGod's holy angels are powerful, responsible, and loyal beings, created to serve as His messengers and representatives in His universe-ruling government. They are commissioned to minister to the faithful elect of God, acting as serving and ministering spirits under His direction. As stated in Hebrews 1:14, these angels are sent forth to minister to those who will inherit salvation, providing service to the saints of God's church. Their ministry includes guiding, providing for, protecting, delivering, comforting, and gathering the elect according to God's will, demonstrating His care and concern for His people. God has tasked His angels with guiding events for the benefit of His saints. For instance, in Genesis 24:7 and 40, Abraham expressed confidence that God would send His angel to guide his servant in finding a wife for Isaac, ensuring the success of the mission. Additionally, angels provide for the needs of God's people, as seen in I Kings 19:1-8, where an angel supplied food and water to Elijah in the wilderness, sustaining him through God's provision. Protection is another vital role, with Psalm 91:11-12 illustrating how angels are charged to guard God's obedient children, bearing them up in their hands to prevent harm. In Daniel's case, God sent His angel to protect him in the lions' den, showcasing divine intervention for the innocent and respectful. Angels also deliver God's people from danger, as evidenced by Peter's miraculous release from prison in Acts 12, where an angel awakened him, guided him past guards, and led him to safety. The ministry of angels extends to comforting the elect in times of trial and will include gathering them at Christ's return, as foretold in Matthew 24:29-31. Though powerful and greater than humans currently, angels operate solely under God's authority, with no independent power. They are dedicated servants, helping the saints attain salvation and reach levels in the God Family far beyond their own, reflecting their absolute loyalty to God.
Do Angels Live Forever?
'Personal' from John W. RitenbaughAngels, as ministering spirits, play a significant role in God's purposes as revealed in Scripture. Hebrews 1:13-14 from the Amplified Bible provides a clear overview of God's intent for creating angels, portraying them as beings sent to serve and assist in His plans. Created before humanity, angels have existed for at least 6,000 years, with no record in the Bible of any angel dying, even amidst their rebellion and the ensuing war. Unlike humans, whose lifespans have shortened over generations, angels appear to endure indefinitely, sustained by a spirit life that remains mysterious. Scripture shows both God and angels consuming food similar to that of humans, as seen in Psalm 78:25, where men ate angels' food during the wilderness journey, yet it remains unclear what sustains their longevity. As spirit beings, distinct from God's own Spirit, angels are part of His creation, serving under His authority and reflecting His design for order and purpose in the unfolding of His will.
The Spirit World
Sermon by Richard T. RitenbaughAngels are described as ministering spirits, created by God to serve and assist in His divine plan. They are spirit beings, lesser than God but greater in power and might than humans, though humans hold a greater potential for future glory. As revealed in Hebrews 1:14, angels are sent forth to minister to those who will inherit salvation, acting as servants to support God's elect in their spiritual journey. Their role includes protecting and aiding believers, as they are watchful over humanity, often referred to as "watchers" who remain vigilant without need for rest. The Bible emphasizes their humility and submission to God's authority, as seen in Revelation 19:9-10 and 22:8-9, where an angel refuses worship from John, declaring himself a fellow servant and directing reverence solely to God. Angels consider themselves brothers to believers, sharing a common Master and mission, working together as fellow slaves under God's direction. Their responsibilities extend beyond mere messengers to include various tasks such as delivering Lot from Sodom, comforting Jesus in Gethsemane, and rolling away the stone from His tomb, demonstrating their active involvement in God's work. Despite their great intelligence and power, angels are not omniscient, desiring to look into the deeper matters of salvation and God's plan of redemption, which were hidden even from them until revealed through Jesus Christ. Their humility is further exemplified by Michael the archangel, who, in contending with the devil, refrained from reviling accusation and deferred to the Lord for rebuke, showing respect for authority. Angels, as ministering spirits, remain dedicated to serving God and assisting His people, fully engaged in supporting the path to salvation.
The Angel of God
Sermon by Richard T. RitenbaughAngels are presented in Scripture as ministering spirits, playing a vital role in God's plan for those who are heirs of salvation. Though the Bible provides only minimal details about them, it reveals their purpose in specific instances where they act on behalf of God's people. Their actions often align with divine intervention, as seen in rare moments where their presence is deduced through events that mirror biblical accounts. These ministering spirits perform their duties with seriousness and humility, serving as guardians over God's elect, even if their work remains largely unseen by human eyes. Our limited insight into the angelic realm reminds us to live by faith, focusing on the unseen eternal realities rather than the temporary physical world, trusting in the spiritual support that surrounds us.
Can Angels Marry Women?
'Ready Answer' by John ReissAngels are spirit beings, not flesh. God makes His angels spirits and His ministers a flame of fire (Psalm 104:4), and they are all ministering spirits sent forth to minister for those who will inherit salvation (Hebrews 1:14). Because angels are spirit and humans are flesh, formed from the dust of the ground, they are different kinds, and a created kind reproduces only after its own kind. Angels therefore cannot marry or impregnate women, and Jesus says that those in the resurrection will be like the angels in heaven, who neither marry nor are given in marriage (Mark 12:25). Genesis 6:1-4 cannot describe fallen angels fathering children; the sons of God there are the line of Seth. Angels are called sons of God in Job and the Psalms, but they were created as servants, not as potential members of the God Family. God never said to any angel, "You are My Son, Today I have begotten You." Humans are made in God's image and likeness and will inherit the Kingdom (Hebrews 2:5). Though angels presently exceed humans in intellect, power, and wisdom, they are mighty servants who carry out God's will and help fulfill His purpose. Humans, currently lower than the angels, will one day be crowned with glory and honor and rise above them.
The Gift of Discerning Spirits
'Ready Answer' by David F. MaasAngels are often entrusted by God Almighty with His Word and significant responsibilities, demonstrating His trust in them as ministering spirits. In Scripture, when people express fear at the appearance of angels, these beings typically offer comfort, saying something akin to "Fear not," as seen in various accounts. This gentle approach contrasts with the intimidating tactics of evil spirits, highlighting the distinct nature of angels as bearers of God's reassurance and support to believers.
Heirs of Salvation
Sermonette by Ronny H. GrahamAs we complete our spiritual walk, we will attain the dominion God promises in Psalm 8, a psalm that has all mankind as the subject.
Heirs of Salvation
'Prophecy Watch' by Ronny H. GrahamGod has commissioned angels, despite their wisdom and power surpassing ours, to serve as ministering spirits to His chosen heirs of salvation. These mighty beings, far greater than humans in their current state, are sent from the seat of divine government to fulfill ministerial functions focused on God's saints. Though they are the greatest created beings in God's Kingdom, their role is to support and protect those who will inherit salvation, acting under His authority. God may have placed a protective hedge of angels around His elect, as seen in the case of Job, keeping satan and his minions at bay. This divine protection underscores God's care for His children, ensuring that angels watch over His inheritance with unwavering diligence.
The Book of Daniel (Part Seven)
Sermon by Martin G. CollinsAngels are ministering spirits sent forth to serve those who will inherit salvation. They protect God's elect saints continually, often intervening in ways that are unseen and unknown to us, shielding us from the power of malicious, evil, and fallen spirit beings. Their vast numbers and immense power are evident in the heavenly struggles, such as the conflict involving Gabriel and Michael against a powerful adversary, demonstrating their role in spiritual warfare under God's authority. Gabriel, an archangel, was commissioned to bring understanding to Daniel, showing personal interaction with God's people by delivering messages and visions. Michael, identified as a chief prince and guardian of Israel, also played a critical role in overcoming opposition to ensure God's will was fulfilled. These accounts reveal that angels, under God's command, stand between His people and potential destruction, offering encouragement by affirming that God takes a personal interest in us, sometimes through His heavenly messengers. Their ministry extends to both individuals and nations, as seen in their protection of Israel and personal aid to Daniel, assuring us that if necessary, God will care for us individually through these powerful beings.
Saved By His Life
Sermonette by Austin Del CastilloContrary to the belief that most of the Christian professing world hold that we are saved by the death of Jesus Christ, in reality we are saved by His life.
Why Hebrews Was Written (Part Nine)
'Personal' from John W. RitenbaughAngels are described as ministering spirits who serve God as He sees fit, occupying high positions in the divine, governmental hierarchy. They are far more glorious than human beings, capable of exuding brilliance when needed, and are referred to as God's ministers, a flame of fire. Vast in number, with figures suggesting around 100 million, they surround God's throne, ministering to Him and standing before Him as seen in visions of divine courts. Despite their elevated status and innate powers within God's governance of creation, angels remain subject to the Lord Jesus Christ, who, though made a little lower than angels during His earthly life, has ascended to heaven to the right hand of God the Father, attaining a station exceedingly higher than any angel. As created beings, they are ultimately under the authority of Jesus Christ, their Creator and God, who is immeasurably higher than they.
Why Hebrews Was Written (Part Eight): Hebrews 1
'Personal' from John W. RitenbaughAngels, as described in Hebrews 1:14, are all ministering spirits sent forth to serve those who will inherit salvation. They hold a place of dignity and honor in the Kingdom of God, yet their role is distinctly that of servants. This applies to every angel without distinction, highlighting their purpose to assist, particularly the saved among mankind, in contrast to the exalted status of Jesus Christ. Despite their uncommon excellence in many areas, they are set aside to fulfill this supportive function, underscoring their subordinate position to Him who is named the only begotten Son of God.
Hebrews (Part Ten): Chapters 1 and 2
Sermon by John W. Ritenbaugh (1932-2023)Angels are described as ministering spirits, sent forth to serve those who will inherit salvation. They are spirit beings, designated as servants under the authority of Jesus Christ, who rules over them. Unlike Christ, who sits at the right hand of God, angels are sent out to work, not to govern, emphasizing their role of service rather than dominion. Their labor is to minister to humanity, acting as attendants to God's children, despite their vast knowledge, strength, and experience. This service, a gift of God's grace, reveals His concern for us and enhances our sense of security. These powerful beings, excellent in strength, far excel humans in wisdom and attainment, yet they serve us because we are children of God, redeemed with royal blood. Though they outrank us in ability, we hold a higher position in God's family, and they minister to us, often without our awareness. God's purpose in this arrangement may include testing the obedience and loyalty of angels, as they too have feelings and have faced rebellion in the past, as seen with satan. Scriptural examples illustrate angels intervening on behalf of God's people. In II Kings 6, angels surrounded Elisha and his servant with horses and chariots of fire, outnumbering the Syrian army and ensuring their safety. In the case of Lot, angels patiently rescued him and his family from Sodom, despite his lingering and poor decisions. Daniel, in the lion's den, was protected by an angel who shut the lions' mouths, preserving him unharmed. In Acts 5, an angel opened prison doors to free the apostles, instructing them to continue teaching. Additionally, in Luke 16, angels carried the beggar to Abraham's bosom after death, and Psalm 91 affirms that God gives His angels charge over us to protect us in all our ways. The term "ministering spirits" is a title, indicating that angels hold an office, sent forth by Christ and reporting back to Him as part of God's structured governance. This arrangement underscores that God is constantly monitoring His operations, ensuring the protection and support of His children through these dedicated servants.
Who Do You Trust? (Part Three)
Sermon by Mark SchindlerAngels, as ministering spirits, are powerful and purposeful beings created by God to serve His will. They are personal spirit beings with minds of greater capacity than ours, capable of attitudes, purposes, and intentions, yet they have no authority apart from God. As chief servants of God Almighty, they loyally perform His will, whether toward His future sons or against the wicked. The holy angels, who have remained faithful to God, recognize their role as servants of the God Family, guiding, providing for, protecting, delivering, comforting, and watching over the elect. Scripture reveals that angels are sent forth to minister for those who will inherit salvation, as seen in Hebrews 1:14. They are greater beings than humans are now, but their purpose is to help us attain levels in the God Family far surpassing their own. While they remain servants, we are destined to become born sons of God. Their loyalty and dedication are evident, as they serve without jealousy toward those who will one day hold authority over them. God has determined specific duties for these angels, including gathering the elect to Christ at His return with the sound of a trumpet, as described in Matthew 24:31. The holy angels stand as an example of trust, both in their trust for God and their own trustworthiness to faithfully carry out the work He has assigned in the places He has set them. Their service is a vital part of God's plan and purpose, reflecting His honor and glory. We should appreciate the unseen work of these ministering spirits and praise God for their loyal service.
After the Resurrection
Sermon by Mark SchindlerIn the context of Jesus Christ's post-resurrection work, angels play a significant role as ministering spirits, aiding Him in fulfilling all righteousness. As recorded in Hebrews 1:13-14, angels are described as ministering spirits sent forth to minister for those who will inherit salvation, highlighting their supportive role in God's plan. Following His resurrection at the end of the Sabbath, until the moment Mary saw Him just before He presented Himself as the first of the firstfruits to His Father, it is proposed that angels were ministering to Jesus Christ. They assisted in cleaning and preparing His body, which had borne the filthiness of our sins through His stripes and wounds. This act mirrors their earlier ministry to Him after His forty days in the Judean wilderness at the beginning of His earthly ministry. Now, in this final act as a man, they supported Him in His responsibilities as High Priest to be presentable to His Father, ensuring that every aspect of His work was completed in perfection to please God.
The Cunning of Satan
Sermon by Kim MyersGod reveals in His Word that angels exist as His servants and secret messengers, sent to minister to those He has called to salvation and eternal life. As depicted in Hebrews 1:4-7, He makes His angels winds and His servants flames of fire, emphasizing their role in serving His purpose. These loyal angels provide care and support, as seen in Matthew 4:11, where they came and ministered to Jesus after His temptation by the devil. Their presence underscores their duty to assist and protect those under God's calling in the ongoing spiritual battle against unseen forces.
Hebrews (Part Two)
Sermon/Bible Study byHebrews is addressed to a people living at the end of an era, who were drifting away, had lost their devotion, and were no longer motivated by zeal.
Satan (Part 1)
Sermon by John W. RitenbaughIn the vast spiritual realm, angels are revealed as ministering spirits, diligently serving the heirs of salvation. As depicted in Daniel 7:10, a tremendous number of these beings surround the throne of God, with a thousand thousands ministering to Him and ten thousand times ten thousand standing before Him, indicating a significant force of angelic presence. This numerical advantage, at least two to one over the fallen angels, underscores their role in protecting and aiding those on the path to salvation. These ministering spirits are not only numerous but also actively engaged in safeguarding humanity from malignant forces. In Daniel 10, an awe-inspiring angelic being, possibly Gabriel, is delayed by a powerful adversary for twenty-one days until Michael, one of the chief princes, intervenes to assist. This titanic struggle, unseen by Daniel, illustrates the protective role angels play, standing between humanity and potential annihilation, often without our awareness. Moreover, the encouragement from such accounts is profound. As noted by the apostle Paul and the psalmist, angels are appointed to serve and protect us, intervening countless times to save lives and deflect the power of malevolent beings. Their presence ensures that we are not alone in our spiritual battles, providing a shield against the unseen forces that seek to thwart God's plan. Thus, despite the formidable nature of our spiritual adversaries, the assurance of angelic protection offers great comfort. With far more good angels than demons, and with God on our side, we are enveloped by a divine strength that empowers us to stand firm. These ministering spirits, tirelessly working on our behalf, affirm that victory is assured through the power and might of our Lord.
Countering Presumptuousness
Sermon by Richard T. RitenbaughAngels were created as ministering spirits, sent forth to serve those who will inherit salvation. Their purpose was to assist God and ultimately to support humanity in achieving God's plan. However, one-third of the angels, under the leadership of lucifer or Helel, were discontent with their assigned role. They abandoned their proper domain, the place of their responsibility and authority, seeking to gain more for themselves. This rebellion stemmed from their dissatisfaction with serving mankind and their desire to rule over the earth and heaven, even challenging God's throne. Their presumptuousness led them to believe they could overthrow God, despite being created beings with limited power. As a result, they were reserved in everlasting chains under darkness for the judgment of the great day, illustrating the severe consequences of rejecting the position God had placed them in.
Hebrews (Part Three)
Sermon/Bible Study by John W. RitenbaughJesus blazed a trail, giving a pattern for qualifying (through suffering and resisting sin) for our responsibility as priests, reconnecting man and God.