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Angels
Nov 15, 2015 11:56:43 GMT -5
Post by Cindy on Nov 15, 2015 11:56:43 GMT -5
Society today has become so focused on "feelings" and "experiences" and the "supernatural", that they crave anything that speaks to those things, and one subject that fits right in with all of them is "Angels". Because of that, Angels have become a real problem these days, as most people don't have a clue what the Bible says about them and only read and hear what the world says about them. Or, they may only buy supposed "Christian" books about angels, assuming those books will only tell them what the bible says, sadly a large percentage of those books are every bit as bad and unscriptural as the secular books. Angels have become a booming business all around the world. You can buy angel figurines made from just about everything, you can buy paintings, drawings and other types of crafts of angels. Greeting card companies love putting angels on their cards and sayings about angels. Then of course there are all the books and booklets about angels! It's big business for sure! Let's face it, God may not sell, but angels do! It reminds me of when Paul was in Ephesus and the business men all wanted him gone because when He taught the people the truth, they stopped buying the statues (idols) that they made. (starts in Acts 19:23)
Everyone is willing to talk about them whether they believe in Jesus or not. On top of all of this, we also have organizations like the Catholic church who tell people that it's perfectly OK to worship angels or pray to them, even though it's an outright lie because it goes against the very strong warnings from scripture that we are not to worship them or pray to them! They also foster the lie that people can become angels when they die, which is no different then saying a horse can become a cat when they die, and just as preposterous! (The catholic church does not teach that officially, but they condone it because their priests often say things during a funeral that suggest that the deceased will be an angel. I've heard this numerous times from various catholic priests so am speaking from my own experiences.)
Another thing about angels that's been greatly distorted, is what they're like. Today people seem to think seeing an angel would be great, and that if one spoke to them, it would most likely be to comfort or encourage them, or to tell them some great news. Yet that's the opposite of what we see in the Bible! Think about it for a moment.... when someone in the bible saw an angel, how did they react? Did they jump for joy, or act like they couldn't wait to go tell their friends? No, every single time, the person was scared to death! That's why the angels always had to tell them not to be afraid. And this is just the tip of the iceberg as far as all the false teaching about angels go.
So there is a great deal of false teaching out today concerning angels. Therefore we must be careful to only accept what God's Word says about them and not something just because it's popular. That does NOT mean looking up a scripture here and there that some book gives you to "prove" something about angels! It's quite easy to take any scripture out of context and make it say something that it doesn't say at all. We do the same thing with each others words all the time, so it shouldn't surprise us that people do it with scripture too. For instance, if one of my children asked me if they could have a cookie before dinner and I said "No, you can't have anymore cookies before dinner." that child knew that I meant they could not have a cookie before dinner, right? But I've heard them turn around and tell a friend or their sibling that "Mom said we can't have cookies anymore." I didn't say that though. What they did was take it out of context and leave off the "before dinner" part. There simply is no way around it. Christians need to know God's Word. The Lord even commands us to know His Word and to be in His Word daily, yet very few actually obey Him. He has some very good reasons for this command, and one of them is so that we will not be misled by false teaching.
So next, let's look at some of what the Bible does say about Angels.
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Angels
Nov 15, 2015 12:52:57 GMT -5
Post by Cindy on Nov 15, 2015 12:52:57 GMT -5
The first thing I remember learning about angels is that they are often God's messengers and that they do not like or want us to bow down to them or pray to them. They serve the Lord just as we do and give Him the glory for everything. I learned too that the word "angel" actually translated from both Greek and Hebrew means "messenger".
There are some people, especially Catholics who seem to have this false view that people turn into angels when they die, but that's totally wrong. God created angels before He created humans. We are a totally different species then angles are. One does not "turn into" the other, nor should we want to! We're told in Luke 20:36 that angels can not die and we know of course that humans can. Also, angels do not have physical bodies like we do. They are "spirits" and are compared to wind and fire, not a physical body of "flesh and blood". (Hebrews 1:14; Psalm 104:4; Ephesians 6:12) We are told they are stronger and more powerful then we are, 2 Pet. 2:11, but not more knowledgeable or more powerful then God, instead, they obey Him and do His bidding. In the Bible, when an angel appears before a human, they always take on the appearance of a human male and they never have wings. The only angels that have wings are the cherubim and seraphim and they most certainly look nothing at all like what we see on Christmas greeting cards! (Isaiah 6:2–3; and starting with Ezekiel 10:1 you can read about cherubim. I guarantee you if anyone saw anything like that, they'd be totally terrified!)
The Bible says that the angels were created to serve men. Isn't that neat that even before He created us, the Lord made angels who's main purpose would be to help us and serve us! This is one of the things that must have really galled Lucifer. I bet he just couldn't stand the thought of having to serve us puny, undeserving, sinful humans. I can't say as I really blame him...I sure wouldn't want to serve me either! I do want to point out one other thing about angels serving us though. The bible shows us over and over that the Angels only do what God tells them to do. They are not up in heaven watching us and then running off to help us when they see someone in need. They only help us if and when God sends them to do so, and then they only do what God tells them to do...nothing more and nothing less. They always obey God perfectly.
Angels cannot hear our prayers, only God can hear them. (another thing the catholic church falsely teaches) So it's a waste of time and effort to pray to anyone or anything other then God Himself. I know some of the passages that people like to use to show angels hear our prayers, or that we should pray to them, including one in Revelation of all things: “And when he had taken it, the four living creatures and the twenty-four elders fell down before the Lamb. Each one had a harp and they were holding golden bowls full of incense, which are the prayers of the saints.” (Revelation 5:8) Note first of all this is a "living creature" not an angel; second, it doesn't say they hear our prayers, it says they're holding a bowl that's full of incense that symbolizes our prayers; third, it doesn't say they pray for us either, again it only shows them holding a bowl with incense that symbolizes our prayers. We're told all through the Bible not to pray to or worship anyone or anything other then God, including: “At this I fell at his feet to worship him. But he said to me, “Do not do it! I am a fellow servant with you and with your brothers who hold to the testimony of Jesus. Worship God! For the testimony of Jesus is the spirit of prophecy.”” (Revelation 19:10) We are told this so many times that I couldn't begin to list all the scriptures that tells us to only pray to God and only worship Him.
While we are here on the earth in our physical bodies the angels are actually above us since they don't have a sin nature.
Hebrews 2:7 You made him a little lower than the angels; you crowned him with glory and honor
Psalm 8:4-6 what is man that you are mindful of him, the son of man that you care for him? You made him a little lower than the heavenly beings and crowned him with glory and honor. You made him ruler over the works of your hands; you put everything under his feet:
But once we have received our new bodies and no longer have our sin nature to deal with, then we will be above the angels in a sense since they will still serve us and we will judge them:
1 Corinthians 6:2-3 Do you not know that the saints will judge the world? And if you are to judge the world, are you not competent to judge trivial cases? Do you not know that we will judge angels? How much more the things of this life!
Angels are intelligent, as we can see from the many verses in the Bible where they have carried on conversations with people. They have desires, emotions, wants etc. just like we do, except that theirs aren't corrupted from sin as ours are now:
1 Peter 1:12 It was revealed to them that they were not serving themselves but you, when they spoke of the things that have now been told you by those who have preached the gospel to you by the Holy Spirit sent from heaven. Even angels long to look into these things.
There are different types and divisions of angels such as the cherubs:
Genesis 3:24 After he drove the man out, he placed on the east side of the Garden of Eden cherubim and a flaming sword flashing back and forth to guard the way to the tree of life.
Cherubim guard the tree of life in the garden of Eden, God's throne and the Ark of the Covenant and mercy seat. (Exodus 25:18-22 and Exodus 37:7-9) One of my commentaries says:
The fullest description of cherubim is in Ezek. 10, where they are closely related to the glory of God and have a part in its presence and its withdrawal, moving at the Almighty’s direction. Spirit filled life study Bible.
Of course we know about Archangels because of the verses concerning Archangel Michael which show him as being like a warrior angel and the special protector of Israel. The following verse gives us yet more information about the divisions of angels each of which has it's own assignments:
Colossians 1:16 For by him all things were created: things in heaven and on earth, visible and invisible, whether thrones or powers or rulers or authorities; all things were created by him and for him.
This goes along with this verse:
Ephesians 6:12 For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms.
Again let me share what some of my commentaries says about this:
The Son’s Creation includes “all” things in heaven and on earth, visible and invisible. These indicate the entire universe, both material and immaterial. The hierarchy of angelic beings—thrones (thronoi) or powers (kyriotētes) or rulers (archai) or authorities (exousiai)—indicate a highly organized dominion in the spirit world, a sphere in which the Colossians were engaged in the worship of angels (Col. 2:18) and over which Christ reigns supreme (cf. Eph. 1:21; 3:10; 6:12; Phil. 2:9-10; Col. 2:10, 15). The Bible knowledge commentary : An exposition of the scriptures
principalities, or powers—rather, “rules, or authorities”: the former are stronger than the latter (compare Note, see on Eph 1:21). The latter pair refer to offices in respect to God’s creatures: “thrones and dominions” express exalted relation to God, they being the chariots on which He rides displaying His glory (Ps 68:17). The existence of various orders of angels is established by this passage. A commentary, critical and explanatory, on the Old and New Testaments.
21. Greek, “Far (or high) above all (Eph 4:10) principality (or rule, 1Co 15:24), and authority, and power (Mt 28:18), and dominion (or lordship).” Compare Php 2:9; Col 1:16; Heb 7:26; 1Pe 3:22. Evil spirits (who are similarly divided into various ranks, Eph 6:12), as well as angels of light, and earthly potentates, are included (compare Ro 8:38). .... Some philosophizing teachers of the school of Simon Magus, in Western Asia Minor, had, according to Irenaeus and Epiphanius, taught their hearers these names of various ranks of angels. Paul shows that the truest wisdom is to know Christ as reigning above them all. A commentary, critical and explanatory, on the Old and New Testaments.
Of course one of the verses we're probably all familiar with is this one:
Hebrews 13:2 Do not forget to entertain strangers, for by so doing some people have entertained angels without knowing it.
This is a fascinating scripture and implies that sometimes, strangers we meet and help could well be angels! To me at least, that's pretty exciting! I've heard testimonies from my children and from friends of encounters they had that they were sure were with angels, and I've had one or two myself as well. Normally, no one realized it though until after the angel was gone. That pretty much fits with what this verse says, because it specifically says that it happens without the person knowing about it at the time.
We know that God sends angels to help us at times, do you think that perhaps He might send them to test us as well? For example to see just how we'd treat a stranger that asked for help, or just looked like they desperately needed help? It wouldn't surprise me. The Lord loves to give us good gifts and to reward us as well, so this could well be a way that He uses to both test us and to encourage and strengthen our faith, by reminding us that He is always with us and watching over us. Remember, in Matt. 25:40 He tells us that whatever we do to others, we're really doing to Him. As MacArthur points out: Entertaining angels unaware is exactly what happened to Abraham and Sarah (Ge 18:1–3), Lot (Ge 19:1, 2), Gideon (Jdg 6:11–24), and Manoah (Jdg 13:6–20). We learn from them not only how important it is to treat others with love and kindness, but that there are usually long term consequences to how we treat others that we're often unaware of.
Look at what the Bible says about the how many angels there are though:
“Then I looked and heard the voice of many angels, numbering thousands upon thousands, and ten thousand times ten thousand. They encircled the throne and the living creatures and the elders.” (Revelation 5:11)
In other words, there are more angels then can actually be counted! Why do I say that? Because in Revelation 9:16 we see people counted up to two hundred million! Then there's this verse:
“But you have come to Mount Zion, to the heavenly Jerusalem, the city of the living God. You have come to thousands upon thousands of angels in joyful assembly,” (Hebrews 12:22)
“Suddenly a great company of the heavenly host appeared with the angel, praising God and saying,” (Luke 2:13)
"A great company" is also translated as "a multitude", meaning a large or huge number, not the few we usually see on Christmas cards or in movies.
Then there's what Daniel said about them: “A river of fire was flowing, coming out from before him. Thousands upon thousands attended him; ten thousand times ten thousand stood before him. The court was seated, and the books were opened.” (Daniel 7:10) That's a LOT of angels!
And we also have what Jesus said about them:
“Do you think I cannot call on my Father, and he will at once put at my disposal more than twelve legions of angels?” (Matthew 26:53)
A legion consisted of 6,000 men, so twelve legions of angels equals 72,000 angels. I love what Pastor Mills says about this:
A legion consisted of 6,000 men, so twelve legions of angels equals 72,000 angels. Now, 1 angel easily annihilated 185,000 trained soldiers (2 Kings 19:35), so an army of 72,000 angels can easily cope with 13 billion men—more than twice the world’s present population, & the figure scientists suggest represents this globe’s absolute capacity to support (the population in Jesus’ day has been estimated at 200 million). So Jesus was claiming to have enough power to annihilate the entire human race of His day 60 times over, & more. The Life of Christ
Angels were created simultaneously and innumerable in number. The statement of creation in Colossians 1:16 points to the creation of angels as a singular act; the act of creating angels does not continue.4 Because the angels are incapable of reproducing (Matt. 22:30), their number remains static. The number of their creation is “myriads” (Heb. 12:22). Although the term myraids (Gk. muriasin) literally means ten thousand, here it denotes “countless thousands” (cf. Rev. 5:11).5 The repetition of myriads in Revelation 5:11 suggests the number of angels is countless. The Moody handbook of theology
One thing we can be absolutely sure of is that there are LOTS of angels available at any given moment to obey God and insert themselves into the life of anyone here on this earth. Let's look at what the The Westminster larger catechism says about them:
How did God create angels? God created all the angels (Col. 1:16) spirits, (Ps. 104:4) immortal, (Matt. 22:30) holy, (Matt. 25:31) excelling in knowledge, (2 Sam. 14:17, Matt. 24:36) mighty in power, (2 Thess. 1:7) to execute his commandments, and to praise his name, (Ps. 103:20–21) yet subject to change. (2 Pet. 2:4).
What is God’ s providence towards the angels? God by his providence permitted some of the angels, willfully and irrecoverably, to fall into sin and damnation, (Jude 6, 2 Pet. 2:4, Heb. 2:16, John 8:44) limiting and ordering that, and all their sins, to his own glory; (Job 1:12, Matt. 8:31) and established the rest in holiness and happiness; (1 Tim. 5:21, Mark 8:38, Heb. 12:22) employing them all, (Ps. 104:4) at his pleasure, in the administrations of his power, mercy, and justice. (2 Kings 19:35, Heb. 1:14)
More from the Moody Handbook of theology about angels which tells us quite a bit about them:
Angels are a higher order than man. Mankind, including our incarnate Lord, is “lower than the angels” (Heb. 2:7). Angels are not subject to the limitations of man, especially since they are incapable of death (Luke 20:36). Angels have greater wisdom than man (2 Sam. 14:20), yet it is limited (Matt. 24:36). Angels have greater power than man (Matt. 28:2; Acts 5:19; 2 Pet. 2:11), yet they are limited in power (Dan. 10:13). Angels, however, have limitations compared to man, particularly in future relationships. Angels are not created in the image of God, therefore, they do not share man’s glorious destiny of redemption in Christ. At the consummation of the age, redeemed man will be exalted above angels (1 Cor. 6:3).
All of that is pretty exciting to me!
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Angels
Nov 15, 2015 12:57:03 GMT -5
Post by Cindy on Nov 15, 2015 12:57:03 GMT -5
One thing everyone wants to know about is just what angles do, so let's look at that. Angels of course have a ministry to God. We know they praise and worship God and are in His presence and that they always obey Him and carry out whatever they are told to do. Rather then going into all of that, I'm going to concentrate on their ministry towards us for now.
We know from the bible that they are commissioned to watch over us and aid us in a variety of ways, such as protecting us physically as well as spiritually. They might frustrate the enemies plans toward us or help protect us from harm. (Ps. 34:7; Ps. 35:4–5; Acts 5:19; Ps. 91:11–13; Acts 12:7–11; Rev. 7:1–14) One of my favorite examples of this is when Elisha prayed that the Lord would open his servants eyes to see that they really were safe even though it looked like they were about to die in 2 Kings 6:15–17. When his eyes were opened to see into the spiritual realm, his servant was able to see that the army descending on them was actually surrounded by an even larger army of angels! As the story continues, the angles blind the enemy army and lead them into Samaria. Then they gave them back their sight, and Elisha arranged with the King to order a feast so that the whole situation was solved without any loss of life.
They also provide for our physical needs at times, such as when they brought Elijah food in 1 Kings 19:5–7, and other instances.
They are also sent to encourage us like when the storm hit when Paul was at sea Acts 27:23–25, or when they told the disciples that Jesus would be back after his ascension.
They also tell us where we're to go at times, giving us direction like when one directed Philip to the eunuch in Acts 8:26, or when the angel arranged the meeting with Cornelius and Peter in Acts 10:3, 22.
We've seen too that they sometimes assist in answering our prayers like when the early Christians were praying for Peter and the angel released him from prison (Acts 12:1–11). Or when Daniel’s prayer was explained by the angel (Dan. 9:20–27; cf. 10:10–12:13). Again, note that no one prayed to the angels, they prayed to God. The angels did not hear the prayers, they simply listened to God and obeyed His orders.
We also know from what Jesus said that when we die angels will accompany us to Heaven. Luke 16:22 is where Jesus describes the death of Lazarus and this happens. But, because Jesus has ascended now and has promised to never leave us, we also know that He too will be right there with us when we die and will lead us to Heaven. So the angels will accompany Jesus and us to Heaven when we die. (assuming we die before the rapture of course)
We also know they will be with us when we return with Jesus at His second coming.
The one thing that really amazes me is that the angels are totally amazed at God's amazing grace at saving us and are very involved in watching us and learning about His grace from us, and that it's through us, His Church that He will show them the wonders of His wisdom. (1 Peter 1:12; Ephesians 3:10; 1 Corinthians 11:10; etc.)
As for their relationship toward the unsaved, let me quote from one of my books:
Relationship to unbelievers. Angels have been and will be involved in meting out judgment on unbelievers. Angels announced the coming destruction of Sodom because of those people’s sin (Gen. 19:12–13); prior to the climactic bowl judgments angels will announce the destruction of the world powers along with those that worshiped the beast (Rev. 14:4, 7, 8–9, 15, 17–18). Angels are seen judging the people of Jerusalem for their idolatry (Ezek. 9:1–11); an angel struck Herod Agrippa I for his blasphemy so that he died (Acts 12:23). Angels will also be instrumental in judgment at the end of the age when they cast unbelievers into the furnace of fire (Matt. 13:39–42); angels will sound the trumpet judgments during the Tribulation (Rev. 8:2–12; 9:1, 13; 11:15); angels pour out the bowl judgments upon the earth (Rev. 16:2–17). The Moody handbook of theology
Seeing all that angels do in the bible, I think we can easily say that we're probably totally unaware of a great number of times that Angels have assisted us in some way during our life. It's going to be very interesting to discover these things when we get to heaven. I have a feeling we're all going to find we have a great deal more to be thankful for then we ever realized before.
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Angels
Nov 15, 2015 13:08:04 GMT -5
Post by Cindy on Nov 15, 2015 13:08:04 GMT -5
I'd like to copy some of what we did in our old study on Angels here as it contains some interesting information.
Mark, this is what I found in a quick search in my bible library for you:
There are only three named individual angels in the Bible, Gabriel, Michael, and Satan. Michael, who always appears in connection with Israel, is the only named “archangel.” or ruling angel. His function appears to be that of protecting God’s chosen people in some special way. According to Rev. 12:7–9, he will be successful in defeating Satan during the tribulation period. The handbook to Bible study : With a guide to the Scofield study system.
Angels who are prominent individuals.
(1) Michael (Dan. 10:13; 12:1; Jude 9). The name Michael means “who is like God?” and identifies the only one classified as an archangel in Scripture. Michael is the defender of Israel who will wage war on behalf of Israel against Satan and his hordes in the Tribulation (Rev. 12:7–9). Michael also disputed with Satan about the body of Moses, but Michael refrained from judgment, leaving that to God (Jude 9). Jehovah’s Witnesses and some Christians identify Michael as Christ; this view, however, would suggest Christ has less authority than Satan, which is untenable.
(2) Gabriel (Dan. 9:21; Luke 1:26). His name means “man of God” or “God is strong.” “Gabriel seems to be God’s special messenger of His kingdom program in each of the four times he appears in the Bible record.… He reveals and interprets God’s purpose and program concerning Messiah and His kingdom to the prophets and people of Israel.” In a highly significant passage, Gabriel explained the events of the seventy weeks for Israel (Dan. 9:21–27). In Luke 1:26–27 Gabriel told Mary that the One born to her would be great and rule on the throne of David. In Daniel 8:15–16 Gabriel explained to Daniel the succeeding kingdoms of Medo-Persia and Greece as well as the untimely death of Alexander the Great. Gabriel also announced the birth of John the Baptist to Zacharias (Luke 1:11–20).
(3) Lucifer (Isa. 14:12) means “shining one” or “star of the morning.” He may have been the wisest and most beautiful of all God’s created beings who was originally placed in a position of authority over the cherubim surrounding the throne of God. The Moody handbook of theology
This next part refers to books that are NOT in the bible so are not necessarily true. We should therefore take them as interesting fiction and nothing more. Sure, they may have guessed right, but then they may not have. We can and should only trust what God's Word says, period.
Raphael (the divine healer). According to Jewish tradition, Raphael was one of the four angels which stood round the throne of God—Michael, Uriel, Gabriel, Raphael. Smith's Bible dictionary
An angel (2 Esd. 4:1-11). Uriel served as a guide to Enoch in the upper heavens (1 Enoch 19-22) and was one of the four angels of the Presence (cf. 1 Enoch 9:1). Harper's Bible dictionary.
2 Esdras 4:1-11 And the angel that was sent unto me, whose name was Uriel, gave me an answer, And said, Thy heart hath gone to far in this world, and thinkest thou to comprehend the way of the most High? Then said I, Yea, my lord. And he answered me, and said, I am sent to shew thee three ways, and to set forth three similitudes before thee: Whereof if thou canst declare me one, I will shew thee also the way that thou desirest to see, and I shall shew thee from whence the wicked heart cometh. And I said, Tell on, my lord. Then said he unto me, Go thy way, weigh me the weight of the fire, or measure me the blast of the wind, or call me again the day that is past. Then answered I and said, What man is able to do that, that thou shouldest ask such things of me? And he said unto me, If I should ask thee how great dwellings are in the midst of the sea, or how many springs are in the beginning of the deep, or how many springs are above the firmament, or which are the outgoings of paradise: Peradventure thou wouldest say unto me, I never went down into the deep, nor as yet into hell, neither did I ever climb up into heaven. Nevertheless now have I asked thee but only of the fire and wind, and of the day wherethrough thou hast passed, and of things from which thou canst not be separated, and yet canst thou give me no answer of them. He said moreover unto me, Thine own things, and such as are grown up with thee, canst thou not know; How should thy vessel then be able to comprehend the way of the Highest, and, the world being now outwardly corrupted to understand the corruption that is evident in my sight?
Mark, so far I haven't been able to find any references to these three "archangels" anywhere. They are most definitely NOT in the Bible though, not even in the Catholic bible! I will keep looking however. I don't give up easily LOL
Ok, I finally found a reference to them when I tried other spellings on the names. It's from the non biblical book of Enoch, so can NOT be taken as absolute truth. Phaeul = Raphael, Zarachiel = Saraqâêl, and Simiel = Remiel.
20 Names and Functions of the Seven Archangels
“And these are the names of the holy angels who watch. Uriel, one of the holy angels, who is over the world and over Tartarus. Raphael, one of the holy angels, who is over the spirits of men. Raguel, one of the holy angels who takes vengeance on the world of the luminaries. Michael, one of the holy angels, to wit, he that is set over the best part of mankind and over chaos. Saraqâêl, one of the holy angels, who is set over the spirits, who sin in the spirit. Gabriel, one of the holy angels, who is over Paradise and the serpents and the Cherubim. Remiel, one of the holy angels, whom God set over those who rise.” (Enoch 20:1–8)
Please remember this is not biblical - it may or may not be true and is best taken as fiction.
No, they aren't archangels, and we aren't told their names. They are as far as we're told just seven of the vast numbers of angels that serve the Lord. I will keep my eyes open however to see if I can find any more specific info on these particular angels, but I kind of doubt if I will...
We know that Eph 6:12 is talking about the fallen angels, and refers to their various ranks. Since Satan copies everything God does, we can therefore assume that there are angelic ranks in heaven as well:
“For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms.” (Ephesians 6:12)
As far as God's angels go, Michael is the only one we're told about as being an archangel. No others are mentioned, ever, so he may well be the only one. He's called one of the chief princes here which is another rank:
“But the prince of the Persian kingdom resisted me twenty-one days. Then Michael, one of the chief princes, came to help me, because I was detained there with the king of Persia.” (Daniel 10:13) and was called, “Michael your prince” in Dan. 10:21 speaking of Michael being the chief prince of Israel. In Eph Eph. 3:10 ruling angels are mentioned too but without any additional details being given. We're also told of Cherubim and Seraphim which are another class of angels.
At this point at least I am only taking information that is in the Bible and not information from either the Apocrypha or the Pseudepigrapha. As far as I am concerned while it will be fun to see what's in those books too, the information from them isn't reliable like the information in God's Word is. So I will always let you know if the info isn't from the Bible so we can tell the difference from what's certain and what's just conjecture and myth.
The Bible teaches that there are three groups of angels:
1. those that have not fallen, the "good angels"
2. the fallen angels that are free
3. the fallen angels that are bound or captive
We know that God's angels, those that never fell from His Grace, are well organized and all have specific jobs. It would seem from verses such as the one in Ephesians that Satan has organized his fallen angels in much the same way.
I have numerous books in my library that discuss angels and it seems that there is some difference of opinion on just which ranks are higher etc. and also whether or not Cherubim and Seraphim are angels or not. Most seem to think that they are at least a type of angel.
Now Let me quote a bit from this book about their organization for us:
Organized Structure in the Angelic Realm (Col. 1:16). There is an organized structure in the angelic realm. Profoundly influential in humanity’s history, angels are involved according to their designated ranks. Though opinion differs as to the placement of angelic offices, it is clear that the angelic host are part of a highly organized world of angel beings.
For example, Daniel 10:13 shows that warring angels have a chief prince, Michael, who is also called an archangel, that is, one who rules over others. Seraphim and cherubim seem to be of a slightly lower rank, just ahead of ministering spirits (Heb. 1:14). However, it may also be that the seraphim and cherubim fill a leadership role in worship while Michael leads the warring angels.
As to the dark angels, Ephesians 6:12 offers insight into the ranks of the evil angelic realm: principalities, powers, rulers of the darkness of this world, and spiritual wickedness in high places.
From the information the Bible gives, we can see that the angelic realm is a distinctly structured society with different levels of authority or power endowed to each according to God’s creative order. Hayford's Bible handbook.
Let's look at some of the things angels do or are in charge of:
Some seem to be in charge of specific nations, in particularly Israel:
Daniel 10:12-13 Then he continued, “Do not be afraid, Daniel. Since the first day that you set your mind to gain understanding and to humble yourself before your God, your words were heard, and I have come in response to them. But the prince of the Persian kingdom resisted me twenty-one days. Then Michael, one of the chief princes, came to help me, because I was detained there with the king of Persia.
Daniel 10:20-21 So he said, “Do you know why I have come to you? Soon I will return to fight against the prince of Persia, and when I go, the prince of Greece will come; but first I will tell you what is written in the Book of Truth. (No one supports me against them except Michael, your prince.
Daniel 12:1 “At that time Michael, the great prince who protects your people, will arise. There will be a time of distress such as has not happened from the beginning of nations until then. But at that time your people—everyone whose name is found written in the book—will be delivered.
So we can see from this that Gabriel and Michael have been assigned authority over angels who administer God's affairs for Israel and Michael is the head of all of them.
Satan imitates everything God does as we know and he has therefore set up his own high ranking demons (fallen angels that are free) to positions of authority over the nations. (the prince of Persia was a high ranking demon assigned to Persia)
These verses show us too that there is a lot going on in the heavenlies that we're totally unaware of! This battle went on for 3 weeks before Michael came to help Gabriel!
So we know from this that there are angels in charge of nations and and governmental policies etc, both good and evil.
The bible calls Michael and archangel and he is the ONLY archangel that the bible names as one. (That doesn't mean that there aren't other archangels, that only means that we can only verify for sure that Michael is an archangel and we cannot verify any others) His mission or job is to protect Israel. We know there are "chief princes" among the good and fallen angels and that Michael is also one of those as they are the highest ranking angels as far as we can see. "Ruling angels" are also mentioned but nothing else is said of them. They may be the same as what we've just been discussing. Here's the verse that mentions them:
Ephesians 3:10-11 His intent was that now, through the church, the manifold wisdom of God should be made known to the rulers and authorities in the heavenly realms, according to his eternal purpose which he accomplished in Christ Jesus our Lord.
Since we've mostly talked about Michael here lets see what else the Bible says about him:
Here we see that apparently Satan had designs on Moses's body but Michael intervened, which would be in keeping with his position as defender of Israel.
Jude 9 But even the archangel Michael, when he was disputing with the devil about the body of Moses, did not dare to bring a slanderous accusation against him, but said, “The Lord rebuke you!”
In the next passages we see Michael will wage war against Satan and his demons during the Tribulation on Israel's behalf.
Revelation 12:7-9 And there was war in heaven. Michael and his angels fought against the dragon, and the dragon and his angels fought back. But he was not strong enough, and they lost their place in heaven. The great dragon was hurled down—that ancient serpent called the devil, or Satan, who leads the whole world astray. He was hurled to the earth, and his angels with him.
The bottom line is that we have no information about any other angel being given the rank of "arch angel" in the Bible. That doesn't mean that there aren't any others, it just means it's something we can't know until we get to heaven.
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Angels
Nov 15, 2015 13:28:32 GMT -5
Post by Cindy on Nov 15, 2015 13:28:32 GMT -5
I've copied this from our original study about angels too. As the scripture spoken of here often gets us onto another topic completely, I included information about that as well:
Let's take a closer look at this verse:
1 Corinthians 11:10 For this reason, and because of the angels, the woman ought to have a sign of authority on her head.
Now why didn't I ever notice that before??? here are some cross references and what one of the commentaries says about this:
1 Corinthians 4:9 For it seems to me that God has put us apostles on display at the end of the procession, like men condemned to die in the arena. We have been made a spectacle to the whole universe, to angels as well as to men.
Ephesians 3:10 His intent was that now, through the church, the manifold wisdom of God should be made known to the rulers and authorities in the heavenly realms,
1 Timothy 5:21 I charge you, in the sight of God and Christ Jesus and the elect angels, to keep these instructions without partiality, and to do nothing out of favoritism.
Psalm 103:20-21 Praise the Lord, you his angels, you mighty ones who do his bidding, who obey his word. Praise the Lord, all his heavenly hosts, you his servants who do his will.
Paul offered a third reason why womanly insubordination in the church should not exist. Angels were spectators of the church (4:9; Eph. 3:10; 1 Tim. 5:21; cf. Ps. 103:20-21). For a woman to exercise her freedom to participate in the church without the head covering, the sign of her authority (exousia, a liberating term; cf. 1 Cor. 7:37; 8:9; 9:4-6, 12, 18), would be to bring the wisdom of God (Eph. 3:10) into disrepute.
Other (but less acceptable) explanations have been suggested for the words because of the “angels”: (a) evil angels lusted after the women in the Corinthian congregation; (b) angels are messengers, that is, pastors; (c) good angels learn from women; (d) good angels are an example of subordination; (e) good angels would be tempted by a woman’s insubordination. The Bible knowledge commentary : An exposition of the scriptures
because of the angels—who are present at our Christian assemblies (compare Ps 138:1, “gods,” that is, angels), and delight in the orderly subordination of the several ranks of God’s worshippers in their respective places, the outward demeanor and dress of the latter being indicative of that inward humility which angels know to be most pleasing to their common Lord (1Co 4:9; Eph 3:10; Ec 5:6). Hammond quotes Chrysostom, “Thou standest with angels; thou singest with them; thou hymnest with them; and yet dost thou stand laughing?” Bengel explains, “As the angels are in relation to God, so the woman is in relation to man. God’s face is uncovered; angels in His presence are veiled (Is 6:2). Man’s face is uncovered; woman in His presence is to be veiled. For her not to be so, would, by its indecorousness, offend the angels (Mt 18:10, 31). She, by her weakness, especially needs their ministry; she ought, therefore, to be the more careful not to offend them.” A commentary, critical and explanatory, on the Old and New Testaments.
Head Coverings for Women - Type of Covering - Description
Headband (Heb. shabis) Probably a head ornament or front-band of gold or silver (Is. 3:18, 20; v. 18, “scarves” in NKJV).
Headdress (Heb. pe˒er) Ornamental head covering worn by wealthy women, probably wound about the head (Is. 3:20; Ezek. 24:17). Also used to describe the garland of the bridegroom or turban worn by men as well as the cap worn by priests (Is. 61:10; Ezek. 24:17, 23; 44:18).
Head covering (Gk. peribolaios, lit. “covering”) First Corinthians probably refers to some kind of hair covering—perhaps even a shawl.
The wearing of long, loose hair by an adulteress confirms that such would be considered shameful (Num. 5:18).
The importance of the covering seems to be twofold: to show clear distinction between the sexes and to affirm publicly a wife’s commitment to her husband’s leadership (1 Cor. 11:2–16).
This custom may have been especially important to the Corinthians because of the pagan and immoral influence around them.
Veil (Heb. tsaciph) Rebekah put on a veil when she approached Issac before her marriage, perhaps as a sign of her betrothal. The veil was to be removed at the time of marriage (Gen. 24:65).
Tamar used the veil to trick Judah (Gen. 38:14, 19). (Heb. redid)
The veil-like, thin garment was probably for summer (Song 5:7; Is. 3:23). (Heb. tsamah)
This face veil (lit. “locks”) was probably ornamental, perhaps a long train of adornment for women of high social standing (Song 4:1, 3; 6:7; Is. 47:2). (Heb. mispachoth)
This covering (probably a cap fitting close to the head) is associated with the activities of false prophetesses (Ezek. 13:18, 21).
Full veiling does not seem to be part of the Old Testament culture. However, head coverings were important to women in biblical days. They not only offered protection from the elements but also served as symbols of modesty and, for a married woman, as a token of her commitment to her husband.
The theological principle of divine order remains unchanged even though its specific manifestations, such as a woman’s covering her head in Corinth, may differ from place to place and culture to culture (see chart, Theological Foundations for Headship). This order was evident in the chronological sequence of creation (1 Cor. 11:8-9). Furthermore, woman was man’s “glory” (1 Cor. 11:7). This concept refers to the act of “manifesting or pointing to the role of another. ” The woman, who pointed to the man, was to be covered in the presence of God; while man, who pointed to God, was not. The practice was also followed “because of the angels” (1 Cor. 11:10). Paul reasoned that angels, the most submissive of all creatures, would be offended by non-compliance. Furthermore, God had provided a natural analogy that emphasized the appropriateness of the head covering: “Nature” favors women over men in the provision of hair on the head (1 Cor. 11:13–15). Finally, Paul appealed to the universality of Christian practice (1 Cor. 11:16). The principle of headship was important, and its symbol was to be observed in all the churches.
Theological Foundations for Headship
The priority of Adam’s creation. Gen. 2:7
The use of the name “Adam” for the entire race. Gen. 2:20
The investiture of Adam with authority prior to Eve’s creation. Gen. 2:15
The assignment to the man of the responsibility for provision and protection. Gen. 2:15–17
The responsibility of the man in naming the animals. Gen. 2:20
The designation of the woman as the man’s helper. Gen. 2:18, 20
The naming of the woman by the man. Gen. 2:23; 3:20
The recognition of the man as leader and spokesman. Gen. 3:9; 11
Woman's study Bible
Read: 1 Corinthians 11:3–16
Jews began wearing head coverings during the fourth century A.D., although some may already have been wearing them in NT times. Apparently, Corinthian men were doing the same, and Paul informs them that it is a disgrace. Paul is not stating a universal law from God, but acknowledging a local custom, which did reflect divine principle. In that society, a man’s uncovered head was a sign of his authority over women, who were to have their heads covered. For a man to cover his head was to suggest a reversal of proper roles.
Paul makes clear directives that women are not to lead or speak in the services of the church (cf. 14:34; 1Ti 2:12), but they may pray and proclaim the truth to unbelievers, as well as teaching children and other women (cf. 1Ti 5:16; Tit 2:3, 4). See note on Ac 21:9. Wherever and whenever women do pray and proclaim the Word appropriately, they must do so maintaining a proper distinction from men. uncovered. In the culture of Corinth, a woman’s covered head while ministering or worshiping was a symbol to signify a subordinate relationship to her husband. The apostle is not laying down an absolute law for women to wear veils or coverings in all churches for all time, but is declaring that the symbols of the divinely-established male and female roles are to be genuinely honored in every culture. As in the case of meat offered to idols (chaps. 8, 9), there is nothing spiritual about wearing or not wearing a covering. But manifesting rebellion against God’s order was wrong. disgraces her head. “Head” may refer to her own self being disgraced by refusing to conform to recognized symbols of submission, or to her husband, who is disgraced by her behavior.
In that day only a prostitute or a feminist would shave her head. If a Christian woman rejected the covering that symbolized her submission in that culture, she might as well have shaved her head—the shame was similar.
Though men and women were both created in God’s image (Ge 1:27), it is man who bears the glory of God uniquely by his role. Like God, he is given a sphere of sovereignty as the earthly sovereign over God’s created order.
As man carries authority delegated to him by God, so woman carries authority delegated to her by God through her husband. Man came from God; woman came from man (cf. Ge 2:9–23; 1Ti 2:11–13).
Angels: Women are to be submissive by wearing the symbol of authority so as not to offend these most holy and submissive creatures who watch the church (cf. Mt 18:10; Eph 3:9, 10), who were present (Job 38:4, 7) at creation, when God designed the order of authority for men and women.
All believers, male and female, are equal in the Lord and complementary in the Lord’s work. Their roles are different in function and relationships, not in spirituality or importance (cf. Gal 3:28). The MacArthur study Bible
OK, I got off track but I couldn't resist! I figured if I didn't include the information on the veil someone would ask about it and I didn't want to leave anyone hanging.
Interesting though that the angels are involved in so much isn't it!
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Angels
Nov 15, 2015 13:36:29 GMT -5
Post by Cindy on Nov 15, 2015 13:36:29 GMT -5
Lastly, here's a great article by Marsha West about angels:
Unbiblical ideas about angels
By Marsha West
"For centuries, angels were seen as messengers for a holy God. Today, they seem to be all-forgiving therapists." — Terry Maddingly
'Tis the season of angels! At Christmastime angels are brought to our attention more than any other time of the year. Angel objects are everywhere you look and they come in just about every shape and size imaginable. Manufacturers offer angel ornaments, cards, fine art, books, jewelry, figurines, cologne, undergarments, sleepwear, body wash and makeup. On one website I found a whole host of angel pins that includes a military and patriotic angel that proudly waves the American flag.
Listen to what Christian apologist Ron Rhodes says about the angel craze in his article "Close Encounters of the Celestial Kind":
"There was a time when angels were mainly relegated to Christmas cards. But not anymore. Angels have infiltrated the popular culture — big time. Indeed, interest in angels is virtually soaring across the religious spectrum in North America — from mainline Christians to New Agers who seek comfort from these heavenly helpers in a troubled and often chaotic world." [1]
Rhode's article was written more than a decade ago, but interest in angels has not waned, thanks largely to New Agers.
Rhodes goes on to say,
"New Agers ... have become almost fanatically excited about angels because they have bought into a plethora of wildly unbiblical ideas about angels that nevertheless have great appeal in today's religious climate. One reason cited for angel popularity in New Age literature is that angels offer people a spirituality that does not involve commitment to God or His laws. Sophy Burnham, author of A Book of Angels, believes the current popularity of angels is 'because we have created this concept of God as punitive, jealous, judgmental,' while 'angels never are. They are utterly compassionate.'" [2]
Compassionate? The truth is, angels are utterly fearsome. In the Bible when someone experienced an angelic visitation, they were gripped with fear. Thus the angel's first words were, "Do not be afraid."
What we know about angels is limited. The Bible tells us that they are powerful supernatural spirit beings without gender, but on occasion they manifest in human form.
Even though angels are spirits, like the deities in ancient mythology, they are given human characteristics. Most angel artists depict angels in the feminine gender. However, in the Bible angels are referred to in the masculine pronouns "he/him." For example, the angel Gabriel took on the form of a man when he appeared to Mary, the mother of Jesus Christ, and also to Zechariah. A male angel appeared to Joseph in dreams. It was a male angel who rolled back the stone at Jesus's tomb. Two angels appeared at the tomb at which Jesus had risen and were perceived by the apostles as men. Cornelius was given instructions by a male angel. Then there was the male angel that engineered Peter's prison break. Jacob wrestled all night with a male angel. The Archangel Michael wrestled with a fallen angel, namely Satan and we all know Satan is no lady. And in the book of Revelation we're told that God will employ an all male army of angels to pour out His wrath on Planet Earth.
The aforementioned are examples, not from mythology, but from the Holy Bible. If angels have a gender the Bible would indicate that they are predominately or universally male. But it doesn't say that. This bears repeating: Angels are genderless. Matthew 22:30 says,
"At the resurrection people will neither marry nor be given in marriage; they will be like the angels in heaven."
Today it has become fashionable for humans to seek out angels. Some Christians even engage in this unbiblical practice! My question for followers of Jesus Christ is why would you want to go to the trouble of contacting an angel when believers have direct access to God? It's true! Listen to what the Bible says,
"Access to God is secured by Christ's atoning work on the cross. Therefore, brothers, since we have confidence to enter the Most Holy Place by the blood of Jesus, by a new and living way opened for us through the curtain, that is, his body, and since we have a great priest over the house of God, let us draw near to God with a sincere heart in full assurance of faith, having our hearts sprinkled to cleanse us from a guilty conscience and having our bodies washed with pure water" (Hebrews 10:19-22). The Holy Spirit enables our access, "For through him we both have access to the Father by one Spirit" (Ephesians 2:18).
God knows our problems and struggles. He truly understands! His people are encouraged to draw near to Him.
"We find grace and strength to sustain us under the intense pressures of life. Draw near to the throne of grace. Our High Priest (Jesus Christ) is there, eager to restore you." — Pastor Stan Way
So again, why would a serious Christian seek out angels?
The New Age website spiritproject.com claims people seek out angels because they need help from the other side. If someone wants to change but he or she doesn't know how, they can ask their angel to help them out:
"Almost all people like angels. You can talk to your angel as you would with a close friend who listens to your sorrows and wishes. Angels help you with everything — problems of everyday life, spiritual development, your personal contact with your concept of God/dess, your intuition, your abilities, you name it. One aspect of importance in our times — your angel will always have time for you!"[3]
How does someone go about making contact with a supernatural being? Well, the first step is to invite an angel to speak through you. According to spiritproject.com the next step would be to,
"Imagine how he sits behind you encircling you with protection and love, warm, shining, healing, cozy. Imagine how your angel showers you with light, shining cascades of light run down your body, renew, cleanse and refresh you. Thank your angel for hanging in there with you every day!" [3]
If they truly are angels, they would have no choice but to "hang in there," as God's elect holy angels would never disobey a direct command from God Almighty. Psalm 91:11 promises,
"For He will command His angels concerning you to guard you in all your ways."
There's more than one way to skin a cat. Messagesfromtheangels.com offers these tips from a so-called angel,
Step 1
Pray...Pray for the truth and the gift of spiritual hearing. Let us know your concerns and requests. Pray with an open heart and mind.
Step 2
Breathe...We come to you on your breath- just be of serene nature. Let your body relax as you breathe deeply and easily.
Step 3
Listen...We come to you as an inner knowing. We will bring you comfort and guidance. Quiet your mind so that you can listen to our gentle voices. (For steps 4-7 see link 4 below.)
Some people imagine their angel sitting behind them. Still others listen to their "inner knowing." What they have in common is the belief that their "teacher and guide" is an angel. I hate to rain on anyone's parade, but what if the teacher happens to be a disgraced angel who "masquerades as an angel of light" the scriptures warn us about? The next time you decide to call on an angel for help and guidance keep in mind that the Bible makes it abundantly clear that Satan and his minions are characterized as ferocious wolves that hide beneath sheep's skin to deceive their prey!
Here's another piece of advice from an angel channeller:
"[Q]uiet your mind, body, and spirit...to achieve an attitude of openness and receptivity that will enable you to hear their words of guidance and their special teachings for you."
Openness and receptivity to whom? Demonic spirits, perhaps?
In a commentary I wrote about angels, Beware of Angels from the Dark Side [5], I commented on the participation of demons in the practice of contacting so-called angels:
"The principle goal of demonic spirits that imitate angels is to confuse people as to their modus operandi. If people can be convinced that the realm of the occult is 'safe' they'll be much more willing to experiment. But they're not safe! A person who channels an angel (or a spirit guide) is possessed by a control spirit every bit as much as if they were a medium or a trans-channeller. The messages and phenomena found in angel channeling and in mediumism are essentially the same."
Forewarned is forearmed.
As for praying to angels, Scripture does not teach us to pray to spirits! In Matthew 6:6 Jesus made this statement to his followers,
"But when you pray, go into your room, close the door and pray to your Father, who is unseen. Then your Father, who sees what is done in secret, will reward you." (See also Luke 11:1-4)
Christians can come directly to God because of Christ!
The Apostle Paul chastised the Colossians for engaging in angel worship. Look at verse 18:
"Do not let anyone who delights in false humility and the worship of angels disqualify you for the prize."
In his article "Making Distinctions: A Warning Against Mixing Beliefs," Rick Wade explains the reason for angel worship:
"Some Greek philosophers had taught that the One, or the ultimate being, was too pure to get close to evil matter. So there were many levels of lesser beings between the One and the material universe. It was a simple step to associate angels with these beings. If people couldn't approach God, maybe they could these intermediate beings. Hence, angel worship.
"[F]alse teachers were promoting a special knowledge that apparently only a few had. Paul speaks of people puffed up with idle notions, in verse 18. He also mentions the "appearance of wisdom" in verse 23. He responds that in Christ "are hidden all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge" (v. 3). This knowledge is available to all who are in Christ, and provides no reason for our being puffed up (1 Cor. 2:16).
"These three beliefs developed into what is called Gnosticism. Paul saw this as a very grave danger. Why? Just because Christians might be deprived of some rightful pleasures? Well, that was a problem. But something much more important was at stake. Because of these beliefs, the person and work of Christ was diminished." [6]
Now, getting back to Mary. Note that in the Bible she made no attempt to contact Gabriel. Here's what happened:
"The angel went to her and said, 'Greetings, you who are highly favored! The Lord is with you'" (Luke 1:28).
Sending the angel to Mary was entirely God's idea!
"The God of the Bible is the only God who comes looking for us (because, of course, He is the only God that actually exists). Every other 'god' must be searched out, found and their blessing earned." — Anonymous
It is patently absurd for followers of Jesus Christ to attempt to contact angels — or dead relatives! Christians must focus their attention on the Lord Jesus Christ. How do Christians receive instructions from Him? Through God's Word, the Bible.
"Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light for my path." (Psalm 119:105).
Why is post-modern Christianity sorely lacking in discernment? Because a large number of Christians don't read and study the Bible. As a result they have no clue what God says about mysticism — or anything else! Additionally, many Christians have no interest in attending a church where they'll hear expository teaching from the pulpit. What they prefer is to hear the pastor preach on is their "felt needs." Moreover, Christians spend their free time reading best-selling books and novels while God's Word goes largely ignored. So, is it any wonder the Church lacks discernment?
And by the way, when professing Christians are advised that certain practices (yoga, for example) are unbiblical, instead of having a humble heart they get their hackles up and react defensively. From my own experience many of them will continue dabbling in occult practices even though they're aware that what they're doing could be spiritually damaging. I know a number of Christians who deceive themselves into believing that no harm is done!
I'll close with an allegory I received in an email the other day. It's an excellent illustration of what will happen to the Church if professing Christians continue to ignore those who warn about the dangers of mixing New Age spirituality, which supports the world of the occult, with orthodox Christianity:
A mouse looked through the crack in the wall to see the farmer and his wife open a package.
What food might this contain, the mouse wondered? He was devastated to discover it was a mousetrap.
Retreating to the farmyard, the mouse proclaimed the warning: There is a mousetrap in the house! There is a mousetrap in the house!
The chicken clucked and scratched, raised her head and said, "Mr. Mouse, I can tell this is a grave concern to you, but it is of no consequence to me. I cannot be bothered by it."
The mouse turned to the pig and told him, "There is a mousetrap in the house! There is a mousetrap in the house!"
The pig sympathized, but said, "I am so very sorry, Mr. Mouse, but there is nothing I can do about it but pray. Be assured you are in my prayers."
The mouse turned to the cow and said, "There is a mousetrap in the house! There is a mousetrap in the house!"
The cow said, "Wow, Mr. Mouse. I'm sorry for you, but it's no skin off my nose."
So the mouse returned to the house, head down and dejected, to face the farmer's mousetrap alone.
That very night a sound was heard throughout the house — like the sound of a mousetrap catching its prey.
The farmer's wife rushed to see what was caught. In the darkness, she did not see it was a venomous snake whose tail the trap had caught.
The snake bit the farmer's wife. The farmer rushed her to the hospital, and she returned home with a fever.
Everyone knows you treat a fever with fresh chicken soup, so the farmer took his hatchet to the farmyard for the soup's main ingredient.
But his wife's sickness continued, so friends and neighbors came to sit with her around the clock. To feed them, the farmer butchered the pig.
The farmer's wife did not get well; she died. So many people came for her funeral; the farmer had the cow slaughtered to provide enough meat for all of them.
The mouse looked upon it all from his crack in the wall with great sadness. (Author unknown.)
"The coming of the lawless one will be in accordance with the work of Satan displayed in all kinds of counterfeit miracles, signs and wonders, and in every sort of evil that deceives those who are perishing. They perish because they refused to love the truth and so be saved. For this reason God sends them a powerful delusion so that they will believe the lie and so that all will be condemned who have not believed the truth but have delighted in wickedness" (Second Thessalonians 2:9-12).
Posted with Permission:www.renewamerica.com/columns/mwest/071221
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Angels
Nov 16, 2015 20:53:36 GMT -5
Post by Deleted on Nov 16, 2015 20:53:36 GMT -5
It was interesting and encouraging reading the first 3 posts.
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Angels
Nov 17, 2015 13:02:50 GMT -5
Post by Cindy on Nov 17, 2015 13:02:50 GMT -5
I'm glad you enjoyed it and were encouraged by it Anna!
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