Angels on our Side

ADVENT ONE

Daniel 12:1-4a; Revelation 12:1-12

Unseen companions (an introduction to angels)

Made by God

Spirit-beings – without bodies as we know them

Finite and limited, but not as we know limits

Intelligent, with a will; vast and deep knowledge

Moral nature capable originally of both good and evil

Immortal that is the good already have eternal life

Powerful and organised including a system of ranking (including principalities, powers, thrones and dominions, as well as at least one archangel – Michael)

Innumerable but not reproducing – so always the same number

Varying groups according to purpose and function

Worshippers praising God’s many attributes and works; rejoicing at every new salvation

Guardians though perhaps not as the guardian angels we think of in popular thought

Messengers to reveal God’s encouragement and purpose, and even His nature

Court of heaven before whom we are to be judged; in which they hear and answer the mind of God

Watcher/protectors especially over both individual believers and the Church

Guides taking believers to their peaceful rest with God after death

Enforcers of the judgement of God at the final judgement; of God’s purposes in history

 

Fighting for us

There is a fight against us as those chosen to reveal God’s love to the world – a fight being fought by beings who are characteristically tempters and liars - and then accusers before God’s throne.

 

Their aim is to discourage and destroy trust in God and thereby weaken the cause of Christ

 

The fight is not for us to fight alone – rather than ‘toughen up’, it’s a question of trusting God’s provision; both of His direct aid and the unseen support and intervention of angels.

 

Protecting us

Their role is often stepping in to guard and protect at times of great danger and need

They work for us by holding off and neutralising spirits of discouragement and deception

We may feel their intervention as encouragement in the face of despondency

Historically, angels are known to have opened doors and facilitated the way for moves of revival and evangelism