Luke 2:7-14 "And she brought forth her firstborn SON, and wrapped HIM in swaddling clothes, and laid HIM in a manger: because there was no room for them in the inn. And there were in the same country shepherds abiding in the field, keeping watch over their flock by night. And lo, the angel of the LORD came upon them, and the glory of the LORD shone round about them: and they were sore afraid. And the angel said unto them, Fear not, for, behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people.
For unto you is born this day in the city of David a SAVIOR, which is CHRIST the LORD. And this shall be a sign unto you; Ye shall find the BABE wrapped in swaddling clothes, lying in a manger. And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising GOD, and saying, Glory to GOD in the highest, and on earth peace, good will toward men.
Angels receive much attention today, particularly from inventive religious leaders who suggest that we can improve our effectiveness as believers by supposedly tapping into the resources supplied by the angelic host. The problem with this focus upon angels, however, is that it is an improper emphasis because the Bible never instructs the Christian to summon their aid or seek to communicate with them in any way. Trying to interact with the unseen spirit world may even potentially provide the inquirer with a few spiritual contacts and problems for which he had not bargained.
GOD uses angels to minister to the saints (Hebrews 1:13-14 pictured above); generally, in ways unknown to them. Angels are on a mission to do their MASTER's will, they are not hovering around, waiting for the believer to tell them what to do. Also, the angels' purpose and desire are to direct all praise and notice to GOD, not to themselves (Psalm 103:20-21 pictured above). Spurious occultic and charismatic teachings all too often focus on the beings of the spirit world, but the Christian's attention should be, as is true of the angels, riveted upon the LORD.
GOD's WORD speaks of the angels' sporadic participation in the events surrounding the LORD's earthly ministry; perhaps the most well-known occasion was when, with worship and jubilation, they proclaimed HIS birth to the shepherds. What a marvelous night that was ! Their CREATOR had come to dwell among men (John 1:14). The joyous exaltation of the angelic host at HIS birth and their deep interest in all things pertaining to their MASTER reveal an attitude that we would do well to emulate. All glory and praise are due GOD the SON, and the angelic host perfectly demonstrates that transcendent reality. DWC
Your servant in CHRIST,
Julie
Copyright, FEATURE: A Daily Bible Study Guide.
Used with permission. www.featoday.org
https://fivestarchristianministries.com/salvation
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