Friday, February 24, 2012

Here are two excellent postings on Jesus being higher than the Angels and where our praise should go. They are both from Back to the Bible Ministries (accessible on the Web). My comments follow as usual.

Topic: Jesus
Better Than Angels
Americans are fascinated with angels. Seventy to 80 percent of Americans believe in angels--including guardian angels. The TV series Touched by an Angel was watched by 24 million people during its nine-year run.

Unfortunately, the same enthusiasm doesn't hold true when it comes to a biblical view of Jesus. Only about nine percent of adult Americans understand the true significance of our Savior.

This lopsided view becomes especially important when we see what the Bible says about Jesus and angels

Receive


Read the following verses from the Book of Hebrews and indicate how Jesus differs from the angels.

  • Hebrews 1:1-4
  • Hebrews 1:5
  • Hebrews 1:6
  • Hebrews 1:7-8
  • Hebrews 1:13

Reflect

While it may be appropriate to appreciate the ministry of angels, keep in mind they are only doing what God has instructed them to do (Hebrews 1:14). Jesus, on the other hand, chose to take on human flesh, to live among us and, finally, to die for our sins. No one forced Him to do any of those things against His will. As He told His disciples:

"The Father loves me because I sacrifice my life so I may take it back again. No one can take my life from me. I sacrifice it voluntarily. For I have the authority to lay it down when I want to and also to take it up again. For this is what my Father has commanded" (John 10:17-18, NLT).

Be aware, as well, that angels can be deceptive. Paul warns us that Satan can disguise himself as an "angel of light" (2 Corinthians 11:14). In Galatians, the apostle implies that angels (those who fell with Satan) are capable of perpetrating a false gospel (Galatians 1:8). As a result, those claiming their teaching comes from an angel should be treated with caution.

2nd posting from Back to the Bible:

Topic: Jesus
Jesus above Angels
Angels are popular today. Nearly every major newspaper and magazine over the last few years has run a story about angels. And, of course, many stores offer angel statues, angel jewelry, angel pictures, etc. In fact, a few years back a survey discovered that there are more than 140 stores in the United States that specialize solely in angel paraphernalia.
While angels are certainly a reality, do they deserve all the attention they're receiving these days? Let's look at what the Bible says.

Receive

"For by him [Jesus] all things were created, in heaven and on earth, visible and invisible, whether thrones or dominions or rulers or authorities--all things were created through him and for him" (Colossians 1:16 ESV).
"Therefore God gave them up in the lusts of their hearts to impurity, to the dishonoring of their bodies among themselves, because they exchanged the truth about God for a lie and worshiped and served the creature rather than the Creator, who is blessed forever! Amen" (Romans 1:24-25 ESV).
"Are they not all ministering spirits sent out to serve for the sake of those who are to inherit salvation?" (Hebrews 1:14 ESV).
  • Who created the angels?
  • What happens when people focus on that which was created rather than the Creator?
  • What is the true purpose of angels in their relationship with humans?

Reflect

Today's fascination with angels borders on worship. Do you find yourself more attracted to angels than Jesus? Memorize Hebrews 1:4. The next time you're tempted to buy another "angel item," remind yourself who is better--angels or Jesus.

Respond

Take a look around your home and garden. You may also want to consider the jewelry you wear. Is there any indication that angels may be holding a more prominent place in your life than Jesus? Consider removing items that might distract you or others from the Person who should be the primary focus of your attention and adoration.

My Comments: I have always known there were angels yet never thought of them the way it seems so many today view them, almost as their saviors. For me they are the messengers, the tool God uses to accomplish His will at times, to fight Satan and his minions and hold us up yet they do not have any power but from God and they do not presume to tell God how things should be run.
They are not like the several movies and shows over the years portray them from "Touched By An Angel", to Clarence the angel trying to get his wings. Sometimes we say someone is "our special angel" though we are not really calling them angels in the sense of the Bible and when one passes from this world to the next they do not become angels as angels are created beings from before we were ever created and they are separate from us.
I am not sure where all this "Angel" worship started though I know who started it. The one who was a heavenly angel and wanted to be worshipped because he wanted to usurp God and sit on His throne. It is just another way he uses to pull worship away from the one True God of heaven and earth.
My prayer is that you will not be deceived and if you have that your eyes will be opened and you will worship at the throne of the one and only God maker of the universe and creator of all. Angels worship Him and we are to do the same. That is our purpose.
Father forgive us when our admiration of your creation goes overboard and gently bring us back to true worship of You Abba through Jesus our Lord and Savior in union with the Holy Spirit. Amen

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