Understanding Angels: Discernment and Divine Ministry
Summary
### Summary
Good evening, family. Tonight, we delved into the crucial topic of the ministry and operation of angels, a subject that is often misunderstood and misrepresented. Understanding angels is vital for every believer, as it helps us discern between true angels of God and fallen angels, or demons, who can deceive us by appearing as angels of light.
Angels are created beings, distinct from humans as they are not made of flesh and blood. They are messengers of God, sent to deliver His messages and perform His will. The Bible mentions angels numerous times, emphasizing their importance. They are powerful but not omnipotent, knowledgeable but not omniscient, and they operate strictly under God's command.
We discussed the nature of angels, their roles, and their limitations. Angels are not to be worshipped; they are fellow servants of God. They have intelligence, emotions, and a will, which allows them to choose to serve God willingly. They are immortal and do not die, and they do not multiply or have genders.
Fallen angels, or demons, lost their original holiness and became wicked. They oppose believers, spread false doctrines, and cause physical and mental afflictions. It is crucial to have a proper understanding of angels to avoid being deceived by these fallen beings.
Angels have both heavenly and earthly ministries. In heaven, they worship and serve God, while on earth, they protect, guide, and deliver God's people. They were present at significant biblical events, such as the birth and resurrection of Jesus, and continue to work in the lives of believers today.
I shared my personal experiences with angels, emphasizing that such experiences do not make one special. Every believer can have angelic encounters, but it is essential to discern the true angels of God from the fallen ones. We are not to call on angels by name; instead, we should call on the name of Jesus, as all authority is given to Him.
In conclusion, understanding the ministry of angels helps us navigate our spiritual journey with discernment and faith, always focusing on Jesus, the name above all names.
### Key Takeaways
1. Angels are Created Beings: Angels are distinct from humans, created by God to serve as His messengers. They are not made of flesh and blood and do not possess the same limitations as humans. Understanding their nature helps us discern their true purpose and avoid deception by fallen angels. [12:56]
2. Fallen Angels and Deception: Demons are fallen angels who lost their holiness and became wicked. They spread false doctrines and cause physical and mental afflictions. Recognizing their tactics and understanding true angelic ministry is crucial to avoid being misled. [19:09]
3. Angels in Biblical Events: Angels played significant roles in biblical events, such as announcing the birth of Jesus and assisting the apostles. Their presence in these events underscores their importance in God's plan and their ongoing work in the lives of believers. [17:22]
4. Personal Experiences with Angels: Personal encounters with angels are possible for every believer. These experiences should be discerned carefully, ensuring they align with biblical teachings. True angels of God will always point us to worship God, not themselves. [43:54]
5. Calling on the Name of Jesus: We are not given the authority to call on angels by name. Instead, we should call on the name of Jesus, as all authority is given to Him. Angels operate under His command, and invoking His name ensures we are aligned with God's will. [46:08]
### YouTube Chapters
[0:00] - Welcome
[09:33] - Introduction to Angels and Demons
[10:56] - Personal Experience with Angels
[12:56] - Nature of Angels
[14:26] - Angels as Messengers
[16:14] - Biblical References to Angels
[17:22] - Angels in the New Testament
[19:09] - Discernment Between True and Fallen Angels
[20:44] - Limitations of Angels
[22:07] - Misconceptions About Angels
[23:28] - Immortality and Power of Angels
[25:19] - Classifications of Angels
[26:17] - Named Angels in the Bible
[28:26] - Fall of Satan and His Angels
[30:54] - Results of the Fall of Angels
[33:22] - Opposition by Fallen Angels
[34:30] - False Doctrines Spread by Demons
[37:13] - Possession and Oppression by Demons
[38:38] - True Angels Lead to Worship of God
[43:54] - Personal Experience with Angelic Voices
[46:08] - Authority in the Name of Jesus
[49:19] - Angels' Obedience to God's Command
[50:23] - Innumerable Hosts of Angels
[52:28] - Ranking of Angels
[54:05] - Michael's Role in Spiritual Warfare
[55:08] - Deception by Fallen Angels
[57:37] - Heavenly and Earthly Ministries of Angels
[01:00:35] - Angels' Role in Jesus' Life
[01:01:04] - Angels' Role in Believers' Lives
[01:05:42] - Guardian Angels and Ministry
[01:08:02] - Worship and Service to God
[01:12:20] - Discernment and Worship
[01:13:28] - Closing Remarks and Upcoming Sessions
Study Guide
### Bible Reading
1. Hebrews 1:14 (NIV) - "Are not all angels ministering spirits sent to serve those who will inherit salvation?"
2. Psalm 91:11 (NIV) - "For he will command his angels concerning you to guard you in all your ways."
3. Revelation 22:8-9 (NIV) - "I, John, am the one who heard and saw these things. And when I had heard and seen them, I fell down to worship at the feet of the angel who had been showing them to me. But he said to me, 'Don’t do that! I am a fellow servant with you and with your fellow prophets and with all who keep the words of this scroll. Worship God!'"
### Observation Questions
1. According to Hebrews 1:14, what is the primary role of angels?
2. In Psalm 91:11, what specific task are angels commanded to perform for believers?
3. What was the angel's response to John's attempt to worship him in Revelation 22:8-9, and what does this indicate about the nature of true angels? [38:38]
4. How does the sermon describe the difference between true angels of God and fallen angels? [19:09]
### Interpretation Questions
1. Why is it important for believers to understand the nature and role of angels as described in Hebrews 1:14? How does this knowledge impact our spiritual lives?
2. Psalm 91:11 speaks of angels guarding believers. How might this promise provide comfort and assurance in times of trouble?
3. Reflecting on Revelation 22:8-9, why is it significant that true angels direct worship towards God and not themselves? How does this help us discern between true and false spiritual experiences? [38:38]
4. The sermon emphasizes the importance of calling on the name of Jesus rather than angels. Why is this distinction crucial for maintaining proper spiritual focus and authority? [46:08]
### Application Questions
1. Have you ever experienced a situation where you felt protected or guided in a way that might have involved angelic intervention? How did this experience affect your faith?
2. The sermon warns against the deception of fallen angels. What practical steps can you take to ensure you are not misled by false doctrines or spiritual experiences? [19:09]
3. How can you cultivate a habit of calling on the name of Jesus in your daily life, especially in moments of need or spiritual warfare? [46:08]
4. Reflect on a time when you might have been tempted to give undue reverence to a spiritual experience or person. How can you redirect that reverence towards God alone, as instructed in Revelation 22:8-9? [38:38]
5. The pastor shared personal experiences with angelic voices. How can you discern whether a spiritual experience aligns with biblical teachings? What criteria will you use to evaluate such experiences? [43:54]
6. Considering the role of angels in biblical events, how can you remain open to the possibility of angelic assistance while ensuring your focus remains on Jesus? [17:22]
7. How can you encourage others in your small group or church community to develop a balanced and biblical understanding of angels and their ministry? What resources or practices might help in this endeavor?
Devotional
Day 1: Angels as God's Messengers
Angels are created beings, distinct from humans, created by God to serve as His messengers. They are not made of flesh and blood and do not possess the same limitations as humans. Understanding their nature helps us discern their true purpose and avoid deception by fallen angels. Angels are powerful but not omnipotent, knowledgeable but not omniscient, and they operate strictly under God's command. They are immortal and do not die, and they do not multiply or have genders. They have intelligence, emotions, and a will, which allows them to choose to serve God willingly.
Angels are not to be worshipped; they are fellow servants of God. They have been present at significant biblical events, such as the birth and resurrection of Jesus, and continue to work in the lives of believers today. Their primary role is to deliver God's messages and perform His will. By understanding the true nature and purpose of angels, believers can better navigate their spiritual journey and avoid being deceived by fallen angels. [12:56]
Hebrews 1:14 (ESV): "Are they not all ministering spirits sent out to serve for the sake of those who are to inherit salvation?"
Reflection: How can you be more aware of the ways God might be using His angels to minister to you in your daily life?
Day 2: Recognizing Fallen Angels and Deception
Fallen angels, or demons, lost their original holiness and became wicked. They spread false doctrines and cause physical and mental afflictions. Recognizing their tactics and understanding true angelic ministry is crucial to avoid being misled. Demons can deceive us by appearing as angels of light, making it essential to have a proper understanding of angels to discern between true angels of God and fallen ones.
Fallen angels oppose believers and work to spread false teachings that can lead people away from the truth of God's Word. They can cause various afflictions and create confusion among believers. By being aware of their tactics and staying grounded in biblical teachings, believers can protect themselves from deception and remain focused on their spiritual journey. [19:09]
2 Corinthians 11:14-15 (ESV): "And no wonder, for even Satan disguises himself as an angel of light. So it is no surprise if his servants, also, disguise themselves as servants of righteousness. Their end will correspond to their deeds."
Reflection: Can you identify any areas in your life where you might be vulnerable to deception? How can you seek God's truth to guard against it?
Day 3: Angels in Biblical Events
Angels played significant roles in biblical events, such as announcing the birth of Jesus and assisting the apostles. Their presence in these events underscores their importance in God's plan and their ongoing work in the lives of believers. Angels are messengers of God, sent to deliver His messages and perform His will. They have been involved in various significant moments throughout the Bible, highlighting their crucial role in God's plan.
By understanding the roles angels have played in biblical events, believers can gain a deeper appreciation for their ongoing work in their lives today. Angels continue to protect, guide, and deliver God's people, just as they did in the past. Recognizing their presence and role in our lives can help us stay focused on God's plan and purpose for us. [17:22]
Luke 1:26-28 (ESV): "In the sixth month the angel Gabriel was sent from God to a city of Galilee named Nazareth, to a virgin betrothed to a man whose name was Joseph, of the house of David. And the virgin's name was Mary. And he came to her and said, 'Greetings, O favored one, the Lord is with you!'"
Reflection: How can you be more attentive to the ways God might be using His angels to guide and protect you in your daily life?
Day 4: Personal Experiences with Angels
Personal encounters with angels are possible for every believer. These experiences should be discerned carefully, ensuring they align with biblical teachings. True angels of God will always point us to worship God, not themselves. While personal experiences with angels can be profound and impactful, it is essential to approach them with discernment and caution.
Believers should always test their experiences against the truth of God's Word and ensure that any angelic encounter aligns with biblical teachings. True angels of God will never seek worship for themselves but will always direct believers to worship God. By maintaining a focus on Jesus and His teachings, believers can navigate their spiritual journey with discernment and faith. [43:54]
Hebrews 13:2 (ESV): "Do not neglect to show hospitality to strangers, for thereby some have entertained angels unawares."
Reflection: Have you ever had an experience that you believe might have been an encounter with an angel? How did it impact your faith, and how can you ensure it aligns with biblical teachings?
Day 5: Authority in the Name of Jesus
We are not given the authority to call on angels by name. Instead, we should call on the name of Jesus, as all authority is given to Him. Angels operate under His command, and invoking His name ensures we are aligned with God's will. By focusing on Jesus and His authority, believers can navigate their spiritual journey with confidence and faith.
Calling on the name of Jesus ensures that we are seeking God's will and protection in our lives. Angels operate under His command, and by invoking His name, we align ourselves with God's plan and purpose. This focus on Jesus helps us stay grounded in our faith and avoid being misled by false teachings or deceptive spirits. [46:08]
Philippians 2:9-11 (ESV): "Therefore God has highly exalted him and bestowed on him the name that is above every name, so that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, in heaven and on earth and under the earth, and every tongue confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father."
Reflection: In what areas of your life do you need to more consistently call on the name of Jesus for guidance and protection? How can you make this a daily practice?
Quotes
### Quotes for Outreach
1. "Angels are messengers of God, okay? So it also refers in the Bible as superhuman messengers from God because we see in the Bible where angels come in human form. We see that with Abraham. Even before Abraham, I think if I'm not mistaken from the book of Genesis chapter six, I think Genesis chapter six, verse two. When the Bible is talking about the son of God saw the daughters of men and took them as wives." [14:26] (31 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
2. "The manifestation and the works of angels have always been around and it has never stopped. You have never stopped. Amen. And you must never be scared to talk about it. Like I say, sometimes people don't understand it. Let's try today. I'm not just teaching it from a theological biblical perspective as much as the Bible spoke about it. But also I'm talking of this subject from also a personal perspective where it's an experience that I have and having an angelic experience doesn't make you special." [18:25] (29 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
3. "So the fact that they were created by God, make them lower than God. So they're not God, they're created by God, okay? And actually the word angel came from the Greek word angelos. And the word angelos means messenger, a messenger. Somebody that you send with a message. Okay? It's to transfer a message, to deliver a message to another person." [14:26] (22 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
4. "They have power, but they're not all powerful. They have knowledge, but they're not all knowing. They do a lot of activities, but they're not on their own. They do everything based on what God sent them to do. They work under submission. They work under whatever instruction have been given to them. They're not independent beings." [20:44] (20 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
5. "So when you're praying against fallen demons, stop saying that, you know, I kill you, I kill you. No, you just rebuke them and chase them away from your territory or from whatever anybody they don't multiply. Multiplication is only as human that multiply. Angels don't multiply. There's no, uh, intercourse with them where they're gonna, there's no thing. And there's no gender. There's no female. There's no male angels because the spirit, and we know spirits don't have genders. Demons don't have genders also." [23:59] (27 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
### Quotes for Members
1. "So, if we don't discern, if you don't have a proper doctrine, proper teaching, proper understanding of what angel is all about, how, what angel ministry is all about, who are they, what are their assignment, how are they involved in our lives, if we don't know that, we don't have a proper knowledge, proper understanding of it, we get deceived. And we have billions of people that have been deceived by something like that." [09:33] (25 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
2. "So, tonight, we're going to talk, biblically speaking, what angels, angels, what's, what angel is all about. So, we'll talk from a biblical perspective, what the Bible is saying. And also, I will share my own experience with that, okay? My own experience, I get quite a bit personal, as I always do. And, but this whole session is just to give you basic information. You won't go too deep, because sometimes you don't want to confuse people." [10:56] (26 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
3. "They have character. They have personalities. And when we talk about personalities, it means they have intelligence, they have emotions, they have feelings, and they have a will. They have desires. So that's why even when angels are in the presence of God, they are there because they choose to be there. They're not robot programmed to be around God. No, that's why the devil can rebel and leave, can rebel, and some angels can follow him." [22:46] (21 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
4. "So, thank you. In the Bible, we have the word angels that are mentioned, I think, a hundred times in the Old Testament and 165 times in the New Testament. So together that's 265 times we see the word angels mentioned in the Bible. That means it's a topic that the Bible talks about so many times and because of that, we mustn't avoid it. A lot of people avoid it because they don't understand it and because it's deeply spiritual, they don't know how to manage it or how to explain it." [16:14] (30 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
5. "So, thank you. In the Bible, we have the word angels that are mentioned, I think, a hundred times in the Old Testament and 165 times in the New Testament. So together that's 265 times we see the word angels mentioned in the Bible. That means it's a topic that the Bible talks about so many times and because of that, we mustn't avoid it. A lot of people avoid it because they don't understand it and because it's deeply spiritual, they don't know how to manage it or how to explain it." [16:14] (30 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
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