By Al Behel
Scripture tells us that some have “entertained angels unaware” (Hebrews 13:8). I have often wondered about that possibility. I have wondered if angels quit coming to earth after the resurrection of Jesus, or, if they may still occasionally join our human ranks.
Entertaining angels unaware? This fact is used to encourage us to be hospitable toward others. Some who showed kindness in the past were actually showing kindness to angels.
Throughout Scripture we are reminded that angels are involved in ordaining God’s plan (Galatians 3:19), will hear Jesus confess our name in heaven (Luke 12:8,9), serve as agents on behalf of children (Matthew 18:10), rejoice when a sinner repents (Luke 15:10), are currently ministering to those who will inherit salvation (Hebrew 1:14), and will return with Jesus when He comes again (Matthew 25:31).
While angels are real beings who perform real service to God and man, the focus of our service is not to entertain angels, but to follow in the steps of Jesus. We serve the Master they serve, and glorify the One they glorify. The apostle Paul reminds us to reject any message which differs from the teachings of Jesus, even if that message comes through an angel from heaven (Galatians 1:8).
Still, we remain aware that God sends special people into our lives and commissions us to treat them as we would an angel from His presence. There, in that moment, we may meet God.
- Al Behel preaches for the Great Smoky Mountains Church
of Christ in Pigeon Forge, TN. He may be contacted
through the congregation's website: http://greatsmokymountainschurchofchrist.com/
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