THE MINISTRY OF ANGELS

TITLE: THE MINISTRY OF ANGELS

By Rev. Samuel Arimoro

Main Text:
Hebrews 1:14 (NKJV) – "Are they not all ministering spirits sent forth to minister for those who will inherit salvation?"

Supporting Texts:
Psalm 91:11 (NKJV) – "For He shall give His angels charge over you, to keep you in all your ways."
Matthew 18:10 (NKJV) – "Take heed that you do not despise one of these little ones, for I say to you that in heaven their angels always see the face of My Father who is in heaven."

INTRODUCTION:
The ministry of angels is a fascinating aspect of God's providence that often goes unnoticed. Angels are not merely mythical beings; they are God's created servants, actively engaged in the lives of believers. This Bible study will explore the roles and responsibilities of angels, their purpose in our lives, and how we can acknowledge and engage with this divine ministry.

1. THE ROLE OF ANGELS IN SCRIPTURE
Angels play a significant role throughout the Bible, serving various functions.

a) Messengers of God: Angels often act as messengers, delivering divine messages to individuals (Luke 1:26-38).

b) Protectors: They are assigned to protect God’s people from harm (Psalm 34:7; Psalm 91:11).

c) Worshippers: Angels worship God and reflect His glory (Isaiah 6:1-3).

d) Ministers of Justice: They execute God’s judgement on nations and individuals (Genesis 19:1-13).

Biblical Example:
In Luke 2:8-14, an angel announced the birth of Jesus to the shepherds, demonstrating their role as divine messengers.

2. THE NATURE OF ANGELS
Understanding the nature of angels is crucial for recognising their ministry.

a) Created Beings: Angels are created beings, not divine themselves (Colossians 1:16).

b) Spiritual Beings: They are spirit beings without physical bodies, allowing them to operate in the spiritual realm (Hebrews 1:7).

c) Intelligent and Powerful: Angels possess intelligence and great power, enabling them to carry out God's commands (2 Peter 2:11).

d) Variety of Orders: There are different ranks and orders of angels, such as archangels and seraphim (Jude 1:9; Isaiah 6:2).

Biblical Example:
In Revelation 12:7-9, Michael, an archangel, leads a heavenly army against Satan, showcasing their intelligence and power.

3. ANGELIC ASSIGNMENTS IN OUR LIVES
Angels are actively involved in various aspects of our lives.

a) Guarding and Protecting: Angels are sent to guard and protect us from danger (Psalm 91:11-12).

b) Guiding and Directing: They guide us in making wise decisions and navigating life’s challenges (Acts 8:26-29).

c) Bringing Comfort: Angels can provide comfort and encouragement in times of distress (Luke 22:43).

d) Interceding for Us: They can intercede on our behalf, presenting our needs to God (Revelation 8:3-4).

Biblical Example:
In Acts 12:7-10, an angel freed Peter from prison, illustrating their role in protecting and guiding God’s people.

4. HOW TO ENGAGE WITH ANGELIC MINISTRY
Recognising and engaging with angelic ministry enhances our spiritual journey.

a) Cultivating Awareness: Being aware of the presence of angels helps us recognise their influence in our lives (Hebrews 13:2).

b) Praying for Angelic Assistance: We can pray for God to send angels to assist us in various situations (Psalm 34:7).

c) Living in Obedience: Obeying God’s Word positions us to receive angelic protection and guidance (Psalm 119:11).

d) Being Sensitive to the Spirit: Being sensitive to the Holy Spirit can lead to recognising angelic promptings (Romans 8:14).

Biblical Example:
Cornelius’ prayers prompted a divine encounter with an angel, leading to significant spiritual breakthrough (Acts 10:3-6).

5. THE COMFORT OF ANGELIC PRESENCE
The presence of angels brings comfort and assurance.

a) Assurance of God’s Care: Knowing that angels are watching over us reassures us of God’s care and love (1 Peter 5:7).

b) Peace in Trials: The awareness of angelic protection can bring peace during trials and challenges (Philippians 4:7).

c) Hope in Despair: Angels can inspire hope in situations that seem hopeless (Isaiah 41:10).

d) Strength in Weakness: They can provide strength when we are feeling weak and vulnerable (2 Corinthians 12:9).

Biblical Example:
When Elijah was weary, an angel provided him food and strength to continue his journey (1 Kings 19:5-8).

CONCLUSION:
The ministry of angels is a profound aspect of God’s provision for His people. They are here to guide, protect, and encourage us as we navigate life’s journey. By recognising their presence and engaging with their ministry, we can experience the fullness of God’s care in our lives.

PRAYER POINTS:
1. Thank You, Lord, for the angels You have assigned to watch over me!

2. I declare that I am protected by the angelic hosts You have sent!

3. Open my eyes to see the angelic assistance in my life!

4. I pray for divine guidance through Your angels in my decisions!

5. Let every fear be cast out by the assurance of Your angels' presence!

6. I invite angelic intervention in my current challenges!

7. May Your angels comfort me in times of distress!

8. I declare that no weapon formed against me shall prosper, for angels guard me!

9. Thank You, Lord, for the strength and encouragement provided by Your angels!

10. I commit my ways to You, trusting in Your angelic protection!

PROPHETIC DECLARATIONS:
1. You will experience the ministry of angels in your daily life!

2. Every fear will be dispelled by the presence of God’s angels!

3. Divine assistance will come to you through angelic interventions!

4. You shall witness the fulfilment of God’s promises through the ministry of angels!

5. Your life will reflect the power of God as angels assist you!

6. Every barrier will be broken by the angelic hosts sent to you!

7. You will be guided to your destiny by the angels assigned to you!

8. Your prayers will activate the ministry of angels in your circumstances!

9. You are divinely protected and surrounded by the watchful eyes of angels!

10. The peace of God will fill your heart as you recognise angelic presence!