While performing in a play about Christ’s birth, our granddaughter, B boldly shouted the following: “Don’t be afraid, for behold, I bring you good news of great joy, which shall be to all people.” B performed the role of Gabrielle in the Christmas school play and we were thrilled beyond measure to be able to see her perform. As we helped her learn to recite lines for her role, she began to ask profound questions about angels and their roles on earth. We began to explain that Jesus Christ was greater than the greatest creatures, and that while angels are powerful ministers for God, Jesus is the divine monarch. (Hebrews 1:8)
Some of us are fascinated with angels and there are all kinds of books, pictures, sermons, decorations and TV programs about them, but the truth is found in the Bible. In several books, chapters, and verses, God explains how he uses angels to support his work but does not allow them to exceed his authority. Sometimes we can be guilty of giving misplaced adoration to the other beings in the spiritual realm instead of Christ. It is dangerous to put something else in the place of God, which inhibits our capacity for hearing the Holy Spirit and drawing closer to him.
In Hebrews, the author addresses God’s angels and explains the superiority of Christ in his person and work. The author also gives different examples to illustrate Christ’s superiority to the angels. Christ offers a better revelation, position, priesthood, covenant, sacrifice and power.
As interesting as angels are, they are “ministering spirits” (Hebrews 1:14). They should never become the recipients of our prayers, or the objects of our worship. Even the angels call God “holy” and worship him at his throne. The angels also minister to us, but the Holy Spirit can minister in us by transforming us. It’s comforting to know that God’s angels can protect us, but only Jesus Christ can save us spiritually. Not only is Christ superior to angels in His person and work, he is superior in his exalted position (Hebrews 1:3). No angel could have the power to take the seat at Father’s right hand, and no angel has ever been called God’s “son.”
What are you living for? Have you misplaced your devotion in your career, money status or pleasure? Is Jesus the first love of your life? Does he truly get the adoration and attention as your Lord?
The very talented Chris Tomlin, sings in his popular song, Holy Forever, “the Lord is forever holy and his name is the highest and the greatest and stands above them all. All thrones and dominions and powers and positions, his name stands above them all. The angels and the creation cry HOLY and he is lifted high forever.” Throughout the day worship God by listening and reflecting on the song, Holy Forever
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Father, please forgive me when I have misplaced my devotion in something other than you. Enlighten my eyes so that I can honor you with all my heart, soul and mind. I am so thankful for your saving grace. In Jesus’s name, Amen.