LET THE PROPHET SPEAK
The holy angels and their ministry Compiled by Zaddoch Ponde pondezedd@gmail.com
I call upon the ministers of Christ to press home upon the understanding of all who come within the reach of their voice, the truth of the ministraHon of angels. Do not indulge in fanciful specula2ons. The wriIen Word is our only safety. (Le7er 201, 1899).
Kellog crisis undermined Personality of God and ministry of holy angels
I am bidden to say to our people, Do not confound the words of Sister White with the deceptive fallacies of the enemy. Extreme views of “God in nature” UNDERMINE THE FOUNDATION TRUTHS OF THE PERSONALITY OF GOD AND THE MINISTRATION OF ANGELS. A confused mass of spiritualistic ideas takes the place of faith in a personal God. I take no stock whatever in some of the principles that are now being advocated. {Lt271b-1903}
The angels of God are constantly ac2ve to bring enlightened beings up from a low and degraded state to purity, to holiness, bringing their perverse will into subjec2on to the will of God. {Lt14-1885},
I wish to call your a7en2on this aMernoon to the importance of everyone understanding that we cannot keep ourselves; that God has angels. These angels from heaven communicate with the children of men, and not one of us by anything we may do can uphold or keep ourselves. We are where we are, kept every moment by the power of God. I have thought that we do not make of that [the] importance that we should—the ministraHon of heavenly angels. WE DO NOT TAKE IN THIS MATTER AND PRESENT IT IN THE CHURCH; WE DO NOT PRESENT IT IN OUR FAMILIES; WE DO NOT TALK [OF] IT AS WE OUGHT, and thus keep in remembrance that every soul with whom we are connected has the guardianship of heavenly angels, sent forth to minister unto those who shall be heirs of salva2on Hebrews 1:14. I want you to consider this point, What should we do without them? I want you to consider what kind of a posi>on we should be le@ in if we had not the ministry of holy angels. {Ms1-1890}
The connec2on of the visible with the invisible world, the ministraHon of angels of God, and the agency of evil spirits, are plainly revealed in the Scriptures, and inseparably interwoven with human history. There is a growing tendency to disbelief in the existence of evil spirits, while the holy angels that “minister for them who shall be heirs of salva2on” (Hebrews 1:14) are regarded by many as spirits of the dead. But the Scriptures not only teach the existence of
angels, both good and evil, but present unques>onable proof that these are not disembodied spirits of dead men. {GC 511.1}
How impotent on this occasion was the power of the kings and rulers. They could not act their will on Him who was slain for the sins of the world. Had it been possible, the prince of darkness with his apostate army would have kept forever sealed the tomb that held the Son of God. But a heavenly host guarded the sepulcher. With majes2c and terrible tread, the God of heaven, followed by the angels, walked round the tomb of Christ. They had been unseen witnesses of all that had taken place in the mock trial in the judgment hall. Every ac2on was noted, every taunt recorded. {12MR 421.2}
God has recorded many narraHves in his inspired word to teach us that the human family is the object of the special care of heavenly angels. Man is not leM to become the sport of Satan’s tempta2ons. All heaven is ac2vely engaged in the work of communica2ng light to the inhabitants of the world, that they may not be leM without spiritual guidance. An eye that never slumbers nor sleeps is guarding the camp of Israel. Ten thousand 2mes ten thousand, and thousands of thousands of angels are ministering to the needs of the children of men. Voices inspired by God are crying, This is the way, walk ye in it. If men will hear the voice of warning, if they will trust to God’s guidance and not to finite judgment, they will be safe. {YI, February 14, 1901 par. 1}
We need to understand be7er than we do the work of these angel visitants. It would be well for all who claim to be children of God to consider that the words they speak are in the hearing of heavenly beings, and that they behold the works they do. Who would think that heavenly angels are coopera>ng with us in our work? But so it is, and thus earth is connected with heaven. . . . {12MR 308.1}
Christ is the ladder that Jacob saw, the base resHng on the earth, and the topmost round reaching to the gate of heaven, to the very threshold of glory. If that ladder had failed by a single step of reaching the earth, we should have been lost. But Christ reaches us where we are. He took our nature and overcame, that we through taking His nature might overcome. Made “in the likeness of sinful flesh” (Romans 8:3), He lived a sinless life. Now by His divinity He lays hold upon the throne of heaven, while by His humanity He reaches us. He bids us by faith in Him a7ain to the glory of the character of God. Therefore are we to be perfect, even as our “Father which is in heaven is perfect.” {DA 311.5}
Through Christ we have constant communicaHon with the Father. Through this open door we may view the glories of the celes2al world, and may es2mate the superiority of heavenly a7rac2ons as compared with earthly. Then with a heart all aglow with the love of Jesus, we may reveal to others what we have seen and learned. {RH, January 6, 1891 par. 9}
The anointed ones standing by the Lord of the whole earth, have the posiHon once given to Satan as covering cherub. By the holy beings surrounding his throne, the Lord keeps up a constant communicaHon with the inhabitants of the earth. The golden oil represents the grace with which God keeps the lamps of believers supplied, that they shall not flicker and go out. Were it not that this holy oil is poured from heaven in the messages of God’s Spirit, the agencies of evil would have en2re control over men. {RH, July 20, 1897 par. 6}
But what is Grace?
Some seem to feel that they must be on proba2on, and must prove to the Lord that they are reformed, before they can claim His blessing. But they may claim the blessing of God even now. They must have His grace, the Spirit of Christ, to help their infirmiHes, or they cannot resist evil. Jesus loves to have us come to Him just as we are, sinful, helpless, dependent. We may come with all our weakness, our folly, our sinfulness, and fall at His feet in penitence. It is His glory to encircle us in the arms of His love and to bind up our wounds, to cleanse us from all impurity. {SC 52.2}
But what is this grace they impart?
Some seem to feel that they must be on proba2on, and must prove to the Lord that they are reformed, before they can claim His blessing. But they may claim the blessing of God even now. THEY MUST HAVE HIS GRACE, THE SPIRIT OF CHRIST, TO HELP THEIR INFIRMITIES, OR THEY CANNOT RESIST EVIL. Jesus loves to have us come to Him just as we are, sinful, helpless, dependent. We may come with all our weakness, our folly, our sinfulness, and fall at His feet in penitence. It is His glory to encircle us in the arms of His love and to bind up our wounds, to cleanse us from all impurity. {SC 52.2}
Here is where thousands fail; they do not believe that Jesus pardons them personally, individually. They do not take God at His word. It is the privilege of all who comply with the condi2ons to know for themselves that pardon is freely extended for every sin. Put away the suspicion that God’s promises are not meant for you. They are for every repentant transgressor. STRENGTH AND GRACE HAVE BEEN PROVIDED THROUGH CHRIST TO BE BROUGHT BY MINISTERING ANGELS TO EVERY BELIEVING SOUL. None are so sinful that they cannot find strength, purity, and righteousness in Jesus, who died for them. He is wai2ng to strip them of their garments stained and polluted with sin, and to put upon them the white robes of righteousness; He bids them live and not die. {SC 52.3}
Satan is a diligent Bible student. He knows that his 2me is short, and he seeks at every point to counterwork the work of the Lord upon this earth. It is impossible to give any idea of the experience of the people of God who shall be alive upon the earth when celes2al glory and a repe22on of the persecu2ons of the past are blended. They will walk in the light proceeding from the throne of God. By means of the angels, there will be constant communicaHon
between heaven and earth. And Satan, surrounded by evil angels, and claiming to be God, will work miracles of all kinds, to deceive, if possible, the very elect. {1NL 50.4}
Here Christ virtually says, On the bank of the Jordan the heavens were opened, and the Spirit descended like a dove upon Me. That scene was but a token that I am the Son of God. If you believe on Me as such, your faith shall be quickened. You shall see that the heavens are opened, and are never to be closed. I have opened them to you. The angels of God are ascending, bearing the prayers of the needy and distressed to the Father above, and descending, bringing blessing and hope, courage, help, and life, to the children of men. {DA 142.4}
The angels of God are ever passing from earth to heaven, and from heaven to earth. The miracles of Christ for the afflicted and suffering were wrought by the power of God through the ministraHon of the angels. And it is through Christ, by the ministraHon of His heavenly messengers, that every blessing comes from God to us. In taking upon Himself humanity, our Saviour unites His interests with those of the fallen sons and daughters of Adam, while through His divinity He grasps the throne of God. And thus Christ is the medium of communica2on of men with God, and of God with men. {DA 143.1}
Here is a lesson of instruc2on to all the followers of Christ. He designed that none of these lessons should be lost, but be wri7en for the benefit of future genera2ons. There is necessity of carefulness of words and ac2ons when Chris2ans are associated together, lest Jesus be forgo7en of them, and they pass along careless of the fact that Jesus is not among them. When they are aroused to their condi2on, they discover that they have journeyed without the presence of Him who could give peace and joy to their hearts, and days are occupied in returning, and searching for him whom they should have retained with them every moment. Jesus will not be found in the company of those who are careless of his presence, and who engage in conversa2on having no reference to their Redeemer, in whom they profess their hopes of eternal life are centered. Jesus shuns the company of such, so also do the angels who do his commands. These heavenly messengers are not aIracted to the crowd where minds are diverted from heavenly things. These pure and holy spirits cannot remain in the company where Jesus’ presence is not desired and encouraged, and his absence not marked. For this reason, great mourning, grief, and discouragement exist. Through lack of medita2on, watchfulness, and prayer, they have lost all that is valuable. The divine rays of light emanaHng from Jesus are not with them, cheering them with their loving, elevaHng influence. They are enshrouded in gloom, because their careless, irreverent spirit has separated Jesus from their company, and driven the ministering angels from them. {2SP 37.1}
Do we realize how large a number in the world are watching our movement? From quarters where we least expect will come voices urging us forward in the work of giving to the world the last message of mercy. Ministers and people, wake up. Be wide-awake to recognize and quick to avail yourselves of every advantage offered in the turning of the wheel of providence. God and
Christ and the heavenly angels are working with intense ac>vity to quell the fierceness of Satan’s wrath, that God’s plans may not be thwarted. {20MR 125.7}
We have no 2me to listen to the sugges2ons of the wily foe. At our bap2sm we took upon ourselves a solemn vow to break all connec2on with Satan and his agencies, and to enlist heart and soul in the work of extending the kingdom of God. All heaven is working for this object. The Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit are pledged to cooperate with sancHfied human instrumentaliHes. If we are true to our vow, there is opened to us a door of communica2on with heaven–a door that no human hand or satanic agency can close. {20MR 129.1}
“He that overcometh, the same shall be clothed in white raiment; and I will not blot out his name out of the book of life, but I will confess his name before, My Father, and before His angels. … These things saith He that is holy, He that is true, He that hath the key of David, He that openeth, and no man shu7eth; and shu7eth, and no man openeth; I know thy works: behold, I have set before thee an open door, and no man can shut it: for thou hast a li7le strength, and hast kept My word, and hast not denied My name. … Because thou hast kept the word of My pa2ence, I also will keep thee from the hour of tempta2on, which shall come upon all the world, to try them that dwell upon the earth.” {20MR 129.2}
Here Christ virtually says, On the bank of the Jordan the heavens were opened, and the Spirit descended like a dove upon Me. That scene was but a token that I am the Son of God. If you believe on Me as such, your faith shall be quickened. You shall see that the heavens are opened, and are never to be closed. I have opened them to you. The angels of God are ascending, bearing the prayers of the needy and distressed to the Father above, and descending, bringing blessing and hope, courage, help, and life, to the children of men. {DA 142.4}
Remember Christ is the ladder :-my emphasis
The angels of God are ever passing from earth to heaven, and from heaven to earth. The miracles of Christ for the afflicted and suffering were wrought by the power of God through the ministraHon of the angels. And it is through Christ, by the ministraHon of His heavenly messengers, that every blessing comes from God to us. In taking upon Himself humanity, our Saviour unites His interests with those of the fallen sons and daughters of Adam, while through His divinity He grasps the throne of God. And thus Christ is the medium of communica2on of men with God, and of God with men. {DA 143.1}
Heavenly beings are appointed to answer the prayers of those who are working unselfishly for the interests of the cause of God. The very highest angels in the heavenly courts are appointed to work out the prayers which ascend to God for the advancement of the cause of God. Each angel has his parHcular post of duty, which he is not permi7ed to leave for any other place. If he should leave, the powers of darkness would gain an advantage. . . . {4BC 1173.5}
Day by day the conflict between good and evil is going on. Why is it that those who have had many opportuni2es and advantages do not realize the intensity of this work? They should be intelligent in regard to this. God is the Ruler. By His supreme power He holds in check and controls earthly potentates. Through His agencies He does the work which was ordained before the foundaHon of the world. {4BC 1173.6}
As a people we do not understand as we should the great conflict going on between invisible agencies, the controversy between loyal and disloyal angels. Evil angels are constantly at work, planning their line of a7ack, controlling as commanders, kings, and rulers, the disloyal human forces. . . . I call upon the ministers of Christ to press home upon the understanding of all who come within the reach of their voice, the truth of the ministraHon of angels. Do not indulge in fanciful specula2ons. The wriIen Word is our only safety. We must pray as did Daniel, that we may be guarded by heavenly intelligences. As ministering spirits angels are sent forth to minister to those who shall be heirs of salvaHon. Pray, my brethren, pray as you have never prayed before. We are not prepared for the Lord’s coming. We need to make thorough work for eternity (Le7er 201, 1899).
God has appointed the angels that do His will to respond to the prayers of the meek of the earth, and to guide His ministers with counsel and judgment. Heavenly agencies are constantly seeking to impart grace and strength and counsel to God’s faithful children, that they may act their part in the work of communica>ng light to the world. The wonderful sacrifice of Christ has made it possible for every man to do a special work. When the worker receives wisdom from the only true source, he will become a pure channel of light and blessing; for he will receive his capability for service in rich currents of grace and light from the throne of God. {TM 484.2}
Ministers of the holy spirit of God
Here is the explanaHons of the olive trees. They take of the Holy Spirit of God, and empty the holy oil out of themselves into the clean, pure, sancHfied souls that are prepared to receive it. This is the kind of oil that the wise virgins had, oil that one could not communicate to another. Each individual must prepare his soul for himself through humbleness of mind, by wearing Christ’s yoke and learning of Him. {Lt108-1898}
The golden oil is not manufactured by any human skill. It is the unseen power of the Holy messengers who wait before the throne of God to communicate to every one who is in darkness, that they may diffuse heaven’s light. Into the hearts of those united to God by faith, His golden oil of love flows freely, to flow forth again in good works, in real, hearOelt service for God in being a blessing to their fellow men. Thus he is enabled to shine. {Ms27-1897}
BapHsm of the holy spirit by fire
Then said he, These are the two anointed ones, that stand by the Lord of the whole earth.” {Ms109-1897}
These empty themselves into the golden bowls, which represent the hearts of the living messengers of God, who bear the Word of the Lord to the people in warnings and entreaHes. The Word itself must be as represented, the golden oil, empHed from the two olive trees that stand by the Lord of the whole earth. This is the bapHsm by the Holy Spirit with fire. This will open the soul of unbelievers to convic2on. The wants of the soul can be met only by the working of the Holy Spirit of God. Man can of himself do nothing to sa2sfy the longings and meet the aspira2ons of the heart. {Ms109-1897}
When will God’s people realize that angels of God are round about them, waiHng to give them the holy oil of His Spirit? The angels have come from the throne of God with this oil, but what do they see? They see those upon whom the light of health reform has been shining, indulging appe2te 2ll their minds are clouded and confused. They fail to see that in order to follow Christ they must take up the cross and deny self. {Ms62-1901}
God wants channels through whom the influence of His Holy Spirit can be poured out upon our world and the light of truth shine amid its moral darkness. {Ms147-1898}
For he shall give his angels charge over thee, to keep thee in all thy ways. Psalm 91:11. {OHC 23.1}
Oh, that we could all realize the nearness of heaven to earth! When the earthborn children know it not, they have the angels of light as their companions; for the heavenly messengers are sent forth to minister to those who shall be heirs of salvaHon. A silent witness guards every soul that lives, seeking to win and draw him to Christ. The angels never leave the tempted one a prey to the enemy who would destroy the souls of men if permiIed to do so. As long as there is hope, un2l they resist the Holy Spirit to their eternal ruin, men are guarded by heavenly intelligences. {OHC 23.2}
Oh, that all could behold our precious Saviour as He is, a Saviour. Let His hand draw aside the veil which conceals His glory from our eyes. It shows Him in His high and holy place. What do we see? Our Saviour, not in a posi2on of silence and inac2vity. HE IS SURROUNDED WITH HEAVENLY INTELLIGENCES, CHERUBIM, AND SERAPHIM, TEN THOUSAND TIMES TEN THOUSAND OF ANGELS. ALL THESE HEAVENLY BEINGS HAVE ONE OBJECT ABOVE ALL OTHERS, IN WHICH THEY ARE INTENSELY INTERESTED–HIS CHURCH IN A WORLD OF CORRUPTION. . . . They are working for Christ under His commission, to save to the u7ermost all who look to Him and believe in Him. {OHC 23.3}
Angels are hovering around yonder dwelling. The young are there assembled; there is the sound of vocal and instrumental music. Chris2ans are gathered there, but what is that you hear? It is a song, a frivolous di7y, fit for the dance hall. Behold, the pure angels gather their light closer around them, and darkness envelops those in that dwelling. The angels are moving from the scene. Sadness is upon their countenances. Behold, they are weeping. This I saw repeated a number of Hmes all through the ranks of Sabbath keepers, and especially in _____.MYP296
The angelic agencies are messengers from heaven, actually ascending and descending, keeping earth in constant connec>on with the heaven above. These angel messengers are observing all our course of ac>on. They are ready to help all in their weakness, guarding all from moral and physical danger according to the providence of God. And whenever souls yield to the so@ening, subduing influence of the Spirit of God under these angel ministra>ons, there is joy in heaven; the Lord Himself rejoices with singing. {Lt116-1899}
Men take altogether too much glory to themselves. It is the work of heavenly agencies co- opera>ng with human agencies according to God’s plan, that brings the result in the conversion and sanc>fica>on of the human character. We cannot see and could not endure the glory of angelic ministra2ons if their glory was not veiled in condescension to the weakness of our human nature. The blaze of the heavenly glory, as seen in the angels of light, would ex2nguish earthly mortals. Angels are working upon human minds just as these minds are given to their charge; they bring precious remembrances fresh before the mind as they did to the women about the sepulcher. {Lt116-1899}
A created instrumentality is used in heaven’s organized plan for the renewing of our nature, working in the children of disobedience obedience unto God. The guardianship of the heavenly host is granted to all who will work in God’s ways and follow His plans. We may in earnest, contrite prayer call the heavenly helpers to our side. Invisible armies of light and power will work with the humble, meek, and lowly one. They that [be] for us are more than they that be against us. Take courage. Be hopeful. {Lt116-1899}
From the case of Cornelius we may learn a lesson that we would do well to understand. The God of heaven sends His messengers to this earth to set in opera2on a train of circumstances which will bring Peter into connec2on with Cornelius, that Cornelius may learn the truth. Through angel ministra>on Peter is brought into co-opera>on with the inquiring souls who have all things in readiness to hear the truth and receive advanced light. ……. {Lt17-1900}
In every place where the apostle Paul was called to go aMer his conversion, he gave a vivid presentaHon of the ministraHon of heavenly angels in his conversion…… Christ and His angels
are at work, and what are we as individuals doing? Read the message from the lips of Christ in (Ma7hew 18) and Luke 15:10. {Ms29-1900}
The scene that took place in this mee2ng changed the whole atmosphere. All who were present knew that the Angel of God was in the room and had changed the spirits of those present. It was as if they had had a new birth, and earnest pledges were made in regard to the future of their work. The leading men grasped hands in reconcilia2on, and I felt so grateful to God that I could not find words to express my feelings. {Lt128-1906}
God knows how Satan is working, and sends his angels to watch over his children, to protect them from the Devil’s power. And the ba7le is constantly going on between the angels of God, and the Devil’s angels. The angels of God are clothed with a complete armor, the panoply of heaven, and, although surrounded with deadly foes, fear nothing, for they are doing the will of their loved Commander. They enter the darkest places to rescue the children of God from the snares of Satan, and their presence causes the evil angels to fall back. And as the evil angels are defeated, they u7er terrible impreca2ons against the injus2ce of God, and against his angels. {2SG 277.2}
I saw that the angels of God are not to force or bend the will of the individual they watch over. They are to gently chide, warn and guard. Satan can never force back these holy angels from their charge. None can do this but the individuals that they are watching over. If these individuals conHnue to grieve these tender, holy angels; if they go astray from their counsel and warnings, and choose an independent course of their own, they will drive these angels from them. If the will is submiVed to them, they will bend it in the heavenly channel, and they will ever be on the watch for their interests, leading them from a thousand dangers, preven>ng their lives being taken by Satan, and, if they are inclined to go a wrong course, stand in the path before them to prevent their ruin. {2SG 277.3}
HEBREWS 1:14
The glad message of (Hebrews 1:14) is for all. The en2re chapter is a wonderful encouragement for every tried and tempted soul. “But to which of the angels said he at any 2me, Sit on my right hand, un2l I make thine enemies thy footstool? Are they not all ministering spirits, sent forth to minister for them who shall be heirs of salva2on?” These messages are coming down along the line to our >me, to them that shall be heirs of salva>on. Angels actually come to our world. Nor are they always invisible. They some2mes veil their angelic appearance, and appearing as men, they converse with and enlighten human beings. {Ms29-1900}
The work of prepara2on is going on. While some are in the valley of decision, angels are uni>ng with true, whole-hearted servants of Christ to help these needy souls. Some are to become workers together with God in the very churches of which they were once members. Angels of God will work with them to bring men to repentance. There are many who feel too
2mid to make any effort to win souls, to enlighten the ignorant, or to relieve the oppressed. May the Lord help them to awake! The churches must be aroused; for the angels of heaven are wai2ng for human agencies to begin to work, as did the apostles at the descent of the Holy Spirit. {Ms29-1900}
In every place where the apostle Paul was called to go ajer his conversion, he gave a vivid presentaHon of the ministraHon of heavenly angels in his conversion. The Lord calls upon those who bear the name of Christ to cooperate with Him. This is a real, genuine union in ministerial service. Church members who have had light upon the truth must be converted and become Chris2ans in prac2ce. They must obey the truth, else they will become Satan’s vigilant church- workers, to annoy and perplex those who are weak in the faith. Christ and His angels are at work, and what are we as individuals doing? Read the message from the lips of Christ in (Ma7hew 18) and Luke 15:10. {Ms29-1900}
Ephesians 6:10-17. Now do we do it? Do we obey the very last verse that I have read? Do we take the helmet of salvaHon and the sword of the Spirit, which is the Word of God? {Ms1-1890}
I wish to call your a7en2on this aMernoon to the importance of everyone understanding that we cannot keep ourselves; that God has angels. These angels from heaven communicate with the children of men, and not one of us by anything we may do can uphold or keep ourselves. We are where we are, kept every moment by the power of God. I have thought that we do not make of that [the] importance that we should—the ministraHon of heavenly angels. We do not take in this maVer and present it in the church; we do not present it in our families; we do not talk [of] it as we ought, and thus keep in remembrance that every soul with whom we are connected has the guardianship of heavenly angels, sent forth to minister unto those who shall be heirs of salva>on Hebrews 1:14. I want you to consider this point, What should we do without them? I want you to consider what kind of a posiHon we should be lej in if we had not the ministry of holy angels. {Ms1-1890}
The Bible was designed to be a guide to all who wish to become acquainted with the will of their Maker. God gave to men the sure word of prophecy; angels and even Christ Himself came to make known to Daniel and John the things that must shortly come to pass. Those important ma7ers that concern our salva2on were not leM involved in mystery. They were not revealed in such a way as to perplex and mislead the honest seeker aMer truth. Said the Lord by the prophet Habakkuk: “Write the vision, and make it plain, . . . that he may run that readeth it.” Habakkuk 2:2. The word of God is plain to all who study it with a prayerful heart. Every truly honest soul will come to the light of truth. “Light is sown for the righteous.” Psalm 97:11. And no church can advance in holiness unless its members are earnestly seeking for truth as for hid treasure. {GC 521.3}
THE BOOK GREAT CONTROVERSY AND ANGELS
Before the crea2on of man, angels were in existence; for when the founda2ons of the earth were laid, “the morning stars sang together, and all the sons of God shouted for joy.” Job 38:7. AMer the fall of man, angels were sent to guard the tree of life, and this before a human being had died. Angels are in nature superior to men, for the psalmist says that man was made “a li7le lower than the angels.” Psalm 8:5. {GC 511.2}
We are informed in Scripture as to the number, and the power and glory, of the heavenly beings, of their connec2on with the government of God, and also of their rela2on to the work of redemp2on. “The Lord hath prepared His throne in the heavens; and His kingdom ruleth over all.” And, says the prophet, “I heard the voice of many angels round about the throne.” In the presence chamber of the King of kingsthey wait–“angels, that excel in strength,” “ministers of His, that do His pleasure,” “hearkening unto the voice of His word.” Psalm 103:19-21; Revela2on 5:11. Ten thousand 2mes ten thousand and thousands of thousands, were the heavenly messengers beheld by the prophet Daniel. The apostle Paul declared them “an innumerable company.” Daniel 7:10; Hebrews 12:22. As God’s messengers they go forth, like “the appearance of a flash of lightning,” (Ezekiel 1:14), so dazzling their glory, and so swiM their flight. The angel that appeared at the Saviour’s tomb, his countenance “like lightning, and his raiment white as snow,” caused the keepers for fear of him to quake, and they “became as dead men.” Ma7hew 28:3, 4. When Sennacherib, the haughty Assyrian, reproached and blasphemed God, and threatened Israel with destruc2on, “it came to pass that night, that the angel of the Lord went out, and smote in the camp of the Assyrians an hundred fourscore and five thousand.” There were “cut off all the mighty men of valor, and the leaders and captains,” from the army of Sennacherib. “So he returned with shame of face to his own land.” 2 Kings 19:35; 2 Chronicles 32:21. {GC 511.3}
Angels are sent on missions of mercy to the children of God. To Abraham, with promises of blessing; to the gates of Sodom, to rescue righteous Lot from its fiery doom; to Elijah, as he was about to perish from weariness and hunger in the desert; to Elisha, with chariots and horses of fire surrounding the li7le town where he was shut in by his foes; to Daniel, while seeking divine wisdom in the court of a heathen king, or abandoned to become the lions’ prey; to Peter, doomed to death in Herod’s dungeon; to the prisoners at Philippi; to Paul and his companions in the night of tempest on the sea; to open the mind of Cornelius to receive the gospel; to dispatch Peter with the message of salva2on to the Gen2le stranger–thus holy angels have, in all ages, ministered to God’s people. {GC 512.1}
A guardian angel is appointed to every follower of Christ. These heavenly watchers shield the righteous from the powerof the wicked one. This Satan himself recognized when he said: “Doth Job fear God for nought? Hast not Thou made an hedge about him, and about his house, and about all that he hath on every side?” Job 1:9, 10. The agency by which God protects His people
is presented in the words of the psalmist: “The angel of the Lord encampeth round about them that fear Him, and delivereth them.” Psalm 34:7. Said the Saviour, speaking of those that believe in Him: “Take heed that ye despise not one of these li7le ones; for I say unto you, That in heaven their angels do always behold the face of My Father.” Ma7hew 18:10. The angels appointed to minister to the children of God have at all 2mes access to His presence. {GC 512.2}
Thus God’s people, exposed to the decep2ve power and unsleeping malice of the prince of darkness, and in conflict with all the forces of evil, are assured of the unceasing guardianship of heavenly angels. Nor is such assurance given without need. If God has granted to His children promise of grace and protec2on, it is because there are mighty agencies of evil to be met– agencies numerous, determined, and un2ring, of whose malignity and power none can safely be ignorant or unheeding. {GC 513.1}
COOPERATION WITH ANGELS
We are to be laborers together with the heavenly angels in presenHng Jesus to the world.
With almost impa2ent eagerness the angels wait for our co-opera2on; for man must be the channel to communicate with man. And when we give ourselves to Christ in wholehearted devoHon, angels rejoice that they may speak through our voices to reveal God’s love. {DA 297.3}
Saul was a learned teacher in Israel; but, while in the midst of his blind error and prejudice, Christ reveals himself to him, and then places him in communica2on with his church, which is the light of the world. In this case Ananias represents Christ, and also represents Christ’s ministers upon earth, who are appointed to act in his stead. In Christ’s stead, Ananias touches the eyes of Saul that they may receive sight. In stead, he places his hands upon him, and, praying in Christ’s name, Saul receives the Holy Ghost. All is done in the name and by the authority of Christ; but the church is the channel of communica2on. {3SP 316.3} Luther was ordained a priest and was called from the cloister to a professorship in the University of Wi7enberg. Here he applied himself to the study of the Scriptures in the original tongues. He began to lecture upon the Bible; and the book of Psalm, the Gospels, and the Epistles were opened to the understanding of crowds of delighted listeners. Staupitz, his friend and superior, urged him to ascend the pulpit and preach the word of God. Luther hesitated, feeling himself unworthy to speak to the people in Christ’s stead. It was only aMer a long struggle that he yielded to the solicita2ons of his friends. Already he was mighty in the Scriptures, and the grace of God rested upon him. His eloquence cap2vated his hearers, the clearness and power with which he presented the truth convinced their understanding, and his fervor touched their hearts. {GC 124.1}
The husbandman who “pu7eth in the sickle, because the harvest is come,” can be no other than Christ. It is He who at the last great day will reap the harvest of the earth. But the sower of
the seed represents those who labor in Christ’s stead. The seed is said to “spring and grow up, he knoweth not how,” and this is not true of the Son of God. Christ does not sleep over His charge, but watches it day and night. He is not ignorant of how the seed grows. {COL 62.3}
Constant communicaHons
The ladder which Jacob saw in the night vision, the base of it res2ng upon the earth and the topmost round reaching unto the highest heavens; God Himself above the ladder, and His glory shining upon every round; angels descending and ascending this ladder of shining brightness, [is] a symbol of constant communica2on kept up between this world and heavenly places. God accomplishes His will through the instrumentality of heavenly angels in con>nual intercourse with humanity. This ladder reveals a direct and important channel of communica2on with the inhabitants of this earth. {Ms34-1893}
The ladder represented to Jacob was the world’s Redeemer [who] links earth and heaven together. Every one who has seen the evidence and light of truth and accepts the truth, professing his faith in Jesus Christ, is a missionary in the highest sense of the word. He is the receiver of heavenly treasures, and it [is] his duty to impart, to diffuse that which he has received. {Ms34-1893}
The Bible shows us God in His high and holy place, not in a state of inac2vity, not in silence and solitude, but surrounded by ten thousand 2mes ten thousand and thousands of thousands of holy beings, all wai2ng to do His will. Through these messengers He is in acHve communicaHon with every part of His dominion. By His Spirit He is everywhere present. Through the agency of His Spirit and His angels He ministers to the children of men. {MH 417.2}
The anointed ones standing by the Lord of the whole earth, have the posi>on once given to Satan as covering cherub. By the holy beings surrounding his throne, the Lord keeps up a constant communica>on with the inhabitants of the earth. The golden oil represents the grace with which God keeps the lamps of believers supplied, that they shall not flicker and go out. Were it not that this holy oil is poured from heaven in the messages of God’s Spirit, the agencies of evil would have en2re control over men. {RH, July 20, 1897 par. 6}
Angels and plan of redempHon
When Jacob journeyed to the house of Laban, he lay down to rest in the wilderness, with a stone for a pillow. He was a discouraged, disappointed man. It seemed to him that he was forsaken of friends, and forgo7en of God. His own brother was seeking him, that he might take his life. While he slept he had a vision. There appeared before him a ladder, whose base rested on the earth and whose top reached into the highest heavens. God was above the ladder, and his glory shone through the open heaven and lighted up every round of the ladder. The angels were ascending and descending upon it. The plan of salva>on was open to Jacob’s mind in this dream. {ST, July 29, 1889 par. 10}
Christ is the link that binds earth to Heaven, and connects finite man with the infinite God. This ladder reaches from the lowest degrada>on of earth and humanity to the highest heavens. We are to ascend the ladder that Jacob saw, but not by our own strength alone. It is the goodness of God that leads to repentance and reforma2on. We are not leM to struggle on alone. {ST, July 29, 1889 par. 11}
One part of the ministry of heavenly angels is to visit our world and oversee the work of the Lord which is in the hands of His stewards. In every 2me of necessity they minister to those who, as co-workers with God, are striving to carry forward His work in the earth. These heavenly intelligences are represented as desiring to look into the plan of redemp2on, and the angelic hosts rejoice whenever any part of God’s work prospers. {RH, March 19, 1901 par. 7}
Angels are interested in the spiritual welfare of all who are seeking to restore the moral image of God in man; and the human family are to connect with the heavenly family in binding up the wounds and bruises that sin has made. Angelic agencies, though invisible, are co- opera2ng with visible human agencies, forming a relief-associa2on with men. The very angels who, when Satan was seeking the supremacy, fought the ba7le in the heavenly courts, and triumphed on the side of God; the very angels who shouted for joy over the crea2on of our world, and over the crea2on of our first parents to inhabit the earth; the angels who witnessed the fall of man and his expulsion from his Eden home,–these very heavenly messengers are most intensely interested to work in union with the fallen, redeemed race for the salva2on of human beings perishing in their sins. {RH, March 19, 1901 par. 8}
Human agencies are the hands of heavenly instrumentali2es; for heavenly angels employ human hands in prac2cal ministry. Human agencies as hand-helpers are to work out the knowledge and use the facili2es of heavenly beings. By uni2ng with these powers that are omnipotent, we are benefited by their higher educa2on and experience. Thus, as we become partakers of the divine nature, and separate selfishness from our lives, special talents for helping one another are granted us. This is Heaven’s way of administering saving power. {RH, March 19, 1901 par. 9}
PIONEERS
The interest of heaven was centered, upon humanity, and angels were commissioned to watch over them. This ministraHon of angels has linked heaven and earth by a He which no power can sever. The enemy has offset each blessing of the Father by a hellish scheme; hence while some accept the workings of the Spirit of God, there are others who yield to the influence of the contrary spirit; and the earth has become a great ba7lefield. Every offering, from the first one at the gate of the Garden of Eden to the 2me of Christ, shadowed forth the one great sacrifice of the Saviour. {1905 SNH, SSP 210.1}
“The angels of God are ever moving up and down from earth to Heaven, and from Heaven to earth. All the miracles of Christ performed for the afflicted and suffering were, by the power of God, through the ministraHon of angels. Christ condescended to take humanity, and thus he unites his interests with the fallen sons and daughters of Adam here below, while his divinity grasps the throne of God. And thus Christ opens the communicaHon of man with God, and God with man. All the blessings from God to man are through the ministraHon of holy angels.”—Great Controversy, by Mrs. E. G. White, pp. 63-68.
A. T. J. {April 1, 1886 ATJ, SITI 203.5}
My brother, there is danger of those in our ranks making a mistake in regard to receiving the Holy Ghost. Many suppose an emo2on or a rapture of feeling to be an evidence of the presence of the Holy Spirit. There is danger that right sen2ments will not be understood, and that Christ’s words, “Teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you,” will lose their significance. There is danger that original devisings and supers22ous imaginings will take the place of the Scriptures. Be not anxious to bring in something not revealed in the Word. Keep close to Christ. Remember his words, “Teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you; and lo, I am with you alway, even unto the end of the world.” He is with us as we teach the words he spoke in the Old Testament as well as in the New. He who gave commandment in the New Testament is the One also who gave the instrucHon contained in the Old Testament. The Old and the New Testaments are both sacred; for they both contain the words of Christ. All communica6on from heaven to earth since Adam’s fall has come through Christ. He who believes the instruc6on contained in the New Testament and in the Old, doing those things which Christ has commanded therein, has the Saviour always with him. {KC 126.2}
Christ virtually says, On the bank of Jordan the heavens were opened before me, and the Spirit descended like a dove upon me. That scene at Jordan was but a token to evidence that I was the Son of God. If you believe in me as such, your faith shall be quickened, and you shall see that the heavens will be opened, and shall never be closed. I have opened them for you, and the angels of God, that are united with me in the reconcilia>on between earth and Heaven, uni>ng the believers on the earth with the Father above, will be ascending, bearing the prayers of the needy and distressed from the earth to the Father above, and descending, bringing blessings of hope, courage, health, and life, for the children of men. {2SP 67.1}
The angels of God are ever moving up and down from earth to Heaven, and from Heaven to earth. All the miracles of Christ performed for the afflicted and suffering were, by the power of God, through the ministra>on of angels. Christ condescended to take humanity, and thus he unites his interests with the fallen sons and daughters of Adam here below, while his divinity grasps the throne of God. And thus Christ opens the communica>on of man with God,
and God with man. All the blessings from God to man are through the ministra>on of holy angels. {2SP 67.2}
A true knowledge of the Bible can be gained only through the aid of that Spirit by whom the word was given. And in order to gain this knowledge we must live by it. All that God’s word commands, we are to obey. All that it promises, we may claim. The life which it enjoins is the life that, through its power, we are to live. Only as the Bible is thus held can it be studied effec2vely. {Ed 189.2}
The science of redempHon is the science of all sciences; the science that is the study of the angels and of all the intelligences of the unfallen worlds; the science that engages the a7en2on of our Lord and Saviour; the science that enters into the purpose brooded in the mind of the Infinite–“kept in silence through 2mes eternal” (Romans 16:25, R.V.); the science that will be the study of God’s redeemed throughout endless ages. This is the highest study in which it is possible for man to engage. As no other study can, it will quicken the mind and upliM the soul. {Ed 126.2}
“The excellency of knowledge is, that wisdom giveth life to them that have it.” “The words that I speak unto you,” said Jesus, “they are spirit, and they are life.” “This is life eternal, that they should know Thee the only true God, and Him whom Thou didst send.” Ecclesiastes 7:12; John 6:63; 17:3, R.V. {Ed 126.3}
The crea>ve energy that called the worlds into existence is in the word of God. This word imparts power; it begets life. Every command is a promise; accepted by the will, received into the soul, it brings with it the life of the Infinite One. It transforms the nature and re-creates the soul in the image of God. {Ed 126.4}
“The angel of the Lord encampeth round about them that fear Him, and delivereth them.” Psalm 34:7. God commissions His angels to save His chosen ones from calamity, to guard them from “the pes2lence that walketh in darkness” and “the destruc2on that wasteth at noonday.” Psalm 91:6. Again and again have angels talked with men as a man speaketh with a friend, and led them to places of security. Again and again have the encouraging words of angels renewed the drooping spirits of the faithful and, carrying their minds above the things of earth, caused them to behold by faith the white robes, the crowns, the palm branches of victory, which overcomers will receive when they surround the great white throne. {AA 153.2}
It is the work of the angels to come close to the tried, the suffering, the tempted. They labor un>ringly in behalf those for whom Christ died. When sinners are led to give themselves to the Saviour, angels bear the 2dings heavenward, and there is great rejoicing among the heavenly host. “Joy shall be in heaven over one sinner that repenteth, more than over ninety and nine just persons, which need no repentance.” Luke 15:7. A report is borne to heaven of every successful effort on our part to dispel the darkness and to spread abroad the knowledge
of Christ. As the deed is recounted before the Father, joy thrills through all the heavenly host. {AA 153.3}
The principali2es and powers of heaven are watching the warfare which, under apparently discouraging circumstances, God’s servants are carrying on. New conquests are being achieved, new honors won, as the Chris2ans, rallying round the banner of their Redeemer, go forth to fight the good fight of faith. All the heavenly angels are at the service of the humble, believing people of God; and as the Lord’s army of workers here below sing their songs of praise, the choir above join with them in ascribing praise to God and to His Son. {AA 154.1}
We need to understand beVer than we do the mission of the angels. It would be well to remember that every true child of God has the co-opera>on of heavenly beings. Invisible armies of light and power aVend the meek and lowly ones who believe and claim the promises of God. Cherubim and seraphim, and angels that excel in strength, stand at God’s right hand, “all ministering spirits, sent forth to minister for them who shall be heirs of salva2on.” Hebrews 1:14. {AA 154.2}
Thank you Zaddoch Ponde
Gospel Sounders Rekindling Reforma2on Ministry
