The writer of Hebrews describes the ministry of angels as God’s supernatural agents that interact with humanity even when we are unaware. Hebrews 1:14 Therefore, angels are only servants—spirits sent to care for people who will inherit salvation. [1] Angels are God’s servants who work for the good of the Kingdom of God by carrying out the assignments God gives them. Although angels can interact with non-believers, this verse tells us they specifically care for people of faith.
As people, we are unaware of what angels are doing around us, although this does not negate what they are doing. In God’s infinite wisdom, knowing all the angels are doing in our lives is not in our interest. The fact that the Lord assigns angels to minister to His children shows how much He cares for them. Part of the ministry of angels to people is to be God’s messengers. Throughout history, the Lord sent angels to intervene in people’s lives, including the power to defeat great armies, as recorded in 2 Kings 19:35.
An Angel Freed Peter
The evil King Herod Agrippa imprisoned Peter and planned to kill him, but God intervened when He sent an angel. Although Peter was chained between two soldiers, this was not an obstacle to God’s angel. Acts 12:7 Suddenly, there was a bright light in the cell, and an angel of the Lord stood before Peter. The angel struck him on the side to awaken him and said, “Quick! Get up!” And the chains fell off his wrists.[2]
Angels often display bright light as they radiate the glory of God. As the chains fell off Peter, what was impossible for humanity was possible through God’s intervention. Acts 12:8 Then the angel told Peter, “Get dressed and put on your sandals.” And he did. “Now put on your coat and follow me,” the angel ordered. 9 So Peter left the cell, following the angel. But all the time he thought it was a vision. He didn’t realize it was actually happening.[3]
Even though supernatural, the angel could speak in a language Peter could understand. The angel completed his assignment by staying with Peter until he was out of the prison and on the street. This miracle allowed Peter to carry out God’s plan for his life.
Angels in Our Lives
God’s holy angels are always present around us, capable of healing, guiding, and revealing important messages. Jesus gives us insight. Matthew 18:10Beware that you don’t look down on any of these little ones. For I tell you that in heaven, their angels are always in the presence of my heavenly Father. [4] In this verse, we understand that believers have a guardian angel. In addition, in spiritual warfare, angels fight on our behalf. Remember that angels minister to you in the invisible realm the next time you feel alone.
To learn more about the ministry of angels, listen here:
https://podpoint.com/light-of-christ-church-podcast/an-angel-rescues-peter
[1-4] Tyndale House Publishers. (2015). Holy Bible: New Living Translation. Tyndale House Publishers.