Preaching on Angels Executing God's Judgments

 Preaching on Angels Executing God's Judgments

Introduction:

While angels are often portrayed as ministering spirits, Scripture also reveals their role as agents of God's judgment. This study will examine instances where angels execute divine judgments, highlighting the seriousness of God's justice and the power of His angelic hosts.

I. Scriptural Accounts of Angels Executing Judgment:

    • Genesis 19:1 (Sodom and Gomorrah): 

        ◦ Angels are sent to destroy Sodom and Gomorrah. 

        ◦ They carry out God's judgment against the cities' wickedness. 

        ◦ This demonstrates the angels as executors of God's wrath against sin. 

    • Judges 5:23 (Meroz): 

        ◦ "‘Curse Meroz,’ said the angel of the Lord. ‘Curse its people bitterly, because they did not come to help the Lord, to help the Lord against the mighty.’"   

        ◦ An angel pronounces a curse on Meroz for failing to support God's people in battle. 

        ◦ This shows angels are involved in the execution of curses against those who oppose Gods plan. 

    • 2 Samuel 24:16; 1 Chronicles 21:15 (David's Census): 

        ◦ An angel of the Lord brings a plague upon Israel as punishment for David's sin. 

        ◦ The angel's hand is stretched out to destroy Jerusalem, but God relents. 

        ◦ This illustrates angels as instruments of divine punishment. 

    • 2 Chronicles 32:21 (Sennacherib's Army): 

        ◦ "And the Lord sent an angel who annihilated all the fighting men and commanders and officers in the camp of the king of Assyria." 

        ◦ An angel destroys the Assyrian army, delivering Judah from their threat. 

        ◦ This showcases angels as agents of God's deliverance through judgment. 

    • Isaiah 37:36 (Sennacherib's Army): 

        ◦ This passage parallels 2 Chronicles 32:21, reinforcing the angelic destruction of the Assyrian army. 

    • Acts 12:23 (Herod): 

        ◦ "Immediately, because Herod did not give praise to God, an angel of the Lord struck him down, and he was eaten by worms and died."   

        ◦ An angel strikes Herod down for his pride and blasphemy. 

        ◦ This demonstrates angels as executors of God's judgment against those who exalt themselves. 

II. Related Passages and Theological Considerations:

    • Numbers 22:22 (Balaam's Obstruction): 

        ◦ The Angel of the Lord stands as an adversary to Balaam, demonstrating divine opposition to disobedience. 

    • 2 Kings 19:35 (Assyrian Army): 

        ◦ This also parallels the destruction of the Assyrian army. 

    • 2 Chronicles 4:19 (Angels and judgement): 

        ◦ Though this verse does not describe a judgment, it reminds us of the power of the heavenly host. 

    • Psalm 35:5 (Enemies Scattered): 

        ◦ "May they be like chaff before the wind, with the angel of the Lord driving them away." 

        ◦ This psalm speaks of the angel of the Lord as an agent of divine judgment against enemies. 

    • Psalm 78:49 (Angels of Disaster): 

        ◦ "He unleashed against them his burning anger, wrath, indignation and hostility—a band of destroying angels." 

        ◦ This psalm refers to angels as agents of God's destructive power. 

    • 2 Peter 2:11 (Angels and Authority): 

        ◦ "yet even angels, although they are stronger and more powerful, do not heap abuse on such beings when bringing judgment before the Lord." 

        ◦ This verse highlights the power of angels and their respect for God's authority in judgment. 

III. Key Themes:

    • Divine Justice: Angels act as instruments of God's righteous judgment against sin and rebellion. 

    • Divine Authority: Angels operate under God's command, demonstrating His sovereign control over all creation. 

    • Divine Power: Angels possess immense power to carry out God's will, including acts of destruction. 

    • Divine Sovereignty: God uses angels to execute judgement, showing his ultimate power. 

    • Seriousness of Sin: The involvement of angels in judgment underscores the gravity of sin and its consequences. 

IV. Application:

    • Reflect on the seriousness of sin and the reality of God's justice. 

    • Cultivate a healthy fear of the Lord, recognizing His power and authority. 

    • Seek to live in obedience to God's commands, avoiding actions that provoke His wrath. 

    • Remember that God is both loving and just. 

    • Recognize that all judgement belongs to God. 

 

1. Preaching on Ministering Angels - Messengers of Divine Aid
2. Preaching on The Angel of the Lord
3. Preaching on Andrew, the Apostle: The Quiet Influence

Conclusion:

The Bible's portrayal of angels executing God's judgments serves as a sobering reminder of God's justice and power. While angels are often seen as messengers of hope and comfort, they also act as agents of divine wrath against sin. This study should encourage us to live in reverence and obedience to God, acknowledging His sovereign authority over all creation.