The concept of "The Angels' Message" in the Bible refers to the various instances where angels, as divine messengers, deliver important communications from God to humans. These messages often carry significant theological and prophetic weight, revealing God's will, announcing pivotal events, or providing guidance and comfort to His people.

Old Testament Appearances

1. Genesis 16:7-12: The angel of the Lord appears to Hagar in the wilderness, delivering a message of hope and prophecy concerning her son Ishmael. The angel assures her of God's awareness of her plight and foretells the future of her offspring.

2. Genesis 22:11-18: An angel of the Lord intervenes as Abraham is about to sacrifice Isaac, providing a message of divine provision and reaffirming God's covenant promises to Abraham.

3. Exodus 3:2: The angel of the Lord appears to Moses in a flame of fire from within a bush, delivering the message that God has heard the cries of the Israelites and is sending Moses to lead them out of Egypt.

4. Judges 6:11-24: An angel of the Lord appears to Gideon, calling him to deliver Israel from the Midianites. The message includes assurance of God's presence and power.

New Testament Appearances

1. Luke 1:11-20: The angel Gabriel appears to Zechariah, announcing the birth of John the Baptist. This message highlights the fulfillment of prophecy and the preparation for the coming of the Messiah.

2. Luke 1:26-38: Gabriel visits Mary with the message that she will conceive and bear Jesus, the Son of God. This announcement is central to the Incarnation, emphasizing the divine nature and mission of Christ.

3. Matthew 1:20-21: An angel appears to Joseph in a dream, instructing him to take Mary as his wife and naming the child Jesus, for He will save His people from their sins.

4. Luke 2:8-14: Angels announce the birth of Jesus to shepherds, proclaiming "good news of great joy" and glorifying God. This message underscores the universal significance of Christ's birth.

5. Matthew 28:2-7: An angel rolls back the stone from Jesus' tomb and delivers the message of His resurrection to the women, instructing them to inform the disciples.

6. Acts 1:10-11: After Jesus' ascension, two angels appear to the disciples, delivering a message of hope and future expectation, affirming that Jesus will return in the same manner as He ascended.

Theological Significance

The messages delivered by angels throughout Scripture serve as divine interventions that guide, warn, and comfort God's people. They often mark significant moments in salvation history, from the promises made to the patriarchs to the announcement of the Messiah's birth and resurrection. These messages affirm God's sovereignty, His plan for redemption, and His ongoing involvement in the world.

Angelic Characteristics

Angels are depicted as powerful, holy beings who serve God and execute His will. They are often described as appearing in radiant glory, instilling awe and sometimes fear in those who encounter them. Despite their majesty, angels consistently direct attention and worship to God, not themselves, emphasizing their role as His servants.

Conclusion

The messages delivered by angels in the Bible are integral to understanding God's interaction with humanity. They reveal His purposes, provide assurance of His promises, and highlight the unfolding of His redemptive plan through Jesus Christ.