Angels: Standing Guard

By Douglas Connelly

Do angels really have wings? Do they protect people from harm? Can people become angels after death? Misconceptions about angels abound--in books, in movies and on talk shows. In this eight-session LifeGuide® Bible Study, Douglas Connelly explores with you what the Bible really says about angels, including their service to God and their ministry to people. For over three decades LifeGuide Bible Studies have provided solid biblical content and raised thought-provoking questions—making for a one-of-a-kind Bible study experience for individuals and groups. This series has more than 130 titles on Old and New Testament books, character studies, and topical studies. PDF download with a single-user license; available from InterVarsity Press and other resellers.

• Language: English
• Publisher: IVP Bible Studies
• Release date: May 3, 2012
• ISBN: 9780830862528

Douglas Connelly

Douglas Connelly (MDiv, University of Michigan; MTh, Grace Theological Seminary) is the pastor of Davison Missionary Church in Davison, Michigan, and an adjunct professor at Spring Arbor University. He is the author of several books, including The Bible for Blockheads, The Book of Revelation for Blockheads, and Amazing Discoveries That Unlock the Bible.

Book preview

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Angels

Standing Guard

8 STUDIES FOR INDIVIDUALS OR GROUPS

DOUGLAS CONNELLY

Contents

GETTING THE MOST OUT OF ANGELS

Leader’s Notes

About the Author

More Titles from InterVarsity Press

Getting the Most Out of Angels

In the unseen realms of God’s universe, powerful and wonderful beings dwell. They move at the speed of light to carry out their master’s will. They are involved in the political affairs of nations and in the smallest concerns of children. They may stand guard over your life and protect you in countless ways. They watch what goes on in the church where you worship and they engage in cosmic battles that you aren’t even aware are happening. These fantastic beings are called angels.

Unfortunately, many Christians have absorbed a lot of very bad information about angels—information from some very misguided sources. Most of the resources claiming to tell us the truth about angels have explored every avenue of information except the genuine source of truth—God’s Word. Angel lore, myths, ancient stories, even the experiences of people who have encountered angels must be measured against the standard of God’s truth. I’ve written this study guide to help you discover for yourself what the Bible says about these marvelous beings.

And when you go to the Bible you won’t be disappointed! Thirty-four of the Bible’s sixty-six books talk about angels in detail. Every New Testament writer confirms their existence. The word angel occurs more than 250 times in Scripture. This is certainly no isolated truth hidden in the dark corners of the Bible! Jesus himself referred to angels as real beings who were involved in every realm of human activity. So if you have thought that angels belong in the same category as sea monsters and trolls, think again.

The Bible also makes it clear that angels fall into two distinct groups—the holy angels of God and the evil angels who followed Satan in his rebellion. Most New Age angel guides ignore that aspect of God’s truth. What they don’t tell you is that the angel you get in touch with may be out to destroy you. The best protection we have against the deception of Satan is a firm knowledge of God’s Word.

We are about to embark on an exciting adventure. You will be reminded of things you have learned before, and hopefully you will learn some new truths too. My desire is that you will be open as never before to understanding and enjoying the wonderful ministry that God’s angels have in your life.

Suggestions for Individual Study

1. As you begin each study, pray that God will speak to you through his Word.

2. Read the introduction to the study and respond to the personal reflection question or exercise. This is designed to help you focus on God and on the theme of the study.

3. Each study deals with a particular passage—so that you can delve into the author’s meaning in that context. Read and reread the passage to be studied. The questions are written using the language of the New International Version, so you may wish to use that version of the Bible. The New Revised Standard Version is also recommended.

4.