How does being "like the angels" relate to our identity in Christ? Setting the Scene “Indeed, they can no longer die, because they are like the angels. They are sons of God, since they are sons of the resurrection.” (Luke 20:36) Jesus speaks these words while answering a question about marriage in the resurrection. In one sentence He links three themes: • likeness to angels • freedom from death • our status as God’s children through resurrection These threads hold rich truth for understanding who we are in Christ. What “Like the Angels” Does—and Does Not—Mean • Not a change of species. We remain fully human, yet glorified (1 Corinthians 15:42-44). • No marriage in the eternal state (Luke 20:34-35). Earth-bound institutions give way to perfect fellowship with God and His family. • No loss of individuality or personality. Angels are distinct beings; resurrected believers will be, too. • No promotion to angelic rank. Angels remain angels; redeemed humans are still redeemed humans—yet share certain qualities. Shared Characteristics with Angels • Immortality “They can no longer die” (Luke 20:36). Angels do not experience death; glorified believers receive the same freedom (1 Corinthians 15:53-54). • Spiritual, Glorified Bodies Angels operate in the heavenly realm; we will receive “a spiritual body” (1 Corinthians 15:44) fashioned like Christ’s own (Philippians 3:20-21). • Unhindered Worship and Service Angels behold God’s face continually (Matthew 18:10). We will do likewise: “His servants will serve Him…They will see His face” (Revelation 22:3-4). • Holiness and Sinlessness Holy angels do God’s will without rebellion. We will be conformed fully to Christ’s likeness, free from every stain of sin (1 John 3:2; Ephesians 5:27). Identity in Christ Illuminated by Angelic Likeness • Children of God Luke 20:36 calls resurrected believers “sons of God.” Adoption now (Romans 8:15-17) finds visible consummation then. • Citizens of Heaven Angels belong to the heavenly court. “Our citizenship is in heaven” even now (Philippians 3:20). • Co-heirs and Fellow Servants Angels are “ministering spirits sent to serve those who will inherit salvation” (Hebrews 1:14). In eternity we join them in joyful service, reigning with Christ (Revelation 22:5). • Reflecting Christ’s Glory Angels radiate God’s splendor (Luke 2:9). We will “bear the image of the heavenly man” (1 Corinthians 15:49) and share His glory (Romans 8:30). Living Today in Light of Tomorrow Because our future includes angel-like attributes, certain attitudes shape our present walk: • Pursue holiness—align conduct with the purity we are destined to enjoy (1 Peter 1:15-16). • Worship wholeheartedly—practice now what will occupy eternity (Hebrews 13:15). • Serve eagerly—angels model prompt obedience; Spirit-empowered service today anticipates our eternal vocation (Colossians 3:23-24). • Rest securely—death’s threat is temporary; everlasting life is certain in Christ (John 11:25-26). Key Takeaways • “Like the angels” describes the resurrection life: immortal, glorified, sin-free, and wholly devoted to God. • This likeness springs from union with Christ; we are God’s children by grace and heirs of His kingdom. • Embracing our future identity energizes present faithfulness, purity, worship, and confident hope. |
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