Can we unknowingly entertain angels?

Definition and Nature of Angels

Angels, as presented throughout Scripture, are created, spiritual beings who serve the purposes of God. While they generally remain in the heavenly realm, the Bible showcases numerous instances of angels interacting with humanity. They are portrayed as holy messengers (Luke 1:19), protectors (Psalm 91:11), and worshipers of God (Revelation 5:11–12). Their appearance can vary – sometimes they display awesome and terrifying glory (Luke 2:9), while at other times they appear entirely human (Genesis 19:1–2).

The consistent presentation of angels in the earliest extant manuscript evidence confirms that Scripture views them as real and active participants in God’s plan. They are not mythical or merely symbolic. In various places, biblical authors urge believers to recognize the unseen reality that angels can be involved in the lives of men and women in mysterious ways.

Key Scriptural Passage: Hebrews 13:2

One of the most direct biblical references that addresses the possibility of “unknowingly entertaining angels” comes from Hebrews 13:2:

“Do not neglect to show hospitality to strangers, for by so doing some people have entertained angels without knowing it.”

This passage explicitly warns believers of the importance of hospitality, hinting that angels can appear in human form without revealing their heavenly identities. The verse points to an intriguing possibility: God may place angelic beings in our lives and circumstances, sometimes hidden behind ordinary human appearances.

Examples in the Old Testament

1. Abraham’s Visitors (Genesis 18:1–8)

Abraham greets three visitors, goes to great lengths to show them hospitality, and only later realizes these visitors are not ordinary men. Two of them are angels, and the third is portrayed as the LORD Himself (Genesis 18:2, 22). This narrative shows that even the patriarch Abraham initially did not fully recognize his guests’ true nature.

2. Lot’s Encounter in Sodom (Genesis 19:1–3)

Lot, like Abraham, enthusiastically offers shelter and a meal to two travelers. These same angels later protect Lot and his family by urging them to leave the city before judgment. At the beginning, Lot only perceives them as men—further cautioning us that heavenly visitors may appear very human.

3. Gideon’s Divine Messenger (Judges 6:11–22)

The Angel of the LORD greets Gideon under an oak tree, addressing him as a “mighty warrior.” Gideon questions the messenger’s claim, and only after a miraculous sign does he realize he is speaking to an angelic being. This account again underscores that God’s messengers can be initially mistaken for ordinary individuals.

New Testament Insights

1. Resurrection Appearances (Luke 24:4; John 20:11–12)

In these passages, angels attend critical junctures of salvation history, such as Jesus’ resurrection. Though often depicted with radiance and white garments, there is a notable moment in John 20:11–12 where Mary Magdalene sees “two angels in white” seated where Jesus’ body had been laid. In some Gospel narratives, the angels appear different or are mistaken for men by those who see them initially.

2. Warnings of Deception (2 Corinthians 11:14)

While not directly related to “unknowingly entertaining angels,” Paul’s warning that “Satan himself masquerades as an angel of light” is a reminder to remain discerning. The fact that there can be false appearances highlights the reality of unseen spiritual forces, both holy and fallen, interacting with humanity.

Hospitality and Angelic Encounters

Hospitality in the ancient Near East was considered a sacred duty. Old Testament and New Testament passages alike emphasize caring for strangers and offering kindness without discrimination (Matthew 25:35–36). The ancient context makes Hebrews 13:2 more profound: by welcoming the outsider, one may unknowingly welcome a divine messenger. This concept was powerfully illustrated in the archaeological area around Abram’s well near Hebron (commonly identified with Genesis 18): ancient texts and geological evidence support the idea of traveling caravans, emphasizing the importance placed on hospitality in that era.

Practical Implications and Encouragement

1. Call to Compassion

The biblical directive to “love your neighbor as yourself” (Leviticus 19:18) ties in harmoniously with opportunities for angelic encounters. Showing kindness to all, including strangers, is not done merely to seek supernatural experiences, but to follow God’s command to love generously. Yet, in doing so, there always remains the fascinating possibility that such kindness might involve angels in disguise.

2. Faith in Action

By practicing hospitality, believers demonstrate trust that God is sovereign over everyday events. Miraculous encounters may not be common, but Scripture strongly suggests they can and do occur—even if one only recognizes the divine nature of the encounter in hindsight, or never fully recognizes it at all.

3. Awareness of the Unseen World

A biblical worldview acknowledges realities beyond empirical observation. In line with passages that mention spiritual warfare (Ephesians 6:12), the presence of God’s angels in the world encourages believers to remain constant in prayer, mindful in worship, and diligent in serving others.

Conclusion

From Abraham’s unexpected visitors to instructions found in Hebrews 13:2, Scripture teaches that it is both possible and biblically supported that one may host or interact with angels without initially recognizing them. These passages reflect the broader scriptural theme that God can and does intervene in human affairs, often in ways that go unnoticed or underappreciated in the moment.

Rather than promoting suspicion or an over-fascination with angelic matters, the biblical text encourages humility, compassionate hospitality, and an open-hearted posture toward others. By doing so, Christians fulfill an important command of love—and, in rare yet astounding instances, may become part of a divine appointment involving angelic beings sent by God.