Topical Encyclopedia In the Book of Revelation, the Apostle John records a profound vision that includes an encounter with an angelic being. This encounter is significant in understanding the nature of worship and the proper response to divine revelation. The specific instance of homage by the angel is found in Revelation 19:10 and Revelation 22:8-9.In Revelation 19:10 , John writes, "So I fell at his feet to worship him. But he said to me, 'Do not do that! I am a fellow servant with you and your brothers who rely on the testimony of Jesus. Worship God! For the testimony of Jesus is the spirit of prophecy.'" Here, John, overwhelmed by the revelations he has received, instinctively falls at the feet of the angel to offer worship. The angel's immediate response is to redirect John's worship exclusively to God, emphasizing that he is merely a "fellow servant" and not worthy of worship. This incident underscores a critical theological principle: worship is due to God alone. The angel's refusal to accept worship highlights the distinction between the Creator and His creation, even when that creation includes powerful and holy beings like angels. The angel's directive to "Worship God!" serves as a reminder of the first commandment, which calls for exclusive devotion to the Lord (Exodus 20:3). In Revelation 22:8-9 , a similar event occurs: "And I am John, who heard and saw these things. And when I had heard and seen them, I fell down to worship at the feet of the angel who had shown me these things. But he said to me, 'Do not do that! I am a fellow servant with you and your brothers the prophets, and with those who keep the words of this book. Worship God!'" Once again, the angel redirects John's act of homage, reinforcing the message that worship is reserved for God alone. The repetition of this event in John's vision serves to emphasize the importance of proper worship and the danger of idolatry, even in its most subtle forms. It also reflects the humility and obedience of the angelic beings, who, despite their power and proximity to the divine, recognize their role as servants of God and not objects of worship. These passages also highlight the role of angels as messengers and servants who point believers to God and His truth. The angel's reference to being a "fellow servant" with John and the prophets aligns with the biblical portrayal of angels as ministering spirits sent to serve those who will inherit salvation (Hebrews 1:14). In the broader context of Revelation, the homage by the angel seen by John serves as a theological anchor, reminding readers of the centrality of God in worship and the ultimate authority of His revelation. It calls believers to discernment in their spiritual practices, ensuring that all honor and glory are directed to God alone, in accordance with His revealed will. Nave's Topical Index Revelation 19:10And I fell at his feet to worship him. And he said to me, See you do it not: I am your fellow servant, and of your brothers that have the testimony of Jesus: worship God: for the testimony of Jesus is the spirit of prophecy. Nave's Topical Index Revelation 22:8,9 Library The Seventh vision "In Heaven" The Prophet of the Highest. The First vision "In Heaven": Chapters 4-5 Imprisonment and Death of John The Revelation and Career of the Anti-Christ. The First vision "On Earth" The Conversion of Cornelius. The Season of Epiphany. Departed Saints Fellowservants with those yet on Earth. Faustus States his Objections to the Morality of the Law and the ... Resources What is the Day of the Dead? | GotQuestions.orgWhat is henotheism / monolatrism / monolatry? | GotQuestions.org What is adoration in the Bible? | GotQuestions.org Homage: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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