Topical Encyclopedia The worship of angels is explicitly forbidden in the Bible, as it detracts from the exclusive worship and reverence due to God alone. Throughout Scripture, there are clear admonitions against this practice, emphasizing the supremacy of God and the proper order of worship.Biblical Prohibitions 1. Colossians 2:18 · The Apostle Paul warns the Colossian church against being led astray by those who promote the worship of angels. He writes, "Do not let anyone who delights in false humility and the worship of angels disqualify you with speculation about what he has seen; such a person is puffed up without basis by his unspiritual mind" . This passage highlights the danger of being influenced by false teachings that encourage practices contrary to the gospel. 2. Revelation 19:10 · In the book of Revelation, the Apostle John recounts an encounter with an angel, where he is corrected for attempting to worship the angel. The angel instructs him, "Do not do that! I am a fellow servant with you and your brothers who rely on the testimony of Jesus. Worship God!" . This directive underscores the principle that worship is reserved for God alone, and even heavenly beings reject worship directed toward them. 3. Revelation 22:8-9 · A similar incident occurs later in Revelation, where John again falls at the feet of an angel to worship him. The angel responds, "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!" . This repetition reinforces the message that worship is to be directed solely to God. Theological Implications The prohibition against angel worship is rooted in the understanding of God's unique and unparalleled nature. Angels, as created beings, serve God and His purposes. They are messengers and servants, not objects of worship. The Bible consistently teaches that God alone is worthy of worship, as seen in the Shema of Deuteronomy 6:4-5, which declares, "Hear, O Israel: The LORD our God, the LORD is One. And you shall love the LORD your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your strength" . Historical Context In the early church, there were various heretical movements and teachings that sought to introduce angel worship as part of religious practice. These teachings often stemmed from a misunderstanding of the role of angels and an overemphasis on mystical experiences. The early church fathers, along with the apostolic writings, consistently refuted such practices, maintaining the centrality of Christ and the worship of God alone. Practical Application For believers today, the admonition against the worship of angels serves as a reminder to guard against any form of idolatry or misplaced reverence. It calls Christians to focus their worship and devotion on God, who is revealed in Jesus Christ. The worship of God is to be characterized by spirit and truth, as Jesus taught in John 4:24, "God is Spirit, and His worshipers must worship in spirit and in truth" . In summary, the worship of angels is clearly forbidden in Scripture, as it detracts from the glory and honor due to God alone. Believers are called to discernment and faithfulness in their worship, ensuring that it aligns with biblical teachings and the example set by Christ and the apostles. 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 Christians must not Forsake the Church of God, and Go Away and ... What are the Sins Forbidden in the First Commandment? The Danger of Deviating from Divine Institutions. Ignorance of Evil. The Unity of God Whether Adoration is an Act of Latria or Religion? The Pilgrim Fathers. The Pilgrim Fathers She, on the Prohibition of Ambrose, Abstains from Honouring the ... Clement of Alexandria. Resources What does the Bible say about worship? | GotQuestions.orgWhat is the difference between praise and worship? | GotQuestions.org How much of a role should media have in worship services? | GotQuestions.org Worship: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Subtopics Worship of the Philippian Jailer Worship of the Wicked Rejected Worship: "Iniquity of the Holy Things" Worship: David's Ordinances For Worship: Jesus Prays all Night Long Worship: On Mount Gerizim and Mount Ebal Worship: Public, in the Temple Worship: The Whole Nation Required to Assemble For, Including Men, Women, Children, Servants Worship: The Word of God Read in Public Assemblies Worship: To be Rendered Only to God Worship: Unclassified Scriptures Relating To Related Terms |
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