ACTIVATING THE MINISTRY OF ANGELS (PART ONE)

Understanding Daily Bread and Prophetic Prayer

The Significance of Daily Bread

• Jesus instructs his disciples in Matthew 6:11 to pray for daily sustenance, emphasizing that this prayer is relevant both for the present and future needs.

• The concept of God feeding His people is highlighted, referencing Revelation 12:6 where Israel is sustained during tribulation for 1260 days.

Activating the Ministry of Angels

• The speaker shares a personal journey into understanding the ministry of angels, mentioning past teachings and a published book on the subject.

• A respected figure in faith acknowledges the speaker's insights on angelic ministry, suggesting they have become a voice in this area.

Prayer for Activation and Reception

Invocation for Spiritual Growth

• A prayer is offered asking for barriers to be removed from listeners' hearts so they can receive their blessings in Christ.

• Hebrews 1:14 is cited, discussing angels as ministering spirits sent to assist those who will inherit salvation.

Personal Encounters with Angels

Beginning of Angelic Encounters

• The speaker reflects on how their journey with angelic encounters began after reading "Angels on Assignment" by Charles Hunter.

• An intriguing account from the book describes an encounter between Hunter and a heavenly being that occurred while he was awake.

Real-Life Experiences

• The speaker recounts a significant experience while driving in Lagos around 2006 or 2007, highlighting their habit of picking up soldiers or police officers to avoid trouble.

• During one such trip, an unexpected encounter occurs with an elderly man who appears wealthy yet waits for transportation.

A Life-Threatening Situation

Close Call While Driving

• As they converse at high speed (160–170 km/h), the driver realizes they are dangerously close to a trailer without any warning from their passenger.

Supernatural Encounters and the Ministry of Angels

Personal Encounter with an Angel

• The speaker recounts a shocking experience where they saw a truck behind them, fearing their car would be crushed. They were surprised when nothing happened.

• The speaker reflects on realizing that the man who smiled at them was likely an angel in human form, expressing regret for not asking more questions during the encounter.

• After the incident, the speaker felt a sense of disbelief and checked their surroundings multiple times to confirm they were awake and safe.

• The speaker mentions having many supernatural encounters but emphasizes that this particular one was significant due to its inexplicable nature despite prior prayers for safety.

• As the speaker grew in faith and understanding, they became better equipped to explain such encounters through scripture.

Understanding Angels

• The speaker emphasizes teaching only from biblical texts, stating that personal experiences should remain private unless they can be supported by scripture.

• They introduce angels as messengers created by God, highlighting their role within both terrestrial (earthly) and celestial (heavenly) realms.

• The term "angel" is defined as "messenger," noting that prophets and church overseers are also referred to as angels in certain contexts within the Bible.

Creation and Nature of Angels

• According to Job, angels were among the first beings created by God, celebrating His creation during its inception.

• Psalm 148:2 and 5 illustrate that angels came into existence through God's command; they were created simply by His will.

Characteristics of Angels

• Hebrews 1:14 describes angels as ministering spirits or servants sent to assist humanity.

• The distinction between terrestrial (earthly materials like gold and precious stones from Ezekiel's description) and celestial beings is made clear; angels operate in both realms effectively.

Functionality of Angels

• Angels have dominion over earthly matters while also functioning in heavenly domains. Their primary purpose relates to serving humanity according to divine will.

• Psalm 104:4 reiterates their spiritual nature; Hebrews 1:7 further confirms that angels are spirit beings designed for service.

Understanding the Nature and Activities of Angels

The Incarnation of God

• God took on a physical form through Mary, becoming Jesus. This emphasizes that spirits require a body to interact in the physical realm.

Types and Characteristics of Angels

• There are various types of angels, but the Bible does not provide clear answers regarding their race or gender. Some angels have wings while others do not.

• Angels can appear in different forms; they may be seen with or without wings, indicating their diverse manifestations.

Activities of Angels

• Angelic activities can be categorized as passive or active. Just because one does not perceive angelic activity doesn't mean it isn't present.

Passive vs Active Angelic Activity

• Passive angelic activity refers to sensing their presence without visible evidence, such as feeling an unseen force around you.

• Active angelic activity is dramatic and observable, like Moses witnessing the burning bush where an angel was present (Exodus 3:2).

Spiritual Activity

• Spiritually active encounters occur in visions or dreams, exemplified by Jacob's vision of angels ascending and descending (Genesis 28:12).

• Spiritually passive experiences involve subtle sensations or movements that suggest angelic presence without direct visibility.

Variability in Experiences with Angels

• Individual experiences with angels vary based on personal sensitivity and knowledge. Some may encounter more pronounced activities due to grace or heightened awareness.

Forms Taken by Angels

Understanding the Role of Angels in Our Lives

Personal Anecdote and Introduction to Angels

• The speaker shares a personal story about an encounter with someone perceived as an angel, highlighting the significance of such experiences in their life.

• A description of the physical attributes of this "angel" is provided, emphasizing admiration and wonder at divine encounters.

Biblical Foundations on Angels

• Reference to Psalm 103:20, which states that angels excel in strength and carry out God's commands efficiently, suggesting their superior capabilities compared to humans.

• The speaker indicates that there are many roles angels play in our lives, hinting at further discussions planned for future parts of the message.

Protection and Guidance from Angels

• Citing Psalm 91:11, it is noted that God gives His angels charge over believers for protection, indicating a promise for those who have faith.

• An example from Acts 12:5-7 illustrates how angels can intervene supernaturally during crises, such as Peter's miraculous escape from prison through angelic assistance.

Miraculous Works Through Angelic Ministry

• The speaker discusses how angels perform miracles by breaking chains and opening gates without human intervention, reinforcing their active role in divine interventions.

• Emphasizes that while angels work within God's laws, they can facilitate justice and deliverance when necessary.

Testimonies of Healing and Supernatural Events

• Accounts are shared regarding miraculous healings attributed to angelic activity during meetings where individuals experienced significant transformations (e.g., metal disappearing from a leg).

• Further examples include cases where dislocated bones were realigned or womb conditions changed miraculously through prayer and angelic ministry.

Importance of Recognizing Angelic Activity

• The necessity of understanding the ministry of angels is stressed; ignorance may limit supernatural occurrences in one's life.

• Reference to Matthew 4:11 highlights how after Jesus' temptation, angels ministered to Him by providing food—showing their role in meeting needs.

Conclusion on Angelic Provision

• It is suggested that knowing the rules governing angelic interactions allows believers to expect and receive help from them effectively.

Manna from Heaven: Understanding the Bread of Life

The Divine Provision of Manna

• Moses communicated with God, who instructed him to provide food for the people. God rained down manna from heaven as sustenance.

• Jesus clarified that while the ancestors received bread from heaven, He is the true bread from heaven, emphasizing a distinction between divine provision and His identity.

• The concept of "Bread of Heaven" is likened to sharing food; it signifies heavenly nourishment rather than earthly bread.

• A caution is given regarding songs about "Bread of Heaven," urging listeners to reflect on whether they are truly singing about Jesus as the source of life.

• Manna is described in scripture as angel's food provided abundantly, highlighting God's generosity.

Characteristics and Significance of Manna

• In Exodus 16:31, manna is described as tasting like wafers with honey, indicating its sweetness and appeal.

• The term "manna" translates to "what is it?" in Hebrew, reflecting the people's confusion upon first encountering this miraculous food.

• Numbers 11:8 describes manna's taste resembling fresh oil and being made from grains or corn, showcasing its unique qualities.

• Revelation 7:9 depicts people in heaven holding palm branches, suggesting that there are indeed plants and possibly grains in heaven.

• Angels are portrayed as preparing food in heaven for God's people, demonstrating divine care and provision.

Angelic Interactions and Food Preparation

• Abraham unknowingly hosted angels who were fed by him; this illustrates that angels partake in meals just like humans do.

• Angels provided sustenance for Elijah during his time of distress (1 Kings 19:4), showing their role in supporting prophets through divine nourishment.

• Elijah was awakened by an angel who encouraged him to eat special food meant to sustain him for 40 days—highlighting the power and purpose behind angelic provisions.

• The narrative emphasizes that angels can prepare nourishing meals with special ingredients tailored for human needs.

Understanding the Ministry of Angels

The Lord's Prayer and Prophetic Significance

• Jesus instructed his disciples to pray for daily sustenance, highlighting the relevance of the Lord's Prayer both in present needs and future prophetic fulfillment.

• This prayer serves as a reminder of God's promise to provide for His people, referencing Revelation 12:6 where God feeds Israel during tribulation.

Divine Provision Through Angels

• The speaker emphasizes that God continues to provide for His people, even using angelic means to deliver sustenance.

• A personal testimony is shared about a time of financial struggle when unexpected provisions appeared after prayer, illustrating divine intervention through angels.

Understanding Angelic Presence

• The discussion shifts to how individuals can recognize and engage with angels in their lives. Hebrews 1:14 states that angels are ministering spirits sent to serve those who will inherit salvation.

• It is noted that this ministry extends beyond just believers; it encompasses all humanity, indicating a universal aspect of angelic service.

Children and Their Angels

• Matthew 18:10 highlights that every child has angels assigned to them, emphasizing their importance and protection from heaven.

• The distinction is made between children having angels in heaven while they remain on Earth, contrasting this with believers' relationship with angels post-salvation.

Believers' Access to Angels

• In Hebrews 12:22, it is stated that upon being born again, believers come into an environment filled with innumerable angels—indicating a shift in spiritual territory.

Understanding the Acknowledgment of Faith

The Role of Acknowledgment in Faith

• Acknowledgment is crucial for making the sharing of faith effective, as stated in Philemon 1:6. Recognizing this truth allows believers to experience its reality.

Confusion About Zion

• There is a discrepancy among believers regarding their understanding of Zion, as referenced in Hebrews 12:22. The question arises: which Zion are they marching towards?

Impact of Song Lyrics on Belief

• Singing songs about "marching to Zion" can undermine one's acknowledgment and consciousness, leading them away from the truth that they have already arrived at Zion.

Believing Leads to Results

• True belief results in observable outcomes. Luke 1:45 emphasizes that believing leads to performance; without results, there may be a lack of genuine belief.

Unbelief as an Obstacle

• Unbelief and doubt hinder the expression of angelic activities in one’s life. The effectiveness of belief is measured by tangible results rather than mere verbal affirmation.

The Nature and Consequences of Unbelief

Learning Unbelief Subconsciously

• Individuals often learn unbelief through repeated exposure to negative messages that contradict their beliefs, leading to subconscious doubts.

Deepening Conviction Through Repetition

• Strengthening conviction requires revisiting truths repeatedly until they become deeply ingrained within oneself.

Prayer as a Solution for Doubts

• Addressing doubt and unbelief necessitates prayer. Engaging with God helps resolve these issues effectively.

Case Study: Healing Through Faith

The Story of the Boy with a Deaf Spirit

• In Matthew 9:17, a father brings his afflicted child to Jesus' disciples who fail to heal him, highlighting the necessity for true belief in healing practices.

Jesus’ Response to Unbelief

• Jesus emphasizes that all things are possible if one believes. However, he acknowledges the father's struggle with unbelief and offers help for it.

Coexistence of Belief and Unbelief

• The father admits his mixed feelings by saying “I believe; help my unbelief,” illustrating how both belief and doubt can coexist within individuals.

Addressing Different Types of Unbelief

Disciples’ Lack of Faith

• Jesus identifies the disciples' failure due to their own unbelief, labeling them as a "faithless generation."

Distinction Between Types of Unbelief

• Jesus notes different kinds of unbelief—some can be cast out easily while others require fasting and prayer for resolution.

Overcoming Barriers Through Knowledge and Prayer

Importance of Right Knowledge

Prayer and Overcoming Unbelief

The Role of Prayer in Addressing Unbelief

• Emphasizes the importance of focused prayer to combat specific unbeliefs, suggesting that believers should actively declare their intent for these doubts to diminish within a week.

• Encourages acquiring knowledge related to the areas of unbelief, indicating that understanding is crucial for spiritual growth and overcoming doubt.

• Highlights the necessity of combining prayer with fasting, stressing that these practices should be rooted in gaining right knowledge rather than mere ritualistic actions.

Understanding Angelic Activity Around Believers

• Clarifies that angels are already present around believers, implying a constant divine support system available to them.

• States that personal hindrances created by individuals can obstruct their ability to experience angelic ministry, suggesting self-reflection and removal of such barriers is essential.