Exodus 23:20-33 click here for the reading
One of the Scriptures that often gets used out of context is the first few out of this reading.
“See, I am sending an angel before you to protect you on your journey and lead you safely to the place I have prepared for you. Pay close attention to him, and obey his instructions. Do not rebel against him, for he is my representative, and he will not forgive your rebellion. But if you are careful to obey him, following all my instructions, then I will be an enemy to your enemies, and I will oppose those who oppose you."
It is often misused because we like to interpret that God is always on our side in military conquests. Look at the middle east right now and all the children of Abraham (Jews, Muslims, and Christians) use this reading to defend their violence.
In recognizing the promise given in the covenant, God follows through with what God said God would do, lead God's people into the land God will give them. Fulfilling God's promise is what God does! That is what makes God, well, God! Notice the promise of protection and the sending ahead an angel. Something God does often for God's people. A sign of the covenant relationship.
What does it mean to have God send angels ahead of you along your journey?
One of the Scriptures that often gets used out of context is the first few out of this reading.
“See, I am sending an angel before you to protect you on your journey and lead you safely to the place I have prepared for you. Pay close attention to him, and obey his instructions. Do not rebel against him, for he is my representative, and he will not forgive your rebellion. But if you are careful to obey him, following all my instructions, then I will be an enemy to your enemies, and I will oppose those who oppose you."
It is often misused because we like to interpret that God is always on our side in military conquests. Look at the middle east right now and all the children of Abraham (Jews, Muslims, and Christians) use this reading to defend their violence.
In recognizing the promise given in the covenant, God follows through with what God said God would do, lead God's people into the land God will give them. Fulfilling God's promise is what God does! That is what makes God, well, God! Notice the promise of protection and the sending ahead an angel. Something God does often for God's people. A sign of the covenant relationship.
What does it mean to have God send angels ahead of you along your journey?
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