Angels
by Dr. Billy Graham
Word Publishing, 192 pp.
A Rustle of Angels
by Marilynn Carlson Webber and William D. Webber
Guideposts/Zondervan Publishing, 206 pp.
"Millions of angels are at God's command and at our service. Angels are here to help and they are prepared for any emergency." Pretty awesome statement, huh?
What are angels, anyway? Are they the cute little cherubic darlings we see on everything from checkbook covers to bookmarks? Are they, as some authors have suggested, really UFO's? Are they friends and relatives who have passed away? Or are they powerful, mighty, holy beings, created by God and who serve and worship Him?
In his book, Angels, Dr. Billy Graham looks at all these aspects and more. Of course, some questions about angels aren't worth considering and sometimes are a distraction. Questions such as, "How many angels can dance on the head of a pin?" or "How many angels can be crowded into a phonebooth?" are silly and don't serve to enlighten us as to God's truth. As always, Dr. Graham's ultimate authority is the Word of God – what does the Bible say? It's there we learn the truth and Dr. Graham shows us the way.
The chapter headings in Angels feature photographs of famous paintings of angels, which adds an extra dimension to the book. We can see what artists throughout the ages have imagined what angels might look like.
The second book, A Rustle of Angels, by Marilyn and William Webber, is more contemporary in its focus. The authors give example after example of modern day encounters with angels.
Marilynn started collecting angel figurines when she was four years old, and her collection now numbers more than 2000 pieces. Angels have been a big part of her life ever since.
Both books explain and describe what angels are, and just as importantly, what they are NOT. For example, Rustle states, "According to the Bible, angels are not humans who have died, whether babies or adults. According to Colossians 1:16, angels are among the invisible beings created by God." {For by Him all things were created: things in heaven and on earth, visible and invisible, whether thrones or powers or rulers or authorities; all things were created by Him and for Him.} Dr. Graham says in his book, "Don't believe everything you hear (or read!) about angels! Some would have us believe that they are only spiritual will-o'-the-wisps. Some view them as only celestial beings with beautiful wings and bowed heads. Others would have us think of them as effeminate weirdos." He also quotes Colossians 1:16-17, and explains it as only he can.
Together or separately, these two books will enlighten you as to the true nature of God's holy angels and will edify you in your walk with God.
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