An Angel's Message
By Senior Pastor Dr. Bill Rains | February 18, 2024
Turn to Judges 2:1-7. Today’s sermon, “An Angel’s Message,” is the sixth in our angelic encounters series. The text reads: “An angel of the Lord… said, I will never break my covenant… but ye have not obeyed.” Let’s pray: Father, thank You for this gathering, the choir, and Your Word. Touch hearts, in Jesus’ name, Amen.
Israel, 70 years after Egypt’s deliverance, had strayed. At Bochim—meaning “weeping”—an angel appeared, cutting through their conference with a divine rebuke. Recalling God’s covenant, he exposed their disobedience, sparking tears and sacrifices. They served God through Joshua’s days and beyond. Three lessons stand out.
Remember What God Has Done
“I made you to go up out of Egypt… I will never break my covenant” (vv. 1-2). The angel reminded Israel of their exodus—Pharaoh’s fall, the sea split—yet time dulled their memory. We too forget God’s grace, recalling sin’s fleeting pleasures instead. I jot salvation dates for folks, urging, “Keep this in your Bible—don’t stray from Calvary!”
Realize God’s Word Isn’t Optional
“Make no league… throw down their altars… ye have not obeyed” (vv. 2-3). God’s command was clear: no compromise with pagans. His Word isn’t a smorgasbord—pick what suits you. Like Popeye, I say, “I am what I am,” standing firm. Disobedience breaks communion; basics like Bible, hymns, and pocketbook still win souls.
Remorse Over Sin Changes Lives
“The people… wept… sacrificed there unto the Lord” (vv. 4-5). The angel’s words pierced, and Israel repented—not just sorry they got caught, but truly broken. Tears and offerings followed, reviving a generation. We must see ourselves as sinners, casting all on God’s mercy. That’s when revival begins.
