Angels vs. Jesus

As the authors of several angel books and frequent guests on radio talk shows, the Steigers receive dozens of letters from men and women who share accounts of angelic interactions. If you'd like to ask a question, e-mail them at columnists@staff.beliefnet.com. Please put "Steigers" on the subject line.


Q: Why all this talk of angels? When you speak of guardian angels, you are diverting people from trusting in their savior, Jesus Christ. Why not tell people all they need is their faith in Jesus?

A: We are delighted that your faith so fulfills you, answers all your questions, and helps with your problems. Certainly, we would never suggest that you cease praying to your image or concept of Jesus.

As authors of a column in such an ecumenical forum as Beliefnet, we feel that it is not our place to propagate any one religious view but to celebrate the truth in the belief systems of all sincere spiritual seekers. However, there is no need for anyone to be forced to choose between Jesus or the angels, for it is clear from the gospels that the angels consider themselves subordinate to him.

The gospels also record a continuing interaction between the angels and Jesus: In Matthew 1:20-21 and Luke 1:26-37, they predicted his birth; in Luke 2:9-14, they announced his birth; they ministered to him during his time in the wilderness (Matthew 4:11); they sought to soothe his anxiety in the garden before his crucifixion (Luke 22:43); they rolled away the great stone that covered his tomb (Matthew 28: 2-4); they announced his resurrection (Matthew 28:5-7).

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