The Truth about Angels

Chapter 9—Angels From Sinai to the Taking of Jericho Angels in Israel’s Wilderness Wanderings Christ was the angel appointed of God to go before Moses in the wilderness, conducting the Israelites in their travels to the land of Canaan.—The Review and Herald, May 6, 1875. {TA 98.1} In all the way of God’s leading, they [the Israelites] had found water to refresh the thirsty, bread from heaven to satisfy their hunger, and peace and safety under the shadowy cloud by day and the fiery pillar by night. Angels were ministering to them as they climbed the rocky heights, or threaded the rugged paths of the wilderness.—The Signs of the Times, October 21, 1880. {TA 98.2} God manifested His great care and love for His people in sending them bread from heaven. “Man did eat angels’ food”: that is, food provided for them by the angels.—The Spirit of Prophecy 1:226. {TA 98.3} Israel at Sinai And now before them in solemn majesty Mount Sinai lifted its massive front. The cloudy pillar rested upon its summit, and the people spread their tents upon the plain beneath. Here was to be their home for nearly a year. At night the pillar of fire assured them of the divine protection, and while they were locked in slumber, the bread of heaven fell gently upon the encampment.... {TA 98.4} Soon after the encampment at Sinai, Moses was called up into the mountain to meet with God. Alone he climbed the steep and rugged path, and drew near to the cloud that marked the place of Jehovah’s presence. Israel was now to be taken into a close and peculiar relation to the Most High.... {TA 99.1} Speaking out of the thick darkness that enshrouded Him, as He stood upon the mount, surrounded by a retinue of angels, the Lord made known His law.... Arrangements were now to be made for the full establishment of the chosen nation under Jehovah as their king.—Patriarchs and Prophets, 301, 303, 304, 312. {TA 99.2} “Let Them Make Me a Sanctuary” During his stay in the mount, Moses received directions for the building of a sanctuary in which the divine presence would be specially manifested. “Let them make me a sanctuary, that I may dwell among them,” was the command of God.—Patriarchs and Prophets, 313. {TA 99.3} The building [tabernacle] was divided into two apartments by a rich and beautiful curtain, or veil, suspended from gold-plated pillars; and a similar veil closed the entrance of the first apartment. These, like the inner covering, which formed the ceiling, were of the most gorgeous colors, blue, purple, and scarlet, beautifully arranged, while inwrought with threads of gold and silver were cherubim to represent the angelic host who are connected with the work of the heavenly sanctuary, and who are ministering spirits to the people of God on earth.—Patriarchs and Prophets, 347. {TA 99.4} 48