March 13, 2025

The Angel of the Lord: Examining Early Christian Interpretations

Early Christian writings frequently discuss the nature of God and his interactions with humanity. A particularly interesting aspect of this discourse involves the figure referred to as the "Angel of the Lord." Examining these early interpretations reveals nuances in understanding the divine.

The Angel, God, and Lord

Justin Martyr, in his Dialogue with Trypho, highlights a specific passage from Exodus to illustrate this concept. He points out that the "same One, who is both Angel, and God, and Lord, and man," appeared to Abraham, Isaac, and later Moses. This figure appeared in a flame of fire from the bush and conversed with Moses, identifying himself as the God of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob.

This interpretation suggests that the Angel of the Lord is not merely a messenger but possesses a divine nature. The text emphasizes that this Angel is also identified as God himself.

Divine Glory and the Gentiles

The Dialogue also touches on the prophecy of Isaiah, where God speaks of giving glory to "him whom He has established as a light of the Gentiles." Justin argues that this prophecy refers to Christ, emphasizing that God bestows glory upon this figure, rather than retaining it solely for Himself. This point underscores the role of Christ in extending divine revelation to the Gentile world.

Virgin Birth and Prophecy

Justin Martyr also engages with Trypho on the topic of the virgin birth. Citing Isaiah 7:14, "Behold, the virgin shall conceive, and bear a son," Justin argues that this prophecy was fulfilled in Christ. He contrasts this with Trypho's interpretation, which suggests the prophecy refers to Hezekiah. Furthermore, Trypho draws a parallel to Greek mythology, specifically the birth of Perseus, challenging the uniqueness of the virgin birth narrative. Justin counters by asserting that no one in Abraham's lineage, according to the flesh, was born of a virgin except Christ.