READ Judges 13:1-20

In this story of the birth of Samson, there is the appearance of the Angel of the Lord to the parents.  When there is a reference to “Angel of the Lord” in most instances it is a christophany.  A christophany is an OT appearance of Christ.  It is confirmed as the story unfolds.

The Angel directs Manoah not to fix supper (since Manoah and his wife were unaware at this point this is the Angel of the Lord – v. 16) rather to offer a sacrifice to Yahweh (the LORD).  That is what Manoah did.  What a site ensued when the flames were reaching high toward the sky, the angel of the LORD soared into and up through the flame.

The reaction of Manoah and his wife is instructive to us in two ways:  (1) It confirms that this is some ordinary angel, and (2) when we get with the Lord, we should fall on our faces, if not literally, then figuratively in our hearts.  An encounter with LORD should always prompt abandonment in who we are.  Recall Isaiah.

Speaking of Isaiah,  I am reminded about a connection with this story when Manoah asked the Angel of the LORD his name:  “Why do you ask my name,” the Angel replied, “seeing it is wonderful?” (v. 18):

For to us a child is born,
to us a son is given;
and the government shall be upon his shoulder,
and his name shall be called
Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God,
Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.  (Isaiah 9:6 ESV)