The "angel of the LORD" or "angel of GOD" is mentioned in both the Old and New Testaments; in both cases without connection to Jesus. None of the apostles connects the angel of the LORD with the person of the Messiah. The letter to the Hebrews clearly distinguishes between the Son and the angels. In the Old Testament the words "LORD" and "angel of the LORD" are sometimes used interchangeably. The Angel of the LORD often speaks in the first person when proclaiming a message from GOD. In many other places we read that the LORD speaks to the angel of the LORD and tells him what he should do and say. From this it can be concluded that this angel is an agent or representative of GOD who acts with special authority; almost as GOD himself, without being GOD himself. Exodus 23,21 says that GOD's name is in him. Therefore, the angel of the LORD has the authority to forgive sins on GOD's behalf or to judge Israel for its transgressions (Exodus 23,20 f.). It is possible that this angel is a visible manifestation of GOD in the form of an angel. On the other hand, it could also be one of the chief of the heavenly host. Here the archangel Michael, who appears in Scripture as the guardian angel of the people of Israel (Daniel 12,1), or the archangel Gabriel, who is literally called the angel of the LORD (Luke 1,5-19), come into question.​

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