“Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace to men on whom his favor rests.”
Luke 2:14
Angels flooded the earth with celebration that starry night, saying in resounding exaltation, “Peace on earth, good will toward men.” The original language tells us it is about peace on earth to men of good will. In other words, those who experience peace are those whose hearts are cleansed by the sacrifice this child would bring.
Jesus brought peace between God and man, peace to those who accept His sacrifice. Angels can watch this relationship between God and His people, but they can never know His love like we do. Peter writes that they “long to look into” (1 Peter 1:12) these things though they cannot love God or be loved by Him like we can.
“How we would all like to have been there—to be a fly on the ear of one of the shepherds’ sheep. But actually, though the choir in Heaven played a major role, we on earth have the best part because we are the ones who receive God’s grace. God became man, not an angel. God redeemed us, not angels. Ours is the best part, and we will praise God for it for all eternity” (R. Kent Hughes, 2014).
Jesus brought peace between God and man, peace to those who accept His sacrifice. Angels can watch this relationship between God and His people, but they can never know His love like we do. Peter writes that they “long to look into” (1 Peter 1:12) these things though they cannot love God or be loved by Him like we can.
“How we would all like to have been there—to be a fly on the ear of one of the shepherds’ sheep. But actually, though the choir in Heaven played a major role, we on earth have the best part because we are the ones who receive God’s grace. God became man, not an angel. God redeemed us, not angels. Ours is the best part, and we will praise God for it for all eternity” (R. Kent Hughes, 2014).
Scripture Focus
Luke 2:13-14
Insight
The angels know how much God loves us because they knew the whole plan, from creation to consummation. They see Christ pursuing us, His bride.
Bible In A Year
- Joel 1-3
- Proverbs 16
- 2 Peter 1-3
