Luke 2:14 – “Glory to God in the highest heaven, and on earth peace to those on whom his favor rests.”
Extended Explanation
In this verse, the angels praise God, declaring glory to Him in the highest heaven and peace on earth. Their song celebrates the birth of Jesus Christ, who brings glory to God and peace to humanity. The angels’ praise acknowledges that the coming of Jesus fulfills God’s plan to save the world, and this event is so significant that it deserves worship from heaven and earth.
The peace the angels speak of is not just the absence of conflict—it is a deep, spiritual peace that comes from being reconciled to God through Jesus. This peace is given to those “on whom His favor rests,” meaning those who receive God’s grace. The angels’ song points to the fact that Jesus’ birth is the key to this peace because through Him, people can be restored to a right relationship with God.
Historical Context
At the time of Jesus’ birth, the Roman Empire was experiencing what was known as the Pax Romana (Roman Peace), a period of relative stability enforced by military power. However, the peace the angels referred to was much greater than any political peace. It was the peace that God brings through the Messiah, a peace that transforms individuals and ultimately the world.
In Jewish thought, peace (Hebrew: shalom) was a concept that included wholeness, well-being, and harmony with God. Many Jewish people expected the Messiah to bring peace by defeating their enemies and restoring Israel’s political power. But the angels’ message reveals that God’s peace is deeper—it is about healing the relationship between God and humanity through the forgiveness of sin.
The angels’ declaration of “glory to God” also reflects the Jewish understanding that God alone deserves worship. The birth of Jesus is not just a human event but a divine act that reveals God’s glory in the highest form.
Theological Implications
This verse highlights the connection between God’s glory and the peace He brings to humanity. The angels praise God because the birth of Jesus glorifies Him by fulfilling His promises and demonstrating His love. God’s glory is revealed not just in His power but in His mercy, as He sends His Son to save the world.
The peace mentioned here is a gift of God’s grace. It is not something humans can achieve through their own efforts. Only through Jesus can people experience true peace—peace with God, peace within themselves, and peace with others. As Paul later writes in Romans 5:1, “since we have been justified through faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ.”
The phrase “on whom His favor rests” underscores that this peace is available to those who receive God’s grace. It is a reminder that salvation and peace are gifts, not something we earn. God’s favor rests on those who trust in Jesus as their Savior and Lord.
Literary Analysis
Luke’s account of the angels’ song is both poetic and theological. The contrast between “heaven” and “earth” emphasizes the cosmic significance of Jesus’ birth. The structure of the verse highlights the dual result of Jesus’ coming: it brings glory to God and peace to humanity. This balance reflects the overall message of the Gospel—God is glorified when His people are saved and restored to Him.
The phrase “glory to God in the highest heaven” places God at the center of the story. The angels do not celebrate human achievement or earthly power; they celebrate God’s work in bringing salvation. Their praise also reflects the theme of divine reversal in Luke’s Gospel, where God lifts the humble and brings salvation in unexpected ways.
Biblical Cross-References
- Isaiah 9:6 – “For to us a child is born, to us a son is given… and he will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.”
- John 14:27 – Jesus said, “Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives.”
- Romans 5:1 – “Therefore, since we have been justified through faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ.”
- Ephesians 2:14 – “For He Himself is our peace, who has made the two groups one and has destroyed the barrier, the dividing wall of hostility.”
What This Verse Means for Today’s Christian
This verse reminds Christians that true peace comes only through Jesus Christ. In a world filled with conflict, anxiety, and brokenness, people often seek peace in temporary things like success, relationships, or possessions. But the peace the angels speak of is lasting and rooted in a relationship with God.
For Christians, this verse is a call to live in God’s peace and reflect it in their daily lives. As followers of Christ, we are called to be peacemakers (Matthew 5:9), sharing the good news of reconciliation with others. We are also called to give glory to God in all we do, recognizing that our salvation is a result of His grace.
How This Verse Relates to a Loving God
God’s love is central to the message of this verse. The fact that God sent His Son to bring peace shows His deep love for humanity. He didn’t leave us in our sin and brokenness but made a way for us to be reconciled to Him. The angels’ song of praise is a response to this love, acknowledging that God’s plan of salvation glorifies Him and benefits His people.
The peace that God offers is a reflection of His love. It is not a temporary or conditional peace but an eternal peace rooted in His desire to restore and heal His creation. Through Jesus, God shows His love by providing the solution to humanity’s greatest need—reconciliation with Him.
How This Verse Connects to Jesus Christ
Jesus is at the center of this verse because He is the reason for the angels’ praise and the source of the peace they proclaim. As the Prince of Peace (Isaiah 9:6), Jesus came to bridge the gap between God and humanity caused by sin. His life, death, and resurrection are the means by which people can be justified and experience peace with God.
The angels’ declaration of peace also foreshadows Jesus’ own teaching about peace. In John 14:27, He tells His disciples that the peace He gives is different from the world’s peace—it is a lasting, spiritual peace. His sacrifice on the cross secures this peace for all who believe in Him.
Questions for Reflection and Discussion
- What does it mean to you that the birth of Jesus brings glory to God and peace to humanity?
- How can you experience the peace that Jesus offers in your daily life?
- In what ways does this verse encourage you to give glory to God for His work in your life?
- How does understanding God’s favor help you appreciate the gift of salvation?
- How can you be a peacemaker in your relationships, reflecting the peace that comes from knowing Jesus?