Luke 2:14
Verse
Context
Sermons
Carter Conlon
J. Glyn Owen
Willie Mullan
Ian PaisleyIan PaisleySummary
Commentary
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
Glory to God in the highest - The design of God, in the incarnation, was to manifest the hidden glories of his nature, and to reconcile men to each other and to himself. The angels therefore declare that this incarnation shall manifest and promote the glory of God, εν ὑψιστοις not only in the highest heavens, among the highest orders of beings, but in the highest and most exalted degrees. For in this astonishing display of God's mercy, attributes of the Divine nature which had not been and could not be known in any other way should be now exhibited in the fullness of their glory, that even the angels should have fresh objects to contemplate, and new glories to exult in. These things the angels desire to look into, Pe1 1:12, and they desire it because they feel they are thus interested in it. The incarnation of Jesus Christ is an infinite and eternal benefit. Heaven and earth both partake of the fruits of it, and through it angels and men become one family, Eph 3:15. Peace, good will toward men - Men are in a state of hostility with Heaven and with each other. The carnal mind is enmity against God. He who sins wars against his Maker; and "Foe to God was ne'er true friend to man." When men become reconciled to God, through the death of his Son, they love one another. They have peace with God; peace in their own consciences; and peace with their neighbors: good will dwells among them, speaks in them, and works by them. Well might this state of salvation be represented under the notion of the kingdom of God, a counterpart of eternal felicity. See on Mat 3:2 (note).
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
Glory, &c.--brief but transporting hymn--not only in articulate human speech, for our benefit, but in tunable measure, in the form of a Hebrew parallelism of two complete clauses, and a third one only amplifying the second, and so without a connecting "and." The "glory to God," which the new-born "Saviour" was to bring, is the first note of this sublime hymn: to this answers, in the second clause, the "peace on earth," of which He was to be "the Prince" (Isa 9:6) --probably sung responsively by the celestial choir; while quickly follows the glad echo of this note, probably by a third detachment of the angelic choristers--"good will to men." "They say not, glory to God in heaven, where angels are, but, using a rare expression, "in the highest [heavens]," whither angels aspire not," (Heb 1:3-4) [BENGEL]. "Peace" with God is the grand necessity of a fallen world. To bring in this, and all other peace in its train, was the prime errand of the Saviour to this earth, and, along with it, Heaven's whole "good will to men"--the divine complacency on a new footing--descends to rest upon men, as upon the Son Himself, in whom God is "well-pleased." (Mat 3:17, the same word as here.)
John Gill Bible Commentary
Glory to God in the highest,.... Which with the following words, are not to be considered as a wish, that so it might be, but as an affirmation, that so it was; for the glory of God is great in the salvation, peace, and reconciliation of his people by Jesus Christ, even the glory of all his perfections; of his wisdom and prudence in forming such a scheme; of his love, grace, and, mercy, the glory of which is his main view, and is hereby answered; and of his holiness, which is hereby honoured; and of his justice, which is fully satisfied; and of his power in the accomplishment of it; and of his truth and faithfulness in fulfilling his covenant and oath, and all the promises and prophecies relating to it. Great glory from hence arises to God; who is in the highest heavens, and is given him by angels and saints that dwell there, and that in the highest strains; and by saints on earth too in, their measure, and as they are able: the ground and foundation of which is what follows: and on earth peace: by which is meant, not external peace, though, at this time there was peace on earth all the world over; nor internal peace, as distinguished from that eternal peace which the saints enjoy in heaven; nor even peace made by Christ; for this, as yet, was not done on earth, but was to be made by the blood of his cross: rather Christ himself is here intended, who is called "the man, the peace" Mic 5:5 and "our peace", Eph 2:14 and was now on earth, being just born, in order to make peace with God, and reconciliation for the sins of the people: and he is so called, because he is the author of peace between Jew and Gentile, which were at enmity with each other; by abrogating the ceremonial law, the cause of that enmity; by sending the Gospel to them, and converting some of each; and by granting the like privileges to them both; see Eph 2:14 and because he is the author of peace between God and elect sinners, who, through the fall, are at enmity against, God, and enemies in their minds by wicked works unto him; nor can they make their peace with God; they know not the way of it; nor are they disposed to it; nor can they approach to God to treat with him about terms of peace; nor can they do those things that will make their peace with God, as satisfying his justice, and fulfilling his law: Christ only is their peace maker; he only is fit for it, being God and man in one person, and so a daysman that can lay his hands on both, and has a concern in each, in things pertaining to God, and to make reconciliation for the sins of the people: he only is able to do it, and he has done it by the blood of his cross; and a very excellent peace it is he has made: it is made upon the most honourable terms, to the satisfaction of justice, and the magnifying of the law of God; and is therefore a lasting one, and attended with many blessings, such as freedom of access to God, and a right to all the privileges of his house; and the news of it are glad tidings of good things: and those angels that first brought the tidings of it, may be truly called, as some of the angels are by the Jews (t), "angels of peace". Moreover, Christ may be said to be "peace", because he is the donor of all true solid peace and real prosperity, both external, which his people have in the world, and with each other; and internal, which they have in their own breasts, through believing in him, and attending on his ordinances; and eternal, which they shall have for ever with him in the world to come. And now Christ being the peace on earth, is owing to will towards men; that is, to the free favour, good will, and pleasure of God towards chosen men in Christ Jesus: that Christ was on earth as the peacemaker, or giver, was owing to God's good will; not to angels, for good angels needed him not as such; and the angels that sinned were not spared, nor was a Saviour provided for them; but to men, and not to all men; for though all men share in the providential goodness of God, yet not in his special good will, free grace, and favour: but to elect men, to whom a child was born, and a Son given, even the Prince of Peace: it was from God's good will to these persons, whom he loved with an everlasting love in Christ, laid up goodness for them in him, blessed them with all spiritual blessings in him, and made a covenant with him for them; that he provided and appointed his son to be the Saviour and peace maker; that he sent him into this world to be the propitiation for sin; and that he spared him not, but delivered him up into the hands of men, justice, and death, in order to make peace for them. The Vulgate Latin version, and some copies, as the Alexandrian, and Beza's most ancient one, read, "peace on earth to men of good will"; and which must be understood, not of men that have a good will of themselves, for there are no such men: no man has a will to that which is good, till God works in him both to will, and to do of his, good pleasure; wherefore peace, reconciliation, and salvation, are not of him that willeth, nor of him that runneth, but of God that showeth mercy: but of such who are the objects of God's good will, and pleasure, whom he loves, because he will love, and has mercy and compassion on them, and is gracious to them, because he will be so; and therefore chooses, redeems, and regenerates them of his own will, and because it seems good in his sight. The Syriac and Persic versions read, "good hope to men"; as there is a foundation laid in Christ the peace, of a good hope of reconciliation, righteousness, pardon, life, and salvation for sinful men. The Arabic version renders it, "cheerfulness in men"; as there is a great deal of reason for it, on account of the birth of the Saviour and peace maker, the salvation that comes by him to men, and the glory brought thereby to God, (t) Zohar in Exod. fol. 8. 1. & 98. 4.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
2:14 Glory to God in highest heaven: This short hymn is known as the Gloria in excelsis Deo from the first line of the Latin translation. The Messiah’s coming brings glory to God in the heavens and peace to humans on earth. • peace on earth to those with whom God is pleased: Peace indicates total well-being, not just the absence of hostility. The traditional translation, “on earth peace, good will toward men” (KJV), is based on the reading of some late manuscripts. The NLT text follows more reliable early manuscripts. Peace comes to the recipients of God’s grace.
Luke 2:14
The Shepherds and the Angels
13And suddenly there appeared with the angel a great multitude of the heavenly host, praising God and saying: 14“Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace to men on whom His favor rests!”
- Scripture
- Sermons
- Commentary
A Secret Place Called Christmas
By Carter Conlon2.5K40:24ChristmasEXO 12:3PSA 91:1LUK 2:14In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of moving towards the place where God's strength, power, provision, and pathway can be found. Ordinary and honest people are encouraged to follow this direction, even if there may not be any obvious personal advantage. As they begin to move, a song breaks out in their hearts, and the sky is filled with angels praising God. This heavenly choir and song can only be heard if God reveals it, and it brings peace and moves believers towards sharing God's kindness, especially with the poor. The speaker also highlights that God can speak to anyone, regardless of their social status or education, as long as they have a heart that is open to hearing from Him.
What Child Is This? Song of Virgin Mary
By J. Glyn Owen1.7K46:14Birth Of JesusLUK 1:39LUK 1:68LUK 2:14LUK 2:29In this sermon, the speaker focuses on Mary's song of praise, known as the Magnificat. The speaker describes how Mary's soul magnifies the Lord, making the unseen God great in the sight of those who hear and understand. The speaker also highlights how Mary, a young woman from a humble background, was given an understanding of God's deeds and purposes throughout history, particularly the covenant made with Abram. Mary's song reflects her personal joy and gratitude for God's faithfulness and the great things He has done for her. The speaker encourages listeners to meditate on Mary's song, worship with her, and make it their own.
(Following the Footsteps of Christ) Introduction
By Willie Mullan1.5K1:13:05Footsteps Of ChristMAT 2:2LUK 2:14ACT 21:6ACT 21:9GAL 4:4PHP 2:5HEB 10:5In this sermon, the preacher begins by emphasizing the importance of recognizing God's role in sending His Son, Jesus Christ, to redeem humanity. The preacher references Galatians 4:4, which states that God sent His Son at the appointed time to redeem those under the law. The sermon then shifts to discussing the messenger, Gabriel, who was sent by God to announce the coming of Jesus. The preacher highlights the significance of Jesus taking on the form of a servant, as mentioned in Philippians 2:5-7, to fulfill God's plan of salvation.
Glory to God in the Highest, and on Earth Peace, Good Will Toward Men
By Timothy Tow80111:14GEN 3:15MAT 6:33LUK 2:14In this sermon, the preacher focuses on the birth of Jesus Christ and the message of the angels to the shepherds. The angel announces the good news of the birth of a Savior, who is Christ the Lord, and this brings great joy to all people. The preacher emphasizes that the purpose of Christmas is to praise God and acknowledge His plan of sending His virgin-born son to bring peace and goodwill to earth. He urges the listeners to confess Jesus Christ as the Son of God and believe in His death and resurrection for salvation. The preacher also highlights the significance of the virgin birth of Christ as a fulfillment of God's plan to crush Satan and offer salvation to humanity.
Bristol Conference 1973-02 the Lord Jesus Christ
By Stan Ford78835:41PSA 139:6ISA 63:3MAT 26:39LUK 2:14ACT 1:2REV 19:13In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the significance of Jesus' scars on his hands. He highlights that these scars were the only thing that man ever made that would be in glory. The preacher also discusses the importance of God doing what he asks us to do, using the example of requiring two witnesses for every divine truth. He encourages the audience to spend their lives searching the scriptures to discover the wonderful and profound aspects of Christ. Additionally, the preacher reflects on the loneliness and purpose of Jesus' death on the cross.
The Birth of Our Lord Jesus Christ
By Ian Paisley57339:48GEN 49:8GEN 50:26MAT 6:33LUK 2:14LUK 2:20In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the unity of the Bible, stating that it is one book despite being composed of many individual books. The sermon explores the theme of death and death bed scenes in the book of Genesis, starting with the death of Abel and ending with the death of Joseph. The preacher also mentions the deaths of Adam and Noah. The sermon then transitions to the New Testament, specifically Luke's Gospel, highlighting the visit of the angelic hosts and the proclamation of peace and goodwill towards men. The preacher concludes by expressing the significance of Christmas and the angels' confirmation of God's good will towards humanity.
The Must of All Musts
By Ian Paisley50939:48GEN 49:8GEN 50:26MAT 6:33LUK 2:14LUK 2:20In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the unity of the Bible, despite it being a collection of 66 books. He highlights the deaths and death bed scenes of various individuals in the book of Genesis, starting with Abel, the first martyr, and ending with the death of Joseph's children. The preacher also mentions the deaths of Adam and Noah. The sermon then shifts to the New Testament, specifically Luke's Gospel, where the preacher focuses on the birth of Jesus and the angelic announcement of peace and goodwill towards men. The preacher concludes by expressing the importance of Christmas and the angels' confirmation of God's good will towards humanity.
The Church in Revival
By Don Courville45029:17RevivalSpiritual GrowthISA 53:5LUK 2:14ROM 5:81CO 3:1EPH 3:21COL 2:101TI 1:172PE 3:181JN 1:7REV 21:23Don Courville emphasizes the necessity of a personal walk with God for true revival in the church, urging believers to rely on the Holy Spirit rather than human efforts or organizational structures. He reflects on the importance of humility, transparency, and spiritual growth, highlighting that true revival comes from a deep, personal relationship with Jesus Christ. Courville shares testimonies of revival in Africa, illustrating how the Holy Spirit can transform lives when believers unite in Christ. He encourages the congregation to seek spiritual growth by glorifying God in all aspects of life, as this is the key to experiencing true revival.
The Lord Himself Shall Descend
By John Nelson Darby0Living in HopeThe Second Coming of ChristMAT 3:17LUK 2:14JHN 17:9John Nelson Darby emphasizes the significance of the Lord's coming, highlighting that before Christ's arrival, there was little mention of heaven in scripture. He explains how Christ's presence brought a heavenly testimony and how believers should focus on heavenly things rather than earthly distractions. Darby reassures that the Lord Himself will descend from heaven, bringing hope and resurrection to His people, and encourages believers to live in anticipation of this glorious event. He stresses the importance of faith, love, and hope in the sight of God, and the need for believers to remain blameless until the Lord's return.
Joy Unspeakable and Full of Glory
By Erlo Stegen0Faith and SufferingJoy in ChristISA 53:11LUK 2:14JHN 20:29HEB 11:251PE 1:5Erlo Stegen emphasizes the profound joy that comes from faith in Jesus Christ, even amidst trials and temptations. He reflects on the privilege of believing without seeing, as highlighted in 1 Peter 1:8, and shares a testimony of a Muslim woman who found healing and faith in Jesus. Stegen contrasts the fleeting pleasures of the world with the eternal joy found in Christ, urging believers to reflect the glory of Jesus in their lives. He reminds us of the prophets' longing for the grace revealed in Christ and the significance of His suffering for our salvation. Ultimately, he calls for a life that visibly demonstrates the joy and glory of the Lord.
The Glory
By T. Austin-Sparks0God's GloryGrace in Suffering1KI 8:11ISA 46:13LUK 2:14JHN 11:4ACT 7:21CO 1:27EPH 5:27HEB 8:51PE 1:5REV 21:11T. Austin-Sparks emphasizes that the ultimate purpose of God's works and ways is His glory, which governs everything from creation to the establishment of the Church. He illustrates how God's glory is evident in the Old Testament through significant events and figures, such as Abraham and Moses, and culminates in the New Testament with the birth, resurrection, and exaltation of Jesus Christ. Sparks highlights that the Christian life begins, progresses, and culminates in glory, and that grace is the foundation of this glory. He encourages believers to recognize their vocation as vindicating the living presence of Christ in their lives, especially through suffering and grace. Ultimately, all things are for God's glory, and believers are called to acknowledge and proclaim this truth.
The Glory of the Lord
By T. Austin-Sparks0God's GloryHope in Difficult Times1KI 8:11EZK 1:26MAT 27:45LUK 2:14JHN 7:39ACT 7:2EPH 1:192TI 4:18HEB 2:92PE 1:16T. Austin-Sparks emphasizes the centrality of God's glory in His divine purpose, illustrating how every significant movement of God throughout history, from Abraham to Ezekiel, is prefaced by a revelation of His glory. He highlights that even in seemingly hopeless situations, like Ezekiel's captivity, the glory of the Lord can break through, offering hope and direction. Sparks asserts that God's ultimate aim is glory, and that understanding this can transform our perspective on life's challenges. He encourages believers to recognize the open heavens and the supremacy of Christ on the throne as sources of strength and hope in difficult times. The sermon calls for a renewed apprehension of God's glory to inspire faith and perseverance.
The Advent Convergence of Two Worlds
By A.W. Tozer0The Reality of GodThe IncarnationGEN 1:26LUK 2:14JHN 1:14A.W. Tozer emphasizes that the birth of Christ signifies the reality of God and the spiritual essence of human life. The Advent reveals a divine message from beyond our earthly existence, as the shepherds experience a blend of heaven and earth, affirming that God is not just a distant hope but a tangible reality. Furthermore, the Incarnation of Christ confirms humanity's divine origin, illustrating that human life is fundamentally spiritual and created in the image of God. This profound event answers critical moral questions about our existence and relationship with the divine.
Charles Wesley Quotes
By Charles Wesley0ResurrectionFaith and Good WorksMAT 28:6LUK 2:14ROM 12:21GAL 6:9PHP 4:6COL 3:231TH 5:17HEB 11:1JAS 1:221PE 5:7In his sermon, Charles Wesley emphasizes the joy and triumph of Christ's resurrection, calling on both men and angels to celebrate this victory. He highlights the reconciliation between God and sinners, the power of faith, and the enduring strength of the Gospel Church. Wesley encourages believers to maintain a fervent prayer life and to do good in every possible way, while also reflecting on the sweetness of Jesus' love. He reminds us that true Christian character is demonstrated through meekness and patience in the face of adversity.
Our Daily Homily - Luke
By F.B. Meyer0Faith and ObedienceThe Power of the Holy SpiritLUK 1:38LUK 2:14LUK 3:16LUK 4:18LUK 5:13LUK 6:40LUK 7:13LUK 8:46LUK 10:18LUK 11:1F.B. Meyer emphasizes the profound faith and obedience of Mary, the mother of Jesus, as she responds to the angel's message with the words, 'Be it unto me according to thy Word.' He explores the implications of this submission to God's commands, responsibilities, and burdens, urging believers to embrace their divine appointments with humility and trust. Meyer also highlights the connection between glorifying God and experiencing true peace, as well as the transformative power of the Holy Spirit in the believer's life. Ultimately, he calls for a life dedicated to God's glory, which leads to inner peace and fulfillment.
God's Purposes
By Anton Bosch0EXO 20:3PSA 19:1ZEC 14:16MAT 6:9LUK 2:14JHN 5:39ROM 1:21ROM 11:33COL 1:161TI 1:17REV 21:6Anton Bosch delves into the ultimate purpose of God in His dealings with mankind, emphasizing that God's highest purpose is Himself, not centered around man or the church. The focus is on bringing glory to God, with all things created through Him and for Him, so that He may have preeminence. The goal of all things is to exalt God as the Supreme Being, entitled to the center stage of the universe.
Vision of the Throne (Cont)
By Denis Lyle0GEN 22:7LUK 2:14JHN 1:29PHP 2:9REV 5:1Denis Lyle preaches about humanity's longing for Utopia, tracing back to ancient times, and the various futile attempts to achieve it through human reason, economic reforms, and leadership. The sermon delves into the revelation in Chapter 5 of the book of Revelation, highlighting the significance of the scroll with seven seals held by God, symbolizing the title deed to the earth and the impending end-time judgments. It emphasizes the inability of any human to open the scroll, leading to John's distress until the Lion-Lamb, Jesus Christ, is revealed as the only worthy one to execute God's plan for redemption and peace on earth.
The Birth of Jesus
By John Gifford Bellett0GEN 1:31GEN 6:6LUK 2:141CO 15:52REV 1:17John Gifford Bellett delves into the exquisitely beautiful scripture of Luke 2, highlighting how the new creation in the Child of Bethlehem fulfills God's purposes more abundantly than the old creation, displaying God's glory perfectly in Jesus Christ. The blessing, peace, and life that Jesus imparts are infallible and eternal, contrasting with the potential for loss in the old creation. The presence of God's glory no longer alarms but emboldens, as seen with the shepherds and in the book of Revelation, teaching that joy and praise should accompany encounters with heavenly beings.
Praise for the Incarnation
By John Newton0PSA 98:4LUK 2:14LUK 19:40GAL 2:20EPH 5:20John Newton preaches about the overwhelming love and sacrifice of Jesus Christ, emphasizing the gratitude and praise that should flow from believers for His birth, death on the cross, and the shame He endured. Newton reflects on the angelic proclamation of glory to God at Christ's birth, urging his listeners to find their voices to sing louder praises to the Lord. He marvels at the incarnation of the Lord to fulfill the law, taking our place in suffering, and challenges his audience to not stay silent but to offer praise, even if it feels inadequate. Newton concludes by expressing his deep affection for Jesus, using various endearing titles to convey the intimate relationship believers have with their Savior.
Heavenly Life Encouragements
By Richard Baxter0PSA 144:15DAN 6:10LUK 2:14LUK 9:33GAL 4:26PHP 3:20COL 3:2REV 4:10REV 5:9Richard Baxter preaches about the importance of maintaining a heavenly life through serious and frequent meditation, emphasizing the spiritual joys, stability, and lasting comfort that come from being friendly with God. He urges listeners to focus on heavenly delights, as neglecting them can lead to a miserable life, dampen love for God, and weaken the desire to serve Him. Baxter encourages a life of heavenly meditation, reminding believers that their true homeland is in heaven, where they can find eternal happiness and draw daily joy from God.
"A Call to Prayer"
By J.C. Ryle0LUK 2:14Chuck Swindoll preaches on the concept of 'Eudokia,' which means good will or pleasure. This term is used in the New Testament to describe God's pleasure and good intentions towards us. Swindoll emphasizes that God's motive behind His work in our lives is to bring Him pleasure, and our ultimate goal should be to live for God's greater glory. He highlights the importance of surrendering to God's will and allowing Him to work in us to accomplish His purposes, leading us to experience His good pleasure in our lives.
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
Glory to God in the highest - The design of God, in the incarnation, was to manifest the hidden glories of his nature, and to reconcile men to each other and to himself. The angels therefore declare that this incarnation shall manifest and promote the glory of God, εν ὑψιστοις not only in the highest heavens, among the highest orders of beings, but in the highest and most exalted degrees. For in this astonishing display of God's mercy, attributes of the Divine nature which had not been and could not be known in any other way should be now exhibited in the fullness of their glory, that even the angels should have fresh objects to contemplate, and new glories to exult in. These things the angels desire to look into, Pe1 1:12, and they desire it because they feel they are thus interested in it. The incarnation of Jesus Christ is an infinite and eternal benefit. Heaven and earth both partake of the fruits of it, and through it angels and men become one family, Eph 3:15. Peace, good will toward men - Men are in a state of hostility with Heaven and with each other. The carnal mind is enmity against God. He who sins wars against his Maker; and "Foe to God was ne'er true friend to man." When men become reconciled to God, through the death of his Son, they love one another. They have peace with God; peace in their own consciences; and peace with their neighbors: good will dwells among them, speaks in them, and works by them. Well might this state of salvation be represented under the notion of the kingdom of God, a counterpart of eternal felicity. See on Mat 3:2 (note).
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
Glory, &c.--brief but transporting hymn--not only in articulate human speech, for our benefit, but in tunable measure, in the form of a Hebrew parallelism of two complete clauses, and a third one only amplifying the second, and so without a connecting "and." The "glory to God," which the new-born "Saviour" was to bring, is the first note of this sublime hymn: to this answers, in the second clause, the "peace on earth," of which He was to be "the Prince" (Isa 9:6) --probably sung responsively by the celestial choir; while quickly follows the glad echo of this note, probably by a third detachment of the angelic choristers--"good will to men." "They say not, glory to God in heaven, where angels are, but, using a rare expression, "in the highest [heavens]," whither angels aspire not," (Heb 1:3-4) [BENGEL]. "Peace" with God is the grand necessity of a fallen world. To bring in this, and all other peace in its train, was the prime errand of the Saviour to this earth, and, along with it, Heaven's whole "good will to men"--the divine complacency on a new footing--descends to rest upon men, as upon the Son Himself, in whom God is "well-pleased." (Mat 3:17, the same word as here.)
John Gill Bible Commentary
Glory to God in the highest,.... Which with the following words, are not to be considered as a wish, that so it might be, but as an affirmation, that so it was; for the glory of God is great in the salvation, peace, and reconciliation of his people by Jesus Christ, even the glory of all his perfections; of his wisdom and prudence in forming such a scheme; of his love, grace, and, mercy, the glory of which is his main view, and is hereby answered; and of his holiness, which is hereby honoured; and of his justice, which is fully satisfied; and of his power in the accomplishment of it; and of his truth and faithfulness in fulfilling his covenant and oath, and all the promises and prophecies relating to it. Great glory from hence arises to God; who is in the highest heavens, and is given him by angels and saints that dwell there, and that in the highest strains; and by saints on earth too in, their measure, and as they are able: the ground and foundation of which is what follows: and on earth peace: by which is meant, not external peace, though, at this time there was peace on earth all the world over; nor internal peace, as distinguished from that eternal peace which the saints enjoy in heaven; nor even peace made by Christ; for this, as yet, was not done on earth, but was to be made by the blood of his cross: rather Christ himself is here intended, who is called "the man, the peace" Mic 5:5 and "our peace", Eph 2:14 and was now on earth, being just born, in order to make peace with God, and reconciliation for the sins of the people: and he is so called, because he is the author of peace between Jew and Gentile, which were at enmity with each other; by abrogating the ceremonial law, the cause of that enmity; by sending the Gospel to them, and converting some of each; and by granting the like privileges to them both; see Eph 2:14 and because he is the author of peace between God and elect sinners, who, through the fall, are at enmity against, God, and enemies in their minds by wicked works unto him; nor can they make their peace with God; they know not the way of it; nor are they disposed to it; nor can they approach to God to treat with him about terms of peace; nor can they do those things that will make their peace with God, as satisfying his justice, and fulfilling his law: Christ only is their peace maker; he only is fit for it, being God and man in one person, and so a daysman that can lay his hands on both, and has a concern in each, in things pertaining to God, and to make reconciliation for the sins of the people: he only is able to do it, and he has done it by the blood of his cross; and a very excellent peace it is he has made: it is made upon the most honourable terms, to the satisfaction of justice, and the magnifying of the law of God; and is therefore a lasting one, and attended with many blessings, such as freedom of access to God, and a right to all the privileges of his house; and the news of it are glad tidings of good things: and those angels that first brought the tidings of it, may be truly called, as some of the angels are by the Jews (t), "angels of peace". Moreover, Christ may be said to be "peace", because he is the donor of all true solid peace and real prosperity, both external, which his people have in the world, and with each other; and internal, which they have in their own breasts, through believing in him, and attending on his ordinances; and eternal, which they shall have for ever with him in the world to come. And now Christ being the peace on earth, is owing to will towards men; that is, to the free favour, good will, and pleasure of God towards chosen men in Christ Jesus: that Christ was on earth as the peacemaker, or giver, was owing to God's good will; not to angels, for good angels needed him not as such; and the angels that sinned were not spared, nor was a Saviour provided for them; but to men, and not to all men; for though all men share in the providential goodness of God, yet not in his special good will, free grace, and favour: but to elect men, to whom a child was born, and a Son given, even the Prince of Peace: it was from God's good will to these persons, whom he loved with an everlasting love in Christ, laid up goodness for them in him, blessed them with all spiritual blessings in him, and made a covenant with him for them; that he provided and appointed his son to be the Saviour and peace maker; that he sent him into this world to be the propitiation for sin; and that he spared him not, but delivered him up into the hands of men, justice, and death, in order to make peace for them. The Vulgate Latin version, and some copies, as the Alexandrian, and Beza's most ancient one, read, "peace on earth to men of good will"; and which must be understood, not of men that have a good will of themselves, for there are no such men: no man has a will to that which is good, till God works in him both to will, and to do of his, good pleasure; wherefore peace, reconciliation, and salvation, are not of him that willeth, nor of him that runneth, but of God that showeth mercy: but of such who are the objects of God's good will, and pleasure, whom he loves, because he will love, and has mercy and compassion on them, and is gracious to them, because he will be so; and therefore chooses, redeems, and regenerates them of his own will, and because it seems good in his sight. The Syriac and Persic versions read, "good hope to men"; as there is a foundation laid in Christ the peace, of a good hope of reconciliation, righteousness, pardon, life, and salvation for sinful men. The Arabic version renders it, "cheerfulness in men"; as there is a great deal of reason for it, on account of the birth of the Saviour and peace maker, the salvation that comes by him to men, and the glory brought thereby to God, (t) Zohar in Exod. fol. 8. 1. & 98. 4.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
2:14 Glory to God in highest heaven: This short hymn is known as the Gloria in excelsis Deo from the first line of the Latin translation. The Messiah’s coming brings glory to God in the heavens and peace to humans on earth. • peace on earth to those with whom God is pleased: Peace indicates total well-being, not just the absence of hostility. The traditional translation, “on earth peace, good will toward men” (KJV), is based on the reading of some late manuscripts. The NLT text follows more reliable early manuscripts. Peace comes to the recipients of God’s grace.