Luke 2:14 Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good will toward men. In this Divine anthem we are taught that — I. THE INCARNATION WAS A BRIGHT EXHIBITION OF THE GLORY OF GOD. Hitherto the holy angels had seen the glory of the Divine justice in the punishment of their sinning compeers; and something like mercy in the suspension of the sentence pronounced on man. But here they see justice and mercy blended in a wonderful manner; and they give vent to their ecstasy in shouts of praise. II. THE INCARNATION WAS THE MEANS OF BRINGING PEACE UPON EARTH. 1. Sin had created war in every man's own bosom. Christ alone can put an end to that war, by procuring pardon of sin, peace for the conscience, tranquillity for the passions, subordination of the appetites — reconciling reason to conscience, and conscience to the law of God. 2. Sin had created a horrible war between man and man. Strife, envy, jealousy, oppression, ambition, prevailed; Christ came to preach and exemplify universal charity. Wherever the influence of His gospel is felt, peace follows between man and man; wherever His government is established, man embraces his brother. 3. Sin had caused war between man and his Maker. Terrible contest — the potsherd striving with Him who made it. Christ reconciles God and man. He is Himself both God and man; so He can both pardon sin and bestow needed grace. III. THE INCARNATION WAS A MARVELLOUS DISPLAY OF THE GOODWILL OF GOD TO MAN. 1. Most astonishing condescension. 2. Unparalleled love. 3. Prodigious disinterestedness. 4. Universality. All are included in this goodwill. IV. WHAT OUGHT TO BE OUR VIEWS, AND FEELINGS, AND CONDUCT. 1. They should be laudatory. We have far more occasion to praise God for the Incarnation, than the angels. 2. We should proclaim the Saviour to others. In trying to kindle a brother's faith and devotion, our own will burn brighter and clearer. (John Stephens.) I. The choir — singers from the new Jerusalem. II. The theme — salvation. III. The listeners — dwellers in heaven and earth. (Van Doren.) Parallel Verses KJV: Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good will toward men.WEB: "Glory to God in the highest, on earth peace, good will toward men." |
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