Luke 2:14
Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good will toward men.
Word-by-Word Analysis
Cross References
Related verses that illuminate this passage (hover to preview):
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1
Ephesians 2:14
Ephesians 2:14
For he is our peace, who hath made both one, and hath broken down the middle wall of partition between us;— He is our peace
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2
Colossians 1:20
Colossians 1:20
And, having made peace through the blood of his cross, by him to reconcile all things unto himself; by him, I say, whether they be things in earth, or things in heaven.— Peace through blood of his cross
Analysis
Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good will toward men. The angelic proclamation announces the cosmic significance of Christ's birth. "Glory to God in the highest" (doxa en hypsistois theō, δόξα ἐν ὑψίστοις θεῷ) declares that Christ's incarnation supremely manifests God's glory—His character, power, and purposes. The superlative "highest" emphasizes the ultimate nature of this glorification.
"Peace on earth" (epi gēs eirēnē, ἐπὶ γῆς εἰρήνη) refers to the comprehensive well-being that Messiah brings—not mere absence of conflict but wholeness, harmony, and reconciliation between God and humanity. This peace fulfills prophetic promises of the Prince of Peace (Isaiah 9:6) who would establish everlasting peace.
"Good will toward men" (en anthrōpois eudokia, ἐν ἀνθρώποις εὐδοκία) better translates as "among people with whom [God] is pleased" or "people of [God's] good pleasure." This emphasizes divine initiative in salvation rather than general human goodwill.
Historical Context
The angelic announcement came to shepherds keeping watch over their flocks by night, likely during lambing season when shepherds maintained constant vigilance. Shepherds were generally despised in first-century Jewish society, considered ceremonially unclean due to their work and unable to maintain ritual purity. Yet God chose them as the first recipients of the Messiah's birth announcement.
The proclamation echoes imperial Roman announcements of the emperor's birth or victories, which were called "gospel" (euangelion) and promised peace throughout the empire. The angels' message presents Jesus as the true king whose birth brings authentic peace, contrasting with Pax Romana maintained through military force.
Bethlehem's significance as David's birthplace would have been profound for Jewish hearers, as Messianic expectations focused on the Davidic covenant and promises of an eternal kingdom. The humble circumstances of Jesus' birth would have seemed paradoxical given royal expectations.
Questions for Reflection
- How does God's choice to announce the Messiah's birth to shepherds challenge human concepts of status and importance?
- What is the relationship between the 'glory to God' and 'peace on earth' announced by the angels, and how are these connected through Christ?
- How does the biblical concept of peace differ from contemporary secular understandings of peace and conflict resolution?
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