As we hear so often at Christmas, the beginning of Christ's earthly life was heralded by angels who announced peace on earth (Luke 2:14).

There never really has been peace on earth, in the sense we think of it.  Wars and rumors of wars have characterized the entire two millennia since that first Christmas, and all the time before it.

That announcement of peace on earth was a two-pronged proclamation.  First, it declared the arrival of the only One who ultimately can bring lasting peace on earth (which He will do when He returns to bring about the final establishment of His earthly kingdom).

But more important, it was a proclamation that God's peace is available to men and women.  Read the words of Luke 2:14 carefully: "'Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace among men with whom He is pleased.'"

Who are those with whom He is pleased?  The ones who have yielded their lives to the authority of His government.

 

John MacArthur

Truth For Today