Peace on earth to those who obey God in their hearts
Luke 2:14 proclaims: "Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good will toward men.”
This angelic announcement at the birth of Christ declares the divine purpose of Jesus’ coming: to glorify God and bring true peace to humanity. However, this peace is not merely political or emotional—it is spiritual reconciliation between God and mankind through the person of Jesus Christ.
The peace spoken of here aligns with Isaiah 9:6, where the Messiah is called the “Prince of Peace.” This peace is not automatic for all, but promised to those who receive Him in faith. As Romans 5:1 affirms: “Therefore, since we have been justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ.”
The phrase “good will toward men” reflects God’s gracious intention to extend salvation to those who respond to Him in love and obedience.
In John 14:23, Jesus says, “If anyone loves me, he will keep my word, and my Father will love him, and we will come to him and make our home with him.” True peace and divine favor dwell with those who revere God and walk in His ways.
Psalm 85:9 says, “Surely his salvation is near those who fear him, that his glory may dwell in our land.” God’s peace accompanies salvation, and salvation is for those who humbly turn to Him.
Only those who love God with all their heart and soul, keep the commands of Jesus, and do the will of God can truly and deeply understand the glory and peace declared in Luke 2:14.
The angels’ message was not a general announcement of goodwill to all, but a divine revelation of the peace available through submission to Christ—the Prince of Peace.
