What does Luke 2:14 mean?

Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good will toward men. Luke 2:14

Explanation

The verse from Luke 2:14, “Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good will toward men,” is part of the narrative of Jesus Christ’s birth. This verse is the proclamation of the angels announcing the birth of Jesus to the shepherds. The literal meaning is a call for praise to God in the heavens and a declaration of the blessings that the birth of Jesus brings to Earth – peace and goodwill among people.

The deeper significance of this verse encompasses several aspects. The phrase “Glory to God in the highest” is an acknowledgment of God’s supreme glory above all. The following phrases, “and on earth peace, good will toward men,” reflect the purpose and result of Jesus’ arrival: the establishment of peace and the manifestation of God’s goodwill to humankind. This peace is often interpreted as not just an absence of conflict but also as a sense of spiritual serenity and reconciliation between God and humanity.

Historical Context

Luke 2:14 is set in the context of first-century Judea, under Roman occupation. The region was experiencing social and political unrest and a longing for the promised Messiah who would restore the kingdom of Israel. The birth of Jesus in Bethlehem, as narrated in the Gospel of Luke, is framed by the expectation of a savior who would transform the present order of things.

Angelic revelations were a common feature of Jewish writings and beliefs, and this particular announcement fits within the tradition of divine messages being delivered by heavenly beings. At the time, the concept of peace and goodwill resonated deeply with a population suffering under imperial rule and hoping for a brighter future.

Theological Insights

From various theological perspectives, this verse has several implications:

• Traditional Christian theology views this verse as a fulfillment of Old Testament prophecy regarding the coming Messiah, thus validating Jesus’ divine role as the savior.
• From a Christological standpoint, the verse emphasizes the divinity of Jesus and His relationship with God, calling for true worship of God through recognition of Christ’s birth.
• Liberation theology might interpret this proclamation of peace as a transformative message that challenges existing social structures, promoting justice and peace.

Practical Applications

The message within Luke 2:14 can have profound implications on daily life including:

• Inspiring individuals to strive for peace and harmonious relationships.
• Encouraging acts of goodwill toward others, reflecting the message of generosity and kindness.
• Reminding people to focus on spiritual values and the pursuit of a higher purpose beyond material concerns.

Cross-References

Related verses that reflect similar themes found in Luke 2:14 from the King James Version:

• Isaiah 9:6: “For unto us a child is born, unto us a son is given: and the government shall be upon his shoulder: and his name shall be called Wonderful, Counsellor, The mighty God, The everlasting Father, The Prince of Peace.”
• Psalm 85:10: “Mercy and truth are met together; righteousness and peace have kissed each other.”
• Luke 1:79: “To give light to them that sit in darkness and in the shadow of death, to guide our feet into the way of peace.”

Language Study

In the original Greek, key words from this verse hold significant meaning:

• “Glory” (δόξα – doxa): Meaning honor, renown, and a manifestation of God’s characteristics.
• “Peace” (εἰρήνη – eirene): Not only absence of war but also encompassing prosperity, security, and inner rest.
• “Good will” (εὐδοκία – eudokia): Denoting favor, satisfaction, and a pleasing disposition toward others.

Cultural and Religious Comparisons

Comparing this verse to other ancient myths and religious interpretations:

• In various Roman and Greek mythologies, deities often interacted with humans, but the notion of a god bringing universal peace was less common.
• In Eastern religious traditions, such as Buddhism and Hinduism, the birth of significant figures is also celebrated and can be associated with messages of peace and goodwill, reflecting similar universal themes.

Scientific Perspectives

Modern science looks at concepts like peace from a psychological and sociological perspective, identifying how inner peace can affect mental health and social dynamics. However, scientific perspectives do not typically address divine or supernatural proclamations directly, as these are beyond empirical measurement.

Commentaries

Commentaries on this verse offer varied insights:

• Matthew Henry’s Commentary emphasizes the duty to praise God and recognize the peace with God brought through Christ.
• The Geneva Study Bible annotates that Christ brings spiritual peace, reconciling God and man.
• John Gill’s Exposition of the Bible indicates that the desire for God’s glory and man’s peace are not at odds but are indeed God’s unified purpose accomplished through Jesus’ birth.