'Unveiling Mysteries: Angels Long to Look into These Things'

Angels Long to Look into These Things

In the book of 1 Peter, the apostle Peter writes to encourage and admonish believers who are facing severe persecution. He begins by expressing his gratitude for Christ's mercy, resurrection, and salvation. He wants to remind the believers that their suffering and trials are temporary and serve to strengthen and refine their faith. Following this introduction, Peter makes an interesting statement regarding both prophets and angels.

The Prophets' Search for Salvation

Peter reminds the New Testament believers that they are the recipients of the prophets' scrupulous documentation and attention to Christ's redemption. These prophets, who spoke of the grace that was to come, searched intently and with great care to understand the time and circumstances to which the Spirit of Christ in them was pointing. They predicted the sufferings of the Messiah and the glories that would follow.

However, it was revealed to them that they were not serving themselves but future generations when they spoke of these things. They had a limited understanding of what would happen or when it would happen. Their desire was to know more about the object to which Scripture pointed. They longed for further revelation.

The Curiosity of Angels

Peter then adds an unexpected statement: "Even angels long to look into these things." This means that angels are curious about the gospel and how and why it was procured. While angels live in the presence of God, one might wonder why they would be interested in human salvation.

Believers in Jesus Christ understand what it is like to be dead in sin and alienated from God. They also understand the overwhelming grace and mercy shown in Christ dying the death they deserve. They are adopted into the family of God, and their relationship with God is redeemed. Angels, on the other hand, do not have experiential knowledge of grace and salvation. They have not been separated from God or personally known reconciliation and the depth of intimacy that follows. Therefore, the concept of salvation is foreign to them, which piques their curiosity.

Angels' Front Row Seat

Over the course of human history, angels have had a front-row seat in watching God's redemptive work with humanity. They have witnessed the unfolding drama of salvation. The book of Hebrews describes them as "ministering spirits sent out to serve for the sake of those who are to inherit salvation." They are amazed by salvation and lean in attentively, longing to understand its mysteries.

However, it is important to note that the angels who disobeyed God are not restored or redeemed like humanity. The Son of God became a man to redeem humanity; He did not become an angel to redeem the heavenly host. Salvation is not for angels; it is for mankind alone.

Angels and God's Mercy

In the book of Exodus, we find further evidence of angelic interest in God's mercy. God commanded that the cherubim on the lid of the ark of the covenant were to have their wings spread upward, overshadowing the cover with them. The cherubim were to face each other, looking toward the cover. The mercy seat represents God's throne and His presence. It is also where the blood of atonement was offered for sin. The gold cherubim on the ark were positioned as if gazing upon God's redemptive purposes.

In 1 Peter, angels long to understand the immeasurable joy found in Christ's atonement for sin. They are captivated by God's mercy and grace towards humanity. This serves as a poignant reminder of what a precious gift salvation is.

Why This Matters

Understanding that even angels long to look into the things pertaining to our salvation should evoke a sense of awe and wonder within us. It highlights how extraordinary and significant our salvation truly is. We are not alone in our fascination with God's redemptive work; even heavenly beings are captivated by it.

This reminder should deepen our gratitude and appreciation for the gospel. It should also encourage us to share the good news of salvation with others. If angels, who have not experienced the separation from God or the subsequent redemption, are intrigued by salvation, how much more should we, who have personally tasted its sweetness, cherish and proclaim it?

Think About It

1. Reflect on the fact that angels, who dwell in the presence of God, are curious about salvation. Consider what this reveals about the magnitude and significance of our redemption in Christ.
2. How does knowing that angels long to understand salvation impact your own appreciation for it? Does it inspire you to share the gospel with others?
3. Take a moment to express gratitude to God for His mercy and grace in providing salvation. Consider how you can live in light of this incredible gift.