“Just so, I tell you, there is joy before the angels
of God over one sinner that repents.”
Luke 14:24

There are lots of interesting things in the bible that leave me scratching my head. Apparently, that is true as well for the angels. They are perplexed by the gospel just as we are.

I’m not sure how all of it works, but there was a time when all the angels were pure, and then one fell away (Isaiah 14:12-20). He brought a bunch with him, a third according to Revelation 12:4. The rest remain unstained. The sinful ones will occupy the lake of fire, a place specially made for them, while the others will enjoy the Lord in heaven.

Humans, on the other hand, are all sinful. None of us are exempt and all are doomed for the lake of fire to join the devil and his angels. Yet the gospel teaches us that God saves a few humans out of mercy for the sake of his own name. This idea is quite perplexing for the angels.

1 Peter 1:12 It was revealed to them that they were serving not themselves by you, in the things that have now been announced to you through those who preached the good news to you by the Holy Spirit sent from heaven, things into which angels long to look.

One can only imagine what interests them. Maybe it’s the idea that all humans sinned while only some of the angels did. Maybe it’s that repentance is offered to humans. I believe it’s not for angels. In any case, they seem to be amazed by all that Jesus has done for humans.

Frankly, I’m amazed as well, particularly when I zoom in the focus on my salvation. The fact that God had mercy on me leaves me speechless, as it should.

Father, again, what can I say other than, “Thank you.” Amen.

Copyright © 2020 Scott Powers