A Christmas Carol
A. F. Barfield. Luke 2:14 Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good will toward men. I. How DID THE APPEARING OF CHRIST BRING GLORY TO GOD? 1. In the fulfilment of prophecy. 2. In the salvation of man. 3. In exhibiting God's love without detracting from any other attribute. II. How PEACE ON EARTH? 1. It was not peace at first certainly. Describe the state of the world, especially Palestine, when Christ came, and during succeeding years. 2. But in proportion as Christ is known and felt, there will surely be peace on earth. 3. Peace in the city, town, or village in which Christians dwell. 4. Peace in the family. 5. Peace in the heart. 6. And all this will result from the practice of the principles of that religion whose Founder was cradled in Bethlehem's manger, for that religion (1) Subdues the passions; (2) Regulates the life; (3) Elevates the soul. III. How GOOD-WILL TOWARD MEN? 1. When one makes a present to another we look upon it as an expression of good-will. The value of the present is often indicative of the measure of esteem or good-will. God has given us His greatest, choicest gift, for He bestowed His only Son. 2. God's good-will becomes even more apparent when we contemplate our own guilt. 3. What have you to say in answer to all this? All God requires from us in recognition of His love is our heart. And if we give Him our heart, we shall surely give our service. Have you given yours to Him? (A. F. Barfield.) Parallel Verses KJV: Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good will toward men. WEB: "Glory to God in the highest, on earth peace, good will toward men."