How can we apply the angels' desire to understand salvation to our lives? Angels Lean In: The Wonder of 1 Peter 1:12 “It was revealed to them that they were not serving themselves but you, when they foretold the things now announced by those who preached the gospel to you by the Holy Spirit sent from heaven—things into which angels long to look.” The Signposts in Angelic Curiosity • Angels, untouched by sin, still ache to grasp the riches of redemption. • Their holy fascination highlights the immeasurable value of salvation granted to us. • Their longing invites continual awe rather than casual familiarity. Keep the Wonder Alive • Pause often to rehearse the gospel story—creation, fall, redemption, restoration. • Celebrate every testimony of grace, remembering that heavenly beings thrill at each sinner who repents (Luke 15:10). • Let the Lord’s Table, baptism, and songs of the cross rekindle gratitude. Dig Into the Word • “Make every effort to present yourself approved to God, an unashamed workman who accurately handles the word of truth.” (2 Timothy 2:15) • Set aside daily, unhurried time to trace salvation themes from Genesis to Revelation. • Use study tools, but keep Scripture open front and center, praying for the Spirit’s illumination. Share What Angels Cannot • Angels heralded Christ’s birth but never preached personal experience of forgiveness. • Christ’s Great Commission—Matthew 28:18-20—places the privilege squarely on redeemed people. • Speak often of God’s mercy in homes, workplaces, and neighborhoods, trusting the Spirit to convict and convince. Live the Holy Life Salvation Demands • “Just as He who called you is holy, so be holy in all you do.” (1 Peter 1:15) • Angels obey instantly; redeemed people now can choose obedience by the Spirit’s power. • Pursue purity in thoughts, entertainment, relationships, and speech, reflecting the Savior’s character. Let Worship Overflow • Revelation 5:11-12 pictures multitudes of angels extolling the Lamb. • Join their chorus with heartfelt singing, scriptural prayers, and thankful giving. • View every gathering of believers as rehearsal for the eternal anthem of heaven. Rest in Grace, Not Achievement • Ephesians 2:4-9 underscores that salvation is “the gift of God, not by works.” • Angels marvel at grace because they see both God’s holiness and His mercy in action. • Lay down performance-driven anxieties; rise up in confident gratitude, serving from love rather than for acceptance. Everyday Takeaways • Stay amazed: never reduce the cross to a footnote. • Stay hungry: mine Scripture with diligence and delight. • Stay vocal: tell the story angels wish they could tell from personal experience. • Stay pure: embody a holiness that reflects your holy God. • Stay thankful: let redeemed worship echo the thunderous praise of heaven. |