In what ways can we better appreciate the gospel message as described here? The Text in Focus “...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.” (1 Peter 1:12) Seeing the Long Story Unfold • The prophets “foretold the things now announced,” reminding us the gospel is the climax of centuries of revelation (Luke 24:25-27). • Every promise and prophecy converges on Jesus; recognizing that heritage deepens gratitude. • Hebrews 11:39-40 highlights that earlier saints looked forward to what we now enjoy—our possession of the fulfilled promise should stir worship. Celebrating the Spirit’s Delivery • The same Holy Spirit who inspired the prophets now empowers gospel preachers (John 16:13; Acts 1:8). • Acknowledging His continuous work—revelation then, illumination now—moves us to rely on Him in study and witness. • Thankfulness grows when we see the gospel not as human ingenuity but a Spirit-delivered gift from heaven. Feeling the Privilege • “Not serving themselves, but you” underscores personal benefit; God arranged history for our salvation (Galatians 4:4-5). • Angels “long to look” into these truths (Ephesians 3:10). If heavenly beings marvel, how much more should we who actually receive redemption? • Let the rarity of our privilege guard against apathy. Sharing the Message With Fresh Joy • What prophets predicted and angels ponder, we proclaim (1 Peter 2:9). • Evangelism becomes an overflow of wonder, not mere duty—“how will we escape if we neglect so great a salvation?” (Hebrews 2:3). • 2 Corinthians 5:20: ambassadors urge others to join the story begun in Genesis and completed at the cross. Living as a Demonstration to Angels and the World • Our obedience displays “the manifold wisdom of God” to rulers and authorities in heavenly realms (Ephesians 3:10). • Daily holiness validates the gospel’s power (Titus 2:11-12). • Each act of faith becomes another scene angels “long to look” into, and another reason for us to treasure the message. In these ways—tracing the long arc of prophecy, honoring the Spirit’s role, savoring our privilege, joyfully sharing, and living as proof—we learn to better appreciate the gospel Peter celebrates. |
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