Did the angels get it wrong when they said Jesus was bringing peace to earth?
When Jesus Christ was born, the angels told the shepherds that there would be peace on earth. However, the world seems just as chaotic as it was over 2,000 years ago, if not worse.
When asked if the angels made an error with their proclamation of peace, world-renowned evangelist Billy Graham said they made no mistake. "No, the angels weren't in error when they proclaimed peace to the shepherds on that first Christmas night outside Bethlehem. Two thousand years later their message still rings across the ages: 'Glory to God in the highest heaven, and on earth peace to those on whom his favor rests' (Luke 2:14)," he wrote on his website.
There might be war and evil in this world, but Graham said children of God have peace in their hearts. When Christians commit their lives to Christ, they automatically become His followers. And as followers of Christ, believers experience peace like no other.
"He gives us peace — peace with God, and peace in our souls. You see, by nature we are at war, not only with each other, but with God — and even with ourselves," said Graham.
The evangelist added that all the evil in this world will one day be destroyed when Christ returns. When that happens, the angels' promise on the first Christmas will be fulfilled "totally and completely," assured Graham.
This is also what Pastor Paul Tripp wrote for Christianity.com. He explained that Jesus came to this world to fix broken hearts and souls. Because of His sacrifice, people can now live for the glory of God and live at peace with others - if they choose to do so.
"In the midst of your honest assessment of your heart, don't lose hope, because God gave up all His heavenly glory to make peace with you, even while you were still His enemy," he said.