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"The Glory of the Lord"
Martin Luther
"First of all, the event described in this passage
wasn’t merely one person telling another some good news. But an angel came from
heaven and announced the birth of Christ to the shepherds. No human being knew
anything about it. Second, notice that Christ was born at midnight. This shows
that the world was dark at his coming and human reason on its own can’t
recognize Christ. Heaven must reveal it. Third, the bright light, which
surrounded the shepherds, shows that something completely different than the
light of reason is needed.
Luke says,
‘The glory of the Lord filled the area with light.’ He calls this light the
glory of the Lord. Why? He does this to emphasize the mystery and show us the
nature of the gospel. It is a heavenly light
that teaches Christ alone.
This light
from heaven shines around us through the apostles and their followers who now
preach the gospel. The angel in this story is like all the preachers of the
gospel, and the shepherds are like all listeners. Accordingly, the gospel comes
from heaven and doesn’t tolerate any other teaching added to it, for human
teaching is earthly light and human glory. It lifts up human glory and praise
and makes people arrogantly rely on their own efforts. But the gospel teaches
everyone to trust in Christ. So rely completely on God’s kindness and goodness.
Glorify Christ and be bold in him.
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