Why the Angels Shouted “Glory to God in the Highest”?

In the opening moments of the nativity, the angels proclaim, “Glory to God in the highest.” MacArthur uses this cry as a gateway to the central question of the study: what does the phrase “glory of the Lord” actually mean, and why is it so central to the story of Jesus’ birth?

From Creation to the Shekinah: A Gradual Unveiling

MacArthur traces the idea of God’s glory through the Old Testament. He points out that creation itself is a “whisper” of God’s character, and that the Shekinah—God’s visible presence in the tabernacle, the temple, and moments of divine encounter—offers a more intimate glimpse. Each of these revelations, he notes, is mysterious and incomplete, leaving us with questions about what the full picture might be.

Christ as the Full Disclosure of God’s Glory

Turning to Hebrews 1, MacArthur explains that God “has spoken again” in His Son. He emphasizes that the incarnation is not merely a messenger but the living embodiment of God’s glory. In this moment, the “glory of the Lord” is fully revealed, moving from the limited glimpses of creation and the Shekinah to a complete, audible voice in the person of Jesus.

What the Study Teaches About Christmas

By framing Christmas as the moment when God’s glory is fully disclosed, the study invites listeners to see the holiday not just as a cultural celebration but as a profound revelation of God’s character. It encourages a deeper appreciation of the incarnation and a more intentional sharing of that truth with others.