“God did not spare angels when they sinned, but cast them into hell and committed them to the pits of darkness, reserved for judgement . . .” 2 Peter 2:4
Do you know Jesus? I do! But, why do I get this privilege?
While reading through 2 Peter, I became focused on this verse. Here is why: In the beginning, God created the heavens and the earth and all their hosts (Genesis 2:1). The angels were created, just like us, as God is the only eternal being. Some angels, through their pride and desire to be like God sinned and were banished from the presence of God (I find it interesting that this is almost the exact same as the fall of mankind). To me, it seemed logical that when Jesus died on the cross, He died for the sins of ALL of creation. . . but when looking at the truths of the Bible this is simply not the case. Those angels who have sinned against God cannot be redeemed and will be thrown into a pit of fire to suffer for eternity (Revelations 20). But, mankind, although covered in sin, has the opportunity to accept God’s unfathomable mercy. That leaves me with this question: why us and not them?
We have sinned, just like some of the angels sinned. They were cast away from the presence of God, and so were we. Yet, God, has decided to show US mercy, to forgive our debts and not give those of us who have freely accepted this gift what we deserve – eternal separation from Him: “Oh, the depth of the riches both of the wisdom and knowledge of God! How unsearchable are His judgments and unfathomable His ways!” Romans 11:33. We will never be able to answer the question of “why us” because we are not the ones given authority to give such mercy! Our God is just (2 Thess. 1:6) in all He does. We need to trust that! If He chose to save one person out of the whole world (I mean, look at Noah and his family!) then that is justified. If He chose to save twenty people, it is justified. But He chose to save ALL of mankind and not the fallen angels, and, because He is God, that is completely justified! “For who has known the mind of the Lord, that he will instruct Him?” 1 Corinthians 2:16. His mercy and His grace are beyond anything we can understand. It is all beyond our comprehension, for He is God.
If anything, this truth of our salvation makes me so grateful for this mercy and grace that has been poured over my life! Out of all that He created, He chose us. Praise be to God that it is well with my soul!
Written by: Justine Boles
Refined Joy 