The two preceding verses inform us, that the •' salvation" of man, and "the grace that is brought unto us" for the securing of that salvation, are objects of their continual regard. More particularly they inquire into these things,
1 . As foretold by Prophets — [Every minute circumstance relative to the Gospel has been foretold by one or other of the Prophets ; insomuch that, if we understood perfecdy every part of die Prophetic Writings, we might extract from them as complete an account of tlie person, work, and offices of Christ, and of the establishment of his kingdom upon earth, as from the New Testament itself. But die Prophets did not know the full extent of their own prophecies. They knew that they spake by a Divine impulse ; but the precise import of what they spake, diey knew not. As tlie wicked Caiaphas, intending to stimulate . the Jewish Council to put Jesus to death, delivered unwit- tingly a prophecy that Jesus should die for the whole world*; so the pious Prophets frequently delivered their sentiments in language, which was dictated by the Holy Gliost for the purpose of proclaiming mysteries which they themselves un- derstood not. Hence they " inquired and searched dili- gently" into the meaning of their own prophecies \ The angels, in like manner, are desirous of investigating these deep subjects. To intimate the concern which they take in these things, there was a very striking emblem of it in the Jewish Temple. In the Holy of Holies Mas the ark : on that was placed the mercy-seat : and over that were two cheru- bims overshadowing it with their wings. ' The ark (in which the tables of the Law were kept) was a type of Christ, in whose heart the law was ; and by whom it was fulfilled for us ; and through whose obedience to it God exercises mercy towards us. This exhibited the substance of the Gospel. Now tlie cherubims were formed somewhat in an inclined posture, looking down upon the ark^: and this was ordered of God on purpose to denote the interest which angels take in this deep mystery, and tlie desire which they have to com- prehend it : and it is to this very thing that St. Peter alludes in the words of our text ''.]
2. As executed by Christ —
[" The sufferings of Christ, and the glory that should follow," were fully declared before he became incarnate. The angels therefore were prepared for that stupendous series of
events
» John xi. AC) — 52. '' ver. 10, 1 1.
' Exod. X\V. 20. '' WillvfcSTUt TTCt^XKV^Xi.