1:11 Searching. This is a striking affirmation of the nature of Biblical inspiration—in particular, of those portions of Scripture which contain Messianic prophecies. The prophets were so carried along by the Holy Spirit (II Peter 1:21) that they themselves did not understand what they were prophesying. Note, for example, Daniel 12:8-9, where Daniel was told that his words were “sealed till the time of the end.”

1:11 glory that should follow. Typical prophecies that referred both to the sufferings and later glory of the Christ included Psalm 22, Daniel 9 and Isaiah 53.

1:12 angels. It is amazing to realize that even God’s holy angels (probably also Satan and the fallen angels) are observing with great interest the unfolding of God’s great plan of salvation, both in individual human beings and for the whole creation. For further glimpses into this fascinating subject, study such Scriptures as Hebrews 1:14; Psalm 34:7; Matthew 18:10; I Corinthians 11:10; Ephesians 3:10; and many others.