Misinterpretations often include assuming the prophets fully understood the salvation they foretold, ignoring the revelation that it was meant for later generations, not themselves. Another error is restricting 'us' to apostles only, overlooking its broader application to all gospel hearers. Some view the angels' desire as mere curiosity without significance, missing how it emphasizes the gospel's cosmic importance beyond angelic full knowledge. It may also be wrongly taken to mean prophets received no personal benefit, when the point is the richer fulfillment in the new covenant era.
I Peter 1:12
King James Version (1769)
12 Unto whom it was revealed, that not unto themselves, but unto us they did minister the things, which are now reported unto you by them that have preached the gospel unto you with the Holy Ghost sent down from heaven; which things the angels desire to look into.
This verse highlights that Old Testament prophets received divine revelations about the grace coming to believers, but these prophecies were not primarily for their own generation; rather, they ministered to future believers like Peter's audience. The gospel, now proclaimed by preachers empowered by the Holy Spirit sent from heaven, unveils these truths, which are so profound that even angels long to gaze upon them, underscoring the unparalleled mystery and privilege of salvation in Christ.