The answer is: False

The angel said "on earth peace, goodwill toward men". The word 'peace' from a biblical sense does not mean the absence of war or strife between people, but rather a 'peace with God', a peace that Jesus was to make with God at his sacrifice. Goodwill looks back to the Hebrew ratzah , which is often associated with acceptable sacrifice, thus 'goodwill toward men' means reconciliation through the greatest of all Days of Atonement - Jesus' sacrifice. The alternative textual reading of: 'to men of goodwill', means the same thing: 'peace to men who know themselves reconciled to God through Jesus'. (Luke 2 v 14)

In the familiar tale of Jesus’ birth, the angelic announcement offers profound layers of meaning beyond mere holiday cheer. When the message rolls out “on earth peace, goodwill toward men,” it captures the essence of divine reconciliation rather than just a wistful desire for worldly tranquility. This idea of peace comprises not just an end to conflicts among people but a holistic restoration between humanity and the divine.

The term 'goodwill'—rooted in the Hebrew 'ratzah'—is quite fascinating. This concept echoes through the Old Testament, where God tolerated the fractured relationship caused by humanity's choices. The Hebrew Scriptures often emphasize that God's desire is to accept one’s offering—to give and receive with fairness, akin to an important ritual of Atonement.

Interestingly, the parallel structure of “peace to men of goodwill” suggests a double invitation—both to those seeking God and to the spirits of those eager to receive His blessing. This government of love over fear unfolds mightily—the idea of peace spreads seamlessly between heaven and earth.

Furthermore, in the context of other Christmas-related verses, John's Gospel underscores this theme of reconciliation powerfully: “He came to his own, but his own did not receive him” (John 1:11). Nevertheless, the narrative reinforces a central notion: that every single person has a path to embrace reconciliation and peace that triumphs not merely in absence of conflict, but in abundant connection to the divine and to one another. Each retelling of this story reinforces the theme that peace begins with acceptance, both of ourselves and one another.