Peace is repeatedly mentioned in the Bible, with over 400 distinct references throughout the Old and New Testaments.It is a fundamental aspect of the Christian faith, with verses inspiring readers to strive for peace, to protect it and to celebrate it.The Bible explains that peace is a sign of God’s presence and promises a peace that surpasses all understanding.
The Bible’s most famous peace verse is from the book of Isaiah: ’You will keep in perfect peace him whose mind is steadfast, because he trusts in you’ (Isaiah 26:3). Jesus’ beatitudes in the Gospels comprise many references to peace, including prayer for enemies, people of mercy and the peacemakers. He also brought a new definition of peace, which replaced previous concepts of peace based on triumph, revenge and power.
People in the ancient world dreamed of a day when all peoples would live in harmony, so naturally this idea of peace is mentioned throughout the Old Testament.But instead of a utopia of peace, the prophets understood that peace very often requires sacrifice,particularly self-sacrifice.The sacrificial establishment of peace between God and humans is mentioned by several prophets,including Isaiah and Ezekiel.
Despite the sweetness of the word, peace is not the same as non-resistance or passivity.The Bible confirms the ongoing struggle for peace, mirrors the fragility of human relationships and encourages readers to work for a just and peaceful society in the face of personal tragedy.From Genesis to Revelation, the Bible urges us to choose peace over conflict and it honors goodness, mercy, humility and peacemaking.
Rather than striving for personal peace, Jesus reminded his followers that true peace lies in humble service to others.Peace is not a material possession but an attitude.It is not an easy answer.The journey of peaceoften involves leaps of faith and risk,and cannot be achieved by violence.The Christian faith offers assurance that peace is a present reality, enabling believers to undergosacrifice and suffering with courage and conviction that peace will be found in God.
The Danger of False Peace
False peace removes us from God and dulls our spiritual senses.When Jesus encountered the Pharisees in the Bible, he declared their response to spiritual problems “untroubled” and “peaceful”(Matthew 9:10-13) knowing their peace was ungodly and immoral. He pushed us to recognize false peace, adding that peacemakers are blessed.
Christians are called to reject false peace and instead to engage in peacemaking – not a blind peace but one that is rooted in justice. The Bible repeatedly warns about the danger of human attempts to create peace for ourselves, apart from God, suggesting such peace will always crumble in the end.
Peace in Relationship with God
The Bible emphasizes the importance of finding peace with God. One of the primary ways in which people find peace is through Jesus Christ. The emphasis in Scripture is on faith, not just in Jesus but also in the promises of God. Paul says, “We have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ” (Romans 5:1). He goes on to say, “Therefore, since we have been justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ” (Romans 5:1).
God promises to use his power to protect and uphold those who put their faith in him.Believing that God is ultimately in control is what brings us peace. Jesus’ death on the cross was symbolic of God’s peace and a reminder that no one should lose hope. When we accept the invitation to enter into a relationship with Christ and the mercy he offers, we can find true peace.
The Role of Prayer
The Bible includes several verses which encourage us to pray for peace. Philippians 4:6-7 reads, “Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.”
Prayer is not just about asking for something, but about pouring out your soul before the Lord. As Jesus said, “Peace I leave with you; my peace I give to you” (John 14:27). When we pray for peace and surrender to His will, He does bring peace.
In the Bible, Jesus commands us to offer peace to others. In Matthew 5:9, Jesus states that those who work for peace will be called sons of God. This can include praying for peace, standing up for justice, and being a peacemaker in our communities.
Obedience to the Word of God
The Bible mentions peace in the context of obedience to God’s word. Psalm119:165 says, “Great peace have they who love Your law, and nothing causes them to stumble”. Jesus promised his disciples that they would experience peace when they followed his teachings. He told them, “Peace I leave with you, my peace I give unto you: not as the world giveth, give I unto you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid” (John 14:27).
Peace is an outcome of obedience to God’s word. By learning and meditating on God’s word, we find the peace in the midst of all the chaos of life. We can put our trust in God and rely on him to bring peace into our lives.
Conclusion
Peace is a central theme in the Bible, with over 400 references throughout the Old and New Testaments. It speaks of peace as a sign of God’s presence and promises a peace that surpasses all understanding. We are encouraged to strive for peace, to protect it and to celebrate it. In all its pursuits, the Bible urges us to reach for a just and peaceful society in the face of personal tragedy. By seeking peace in prayer, in relationship with God and in obedience to the word of God we can find true and lasting peace.
