simply amazing, always for you.
In this profound statement from Jesus, found in the Sermon on the Mount, He speaks to the character of those who strive for peace, urging His followers to embody this vital virtue. To understand this verse fully, we need to explore the meaning of peacemakers, the blessing promised to them, and the significance of being called “children of God.”
1. What Does It Mean to Be a Peacemaker?
The term peacemaker goes beyond just the avoidance of conflict or the act of keeping the peace. While many might think of peace as the absence of tension or hostility, the biblical concept of peace—shalom in Hebrew—encompasses a deeper sense of wholeness, well-being, and restoration. A peacemaker isn’t just someone who prevents arguments but someone who actively works to restore broken relationships, heal divisions, and promote harmony.
Jesus is not merely encouraging passive neutrality but advocating for an active role in making peace. This might involve:
- Reconciling Relationships: A peacemaker seeks to repair relationships where there is strife, whether through forgiveness, understanding, or mediation.
- Promoting Justice: True peace also involves justice. A peacemaker seeks to address the root causes of conflict, such as injustice or inequality, and works toward solutions that honor both God and people.
- Bringing God’s Peace: For Christians, this also means making known the peace that comes from knowing God. A peacemaker actively points others to the peace available through Jesus Christ, who is called the Prince of Peace (Isaiah 9:6). In this sense, the peacemaker reflects God’s own reconciling work in Christ.
2. The Blessing of Being a Peacemaker
In the Beatitudes (Matthew 5), Jesus is pronouncing blessings upon qualities that often run counter to worldly values. The world often prizes power, assertiveness, and success, but Jesus blesses qualities like humility, meekness, and, in this case, peace-making.
The blessing promised to the peacemakers is that they will be called children of God. But what does this mean?
- A Family Identity: In biblical times, to be called a “child” of someone was not just a statement of biological relation but of sharing in the character and nature of that person. To be a child of God means to reflect His nature in how we live. God is a God of peace (1 Corinthians 14:33), and as His children, we are called to imitate His peace-making nature.
- God’s Approval and Affection: Being called a “child of God” also means receiving God’s approval and favor. When we make peace, we align with God’s heart for reconciliation, and He delights in that. It signifies a close, familial relationship with God, marked by His love and blessings.
- A Witness to the World: Peacemakers are also seen as representatives of God’s Kingdom on earth. In a world often marked by conflict, division, and strife, peacemakers stand out as shining examples of God’s grace and power to transform relationships. Their peace-making work is a testament to the reconciling power of Christ, drawing others to God’s love.
3. Why Is Peace So Important in God’s Kingdom?
Peace is central to God’s plan of redemption. The Bible reveals that humanity’s sin created separation between God and people, and between individuals and communities. But Jesus came to restore peace, not just in a personal sense but in all relationships—between God and humanity, among individuals, and even between nations. In fact, the Apostle Paul writes in Ephesians 2:14, “For He Himself is our peace, who has made the two one and has destroyed the barrier, the dividing wall of hostility.”
The work of peace-making reflects God’s broader mission of reconciliation. As followers of Jesus, we are called to participate in that mission, bringing peace to the places where we live, work, and interact.
4. Practical Application: How to Be a Peacemaker
Being a peacemaker doesn’t mean being a passive bystander in conflict or simply avoiding difficult conversations. It often involves intentional steps toward healing and understanding. Here are some practical ways to be a peacemaker:
- Forgive and Seek Reconciliation: When there is conflict or hurt, don’t shy away from the hard work of forgiveness. Jesus Himself modeled this as He forgave even those who crucified Him. In Matthew 18:21-22, He teaches us to forgive not just seven times, but seventy-seven times.
- Listen First: Often, peace comes when we take time to listen to others’ perspectives and understand their feelings. By showing empathy, we create space for healing and resolution.
- Speak Truth in Love: Peacemakers don’t ignore truth. They seek to speak truth with kindness and grace, making sure that their words bring healing rather than harm (Ephesians 4:15).
- Be a Bridge, Not a Divider: In situations of conflict, seek to bridge the gap between opposing parties, not to deepen the division. Encourage understanding, and promote unity without compromising on what is righteous.
- Live Out the Gospel: Ultimately, being a peacemaker involves embodying the peace of Christ. Sharing the good news of Jesus Christ, who reconciles us to God and each other, is one of the greatest acts of peace-making.
5. The Ultimate Peacemaker
Jesus Christ Himself is the ultimate example of a peacemaker. He laid down His life to bring peace between a holy God and sinful humanity. Through His death and resurrection, He secured eternal peace for all who believe in Him. As we follow Him, we are called to participate in His work of peace, not only in our personal relationships but also in the broader world.
Conclusion
“Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called children of God” is an invitation to embody God’s peace in every area of life. It’s a call to live in such a way that we reflect God’s heart of reconciliation and healing. As we actively seek peace, we not only bring glory to God, but we also experience the deep, lasting blessings of being His children, united with Him in His mission of restoring the world.
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