Peacemaker

“Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called children of God.” (Matthew 5:9 NRSV)

Let me begin by saying that being a peaceful person does not make you a child of God. Children of God are those who have already entered the family of God by adoption through faith in Christ Jesus. (see Galatians 3:26 and 4:4-5)

“Huios” is the Greek word used for “children” in this verse. It is the same word used in Luke 20:34-36 to describe those who are born again. Verse 36 says, “They are children of God and children of the resurrection”.

Iglesia de San Antonio Cali Colombia

From James 3:13-18, we understand that peace and in turn, the ability to make peace is born out of wisdom received from above, wisdom that comes directly from heaven. So, it’s not by you demonstrating a certain type of behaviour, walking around pious and trying not to get into tiffs.

The kind of peace that James is talking about is sent from God into one’s born-again spirit.

The poor in spirit empty themselves, relinquish the “self”, surrender to God in complete reliance on Him, and are open to receive Jesus and do God’s will.

“But to all who received him, who believed in his name, he gave power to become children of God," (John 1:12 NRSV)

This beatitude is not telling us how to become children of God. Jesus is saying that peace-making is a characteristic of the children of God, those who are born again, those who have become new creations in Christ. Children of God are recognized as peacemakers.

As children of the God of peace (see Romans 16:20), we inherit the peace of God.

As children of God, we must follow in His footsteps. Yes, peace-making involves being in step with God, to do the will of the God of peace, as did the Prince of Peace, Jesus (see Isaiah 9:6).

Children of God are pursuers of peace, actively working to reconcile people to God and to each other; they are not passive church goers hoping for peace.

“Let us then pursue what makes for peace and for mutual upbuilding.” (Romans 14:19 NRSV)

Peacemakers share in the mission of Christ Jesus. Peacemakers help to make peace between man and God through the sharing of the Good News.

God sent His Beloved Son, that we might have peace from God.

"Pursue peace with everyone and the holiness without which no one will see the Lord." (Hebrews 12:14 NRSV)

God sent His Beloved Son, that we might have peace with God.

“Therefore, since we are justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ,” (Romans 5:1NRSV)

God sent His Beloved Son, that we might have the peace of God.

“And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.” (Philippians 4:7 NRSV)

Amen!

 

 

 

 

 

Shelley Johnson “Peacemaker” © January 26, 2025