The Peace of the World

Colossians 3:15a,  "Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, since as members of one body you were called to peace."

There are three kinds of peace discussed in the Bible.  The first kind, peace WITH God, is a prerequisite for the second kind, the peace OF God, and enables the third kind, PEACE WITH OTHER PEOPLE.  

The most important thing we celebrate at Christmas is peace WITH God, our salvation, the forgiveness of our sins and the assurance of heaven, all through Jesus Christ.  Isaiah 9:6,  "For to us a child is born, to us a son is given, and the government will be on his shoulders.  And he will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace."  Isaiah 53:5c,  "The punishment that brought us peace was on him.  Ephesians 2:14a,  "For he himself is our peace."  Colossians 1:19-20,  "For God was pleased to have all his fullness dwell in him, and through him to reconcile to himself all things, whether things on earth or things in heaven, by making peace through his blood shed on the cross."  Romans 5:1,  "Therefore, since we have been justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ."  

    We all seek inner peace in a noisy world where we are surrounded by problems and troubles and evil.  God can give us His peace in the midst of turmoil and chaos and opposition.  Jesus promised in John 14:27,  "Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you."  Galatians 5:22 tells us that peace is a fruit produced in lives that are controlled by the Holy Spirit.  Romans 8:6 says it this way,  "The mind governed by the flesh is death, but the mind governed by the Spirit is life and peace."  Isaiah 26:3 tells us that our part is faith, saying,  "You will keep in perfect peace those whose minds are steadfast, because they trust in you."

    To those who have peace WITH God and are walking in the peace OF God, the Bible gives exhortations to live in peace with other people.  Over and over Scripture tells us to live peaceful lives.  Psalm 34:14b,  "Seek peace and pursue it."  Zechariah 8:19b,  "Love truth and peace."  Jesus' words in Mark 9:50,  "Be at peace with each other."  Romans 12:18,  "If it is possible,as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone."

    As we worship the Prince of Peace this Christmas season, may we honor and glorify Him by sharing His peace with those around us.

My prayer for us all is found in II Thessalonians 3:16a,  "Now may the Lord of peace himself give you peace at all times and in every way."