PEACE

The Greek word eirene ("peace") may derive from an original term meaning, "to weave together." This is a very significant Bible word. (a) There is a peace to be sought with God. Sin has separated man from his Creator (Isa. 59:1-2), so that rebellious man has become an enemy to God (Rom. 5:10; Jas. 4:4). But the "God of peace" (1 Thes. 5:23) has provided an avenue of reconciliation so that union with him may be enjoyed once more. The shedding of Christ's blood was the price of peace (Eph. 2:13-14, 17; Col. 1:20). That message is revealed in the "gospel of peace" (Eph. 6:15). Peace is enjoyed by the exercise of "faith," and is focused in that realm that is designated as being "in Christ." This state is entered when one's obedience is consummated at the point of baptism (Rom. 6:3-4; Gal. 3:26-27). (b) Obedience to the truth of the gospel brings the Christian an inner peace that is inexplicable from the human vantagepoint. It passes all understanding and guards our hearts and thoughts in Christ Jesus (Phil. 4:7). (c) There is also the peace that should exist between all men, who are the "offspring" of God (Acts 17:28). Christians must lead the way in this quest for peace. They are to be the "peace-makers" (Mt. 5:8). The children of God are to be at peace among themselves (1 Thes. 5:13; 2 Tim. 2:22), and they are to attempt to be at peace with all others (Rom. 12:18; Heb. 12:14). The Lord's people, therefore, should remain aloof from the carnal conflicts of this world (Jn. 18:36; Eph. 6:12; 2 Cor. 10:4ff; 2 Tim. 2:24).