Topical Encyclopedia
IntroductionPeace, as a gift from God, is a central theme throughout the Bible, reflecting God's desire for harmony and well-being among His creation. This divine peace transcends human understanding and is intricately linked to the presence and work of God in the lives of believers. It is both a present reality and a future promise, deeply rooted in the character of God and His redemptive plan for humanity.
Old Testament FoundationsIn the Old Testament, the Hebrew word for peace, "shalom," encompasses completeness, welfare, and tranquility. It is a state of wholeness and harmony that is intended by God for His people. The Aaronic blessing in
Numbers 6:24-26 highlights this divine gift: "The LORD bless you and keep you; the LORD make His face shine upon you and be gracious to you; the LORD lift up His countenance upon you and give you peace."
The covenant relationship between God and Israel is marked by peace, as seen in
Leviticus 26:6 : "And I will give peace to the land, and you will lie down with no one to frighten you. I will remove dangerous beasts from the land, and no sword will pass through your land." Here, peace is a sign of God's favor and protection, contingent upon Israel's faithfulness to His commandments.
Prophetic PromisesThe prophets often spoke of a future peace that would be established through the coming Messiah.
Isaiah 9:6 prophesies the birth of the "Prince of Peace," whose reign will bring everlasting peace: "For unto us a child is born, unto us a son is given, and the government will be upon His shoulders. And He will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace."
This messianic peace is not merely the absence of conflict but the presence of justice and righteousness, as described in
Isaiah 32:17 : "The work of righteousness will be peace; the service of righteousness will be quiet confidence forever."
New Testament FulfillmentIn the New Testament, the Greek word "eirene" is used to describe peace, which is realized through Jesus Christ. Jesus Himself declares in
John 14:27 : "Peace I leave with you; My peace I give to you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled; do not be afraid." This peace is a gift that calms the troubled heart and dispels fear, rooted in the assurance of Christ's presence and victory over sin and death.
The apostle Paul further elaborates on this divine peace in his epistles. In
Philippians 4:7 , he writes, "And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus." This peace acts as a sentinel over the believer's heart and mind, providing stability and security amidst life's uncertainties.
Peace with God and OthersPeace as a gift from God also involves reconciliation with Him and with others.
Romans 5:1 states, "Therefore, since we have been justified through faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ." This peace is the result of being justified by faith, restoring the broken relationship between humanity and God.
Moreover, believers are called to be peacemakers, reflecting God's peace in their relationships with others.
Matthew 5:9 declares, "Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called sons of God." This beatitude underscores the active role of believers in promoting peace, embodying the character of their Heavenly Father.
Eternal PeaceThe ultimate fulfillment of God's gift of peace will be realized in the new heavens and new earth, where perfect harmony will reign.
Revelation 21:4 offers a glimpse of this future reality: "He will wipe away every tear from their eyes, and there will be no more death or mourning or crying or pain, for the former things have passed away." This eternal peace is the culmination of God's redemptive work, where His presence will dwell with His people forever.
