Topical Encyclopedia
In the biblical context, peace is more than the absence of conflict; it is a profound and binding force that unites individuals, communities, and nations under the sovereignty of God. The Hebrew word "shalom" and the Greek "eirene" encompass a holistic sense of well-being, completeness, and harmony, reflecting God's original design for creation.
Old Testament FoundationsThe concept of peace as a binding force is deeply rooted in the Old Testament. In the covenantal relationship between God and Israel, peace is a divine gift and a sign of God's favor.
Numbers 6:24-26 records the Aaronic blessing: "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." Here, peace is intertwined with God's presence and blessing, serving as a binding force that holds the community together in divine favor.
The prophetic literature also emphasizes peace as a future hope and a binding force for the nations.
Isaiah 9:6 prophesies the coming of the "Prince of Peace," whose reign will establish justice and righteousness. This messianic vision portrays peace as a transformative power that will unite all peoples under God's righteous rule.
New Testament FulfillmentIn the New Testament, peace is fulfilled and personified in Jesus Christ.
Ephesians 2:14 declares, "For He Himself is our peace, who has made the two one and has torn down the dividing wall of hostility." Through His sacrificial death and resurrection, Christ reconciles humanity to God and to one another, breaking down barriers and creating a new, unified community. Peace, therefore, is not merely a passive state but an active force that binds believers together in the body of Christ.
The apostle Paul frequently exhorts the early church to maintain peace as a binding force. In
Colossians 3:15 , he writes, "Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, for to this you were called as members of one body. And be thankful." Here, peace is both a calling and a governing principle that fosters unity and gratitude within the Christian community.
Peace in the Life of the BelieverFor the individual believer, peace is a fruit of the Spirit (
Galatians 5:22) and a guiding principle for relationships.
Romans 12:18 advises, "If it is possible on your part, live at peace with everyone." This exhortation underscores the believer's responsibility to pursue peace actively, reflecting the reconciling work of Christ in their interactions with others.
Moreover, peace serves as a guard for the believer's heart and mind.
Philippians 4:7 promises, "And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus." This divine peace acts as a protective force, binding the believer to Christ and providing stability amidst life's uncertainties.
Eschatological PeaceThe Bible concludes with a vision of ultimate peace in the new heavens and new earth, where God will dwell with His people, and "He will wipe away every tear from their eyes" (
Revelation 21:4). This eschatological peace is the culmination of God's redemptive plan, a binding force that will restore all creation to its intended harmony and wholeness.
