Peace

Why is peace important?

Its an important Theme of the Bible

It starts with Creation.

2 Now the earth was formless and empty, darkness was over the surface of the deep, and the Spirit of God was hovering over the waters The New International Version (Grand Rapids, MI: Zondervan, 2011), Ge 1:1–2.

Many say the beginning of creation God took the earth that was violent, and empty and as his spirit moved over the waters and Jesus spoke he created the 1st Shalom, the first peace this world ever knew was the words of God ordering structure and establishing peace in a turbulent world.

Everything is trying to go back to Eden

For a brief time their was true Peace. Peace with God, peace with eachother, Peace with Nature.

after the fall of mankind the overwhelming theme of the Bible is to restore this peace we once had with God. This unity broken by sin. This sin affecting not just humanity but all of Creation.

We know that the whole creation has been groaning as in the pains of childbirth right up to the present time. The New International Version (Grand Rapids, MI: Zondervan, 2011), Ro 8:22.

The Jews were looking for one that would bring ultimate Peace to the world. They were (still are) looking for a Messiah that will unify the people.

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. 7 Of the greatness of his government and peace there will be no end. He will reign on David’s throne and over his kingdom, establishing and upholding it with justice and righteousness from that time on and forever. The zeal of the Lord Almighty will accomplish this. The New International Version (Grand Rapids, MI: Zondervan, 2011), Is 9:6–7.

The Name of Jesus is Prince of Peace. Its in his job description to bring Peace!

The kingdom of God is marked by this idea of Peace

17 For the kingdom of God is not a matter of eating and drinking, but of righteousness, peace and joy in the Holy Spirit, 18 because anyone who serves Christ in this way is pleasing to God The New International Version (Grand Rapids, MI: Zondervan, 2011), Ro 14:17–18.

The Gospel we preach is called the Gospel of peace.

15 and with your feet fitted with the readiness that comes from the gospel of peace The New International Version (Grand Rapids, MI: Zondervan, 2011), Eph 6:15.

we have all these scriptures of peace. OF God pursuing peace for us, giving us peace. Declaring peace. Dying for Peace.

So why is it so hard?

If the Prince of Peace has Come, (has he?)

If the fruit of the Spirit is Peace

If the kingdom is to be marked by Peace

How is your peace?