Prince of Peace

By Bill Brandstatter

     Jesus was referred to in the Bible as the Prince of Peace (Isa.9:6). What does the word “peace” mean biblically? Was Jesus the person to end all wars and stop all conflicts? He said He came not to bring peace, but a sword (Mt. 10:34). He meant He didn’t come to bring physical peace, but He did come to give man peace between himself and God. When I look at peace, I also think about the current situation in the Middle East between Israel and Palestine. Will there ever be peace in that area? Let us look at some things that must be done for peace in any area to be achieved. These items could apply to peace in the home, country, heart, or any place where peace is desired and needed.
     First, there must be the right disposition. A person who doesn’t want peace is not going to agree to anything that will promote it. Christians should surely have a disposition toward peace. Paul admonished, “If it is possible, as much as depends on you, live peaceably with all men” (Rom. 12:18). A Christian who is always concerned about his way will never feel real peace. 
     Second, there must be the right desire. Obviously, this point is forever connected to the first. Christians ought to not only desire peace but to seek it and pursue it (1 Pet. 3:11). Some preachers today only want to argue. They have never met a fight they didn’t like. The Bible must be defended; however, we must pursue the avenues of peace whenever possible.
     Third, there must be the proper design. The word “design” is used here to mean purpose. If a person just makes a show of peace to please someone, that peace will not last. The kind of peace Jesus can give is nothing like the peace the world may offer (John 14:27). Some may seek certain avenues such as drugs, alcohol, or other means in order to get peace, yet those are all the wrong avenues. Peace must be for the right reason and from the right motive. 
     The peace that God gives passes our understanding; but, in order to have this peace that passes understanding (Phil. 4:7), I must be faithful to God. I must understand that my purpose in life is to glorify God (1 Cor. 6:19, 20). God did not put me here just to enjoy life and to be comfortable. I am to serve Him (Rom. 12: 1). In doing this, I can enjoy a peace that the world does not know, but that all Christians know and enjoy. (Phi. 4:7)

- Bill Brandstatter preaches for the Marion Church of Christ in Marion, IL. He may be contacted through the congregation's website: http://marionchurchofchrist.com/