Peacemakers (Part 2)

By Clifton Angel     “Blessed are the peacemakers, for they shall be called the children of God” (Matthew 5:9). We last considered that God’s peacemakers are at peace with Him and seeking to bring others to be at peace with him (spiritually cleansed from sin). Also, let us consider the need for Christians to be peacemakers among citizens of the spiritual kingdom, the church.     Far too often, the church has been disturbed by troublemakers from within. Yes, even those who wear the name “Christian” have caused problems instead of recognizing the responsibility of being a peacemaker. Troubles arise in the church because of pride (1 Timothy 3:6), preeminence (3 John 9), impenitence (1 Corinthians 5–6; 2 Corinthians 7:10), and opinions (James 1:19). May we never be guilty of causing trouble in the Lord’s church.     In such situations, our responses to troublemakers are vital. Proper responses will quickly quell the quarrels. However, some will agitate by adding to the trouble or siding with the troublemakers. One of the greatest hindrances to peacemaking in the church is gossip (Proverbs 26:20–21). Some will accept the troublemaker as if he has done no wrong (see 1 Corinthians 5:2–6). Some will avoid the trouble because of cowardice or apathy. These are all improper responses to troublemakers in the church.     The proper response to a troublemaker is to properly address the issue (cf. 1 Corinthians 5:6–13; 2 Corinthians 2:1–9; Matthew 5:21–26; Matthew 18:15–35). Many passages could be considered to encourage us to be peacemakers within the church. Because of space constraints, we will only consider Romans 12:9–21. “Let love be without hypocrisy. Abhor that which is evil; cleave to that which is good. In love of the brethren be tenderly affectioned one to another; in honor preferring one another; in diligence not slothful; fervent in spirit; serving the Lord; rejoicing in hope; patient in tribulation; continuing steadfastly in prayer; communicating to the necessities of the saints; given to hospitality. Bless them that persecute you; bless, and curse not. Rejoice with them that rejoice; weep with them that weep. Be of the same mind one toward another. Set not your mind on high things, but condescend to things that are lowly. Be not wise in your own conceits. Render to no man evil for evil. Take thought for things honorable in the sight of all men. If it be possible, as much as in you lieth, be at peace with all men. Avenge not yourselves, beloved, but give place unto the wrath of God: for it is written, Vengeance belongeth unto me; I will recompense, saith the Lord. But if thine enemy hunger, feed him; if he thirst, give him to drink: for in so doing thou shalt heap coals of fire upon his head. Be not overcome of evil, but overcome evil with good.”

- Clifton Angel preaches for the Coldwater Church of Christ in Coldwater, MS. He may be contacted through that congregation's website: http://www.coldwatercofc.com/