The Prince of Peace
“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.” -Isaiah 9:6
When we think about Christmas and the birth of Christ, God’s One and only Son, we are reminded of how God used a fragile baby to accomplish His eternal plan. This extraordinary gift from our heavenly Father stands in stark contrast to those who seek power and their own will. And as we read in Luke 2:14, it is this event that gives us true peace:
“Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good will toward men.”
While researching peace, which occurs 329 times in the Bible, we see three aspects of peace.
First, the peace that is available to all who will trust in Christ for their salvation from sin.
Romans 5:1 tells us, “Therefore, since we have been justified through faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ.” This is the first and most important of choices we face by first being “born again” into His family. This is our position with God, being found in His righteousness by faith. (Philippians 3:9)
Second, after “having passed from death to life” through faith in Christ alone, (John 5:24) we enter a new phase of life as His child. In the midst of all the turmoil in the world today, as we walk with Him, He makes available to us “the peace that transcends all understanding.” (Philippians 4:6,7) This peace isn’t based on the absence of challenges and turmoil in the world but on the presence of God in the midst of them. This is our practice, as we learn what it means to walk with God.
The first two aspects described above of position and practice reveal the inward peace which God makes available to us. First by simple faith we become His child and receive eternal life and a guarantee of heaven. And second, as we grow in our faith and walk with Him, we learn how to navigate life through the mine fields of turmoil we may face in life.
The third aspect of peace is outward in nature. Romans 12:18 says “If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone.” In Matthew 5:9, Jesus says, “Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called children of God.” And Colossians 3:15 says ”Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts.” This is another part of our practice, while we are living for God here on the earth.
Reflections:
- The first aspect of peace is foundational. Without this peace of knowing you are justified by faith in Christ and guaranteed eternal life with Him in heaven, then aspects 2 and 3 below are impossible to acquire. When considering aspect one of peace, I sometimes assume that everyone who receives this email has trusted in Christ alone who died for their sins and rose again. But if you forward it to someone, then the question I would ask is: Have you placed your trust in Christ and received His free gift of eternal life and the guarantee of heaven some day? Only then can you have the foundational peace provided by God.
- In considering aspect two of peace, is there something in your heart or actions that displeases the Lord? 1 John 1:9 makes it clear we need to acknowledge such things to restore our fellowship with the Father. See Psalm 139 and ask God to search your heart.
- When considering the third aspect of peace, how can you be a peacemaker in your relationships with others this Christmas season? Is there someone you need to forgive or extend peace to by asking for forgiveness yourself?
In closing, let me share the words of Paul to the Thessalonians in 2 Thessalonians 3:16 – Now may the Lord of peace Himself give you His peace at all times and in every situation. The Lord be with you all.
Warmly in Christ,
Dean
