The concept of peace in the Bible is multifaceted, encompassing personal tranquility, harmonious relationships, and the ultimate peace found in reconciliation with God. The active pursuit of peace is a recurring theme throughout Scripture, urging believers to seek and maintain peace in various aspects of life.

Old Testament Foundations

The Hebrew word for peace, "shalom," signifies completeness, welfare, and harmony. It is a state of being that God desires for His creation. In the Old Testament, peace is often associated with God's covenant blessings. For instance, in Leviticus 26:6, God promises Israel, "I will give peace to the land, and you will lie down with no one to make you afraid." This peace is contingent upon obedience to God's commandments.

The Psalms frequently exhort believers to seek peace. Psalm 34:14 instructs, "Turn away from evil and do good; seek peace and pursue it." This verse highlights the active nature of pursuing peace, suggesting that it requires intentional effort and moral integrity.

New Testament Teachings

In the New Testament, the pursuit of peace is elevated as a hallmark of Christian living. Jesus Christ, referred to as the "Prince of Peace" in Isaiah 9:6, embodies and imparts peace to His followers. In the Beatitudes, Jesus declares, "Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called sons of God" (Matthew 5:9). This beatitude underscores the divine approval and identity bestowed upon those who actively work towards peace.

The Apostle Paul frequently addresses the theme of peace in his epistles. In Romans 12:18 , he advises, "If it is possible on your part, live at peace with everyone." This instruction acknowledges the challenges of maintaining peace but emphasizes the believer's responsibility to strive for it as much as possible. Furthermore, in Ephesians 4:3 , Paul urges believers to be "diligent to preserve the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace."

Peace in the Church and Community

The early church is depicted as a community characterized by peace and unity. Acts 9:31 notes, "Then the church throughout Judea, Galilee, and Samaria enjoyed a time of peace and was strengthened." This peace was not merely the absence of conflict but a positive state of mutual edification and growth in the Lord.

Believers are called to be agents of peace within their communities. Hebrews 12:14 exhorts, "Pursue peace with everyone, as well as holiness, without which no one will see the Lord." This pursuit is linked with holiness, indicating that true peace is rooted in a life set apart for God.

Peace with God

The ultimate peace is found in reconciliation with God through Jesus Christ. Romans 5:1 declares, "Therefore, since we have been justified through faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ." This peace is foundational for all other forms of peace, as it restores the broken relationship between humanity and the Creator.

Practical Application

The active pursuit of peace involves both personal and communal dimensions. It requires humility, forgiveness, and a commitment to resolving conflicts in a manner that honors God. Believers are encouraged to pray for peace, as seen in 1 Timothy 2:1-2 , where Paul urges prayers "for kings and all those in authority, so that we may lead tranquil and quiet lives in all godliness and dignity."

In summary, the active pursuit of peace is a vital aspect of the Christian life, deeply rooted in biblical teaching and exemplified by Jesus Christ. It calls for intentional action, grounded in faith and love, to foster harmony and reflect the peace of God in a broken world.