Final Praise

The concept of "Final Praise" in the Bible is often associated with the ultimate worship and adoration of God by His people, culminating in the eschatological vision of eternal worship in the presence of God. This theme is prevalent throughout Scripture, highlighting the culmination of God's redemptive plan and the fulfillment of His promises.

In the Old Testament, the Psalms frequently express a longing for the final praise of God. Psalm 150, the last psalm, serves as a crescendo of praise, calling all creation to worship the Lord: "Let everything that has breath praise the LORD. Praise the LORD!" (Psalm 150:6). This psalm encapsulates the idea that all of creation is destined to glorify God, pointing towards a future where His glory is fully revealed and acknowledged.

The prophetic books also echo this theme. Isaiah envisions a time when all nations will come to worship the Lord: "And it shall come to pass in the last days that the mountain of the house of the LORD shall be established as the highest of the mountains, and shall be lifted up above the hills; and all nations shall flow to it" (Isaiah 2:2). This prophecy anticipates a universal acknowledgment of God's sovereignty and a final, harmonious praise from all peoples.

In the New Testament, the book of Revelation provides a vivid depiction of final praise. The heavenly vision given to John includes scenes of worship around the throne of God. Revelation 7:9-10 describes a great multitude from every nation, tribe, people, and language standing before the throne and the Lamb, crying out, "Salvation belongs to our God who sits on the throne, and to the Lamb!" . This scene represents the ultimate fulfillment of God's plan, where redeemed humanity joins in eternal praise.

Peace

The biblical concept of peace, or "shalom" in Hebrew, encompasses more than the absence of conflict; it signifies completeness, wholeness, and harmony with God, others, and creation. Peace is a central theme in Scripture, reflecting God's desire for His creation to live in harmony with Him and each other.

In the Old Testament, peace is often associated with God's covenantal promises. The Aaronic blessing in Numbers 6:24-26 includes a prayer for peace: "The LORD bless you and keep you; the LORD make His face shine upon you and be gracious to you; the LORD lift up His countenance upon you and give you peace" . This blessing underscores the divine origin of true peace, which flows from God's favor and presence.

The prophets also speak of a future era of peace brought about by the Messiah. Isaiah 9:6 prophesies the coming of the "Prince of Peace," whose reign will establish justice and righteousness: "For unto us a child is born, unto us a son is given, and the government will be upon His shoulders. And He will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace" . This messianic hope points to a time when God's peace will be fully realized on earth.

In the New Testament, Jesus Christ is the embodiment of God's peace. He assures His disciples of the peace He gives, distinct from the world's peace: "Peace I leave with you; My peace I give to you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled; do not be afraid" (John 14:27). Through His sacrificial death and resurrection, Jesus reconciles humanity to God, establishing peace through His blood (Colossians 1:20).

The apostle Paul frequently emphasizes peace as a fruit of the Spirit and a hallmark of the Christian community. In Philippians 4:7, he writes, "And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus" . This peace is both a present reality for believers and a foretaste of the ultimate peace to be experienced in God's eternal kingdom.

Revelation concludes with a vision of the new heaven and new earth, where God's peace reigns supreme. In this restored creation, there is no more death, mourning, crying, or pain (Revelation 21:4), and the peace of God permeates all existence, fulfilling His promise of shalom for eternity.