Peace

In the biblical context, peace is more than the absence of conflict; it is a profound sense of well-being and harmony that comes from a right relationship with God and others. The Hebrew word for peace, "shalom," encompasses completeness, welfare, and tranquility. In the New Testament, the Greek word "eirene" carries similar connotations.

Old Testament

Peace is a central theme in the Old Testament, often associated with God's covenantal promises. In Numbers 6:24-26, the Aaronic blessing highlights peace as a divine gift: "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."

The prophetic literature frequently speaks of a future era of peace brought about by the Messiah. Isaiah 9:6 prophesies, "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."

New Testament

In the New Testament, peace is closely linked to the person and work of Jesus Christ. At His birth, the angels proclaimed, "Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace to men on whom His favor rests!" (Luke 2:14). Jesus Himself declared, "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)

The Apostle Paul frequently speaks of peace as a fruit of the Spirit (Galatians 5:22) and an essential aspect of the Christian life. 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."

Order

Order in the biblical sense refers to the divinely instituted arrangement and structure within creation, society, and the church. It reflects God's nature as a God of order and not of chaos.

Creation

The creation narrative in Genesis 1 demonstrates God's establishment of order out of chaos. Each day of creation brings further structure and organization to the universe, culminating in the creation of humanity, who is tasked with stewarding God's ordered world.

Society and Law

The Mosaic Law provided Israel with a framework for societal order, emphasizing justice, righteousness, and community welfare. Deuteronomy 16:18-20 instructs, "Appoint judges and officials for each of your tribes in every town the LORD your God is giving you, and they shall judge the people fairly. Do not pervert justice or show partiality. Do not accept a bribe, for a bribe blinds the eyes of the wise and twists the words of the righteous. Pursue justice and justice alone, so that you may live and possess the land the LORD your God is giving you."

Church Order

In the New Testament, the Apostle Paul addresses the importance of order within the church. In 1 Corinthians 14:33, he states, "For God is not a God of disorder but of peace—as in all the congregations of the saints." Paul provides instructions for orderly worship and the use of spiritual gifts, emphasizing that everything should be done "decently and in order" (1 Corinthians 14:40).

Conclusion

Peace and order are intertwined themes throughout Scripture, reflecting God's character and His intentions for creation, society, and the church. They are both gifts from God and responsibilities for His people, calling believers to live in harmony with Him and with one another.