In the biblical context, peace is often understood as more than the mere absence of conflict; it is the presence of harmony, wholeness, and well-being. This peace is intricately linked to the concept of reconciliation, particularly between God and humanity, as well as among individuals.

Old Testament Foundations

The Hebrew word for peace, "shalom," encompasses completeness, welfare, and tranquility. In the Old Testament, peace is frequently associated with God's covenantal promises. For instance, in Leviticus 26:6, God promises peace to Israel as a result of their obedience: "And I will give peace in the land, and you will lie down, and no one will make you afraid." This peace is contingent upon a right relationship with God, highlighting the necessity of reconciliation.

The prophetic literature also anticipates a future peace brought about by the Messiah. Isaiah 9:6 refers to the coming Messiah as the "Prince of Peace," indicating that His reign will establish a profound and lasting peace through reconciliation.

New Testament Fulfillment

The New Testament reveals the fulfillment of these Old Testament promises through the person and work of Jesus Christ. Reconciliation is a central theme in the New Testament, where it is portrayed as the restoration of a broken relationship between God and humanity due to sin. Romans 5:1 states, "Therefore, since we have been justified through faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ." This peace is a direct result of reconciliation achieved through Christ's sacrificial death and resurrection.

Ephesians 2:14-16 further elaborates on this theme: "For He Himself is our peace, who has made the two one and has torn down the dividing wall of hostility... His purpose was to create in Himself one new man out of the two, thus making peace, and to reconcile both of them to God in one body through the cross, by which He extinguished their hostility." Here, peace is not only between individuals but also between Jews and Gentiles, illustrating the comprehensive nature of reconciliation through Christ.

Peace in the Believer's Life

The peace that results from reconciliation with God is meant to permeate the believer's life. Philippians 4:7 speaks of "the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding," guarding the hearts and minds of believers in Christ Jesus. This peace is both a gift and a fruit of the Spirit (Galatians 5:22), enabling believers to live in harmony with others and to endure trials with a sense of divine tranquility.

Colossians 3:15 exhorts believers to "let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, for to this you were called as members of one body." This peace is not passive but active, guiding the believer's actions and relationships, fostering unity and reconciliation within the body of Christ.

Eschatological Peace

The ultimate fulfillment of peace as a result of reconciliation is eschatological. Revelation 21:3-4 envisions a new heaven and a new earth where God dwells with His people, and "He will wipe away every tear from their eyes, and there will be no more death or mourning or crying or pain." This future peace is the culmination of God's redemptive plan, where complete reconciliation results in eternal peace and harmony.

In summary, peace as a result of reconciliation is a profound biblical theme that spans from the Old Testament promises to the New Testament fulfillment in Christ, and ultimately to the eschatological hope of eternal peace. It underscores the transformative power of reconciliation in restoring relationships and establishing divine peace in the lives of believers.