Violence

In the Bible, violence is often depicted as a manifestation of human sinfulness and rebellion against God. From the earliest chapters of Genesis, violence is shown to disrupt the harmony of God's creation. The first act of violence recorded in Scripture is Cain's murder of his brother Abel (Genesis 4:8), which illustrates the destructive nature of sin and its consequences. The Berean Standard Bible states, "Cain said to his brother Abel, 'Let us go out to the field.' And while they were in the field, Cain attacked his brother Abel and killed him."

The prevalence of violence was one of the reasons for God's judgment through the flood. Genesis 6:11-13 notes, "Now the earth was corrupt in the sight of God, and full of violence. God looked upon the earth and saw that it was corrupt; for all living creatures on the earth had corrupted their ways. Then God said to Noah, 'I have determined to put an end to all living creatures, for the earth is filled with violence because of them. Therefore, I am surely going to destroy both them and the earth.'"

Throughout the Old Testament, violence is often associated with the wicked and is condemned by God. The Psalms frequently contrast the ways of the violent with the ways of the righteous. Psalm 11:5 declares, "The LORD tests the righteous and the wicked; His soul hates the lover of violence."

In the New Testament, Jesus Christ's teachings further emphasize the rejection of violence. In the Sermon on the Mount, Jesus calls His followers to a higher standard of conduct, urging them to love their enemies and turn the other cheek (Matthew 5:38-44). The Apostle Paul also speaks against violence, encouraging believers to live peaceably with all (Romans 12:18).

Peace

Peace, in the biblical context, is more than the absence of conflict; it is a state of wholeness and harmony that reflects God's original design for creation. The Hebrew word for peace, "shalom," encompasses completeness, welfare, and tranquility. Peace is a central theme throughout Scripture, representing both a divine gift and a human responsibility.

In the Old Testament, peace is often associated with God's covenant blessings. Numbers 6:24-26 records the priestly blessing: "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 books speak of a future time when God's peace will reign supreme. Isaiah 9:6 prophesies the coming of the Messiah, the "Prince of Peace," who will establish an everlasting kingdom of peace. Similarly, Micah 4:3-4 envisions a time when nations "will beat their swords into plowshares and their spears into pruning hooks. Nation will no longer take up the sword against nation, nor will they train anymore for war."

In the New Testament, Jesus is the fulfillment of these prophecies. He is the source of true peace, offering reconciliation with God through His sacrificial death and resurrection. John 14:27 records Jesus' words to His disciples: "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."

The Apostle Paul frequently speaks of the peace that believers have in Christ. 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 and a future hope, as believers anticipate the full realization of God's kingdom.

In summary, the Bible presents violence as a consequence of human sin and rebellion, while peace is portrayed as a divine gift and a hallmark of God's kingdom. Believers are called to reject violence and pursue peace, reflecting the character of God and the teachings of Jesus Christ.