The Controversial Truth About the Meaning of the Word 'Peace'
Peace is used as a very passive word in the world today. We all want everyone to be happy. This is what we have defined as being peaceful. But, if we look at the definition, we discover that we aren't even scratching the surface of the true meaning of peace. In some ways, we're getting it all wrong.
Definition of peace: Freedom from war or violence or disturbance.
After reading this definition, you may be thinking to yourself, "No Alex, that sounds right. That's the definition I know." But I challenge you with this, are you thinking deep enough?You see, in order to have freedom from war, violence, and disturbance; "issues" cannot simply be ignored. We cannot act as a problem is nonexistent. No, the root of the problem must be identified and resolved. What I am implying is that true peace only comes from a result of struggle and battle.
Freedom is never free. Without struggle, there can be no peace. Struggle separates true lasting peace from the illusion of peace which is temporary silence.
Within the definition of peace, all people fall into one of two categories:
#1. Peacekeepers
Most people living today, especially Americans, fall into this category. Peacekeepers want everyone to be happy and comfortable. They are individuals who will bend and stretch what they know to be the truth to keep the peace. Their focus is to keep everything as "peaceful" as possible. They will not rattle the cage. Peacekeepers allow themselves to do things that they know are wrong or counterproductive for the sake of keeping the peace.
#2. Peacemakers
Jesus would fall into this category if He were living in the world today. In Matthew 5:9 NIV Jesus says that peacemakers are blessed and called the children of God. Peacemakers are people who know that peace is not a response triggered by a feeling or action. Instead, they know that peace is a long-term strategy. Peacemakers understand that in order to have real peace, sometimes life will be uncomfortable.
To summarize: Peacekeepers will go against the will of God to keep the peace. Peacemakers will fight for the will of God.
Quick Disclaimer: The bible tells us in 1 Corinthians 16:14 NIV to do everything through love. Being a peacemaker does not mean judging people that you think are doing the wrong thing. As Christians, we must remember that we have a calling to follow the example set by Jesus. Being a peacemaker needs to come from a position of love in our hearts toward others, never a place of judgment.
Love is key! Here is some continued reading on the topic of love. Without love, we cannot know true peace.
How to Be a Christian Peacemaker in the World Today
Notice throughout Jesus' life in the new testament, He never judged or corrected unsaved individuals. He always approached them with grace, peace, and love. But, Jesus treated people who claimed to be one of His followers (Christians) very differently.As believers, it is our job to encourage and disciple other believers. It is our job to step into fully following God and encouraging those within our sphere of influence to do the same.I've noticed something about Christians these days. Many of us are simply ignoring (or tolerating) actions from other "Christians" who are living or acting contrary to the word of God; just to keep the peace. Christians that are blatantly living in sin are not receiving any sort of loving correction or accountability from other Christians. The sinful parts of their lifestyle is simply ignored.
This is not what God has called us to do!
It is our duty to hold our brothers and sisters in Christ accountable. We need to stand up for the things that we know to be biblically sound. Just because your area of influence within the body of Christ is happy and comfortable doesn't mean that it's living in a Godly way.
Those who are peacemakers will plant seeds of peace and reap a harvest of righteousness. - James 3:18 NIV
Remember my disclaimer? Peacemaking must come from a place of love, not a place of judgment. Don't point out the speck in your brother's eye when you have a plank in your own. We all fall short. Always be improving yourself and helping those around you to improve as well. The goal needs to be biblical unity within the body of Christ. Let’s all help each other become better.
Related Post: Enable Others to Act and Watch Them Grow
The bible tells us not to conform to the pattern of the world. In many cases, that is what we have done. Our duty as believers is to fight for what we believe in, not join with what the world is doing to keep the peace. I challenge and encourage you to step out boldly to fight for peace. Become a peacemaker for God in your area of influence today!