Peacemakers
by Pat McIntosh
We indeed live in a world of turmoil. But, if historical precedence is any indicator, that is not
going to change. As long as there are those who are capable of taking things away from weaker
people, they will continue to do so. Our own country endured a civil war that even divided
families.
The Bible speaks of peace, but not in the sense of the absence of war or conflict. The Bible
provides for peace between man and God and between those who call themselves brethren. In
one of the beatitudes, peacemakers are referenced. This does not speak of an arbitrator settling
some conflict; rather, it speaks of those who either bring peace through the proclamation of the
gospel or who heal differences between brethren by applying scriptural principles.
Those who preach or teach the gospel to a lost sinner are serving in the capacity as a
peacemaker, using what God has provided to bring those who separated themselves from Him in
their sin (Isa. 59:1-2) into line with His will. We must also see ourselves as peacemakers as we
attempt to bring fractured relationships among brethren back together. There is no sense of
negotiation, as God has preset the terms for both situations.
May we remember that Satan wants no part of either aspect of “peacemaking.” Satan wants the
billions in the world who are lost to remain in that state. He wants the disharmony and lack of
unity in congregations and between brethren to continue. Why? Because he knows that no
individual or congregation will grow until such things are resolved.
May we be those who see ourselves as peacemakers. What is the reward? God will see us as His
children.
Sunday A.M. – The Beatitudes (8): Blessed are the Peacemakers
- The Peace of God – Rom. 10:15; Col. 1:20; Eph. 2:14-17; Isa. 59:1-2; 1 Cor. 1:10: Jno. 16:31-
33; 2 Pet. 1:2-4; Phil. 4:6-9 - Things That Destroy Peace – Prov. 16:21, 28; 26:20; James 3:1-13; Rom. 12:19
- Do I Contribute to Peace? – 1 Pet. 3:10-12; Psa. 34:12-16; Matt. 7:12;
- The Promised Blessing
Sunday P.M. Lesson – James 1:2-8